Journey Against One Current

Julia Duan's story recalls missionary biographies of an earlier age. Here is an intriguing story of a courageous woman who dared to stand up for Christ in Marxist China and the God who was her strength through it all. At age 72, and after years of teaching, Julia Duan left China and returned to student life at Whitworth College, Spokane, Washington, and later at Moody Bible Institute. Her story was discovered by Linda Hunt, a writing professor at Whitworth, when she read Julia's description of her first night in the labor camp. Touched by this chapter in Julia's life, Linda suggested she write her entire story. She prayed and ultimately agreed to let her life 'be a spectacle to the world for God's glory.' Since journals were not allowed in the labor camp, Julia set about writing her story from memory, first in English and then in Chinese. She squeezed writing time in between classes, studies, speaking engagements, and work. During the last four years, Julia has been an ambassador for the believers of China participating in conferences for Chinese Christians in various cities. Her stories challenged and inspired these believers, most of whom converted to Christ after coming to America.