China in the early 1930s could be a dangerous place, particularly for foreign missionaries. Natural disasters and diseases were terrible threats, along with roving bands of bandits and political fighters. In August, 1931 communist guerillas kidnapped Columban Father Hugh F. Sands and took him prisoner. In mid-1932 his captors released him, but during his captivity he had a historic encounter which would have great future significance for the Columban Fathers in China.