Early Faith in Ireland
Amy Carmichael was born on December 16, 1867, in Millisle, County Down, Ireland. From a young age, she was deeply influenced by her family's Christian faith. At the age of three, she prayed for blue eyes but later understood that her brown eyes were part of God's plan for her ministry in India. As a teenager, she began her ministry with the 'Shawlies,' mill girls in Belfast, and by 1883, she had committed her life to Jesus.
Called to India
In 1893, Amy traveled to Japan as a missionary, but it was her journey to India in 1895 that would define her life's work. At the age of 29, she arrived in Tamil Nadu, where she was moved by the plight of children trapped in the devadasi system, a form of temple prostitution.
Rescuing the Children
In 1901, she founded the Dohnavur Fellowship, a sanctuary for these children, beginning with the rescue of a five-year-old girl named Preena. Despite facing significant challenges, including the threat of imprisonment, Amy persevered, trusting God to provide. Her work grew rapidly; by 1904, she was caring for 17 girls, and by 1913, the number had risen to 130.
You Cannot Love Without Giving
Amy's commitment to her mission was unwavering, even after suffering a debilitating fall in 1931, which left her largely bedridden. During this time, she continued to influence others through her writing, penning over 35 books. She remained in India until her death in 1951, at age 83, leaving a legacy that continues through the Dohnavur Fellowship. Her life was a testament to her belief that 'you cannot love without giving,' and through her work, she embodied the sacrificial love of Jesus.
