Long, Elizabeth (1799-1837)

MEMOIR OF ELIZABETH LONG, OF BRADFIELD

(Class Leader, Reading Circuit)

Elizabeth Long was born in the year 1799, of moral parents.  At an early period the Holy Spirit strove with her, and under the ministry of Mr. Harding of Lock chapel, London, she, in her twentieth year, was led to the knowledge of salvation.

About the year 1815, she joined a religious community, and enjoyed much of the salvation of God; and considered it her duty to assist every Christian institution to the utmost of her ability.

In the year 1831, she came to reside near Bradfield, and united with the P. Methodists; and with them, “bore the cross, and nobly with her Master stood.”  About three years ago, she was married to one who was travelling Zion-ward; and who survives her.  May he at last meet her at God’s right hand.

Two years ago she was appointed class leader; and being a woman of deep piety and good christian experience, was made a blessing to the society.

During the two years previous to her death, a chapel fund was established in the circuit, and Sister L. became a collector, and laboured well.

For some months previous to her entering into rest, she suffered much from an asthma, which had troubled her for twenty years; and which hindered her from doing so much in the cause of Christ as she wished to do.  But still if she did not of late glorify Christ by her abundant public labours, she did by her patience under her sufferings, which sufferings have ended in everlasting joys.

Sunday Sep. 10, she occupied her seat in the house of God for the last time, and appeared to be ripening for heaven.  Next day she was taken very ill, and it became evident her end was near.  Being asked the state of her mind, she said, “I have nothing to do — I am quite ready.  One step further, and I shall be where there is no sin, nor sinning.”

Bro. Kirby visited her, found her dying the Christian’s death.  He said, “Do you know that your Redeemer liveth?”  She said, “If I did not, what should I do now?”  In about half an hour after this she died in the Lord, Thursday Sept 15, 1837, aged fifty-eight years.  On the Friday following her mortal remains were deposited in the dust, there to remain till the resurrection.  Many friends followed her to her long home with tears.  On Sunday, Sept. 4, Bro. K. preached her funeral sermon to a crowded congregation.  We hope good will be the result; and that others will be raised up to supply her place to the glory of God.

John Guy

(Approved by the quarter day.)

Primitive Methodist Magazine, 1838.  Pages 312-313.

Note: There is an inconsistency in the original text between her birth year and the age at death in the obituary.