Tonyloman (1766)



John Smith continued to visit Tonyloman as he had opportunity, preaching to increasing congregations. His fearless and fervent proclamation of the truth, accompanied by the power of the HolyGhost, reached the hearts of the people, many of whom were greatly convulsed and prostrated in body, as well as deeply agitated in mind : some fell suddenly to the ground, as if struck by lightning, praying and groaning for mercy. Frequently he had to cease preaching, unable to pro­ceed on account of the cries for salvation, and had recourse' to prayer, pleading mightily on behalf of the penitents, until prayer was turned into praise. It was not unusual for twenty or thirty to be converted during one service. As the result of these labours the Society became a centre of gracious influence to the surrounding country. The leader of the first class was old William Price, and among its first members were at least four young men, who afterwards proved useful Methodist preachers—Nehemiah and John Price, Robert Armstrong and John Mayly. As a class leader, especially, the labours of William Price were most indefatigable. Until a few months before his death in 1795 he continued to travel the country for ten miles round, forming new classes, and meeting old ones.

'History of Methodism in Ireland' Volume I by Crookshank.

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