Lives of The Three Mrs. Judsons—Missionaries to Burmah

Women in Missions: A New Field of Opportunity

Modern missions have given women a unique opportunity to develop their character and make a difference. Many reformers, especially those advocating for women’s rights, have long complained about the limited roles available to women. They argue that this restricts their ability to achieve prominence in society. Historically, few women have gained recognition outside of literature. The lack of female biographies clearly shows this. How many of the memoirs that fill our libraries tell the stories of women?

The Missionary Sphere: A Place of Activity and Influence

The missionary field provides women with a chance to shine in ways unavailable elsewhere. Here, they can master complex languages, navigate the challenges of diverse personalities, and pursue noble causes in the face of hardship. Women in the mission field can also show immense courage and devotion. They may face great dangers and even death, yet remain dedicated to their cause and their faith. The examples of the Mrs. Judsons demonstrate this heroic spirit. In contrast, some women today seek equality by loudly asserting their rights or copying men. Yet, who would not rather honor the woman who sacrifices her talents and comforts to support her husband’s mission of love to the heathen?

Christianity’s Impact on Women

Christianity has profoundly improved women’s social standing, especially in enlightened countries. It is fitting, then, that Christian women should bring these blessings to their sisters in less privileged lands. The Christian faith has always been a gospel for the poor. However, it has also been a gospel for women. For centuries, women were trapped in social inferiority, a consequence of humanity’s fall. But with Christ’s resurrection, women were made equal in Him. No longer were they subordinates, but fellow heirs of the gospel. From the early days of the church, women embraced their high calling. They worked alongside men to advance the new faith, playing a vital role in its spread.

Why Another Memoir?

Why publish another memoir of these three remarkable women? Regarding the first Mrs. Judson, we felt that a straightforward account of her life, free from the details of the mission itself, would appeal to younger readers. Mr. Knowles’ biography is excellent, but our version aims to engage youth with a simpler narrative. As for the second Mrs. Judson, while we do not seek to surpass the elegant biography by Fanny Forrester, we believe that her life, told in plain terms, can still captivate readers.

Honoring Three Christian Heroines

Lastly, we offer as complete a story as possible of the third Mrs. Judson, who passed away recently. In this memoir, we seek to preserve the memory of all three women. Their virtues, courage, and devotion greatly contributed to the work and success of one of the most influential missionaries of modern times—Rev. Adoniram Judson.

Conclusion: A Hope for Future Generations

The encouragement we received from friends of the Judsons inspired us to complete this work. We hope that readers, especially young women in Sunday schools and Bible classes, will find in these stories examples worthy of emulation. If this book motivates them to follow in the footsteps of these Christian heroines, the author’s greatest hopes will be fulfilled.