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Cecil leaves a legacy in story


Mishkins, a story the late Revd Cecil Wilson told to his daughters when they were children, has been released as a book with the proceeds of all sales going to CMSI.

Cecil, who died in February 2022, served 32 years of his ministry with CMS Ireland, first as Youth Secretary and then as General Secretary. In retirement he was a valued colleague in the Lecale Area Mission Partnership (LAMP) ministry team.

Cecil’s wife Barbara said, “Mishkins was created by a man of deep faith who shared it with many people. His dearest wish would be for that to continue and to be his legacy to us all.”

The book

Suitable for children aged 10 and upwards, Mishkins is the story of a very unusual cuddly toy set in 19th century England and Africa, a continent Cecil loved and visited often.

“Told with great sensitivity Mishkins is a story which has deep meaning far beyond the adventures of a much–loved cuddly toy. The message of Mishkins reaches across the generations and its truth is timeless. I am confident that the stories and adventures of a cuddly toy in these pages will point the reader to the great truths of belief and faith which make sense of life in a world of confusion and doubt…” The Right Reverend Robin Eames, former Archbishop of Armagh.

“The story of Mishkins is a warm–hearted tale tackling some challenging topics. Set in the 19th century, it creatively introduces children to loss, the hard realities of life in poorer regions of the world and the slave trade. It will give rise to many questions but is woven through with faith in a God who loves all that He created and who can be trusted even in very troubled times.” Jenny Smyth, Director of Mission, CMS Ireland.

Mishkins (£9.99) may be purchased from The Book Well here.

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