Mary Ann, Alice and Elizabeth Maden, of Bacup in the Rochdale Circuit

died 1845

‘My dear children – a very short time ago, three sisters, the children of Samuel and Martha Maden, of Bacup, in the Rochdale Circuit, died of consumption; but they were all very happy in the love of Jesus’.

Mary Ann was the eldest and when seeing she was a sinner was determined to find the Lord before she gave it up. She prayed for two hours ‘and when she received the blessing of salvation, she exclaimed, “I am filled with glory! Take me, Lord; I am now ready!” Alice dies next and said “I like to pray to the Lord. I did not formerly feel as I do now. The Lord blesses me when I am paying to him. I believe I shall go to heaven. The Lord has heard my prayers, and I am very happy. He blesses me, and I shall soon be with him.”

Elizabeth sought the Lord for some time before she found him, however when she found him her joy was very great. She said “He has pardoned all my sins, he hears my prayers, and I receive answers. I talk to some one whom I cannot see. I shall wear a crown, mother, I shall. Christ is going to take me home. Thy will be done, Lord. I am not afraid to die. I do not want to recover. I have made my peace with God.”

(J. Clewer)

Ref: P.M. Children’s Magazine 1845 Vol 3 Page 65-68