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“ T a s t outpost of democracy on the China main- ' land,’' is the way governmental leaders would classify strategic Hong Kong, but for Dr. and Mrs. Charles A. Roberts, it is the center of evangelistic thrust for the thousands of people in the “pearl of the Orient,” a city about the size of Los Angeles. The Roberts are the indomitable missionaries who have labored in China and then Hong Kong for more than three decades. Forced by communists out of the Bible Institute of China, located in Hunan Province, the two missionary leaders felt God had a place of urgent witness for them in that area of the world. Together, they have been led of the Lord to establish five areas of concerted ministry for Christ. This program includes: (1) an evangelical bookstore, (2) a medical dispensary, (3) a thriving youth center, (4) an evangelical church, and (5) several Christian schools. In the primary school, located at a place known as “Deep Well,” there are more than 300 pupils with 12 teachers. The government has just given the Roberts permission to build a large playground which will allow greater opportunity of witness to the boys and girls. All over the world, people are eager to learn to read. “ In Hong Kong, the growth of literacy has been amazing,” according to Dr. Roberts. He reports, “Our book room sales for this past month have been nearly 30% higher than any previous year.” Many books are given out to those who would not otherwise be able to afford them. Each month, the medical staff, headed by Dr. Peter Jenkins from the British Isles, treats more than 1500 patients. “There are many evenings when Dr. Jenkins doesn’t leave until after 9:00,” Dr. Roberts states. “How we need more qualified workers, not only for the dispensary, but in all the areas of our ministry for Christ.” Space is also a problem in Hong Kong for the ex panding work which is being carried on. “We have had to move from our church building,” Dr. Roberts comments, “ since the building is to be tom down by its owners. Until we can secure other property, we will have to meet in the dispensary. Pray that other avenues of opportunity may open up.” Because of its strategic position located adjoining the China mainland, Hong Kong affords an oppor tunity of reaching the spiritually starving people
Dr. Roberts talks with some of the fisher folks who live nearby his home.
Dr. Roberts and one of the young people at the Deep Well Youth Center.
behind the iron curtain. Gifts to this established organization (maintained by the Bible Institute of Los Angeles, Inc.) enable further progress in the many needy areas of outreach. Today as never before, the call of the Orient is as of the Macedonian of old, “ Come over and help us.” Some can go, many can give, ALL can pray!
APRIL, 1959
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