Amy Beatrice Carmichael (1867-1951) was the the oldest of seven children born to Christian parents, David (a mill worker) and Catherine Carmichael, on 16 December 1867. The Carmichael family lived in the coastal village of Millisle, Northern Ireland. Amy's parents often talked to her about Jesus and the love of God.
While at a girls’ boarding school in Harrogate in Yorkshire in 1883, Amy put her trust in Jesus during a mission event explaining Christianity to children. Her family faced financial struggles and was eventually forced to move to Belfast. It was there that Amy's faith was to deepen and she began ministry work with Belfast City Mission, teaching children and helping people living in the slums.