Mary Mollineux

Because of certain physical ailments, Mary Mollineux (1651-1695) was rendered unfit for engaging in the usual employments for young girls of her day; and her father, taking note of her large natural capacities and quick mind, found means instead of giving her a more advanced education than was common for her sex. She became conspicuous for her knowledge of science, medicine, languages, and for her gift in poetry, but what was most noticed and valued by her family and friends was the unusual spirit of wisdom, tenderness, and humility that clothed her mind. Desiring above all things to be made a “chaste virgin unto Christ,” her short life was spent, not in the pursuit of the honor and recognition of men, but in a sincere and steady aim to be found doing those things that pleased her Lord, living as before an audience of One.