Born in 1836, Maria Fearing began her life in slavery. Little is known about her upbringing, but this much is clear: her parents taught her about God. And the family who claimed ownership over Fearing and her family, taught her Presbyterian catechism.
She heard stories of missionaries, as well. Her family referred to Africa as their “homeland,” and Fearing couldn’t let go of the idea that someday, she wanted to go there.
In a recent article for CT, K.A. Ellis explains that Fearing was legally emancipated when she was almost 30 years old. She became a teacher and a vital member of her community and local church. The thought of Africa continued to pull at her heartstrings. And finally, years later, Fearing joined the first African-American-led mission team from America to the Free State of Congo. Fearing was 56 years old.
For more than 20 years, Fearing served as a spiritual mother in the Congo. While she never had biological children, Fearing paid the ransoms of enslaved children, housed dozens of young women, and established a community for girls.
Fearing’s story invites us to remember that God’s ways may not be our own, but they are always good. May we trust him like Fearing did, even in the direst of circumstances, believing that he is the one who works all things together for our good.
