The Fulfilment of a Dream of Pastor Hsi's / The Story of the Work in Hwochow

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27243

Title

The Fulfilment of a Dream of Pastor Hsi's / The Story of the Work in Hwochow

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A poignant missionary account detailing the spiritual transformation of Pastor Hsi and his family in Shansi, China. This narrative chronicles the struggle against opium addiction, the horrors of famine, and the resilience of the Hwochow Church. With a tone of earnest devotion and natural storytelling, it appeals to readers seeking inspiration through faith, sacrifice, and the enduring power of divine grace in adversity.

Summary up to 500 words

Written by A. Mildred Cable, *The Fulfilment of a Dream of Pastor Hsi's* chronicles the remarkable history of the China Inland Mission station in Hwochow, Shansi Province. The narrative centers on Pastor Hsi, a former Confucian scholar who, after being drawn to Christianity through the book *Happy Sound*, overcomes severe opium addiction and family tragedy to become a spiritual leader. The story follows the station's development from its opening in 1896 through the Boxer Rebellion and beyond, highlighting the lives of key figures like Pastor Wang, who rises from poverty and famine to become a pastor. Readers witness the community's struggle against opium dens, the devastation of the Boxer Uprising, and the devastating famine that claimed Pastor Hsi's mother. Despite these trials, the text emphasizes the 'fulfilment of a dream' as the local church grows into a self-propagating organization. The book balances harrowing accounts of suffering—such as families eating weeds and children dying of hunger—with uplifting testimonies of conversion, healing, and the establishment of schools and opium refuges. It serves as both a historical record of missionary work and a spiritual testament to the sustaining power of faith amidst extreme hardship. The narrative introduces Pastor Wang, whose life mirrors the struggles of his community. Orphaned early and married to a disabled woman during a catastrophic famine, Wang loses his mother to starvation, a tragedy born of her selfless love. After surviving the famine and overcoming his own addiction to opium through the mission's refuge, Wang becomes a pillar of the church, eventually being ordained as pastor. The book details the transition from foreign-led efforts to a self-governing Chinese church. By 1911, the work has expanded to include Bible training schools, opium refuges, and evangelistic societies entirely managed by local Christians. The story concludes with a review of the church's independence, celebrating how the initial 'gift' of Pastor Hsi and his family has matured into a robust, indigenous faith community capable of sustaining itself without external aid.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion
• Travel