Timeless Christians

Young, Rosa Jinsey

Rosa Jinsey Young was a black woman in Alabama who managed to obtain an education. At that time the state and churches did little or nothing to provide for the educational needs of black children. Young's ambition was to start a school for other black children. Begging, pleading, raising subscriptions, praying, and trusting God, she succeeded.

Money was so tight, however, that it seemed the school must close. In one critical year, her salary was just a few cents. She almost gave up, but she feared that the white donors would say, "See, black people cannot carry a project through." And she could not bear to abandon the children. A Methodist, she prayed and then set out to win the support of her church. When it was not forthcoming, she tried elsewhere.

The Lutherans alone responded kindly to her. After examining her work, they adopted her project. With Lutheran sponsorship, Rosa Young was able to found other schools. She also founded Lutheran churches. Through her faith and dedication, untold numbers of children in Alabama and surrounding states received an education and Bible training.

Few people remember Rosa Jinsey Young today. Her efforts deserve more recognition from those who respect saints who sacrifice and pray to achieve godly ends.

by Dan Graves