John praying hyde biography missionary baptist church

'Praying' Hyde

John Hyde was the son of a minister. From the year of his birth in 1865 until 1882, the family lived in Carrolton, Illinois, USA.

The home of Dr. Smith Hyde was one of culture and refinement to which was added influence of relgion in its reality. The fervency of his parents at the family altar greatly contributed to John's ultimate power in intercessory prayer.

When his father accepted the pastorate of a Presbyterian Church in Carthage, Illinois, John enrolled as a student in that town.

John praying hyde biography missionary baptist church

His scholastic ability was so outstanding that after graduation he was asked to become a teacher in his alma mater. That profession had no attraction for the young man and, in obedience to what he felt was the call of God, he decided to attend a seminary in the city of Chicago.

At a missionary meeting, where the need of workers for foreign service was powerfully presented, John's soul was stirred. Later, he sought a fellow-student who had assisted in the program.