NCU’s Famous Missionary: Finding a biography in the Kellenberger Archives
The History of Christianity II class has been studying the work and impact of missionaries across the globe. Librarian Steve Silver helped them uncover the life of NCU’s most famous graduate, E. R. Moon by giving access to the NCU archives and the ‘Congo Collection’ of Kellenberger Library. The missionary, E.R.Moon, served in Congo (1908-1923) where he planted many churches and translated the Bible into the local Bantu dialect. With the financial support of Oregon churches, he transported 1200 boxes of pieces which he rebuilt into a boat in Congo and dubbed the “Oregon.” Upon return from Africa, he spent many years as a professor in College of Mission in Indianapolis and College of Religion in Butler University and six more years in Jamaica. He retired in Springfield giving over a thousand talks on life and ministry in the Congo before his death in 1962.
The History of Christianity students have prepared a PowerPoint using pictures from the archives and authentic artifacts from the Congo to share this NCU graduate’s life in ministry. Conner Borigo will share on Moon’s family, his childhood, academic preparation, call to missions and the ministry and help of his wife Bessie. Anthony Galindo will give us the bigger picture of the geography and political history of the Congo in this era as it suffered from and then emerged from the brutal Belgian colonialization. Ruth Meeker will explain the mechanics and mission of the boat “Oregon” which provided transport on the Congo River for locals and missionaries alike. Chantel Hall uses Moon’s book on Congo to describe Congolese dietary customs, community life, marriage, roles, and native religion. Luiz Munoz explores the spiritual impact of Moon’s ministry. De’Onte Menefee concludes the presentation by telling why Moon left Africa and how he finished strong by training others for missions and going himself again to Jamaica.
Each portion of the PowerPoint is illustrated by quotes and pictures of Moon from the NCU Kellenberger archives. The presentation will also include a display of articles such as a beheading knife, chief’s throne, neck rings worn by chief’s wives, massive metal jewelry to display wealth, weapons, etc. held by the NCU museum collection.
HIST 332, History of Christianity II
Kathryn Hain
P103
2 – 3 PM