changing role of the British Protestant missionaries in China, 1945-1952, The

Book Description

This scholarly exploration delves into a pivotal moment when British Protestant missionaries found themselves navigating unprecedented challenges in post-war China. Between 1945 and 1952, these dedicated individuals witnessed their familiar world transform as political power shifted from the Guomindang to Communist rule.

Oi Ki Ling presents a nuanced examination of how these missionaries grappled with fundamental questions about their purpose and methods. The work reveals the often stark disconnect between what these religious workers believed they were accomplishing and the complex realities they encountered on the ground in China.

The study illuminates the missionaries' attempts to understand and respond to the rise of Communism, exploring their assessments of what this new political landscape might mean for their spiritual mission. Through careful analysis, the author uncovers the theological and cultural assumptions that shaped these missionaries' approaches to their work, particularly regarding the intersection of faith and politics, spiritual mission and cultural engagement, and the evolving relationship between foreign missionaries and local Chinese churches.

This examination offers valuable insights into the human dimension of cross-cultural spiritual work during times of dramatic social change. Readers interested in understanding how spiritual practitioners adapt their methods and perspectives when confronted with shifting circumstances will find this historical case study both illuminating and thought-provoking. The work captures both the sincere idealism and genuine struggles of individuals committed to their spiritual calling amid profound uncertainty.