Tena Huizenga
Missionary to Nigeria, 1937–54
By Shawn Brix
“By any measure, Tena Huizenga lived a remarkable life, a life of service to humankind
in the name of her Lord. Herein is her story of 17 adventurous years as a missionary
nurse in the hinterlands of Nigeria from 1937 to 1954. Such a career by a single woman
was filled with danger and loneliness, as well as excitement and an empowering sense
of purpose. Her story can serve as inspiration for us all.”
—Paul Heusinkveld
“This book tells the powerful story of Nigerian missionary nurse Tena Huizenga, the
saint of the Peter Huizenga clan, who for almost two decades met the medical and spiritual
needs of the Tiv (Tivoid) people. Most satisfying to Tena was the prenatal and natal
care and hygiene that saved the lives of countless infants. She also preached regularly
at a time when this was not permitted in her supporting American churches. Aunt Tena,
or Mother, as she was known, was dearly loved and appreciated.”
—Robert P. Swierenga
workP. 616.395.7678
vanraalte@hope.edu