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When most people think of missionaries in foreign countries, they envision people traveling to distant lands for evangelism. Mary Webster Moore, who has served in international missions for two decades, offers a different perspective. 

"Many of the people we visit don't need to hear the Gospel," said Moore, who has visited several countries in Africa and South America. "They are saved already and have vibrant faith. Instead of focusing on salvation, we minister to the needs of the total person, which may be medical, educational, or social."

Serving in missions affords Moore plenty of opportunities to travel and teach, two of her favorite pastimes. The Mississippi native has been to Liberia, Nigeria, Ghana, Brazil, and Chile. As a professor in Trinity's education department, she incorporates what she learns on her trips into her curriculum.

"When I relate my experiences to my students, it helps them realize that the world is bigger than Trinity, their hometowns, and their religious beliefs. It broadens their perspectives and hopefully enriches their lives in ways that will prepare them better to teach people who may not share their backgrounds."

Moore has been involved in education for more than 30 years. She graduated from North Park College in Chicago and completed her master's at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta. The former middle school teacher and principal began teaching at Trinity in 1998.

During her career, Moore taught herself origami, and besides finding it to be mentally engaging and relaxing, she uses it as a conversation piece.

"I take my origami with me wherever I go. It draws people in and gives me a chance to explain the cultural significance behind it. I also use it with my students because it has mathematic, scientific, and artistic principles that they can share with their pupils when they become teachers."

Moore hopes that the College - specifically its education department - will continue to develop relationships with various organizations and entities in Chicago. She sees the city as a major asset in developing teachers who are capable of leading diverse groups of students.

"Trinity is strategically placed (in Palos Heights) for a reason. If we are not taking advantage of the resources available to us in Chicago, we are not fulfilling our call to ministry completely."

Moore lives in Chicago with her husband, James. They attend Freedom Temple Church of God in Christ.