Death and Final Labors (September 16, 1924)

Maria Beulah Woodworth-Etter died on September 16, 1924, after decades of gospel labor marked by constant travel, public preaching, and persistent prayer. Her death closed a ministry that spanned much of the United States, where she became widely known for large evangelistic meetings held under massive tents and in crowded halls. To many hearers, her passing signaled the end of an era of frontier-style revivalism—plain preaching, urgent invitations to repent, and confident trust that God still works with saving and sanctifying power.

Evangelist of Tent and Hall

Woodworth-Etter’s campaigns drew thousands, especially in regions hungry for earnest preaching and practical holiness. She called sinners to turn to Christ without delay and pressed professing believers toward clean hands and a pure heart, urging consistent obedience rather than mere religious enthusiasm. Her meetings often lasted for days, sometimes weeks, with repeated sermons, altar calls, and extended seasons of prayer. Her ministry reflected the apostolic simplicity of the gospel message: “Repent and believe” was not a slogan but a summons.

Prayer for the Sick and Trust in God’s Mercy

Alongside preaching, she prayed boldly for the sick, not as a performer but as a believer pleading for God’s compassion. She spoke and labored as one persuaded that the Lord remains attentive to prayer: “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church… The prayer of faith will restore the one who is sick” (James 5:14–15). Reports of healing and deep conviction brought both gratitude and controversy, yet she continued with steadiness, insisting that God’s works should lead to reverence, repentance, and renewed devotion.

Criticism, Sorrow, and Courage

Her public ministry attracted sharp criticism, including attacks on her methods and on the propriety of a woman preaching so widely. She also carried personal sorrows that could have silenced her. Yet she pressed on with a courage rooted in calling, modeling endurance and refusing to trade faithfulness for ease. Her life illustrated the promise: “Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

Indianapolis Tabernacle and Legacy

In her later years, she ministered from the tabernacle she established in Indianapolis, a stable base for preaching, prayer, and pastoral encouragement. From that pulpit she continued urging repentance, holy living, and steadfast trust in Christ. Her legacy remains a clear example of unashamed evangelism, perseverance under fire, and a life spent calling souls to the Savior.