Charles Finney

Charles Grandison Finney (August 29, 1792 – August 16, 1875) was a minister of the gospel who became an important figure in the Second Great Awakening. His influence during this period was enough that he has been called “the Father of modern revivalism”.

Finney was known for his innovations in preaching and religious meetings, such as having women pray in public meetings of mixed gender, development of the “anxious bench” (a place where those considering becoming Christians could come to receive prayer), and public censure of individuals by name in sermons and prayers. He was also known for his use of extemporaneous preaching.