"Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord; that delighteth greatly in his commandments." With this text in mind, all who really know Rev. J. H. Hendrick will say: "Behold the man."

He was the son of righteous parents, and his life-tree, rich-laden with fruits of righteousness, is a monument to their memory, of more value than marble shaft, bronze statue, or tablet in the hall of fame.

He was born in Warren County, Kentucky, July 25, 1840. Was converted and joined the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at the age of fourteen. Became a candidate for the ministry in 1861; was ordained by Logan Presbytery, in 1866, and remained within its bounds for about ten years, preaching regularly.

He then accepted a call to the churches of Donnellson and Alton, Ill., and served them four years. It was there his submission to the will of God was tested; and his spirit was bowed beneath the rod of affliction, in the death of his bosom companion, his help-meet, the consolation of his home and life work. But the glorious sunset of her life cast its heavenly beams into the very depths of his bereaved heart, verifying the promise: "At evening time it shall be light." Three bright, promising boys were left to his care. But again the death angel came and claimed the youngest of these, a fine boy of thirteen years. He, took, died "the death of the righteous;" and in the parting hour, thanked his second mother for her tender care, and teaching about Jesus and His love.

His next charge was Salem, Ill., but only stayed there two years, then went to Texas, where most of his work has been since. Has filled the pastorates of Clarksville, Longview, and Dallas. This last had almost gone to pieces; and it was at the urgent solicitation of his brethren that he left the evangelistic field for this one. They would say: "Hendrick, you are the man to rebuild the waste places." Result was that in eighteen months the Church was restored to her former glory, spiritually and financially--pastor's salary being raised from eight hundred to fifteen hundred dollars.

It was in the evangelistic field that the writer first knew "Father Hendrick." This first acquaintanceship was in 1907--that year, the events of which the historian's pen is loath to record--Events, which furnished arguments for the skeptic's tongue, bowed the hearts of strong men; wrung tears of agony from the aged, made friends foes, trampled with unhallowed feet, America's statute of Christian citizenship, ay! made angels blush for pity and for shame.

It is said that watch-spring steel must pass through seven distinct furnaces until it becomes so pure as to reflect the image of the smelter. This seemed a fitting illustration of the life and character of Brother Hendrick at this time. Though the frosts of many winters were traced upon his crown, his love and zeal for truth and right, renewed his strength, inspired his mind and thrilled his heart, so that his "youth" was "renewed like the eagle." He is a man of fine physique and pleasing manner. The windows of his soul reflecting close and sincere communion with his Master, at once commands admiration, confidence and loving reverence.

But Dr. Hendrick attributes much of his success as a "soul-winner for Jesus" and teacher of righteousness, to his beloved companion, she being of that rare type of character, combining the devotion of Mary who "sat at the Savior's feet," and Martha who "served" for the very joy of service. Hand in hand, heart beating in unison with heart--they are coasting down the tide of time rejoicing in mutual helpfulness, and dispensing blessings to all who come within their province. "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise."

"O what joy it will be when His face I behold
   Living gems at his feet to lay down!
It would sweeten my bliss in that city of gold,
   Should there be any stars in my crown."

[Source: Our Senior Soldiers: The Biographies and Autobiographies of Eighty Cumberland Presbyterian Preachers. Compiled by The Cumberland Presbyterian Board of Publication. The Assistance of Revs. J. L. Price and W. P. Kloster is Greatfully Acknowledged. Nashville, Tenn.: The Cumberland Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1915, pages 23-26]

[Source: Minutes of the General Assembly of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 1919, page 100]