Coming Home: An Autobiography of My 1952-2011 Years

Coming Home is an autobiography which spans 60 years of Dr. Robert S. Kreider's life from 1952 through 2011. Dr. Kreider documented the first part of his life (1919-1952) in My Early Years (Pandora Press, 2002.) Coming Home continues his life story, beginning with his move to the Bluffton (OH) College campus to begin his teaching career. The chapters cover a variety of professional and family topics --often within an historical context. Coming Home includes Dr. Kreider's narrative of his travels to set up the MCC Teachers Abroad Program in Africa, his Bluffton (OH) College presidency, the family's 6-month Mediterranean sabbatical, the move from Ohio to Kansas, and more.

Robert S. Kreider is a teacher, historian, churchman, visionary, and author. Dr. Kreider earned his BA from Bethel (KS) College, and his Masters and PhD from the University of Chicago. Active in Mennonite Church leadership, Dr. Kreider was first thrust into leadership roles in Civilian Public Service and with the MCC in post-World War II relief work in Europe. He has held positions on the Executive Committee of the Mennonite Central Committee and the Mennonite World Conference. Dr. Kreider’s teaching career began in 1952 at Bluffton (OH) College where he became Professor of History, Dean of Students, Academic Dean, and the college’s fifth President. In 1974, he moved to Bethel (KS) College where he became Professor of Peace Studies and Director of the Mennonite Library and Archives before retiring in 1986. He has authored and co-authored many articles and books, including Hungry, Thirsty, a Stranger; When Good People Quarrel; Mirror of the Martyrs; Looking Back into the Future; My Early Years. Now retired from full time work, Dr. Kreider continues to consult and serve the larger Mennonite community.