A searchable, downloadable PDF of the original article appears below. Calvin Brown is the Executive Director of The Renewal Fellowship and Editor of Channels.
Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come, I say: My purpose will stand, and I will so all that I please. – Isaiah 46:9, 10
As part of the 125th Anniversary of the Presbyterian Church in Canada and the Millennium Celebrations we are happy to present this special history edition of Channels magazine retelling the stories of some of our Presbyterian missionaries to South East Asia. The magazine has articles concerning the three main areas of our work in the region : China/Taiwan; The South Pacific Islands; and Japan. After the articles is a Study Guide of questions on each of the three areas.
It is hoped future articles may fill out the story in greater detail and tell also of the great work in Korea, that is just touched on here. One of the greatest challenges, even after the decision was made to limit our story-telling to the South East Asian region, was to choose which stories to tell. We have tried to give a general overview as well as tell particular stories that illustrate the tone of the missionaries and the missions of which they were a part. Some articles may contain controversial or challenging statements and questions but I believed it was good to allow the authors to have full expression as they felt led by the Spirit. I observed that many of our missionaries also travelled in the midst of controversy. It is our prayer that as we recount their stories that the same Holy Spirit that took hold of them with enthusiasm may rekindle the same passion in us, their descendants, to also, by our words and deeds, bear faithful witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Questions accompany the sections so that this edition can also be used as a guide for study groups or for personal reflection. It could also serve as a permanent resource for congregational libraries. It is with the deepest gratitude that we express thanks to the Priscilla and Stanford Reid Trust for providing funds that made this project possible.