Introduction
In the 1860s, Christian Friedrich Spittler, the founder of the St. Chrischona Pilgrim Mission, sought to establish a training center for prospective missionaries from Amharic- and Oromo-speaking regions.
(1) English translation
We have already encountered the small castle in Inzlingen once before—back when the very beginnings of the Pilgrim Mission were being discussed. It is picturesquely situated at the foot of Mount Chrischona, in the Baden village of Inzlingen. Surrounded by water, it is accessible only via a bridge.
As it stood there, year after year, empty and unused, Mr. Spittler could not let go of the idea that this castle—much like the old church on Chrischona had once been—should be put to use for the Kingdom of God. Many delightful experiences gained through the upbringing and education of African boys—contrasted with the immense difficulties that had historically hindered the flourishing of the African mission, and which had recently resurfaced with particular severity due to the grave illnesses and numerous deaths among the [St. Chrischona] brethren—inspired in Spittler the desire to train indigenous missionaries for Abyssinia and the Oromo lands.
In July 1866, he wrote to Dr. Krapf in Korntal regarding this matter, outlining his plan to establish an institution for African boys in Inzlingen. The Abyssinian missionary Flad, he suggested, could endeavor to enlist the support of the Queen of England for this project, and likewise persuade Emperor Tewodros to send worthy and gifted young men from his own country to assist in advancing the cause.
Indeed, this plan was set in motion during the very last year of Spittler’s life. The small castle in Inzlingen was leased for three years. A devoted couple—Mr. and Mrs. Mück from Stuttgart—willingly agreed to move there and take charge of the household. Many weary pilgrims in need of rest and recuperation found there a warm welcome and quiet spiritual refreshment. Yet, no African youths ever arrived. Then, when the three-year lease period had expired and there were still no clear indications regarding the future use of the small castle, the decision was made to abandon the undertaking once again.
(2) German text
The German text was printed in:
Rappard, Carl Heinrich. 1840‒1890: Fünfzig Jahre Pilgermission; Gedenkschrift zur Feier des fünfzigjährigen Bestandes der Anstalt, p. 151‒52. Basel: C.F. Spittler [in commission], 1890. [Online (forthcoming)]
Scan kindly provided by Barbara Trebing (St. Chrischona Library)
Cross-references
» Inzlingen Castle (Wikipedia)
» St. Chrischona Pilgrim Mission’s Apostles’ Road
» [Catholic] St. Michael’s College of Galla Boys in Marseille