New book chronicles life of Ann Hasseltine Judson

VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 1/16/18)—Judson Press, the publishing arm of American Baptist Home Mission Societies, announces the release of “The Extraordinary Story of Ann Hasseltine Judson: A Life Beyond Boundaries,” by noted author Rosalie Hall Hunt.

In this captivating historical narrative of Ann Hasseltine Judson—beloved first wife of America’s first Baptist missionary, Adoniram Judson—readers trace her life from childhood through her untimely death. Hunt provides little-known information about Ann’s scholarship as a Bible translator and her work as a pioneering missionary and ministry partner of her more famous spouse.

“‘The Extraordinary Story’ describes the emotional side of this missionary heroine, adding a perspective on her humanity that is as compelling as the standard picture of her brilliant mind and stubborn tenacity,” says Jerry B. Cain, chancellor of Judson University, Elgin, Ill. “The empathy that Dr. Hunt adds to the story greatly enhances the saga of this great hero in the faith, and the hero becomes a friend. The facts are enriched with feelings, the exploits enhanced by emotions.”

This creative chronicle walks readers on a spiritual road to discover how the Holy Spirit worked through the faith-filled and courageous life of this female pioneer of the modern missionary movement.

“Rosalie Hunt is a master storyteller who brings Ann Judson to life in this book—a life that is an inspiration,” notes David George, president of the Woman’s Missionary Union Foundation. “This is a must-read for any missions-minded Christian.”

A sought-after speaker at churches, conferences and conventions, Hunt frequently performs mission monologues. A retired Baptist missionary, she has taught in Myanmar, South Asia, Australia, the Philippines, China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. She is a member of the board of directors of The Alabama Baptist and has served as president of the Alabama Woman’s Missionary Union and national recording secretary of Woman’s Missionary Union.

Author of “Bless God and Take Courage: The Judson Legacy” (Judson Press, 2005) and “Her Way: The Remarkable Story of Hephzibah Jenkins Townsend” (2016), Hunt has been awarded honorary doctorates from Judson College, Marion, Ala., and Judson University.

Founded in 1824, Judson Press is a publishing ministry of the American Baptist Home Mission Societies, American Baptist Churches USA. It is committed to producing Christ-centered leadership resources for the transformation of individuals, congregations, communities, and cultures.

American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.

American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.