They Shall See His Face

“In They Shall See His Face, Linda and Robert Banks have rescued an important and fascinating story from the gathering mists of history and made it available to the larger public. Their careful detective work (as they call it) has given us a story of God’s grace in people’s lives that both inspires and instructs.”


—Howard A. Snyder, author of The Problem of Wineskins and Models of the Kingdom





“These days it is not unusual to run into a church or choir composed of blind people in major Chinese cities. But few could imagine the immense hardship Amy Oxley Wilkinson braved at the turn of the twentieth century in bringing education to the visually impaired in a pragmatic society where disability was conveniently sidelined. This amazing story illustrates how the gospel of Jesus may be perched not only through words but also through deeds, especially works among the disadvantaged.”


—Wingyan Mokchan, Visiting Professor, China Graduate School of Theology, Hong Kong





“This book tells the story of a courageous and passionate missionary and her legacy among the blind in China. The authors’ great achievement is to do this in a way that their own voice seems to disappear and that of Amy Oxley Wilkinson shines through. It is a historical biography grounded in impeccable research, providing insight into the contribution (and colonial prejudices) of Christian mission to social justice at the turn of the twentieth century. The prose is beautiful and photographs delightful. The book deserves a wide audience.”


—Shane Clifton, author of Crippled Grace: Disability, Virtue Ethics, and the Good Life





“Linda and Robert Banks’ fascinating account presents Amy Oxley Wilkinson’s life in its vibrant historical, cultural, and political contexts. This is missionary biography at its best: rich, real, and relevant. The world needs to hear this story of heroism, Christian conviction, and love for the Chinese people. Everyone should be challenged to do good specifically where God and their conscience direct. Highly recommended!”


—Wei-Han Kuan, State Director, Church Missionary Society, Victoria, Australia





“Amy Oxley Wilkinson proves that a young Australian woman can leave a lasting legacy for the poor and disabled. She followed God’s leading at a dangerous time in a foreign culture to meet the needs of children without help and hope. This is a truly inspiring real-life story worth reading and retelling.”


—Russell Clark, former Head of the Department of Medicine, United Christian Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong; and Kay Clark, CMS Missionaries, Hong Kong





“A most uplifting story of Amy Oxley Wilkinson and her amazing ministry at the Blind School in Foochow. One cannot help but be inspired by her life of commitment to mission in China and ministry of love and care. Read this book to be challenged in your faith and renewed in your commitment to the Lord.”


—Kua Wee Seng, Director, United Bible Societies, China Partnership, Singapore





“They Shall See His Face is a beautifully written piece on the faith and passion of Amy Oxley Wilkinson. The love that she had for children in China with low vision and blindness is captured perfectly in this historically detailed book. She valued them simply as children, not as children with disabilities. Her compelling story is a guide to anyone working within the


health industry and education.”


—Lauren Rouse, Occupational Therapist and Braille Transcriber, The Statewide Vision Resource Centre, Melbourne, Australia