Who was Mary Slessor and what did she accomplish? Early Life and Calling Mary Slessor (1848–1915) was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, and spent her formative years in Dundee. Raised in challenging circumstances, she supported her family after her father’s early death by working in a mill. She read extensively about Christian mission work, notably accounts of David Livingstone’s travels, which inspired a desire to serve abroad. Indicative of the heart to go and share God’s truth with others, many have drawn parallels to Isaiah 6:8: “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying: ‘Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” Mary’s determination to follow such a call led her to the Foreign Mission Board of the United Presbyterian Church. Sending her to work in Calabar (in modern-day Nigeria), the mission board recognized her zeal. She traveled to West Africa in 1876 and committed herself to sharing the message of salvation, teaching practical skills, and caring for the vulnerable. Service in Calabar and Cultural Challenges Upon arrival, Mary encountered local customs and beliefs that included superstition surrounding twins. Many in the area feared twins as a curse, leading to their abandonment. Mary set out to protect and adopt these abandoned children, eventually rescuing and raising several herself. Her compassion and consistent care dismantled false notions and spread hope among the communities she served. Cultural differences challenged Mary at every turn. She learned the Efik language, earning the trust of local tribal leaders and villagers alike. Those around her saw the living embodiment of Romans 10:14–15: “How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they hear without someone to preach?... As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’” She strove to be that messenger, not only teaching biblical principles but exemplifying them through sacrificial love and courage. Notable Achievements and Reforms Mary spearheaded several key reforms and initiatives in Okoyong and other regions of Nigeria: 1. Abolition of Twin-Killing Practices: Through her persistent pleas, reasoned dialogue, and personal example of caring for twins, the once common persecution and abandonment of twins rapidly decreased in the areas under her influence. 2. Peacemaking and Dispute Resolution: Often called upon by tribal leaders, she negotiated in local disputes and acted as an impartial advisor. She was even appointed as a magistrate by the British authorities, showing her effectiveness as a mediator and her deep understanding of local customs. 3. Advancement of Women and Children: Mary advocated for the educational rights of women and the welfare of children. Her actions opened pathways for more families to pursue education and social stability under benevolent instruction rooted in biblical ethics. 4. Establishment of Mission Stations: She contributed to founding mission outposts that offered spiritual teaching, healthcare, practical training, and literacy programs. These stations channeled the principle found in Matthew 28:19: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations...” Personal Sacrifice and Endurance Mary’s personal journey was marked by periodic illness (particularly malaria), primitive living conditions, and isolation from her home in Scotland. Yet she was driven by unwavering faith and a sense of divine calling. Colleagues and local Nigerians alike admired her for her perseverance, humility, and devotion to the people she served. Despite physical and emotional struggles, she was renowned for her joyful spirit and fearless approach. Accounts from her journals and letters (compiled extensively by W.P. Livingstone in “Mary Slessor of Calabar: Pioneer Missionary”) reveal her reliance on prayer and Scripture for daily guidance and resilience. Influence on Modern Missions Mary Slessor’s life demonstrated how one committed individual could influence an entire region for good. She showed that the heart of missions involves a combination of evangelism and compassionate service. Her example continues to inform mission strategy: learning local culture, speaking the heart language of the people, and addressing physical and spiritual needs together. Her willingness to live among the people, to learn from them, and to model a Christlike lifestyle proved to be a powerful witness. Over the decades since her death, her story has emboldened many to embark on similar endeavors, following her footsteps in fulfilling “the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18). Legacy and Ongoing Impact Mary Slessor passed away on January 13, 1915, after nearly four decades of service in Nigeria. She was buried in Calabar, the land she loved and served for most of her life. Monuments and churches throughout Nigeria and Scotland honor her memory. In many African communities, accounts of the “white Ma” or “Mother Slessor” still circulate, highlighting her dedication to health care, education, family welfare, and the gospel message. Her life underscores a profound truth: ordinary individuals, guided by conviction and empowered by divine love, can spur transformative social change and eternal impact. Her example is often cited to encourage Christians that God uses people of all backgrounds to accomplish His redemptive purposes, as demonstrated in 1 Corinthians 1:27: “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” Conclusion Mary Slessor stands as a central figure in missionary history, known for her determination, compassion, and the tangible reforms she introduced to the communities of Calabar and beyond. She remains an inspiration to those who desire to combine faith with action, and her powerful testimony serves as a reminder of the far-reaching influence one dedicated witness can have. Her accomplishments—abolishing harmful local practices, establishing mission outposts, and, most importantly, proclaiming the life-giving message of Christ—mark her story as an enduring legacy. Through her courage and faithfulness, God’s love flashed vividly in one of the most unreached areas of her time, making her a shining illustration of what it means to “let your light shine before men” (Matthew 5:16). |
    |