Gerhard Tersteegen
1697-1769
Born at Moers, Netherlands, November 25, 1697, the original family name was ter Stegen. Gerhard's father died when he was only six years old. Although thoroughly trained in the classics in the Latin school at Mors, because of his father’s death his mother was unable to afford to send him on for university training. He was apprenticed, at age 16, to his brother-in-law, a merchant, and after four years he started his own business. As he found his time much broken up, and his opportunities for meditation few, he gave up his business after only two years. After a short trial in linen weaving, he took up the easier and more lucrative occupation of weaving silk ribbons. In his selfless manner, he shared his frugal daily fare with the poor. Malnutrition and privation undermined his health to such an extent that he suffered a serious depression both physically and spiritually, during the years 1719-1724. As he came out of his depression, his faith became assured of the reconciling grace of Christ and he made a covenant with GOD. As he grew in faith and knowledge of Christ Jesus, he eventually became a well-known religious teacher and leader. His house was known as "The Pilgrim's Cottage" and it became a retreat for men seeking a new way of life, while he himself was known as "the physician of the poor and forsaken." This house could accommodate eight persons. He did not minister to these souls alone but traveled throughout the area offering spiritual encouragement and providing for physical needs of like-minded Christians.
Born at Moers, Netherlands, November 25, 1697, the original family name was ter Stegen. Gerhard's father died when he was only six years old. Although thoroughly trained in the classics in the Latin school at Mors, because of his father’s death his mother was unable to afford to send him on for university training. He was apprenticed, at age 16, to his brother-in-law, a merchant, and after four years he started his own business. As he found his time much broken up, and his opportunities for meditation few, he gave up his business after only two years. After a short trial in linen weaving, he took up the easier and more lucrative occupation of weaving silk ribbons. In his selfless manner, he shared his frugal daily fare with the poor. Malnutrition and privation undermined his health to such an extent that he suffered a serious depression both physically and spiritually, during the years 1719-1724. As he came out of his depression, his faith became assured of the reconciling grace of Christ and he made a covenant with GOD. As he grew in faith and knowledge of Christ Jesus, he eventually became a well-known religious teacher and leader. His house was known as "The Pilgrim's Cottage" and it became a retreat for men seeking a new way of life, while he himself was known as "the physician of the poor and forsaken." This house could accommodate eight persons. He did not minister to these souls alone but traveled throughout the area offering spiritual encouragement and providing for physical needs of like-minded Christians.