Helfenstein, Charles

Helfenstein, Charles a minister of the German Reformed Church, and son of Rev. J. C. A. Helfenstein was born March 29, 1781. He spent his youth as a printer, and afterwards studied theology with Rev. Dr. Becker, of Baltimore, Md. He was licensed and ordained by the Synod of the German Reformed Church in May, 1801, and was pastor successively at Allemangel, Berks County, Pa.; Goshenhoppen, Montgomery County, Pa.; Ephrata, Lancaster County, Pa.; Hanover and Berlin, York County, Pa.; Rockingham County, Va.; and Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, Pa. He died Dec. 19,1842. With many innocent eccentricities, he was actuated by deep earnestness, a childlike piety, and a kindly spirit. He preached in both the German and English languages. (H. H.)