Our Church Speaks Episode 3 - Mary Slessor, Missionary in West Africa
Sep 2, 2024
Explore the extraordinary life of Mary Slessor, who transcended poverty in Scotland to become a fearless missionary in Nigeria. The hosts delve into her unwavering faith and dedication as she learned local languages and built schools. Discover her groundbreaking efforts to rescue abandoned twins and defend human dignity amid a legacy of trauma. They also discuss the complexities of 19th-century missions, emphasizing the importance of cultural respect and love as the foundation for impactful evangelism.
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From Mill Worker To Missionary
- Mary Slessor rose from child labor in Dundee textile mills to become a missionary in Nigeria.
- She taught herself African languages while working 12-hour days and then left for long-term service.
Missions Were Complex And Nuanced
- Missionary work in the 19th century was mixed with both anti-slavery justice and problematic colonial influence.
- Mary Slessor exemplified a respectful approach that prioritized local customs and languages.
Rescuing Twins From Cultural Abandonment
- In Calabar, twins were abandoned in clay pots as a cultural practice.
- Mary Slessor rescued many such twins and adopted them into her home.