Hudson Taylor

Hudson Taylor (May 21, 1832 – June 3, 1905) was a British Christian missionary and the founder of the China Inland Mission (CIM), now known as OMF International. Taylor is regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Christian missionary work, particularly in China. His dedication to spreading the Christian faith and his innovative approaches to missionary work left a lasting legacy.

Taylor's journey to China began in 1853 when he set sail as a missionary at the age of 21. His early years in China were marked by a deep commitment to learning the language and culture of the Chinese people. He was one of the first Western missionaries to adopt Chinese dress and customs in order to integrate more fully into Chinese society, which helped him build trust and rapport with the local population.

In 1865, Taylor founded the China Inland Mission with the goal of sending missionaries to the interior of China, far beyond the coastal areas where foreign missionaries were traditionally stationed. At the time, this was a radical idea, as most Western missionaries focused on more accessible regions. Taylor's vision led to the establishment of over 200 mission stations across China and the recruitment of hundreds of missionaries.

Taylor was also known for his strong personal faith and reliance on prayer and God’s provision. He made a deliberate decision to avoid soliciting financial support through traditional means, instead trusting that God would provide the funds needed for his work. This approach was often considered unconventional, but Taylor's faith and persistence paid off, and the CIM grew significantly under his leadership.

Beyond his missionary efforts, Taylor made significant contributions to the development of education in China, including the establishment of schools and hospitals. His commitment to evangelizing, but also to serving the broader needs of the Chinese people, set him apart as a missionary with a profound sense of holistic care.

Taylor’s life and work are still deeply admired, and his influence continues through OMF International, which continues his mission of spreading the Christian faith in East Asia.