We are a network of missiologists (Congolese and American) committed to bringing hope, training and tangible assistance to community leaders--particularly those working in the heart of The United Methodist Church's North Katanga Episcopal Area in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Some of our key players are featured below.

The husband and wife team of Mary and Joseph (District Superintendent of Mulongo) has been essential to the success of Friendly Planet. Mulongo served as leader and logistics coordinator for the 2010, 2011 and 2012 leadership development bicycle/boat tours. He also manages the construction and locally-financed maintenance of the new Mulongo Nursing School and Friendly Planet boat, "The Indiana."  

Mary, a nurse by profession, is a powerhouse for women's empowerment in her region. In July-August 2011 she lead our women's leadership tour, which included visiting communities (and transporting supplies) along the Congo river from Mulongo to Kabalo. Watch for announcements on how to support the many initiatives Mary leads. Contact Mama Mary and Rev. Mulongo via Facebook

Taylor's travels in DR Congo began at age 15. She was so inspired by her experience that she studied international development (BA & MA) at American University and returned to DRC as the Director of Community Development for the North Katanga Conference in 2005. While back in the USA for her MDiv (Wesley Seminary), she married fellow global nomad Stuart Denyer, a foreign service officer. Taylor coaches UM leaders in Congo and Zambia as they navigate the challenges of being 21st century global citizens serving in struggling communities. Taylor is a member of the UMC's North Katanga Conference with her elder's ordination scheduled for August 2012. Contact: Taylor@FriendlyPlanetMissiology.org

Biking Bob, a former Marine Corps helicopter pilot turned United Methodist pastor, has been journeying to DRCongo for teaching and speaking tours since 1991. Bob serves as the Director of Connectional Ministries for the North Katanga Episcopal Area.

When Bob is not in the Congo he can be found in Plainfield, IN with his wife Teri, a school teacher. In their free time, Bob and Teri tour the back roads of America in their classic MG.
Contact: bob@friendlyplanetmissiology.org

Emily, a student in the PhD psychology program at the University of Indianapolis, joined Team Friendly Planet in 2011. She, Mary Kabamba (pictured together) and others spent July-August 2011 meeting with communities along Congo river. Emily returned state-side with powerful stories to share and a strategic action plan that the women's team had developed.  Read about the journey on Emily's Blog: http://emilyindrc.blogspot.com/ 

Bishop Ntambo of the North Katanga Episcopal Area is an integral part of how Friendly Planet's story began. It was he who first encouraged Bob and others to focus their attention on assisting Congolese leaders through collegial relationships and contributing funds for local initiatives that empower leaders in their work (such as the purchase of bicycles). Bishop Ntambo continues to be a cheerleader for Friendly Planet.