In 1775, John Sutcliff (1752-1814) commenced his pastorate at Olney Baptist Church, which continues to the present day. In 1785, young William Carey placed himself under the tutelage of Sutcliff and under the watch-care of the Olney church where he held membership. After Carey preached his first sermon to the Olney congregation, the unanimous conclusion was that the young man needed more time before they could ordain him. They promised to hear him again. Operating a little theological academy in his home, Sutcliff prepared Carey for the ministry. In 1786, Sutcliff led in Cary’s ordination, and the Olney church commissioned him to preach.
