Day 28 – Saint William Wilberforce (1759–1833)

Saint William Wilberforce was born into a wealthy merchant family in Hull, England, and educated at Cambridge. Charming, eloquent, and ambitious, he entered Parliament at just twenty-one years old, quickly rising as a gifted politician. Yet behind his success lay a restless soul. A spiritual awakening in his mid-twenties transformed him, and he resolved to devote his life and career to serving Christ.

Wilberforce became the leading voice in the fight to abolish the British slave trade. Year after year, he introduced bills in Parliament, facing fierce opposition from those who profited from human bondage. His persistence seemed futile at times, yet he pressed on with quiet faith, convinced that the cause of justice was God’s calling on his life. In 1807, after two decades of struggle, the slave trade was abolished. In 1833, just days before his death, Parliament passed the act to abolish slavery throughout the British Empire.

Wilberforce’s faith was not confined to politics. He promoted education, cared for the poor, supported missions, and encouraged Christian character in public life. His famous book, A Practical View of Christianity, called for genuine faith that transforms society, not just outward religion.

For us today, Saint William Wilberforce reminds us that following Christ includes working for justice and mercy in the world. His perseverance shows us that faith is not passive but active, pressing forward even when change seems impossible. Wilberforce’s legacy challenges us to bring the gospel into public life with courage, humility, and hope.