Father Morice Vanoverbergh, CICM, 1885-1982: Illustrious Missionary Pioneer

André De Bleeker

Father Morice Vanoverbergh, CICM, 1885-1982

Illustrious Missionary Pioneer

Authors

André De Bleeker CICM

Keywords:

Missionary, Morice Vanoverbergh, Philippine Missions, Igorots, Field Work

Abstract

This article looks back at Father Morice Vanoverbergh, CICM, whose missionary work testifies to his commitment to Filipinos among whom he lived. It traces his fruitful missionary work from 1909-1982; his contribution to scholarship that made Filipino scholars more aware of the rich cultural heritage of the peoples of Northern Luzon, and; his invaluable contributions to the history and cultural heritage of the Philippines.

Author Biography

André De Bleeker, CICM

Fr. André De Bleeker, CICM, obtained from the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven his Licentiate in Missiology in 1972. He also earned a degree in Eastern philology and history. After his ordination, he left for the Philippines and studied Ilocano as preparation for his various mission-assignments: Bontoc, Mountain Province (1973-1975); Kabugao-Calanasan, Apayao (1975-1983); Natonin, Mountain Province (1983-1988). He served as formator in Maryhurst Seminary (1988-1993) and taught missiology, comparative religion, and world religions at Maryhill School of Theology (1994- 2013), where he also served as Academic Dean (2011-2013). In May 2013, he moved to Rome, Italy to serve as CICM’s General Archivist.

Father Morice Vanoverbergh, CICM, 1885-1982: Illustrious Missionary Pioneer