Elite Chinese Woman Became Soul-winner - 1890
Mrs. Ahok with granddaughters.
Introduction
Mrs. Ahok was an upper class Chinese woman—her bound feet were only two and a half inches long. Through studying the Bible to learn English, she was converted from open idolatry to ardent Christianity. Her status allowed her into the homes of other elite Chinese women whom she sought to lead to Christ. A missionary friend, Miss Bradshaw, invited her to England and she agreed to go, believing she was led by the Holy Spirit. She spoke to large groups, giving her testimony and pleading that more mission workers come to China. Non-Christians interested in China came to these meetings, and some became followers of Christ. Learning that her husband was ill, Mrs. Ahok left England to return to China by way of Canada. Her husband died before she got home. Chinese friends criticized her, saying the tragedy happened because she abandoned her Chinese gods. However, three new mission societies were formed as a result of her short visit to Canada. At Vancouver she had to wait some days for her steamer, and wrote to Miss Bradshaw on this day 26 July, 1890.
Quote
“All well, all peace. From the time I left England a month has passed away. I keep thinking constantly of the meetings in England which we had together. Now we are in this place waiting for the ship and therefore we had this very good opportunity for work. I have been invited by the minister of the church here to speak at meetings. I have done so six times. Because this is a new place, and there are men and women who do not at all believe the Gospel, but who like to hear about Chinese ways and customs, therefore they all greatly wish me to go to these meetings. I think this is also God’s leading for us, that we could not proceed on our journey, but must spend this time here....”
Burton, Margaret E. Notable Women Of Modern China. New York: Fleming H. Revell, 1912.