In the heart of Philadelphia’s vibrant hum,
Lies a tale of simple faith, from which great lessons come.
A little girl, with hopes so high and pockets light,
Stood outside a church, a sorrowful sight.

"Too crowded," they said, "No room for you today."
Her heart broke in pieces; she couldn't pray.
But a pastor saw, beyond her shabby frame,
A soul yearning for love, not seeking fame.

With a gentle hand, he led her through the door,
Found a spot in Sunday School, on the polished floor.
That night, her heart light, she dreamed of spaces wide,
Where no child was turned away, no tears to hide.

Years passed, her light dimmed, to heaven, she did depart,
Leaving behind a purse, and an enormous heart.
Fifty-seven cents and a note, scrawled with love so pure,
"This is to help the church grow, of this, I am sure."

The pastor, moved by love, shared her story wide,
A call to hearts of many, letting her spirit guide.
A wealthy man, touched by grace, offered land to sow,
For fifty-seven cents, a new hope began to grow.

Donations poured like rain, from places far and near,
A testament to love, and to a girl so dear.
From her small gift, a legacy was born,
A church, a university, a hospital, dawned.

Temple Baptist Church, with seats for thousands more,
Temple University, with knowledge at its core.
The Good Samaritan Hospital, a beacon of healing light,
And a Sunday School, where no child is out of sight.

Her portrait hangs, a reminder of what faith can do,
Beside Dr. Russell H. Conwell, whose vision saw it through.
Fifty-seven cents, not just a meager sum,
But a seed of faith, from which miracles come.

In Philadelphia, remember this tale so bright,
Of a little girl’s love, shining ever so light.
What God can do with fifty-seven cents, you see,
Is a testament to faith, love, and humility.

March 18, 2024
Created by
MarkWaldrop