This week in Christian history: Samurai beatified; controversial theologian born

American missionary to Burma ordained – Feb. 6, 1812

This week marks the anniversary of Adoniram Judson, a pioneering American missionary known for his work in Burma, being ordained in a commissioning service.

A native of Malden, Massachusetts, and the son of a pastor, Judson was commissioned for his mission work in Burma at a ceremony held at Tabernacle Church in Salem before approximately 1,500 attendees.

Judson is credited with establishing the first American Baptist mission in Burma, also known as Myanmar, and completing a Burmese translation of the Bible in 1834.

"His endurance through numerous trials reminds us of the way God often uses suffering to advance the gospel," wrote Nathan A. Finn, dean of the School of Theology and Missions at Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, in 2018. "His commitment to evangelism continues to inspire."

"Finally, Adoniram's translation work—his most important legacy—continues to reap gospel fruit in Myanmar and serve as an example for countless missionaries the world over."