It was 1919: the World was beginning to recover from the horrors of the Great War and now gripped by a devastating and deadly influenza epidemic.
It was such a difficult time and many missionaries were struck down with illness or returning to their homeland, however, the faithful service of a few in the Malay Peninsula were able and willing to quietly bring light and hope to the lives of many who would otherwise be forgotten.
Responding to God's call
During the closing years of WWI, Mr. and Mrs. G. Wilson responded to God’s call to care for orphans and destitute children. Their work began with a vision carried by Miss Maclay - a devoted believer whose life was tragically cut short in the sinking of the Lusitania in 1915. Her heart had been set on creating a home for poor and vulnerable girls and babies, a dream that, through God’s providence, the Wilsons were later able to bring to life.
Elim Home, Ipoh, Malay Peninsula - a provision from God
In January 1916, the Wilsons gathered the children who had been under the care of local mission workers and opened what became known as the “Elim Home" in Ipoh. Their goal was simple yet profound - to provide not only shelter and education but also spiritual care, grounding each child in the knowledge of God’s love and Word.
By March 1917, through prayer and perseverance, the Wilsons purchased a small plot of land and began construction of a permanent home. Despite the challenges of the war and the years that followed, they rejoiced at the completion of a sturdy, welcoming building at the end of 1917 - a home capable of housing 50 children at a total cost at the time of £729.
In time, the Elim Home expanded its care to include Chinese girl boarders and children who could not afford education. While some paid a small contribution, many were supported entirely by the mission’s generosity. At that time, the cost of providing food, education, and care for each child was about £7 per month.
Under Mrs. Wilson’s guidance - supported by two teachers, three “Ahmahs” (caretakers), and the dedicated service of Miss S. Shirtliff, a trained nurse - the children thrived. They received schooling, daily care, and instruction in God’s Word. Miss Shirtliff lovingly tended to their health and wellbeing, embodying the compassion of Christ in each small act of service.
Through years of global conflict and recovery, the Elim Home stood as a testament to steadfast faith and compassion in action.
Still relevant to us today?
Compassion is always needed.
From all accounts, the Wilsons and Miss Shirtliff didn’t wait for perfect conditions; they acted where they were, with what they had. In today’s world of global crises and local need, their story challenges us to serve with open hands and hearts, trusting God to multiply what we offer. What could that mean for you?
God’s faithfulness endures across generations.
What began as one woman’s vision - Miss Maclay’s dream before her passing - became a lasting ministry. It reminds us that God’s purposes often continue through the next hands willing to serve, we can continue to be thankful that, in whatever capacity we have, God enables us to serve and give.
“We give thanks to God for the continued interest and sympathy shown by many of the Lord’s people in this work.”
-Mr. and Mrs. G. Wilson, Ipoh, 1919
This mission report was originally recorded in The Treasury, August 1919