Background, -- 5
The Founding of the Society, -- 11
1987-97: A Maturing Decade, -- 20
The Missiological Task, 29 Notes, -- 31
References Cited, -- 32
APPENDICES
A) Key Dates, -- 35
B) Officers and Editorial Staff, -- 36
C) Annual Meeting Themes, -- 39
D) ASM Series and Dissertation Series, -- 42
E) Articles of Incorporation, -- 45
F) Bylaws, -- 47

This brief history of the founding and first twenty-five years of the American Society of Missiology builds upon the earlier published work of Wilbert R. Shenk, The American Society 1972-87 (Elkhart, IN: ASM, 1987). A principal motive for compiling it was to ensure preservation of sources having to do with this story. Unpublished materials used in preparing this history will be deposited in the official ASM archives at the Billy Graham Center, Wheaton, Illinois. Appreciation is expressed to Gerald H. Anderson, Ralph D. Winter, Creighton Lacy, and Herbert C. Jackson who responded to inquiries for information regarding the early part of the history. The appearance of this present volume owes a great debt to Judy Bos who prepared the manuscript for printing, adding that gib to years of service as the Administrative Assistant to the Secretary-Treasurer, and Registrar for the annual meetings.