On Friday, February 11, we hosted local writer Marshall V. King for a presentation to Bethany high school students and alumni. Author of the recently published book, Disarmed: The Radical Life and Legacy of Michael “MJ” Sharp., King reflected on his journey to honor the legacy of Michael “MJ” Sharp through his research and writing of the book.
MJ Sharp, a 2001 graduate of Bethany Christian Schools, was killed in 2017 while working for the United Nations in the Democratic Republic of Congo. A January 2022 BBC World News report (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-60183952) stated that sentences have been made for those involved in the murder of Sharp and his colleagues Zaida Catalan and Betu Tshinteal.
After the chapel presentation, a reception was held for Bethany senior students and former Bethany classmates of Sharp. King answered questions and students were presented copies of his book.
In honor of Sharp’s memory, Tara Swartzendruber, Director of Food Services, prepared a special meal for Bethany students and guests. The menu, a national dish of Congo, was chicken Muamba, rice and beans, and cooked greens, with spiced pili-pili pepper sauce. The recipes and menu were given to Tara from Collete Miniger, a Congolese friend living in Kansas, who was born and raised in the area where MJ worked and died.
To find out more about MJ and Marshall or get a copy of his book visit www.hungrymarshall.com/
