Moody Bible Institute

Chicago, IL

private nonprofitgraduate

About Moody Bible Institute

Empowering Christian workers to proclaim the gospel for over a century.

Moody Bible Institute (MBI) stands as a testament to its founder D.L. Moody's vision, renowned for equipping dedicated Christian workers to spread the gospel. Born from the weekly "May Institute" in 1883 and formally established as the Chicago Evangelization Society in 1886, MBI was created to train "gap-men"—individuals prepared to bridge the gap between laity and ministers in urban mission work and evangelism. This foundational commitment continues to shape its mission of preparing students for impactful Christian service.

The institute, renamed Moody Bible Institute after Moody's passing in 1899, faced significant financial challenges in its early years. However, under the shrewd guidance of Henry Parsons Crowell, MBI was strategically restructured using sound business principles, ensuring its survival and growth. This resilience laid the groundwork for decades of dedicated service, fostering a legacy of practical ministry training that has adapted through the generations.

Today, MBI continues to evolve, addressing contemporary needs while maintaining its core mission. Recent years have seen significant developments, including a policy change in 2016 to welcome female students into the pastoral ministry program, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in ministry. Furthermore, the institute is embarking on an ambitious campus redevelopment plan, including a $22 million commitment for a new building and the "North Union" project, aiming to create a dynamic environment for future students dedicated to Christian leadership and global outreach.

Key Highlights

✦Founded in 1886 as the Chicago Evangelization Society, fulfilling D.L. Moody's vision to train evangelists and Christian workers.
✦Successfully restructured financially in the early 20th century under Henry Parsons Crowell, ensuring its long-term viability.
✦Changed its policy in 2016 to allow female students access to the pastoral ministry program.
✦Committed $22 million for a new campus building as part of its ongoing revitalization efforts.
✦Proceeds from an 8.1-acre campus sale earmarked for critical campus improvements, scholarships, and endowment growth.
✦Underwent a significant campus redevelopment plan ("North Union" project) approved by the Chicago City Council in 2022.

Timeline

1883

Emma Dryer organizes the "May Institute" with Moody's permission, a precursor to MBI.

1886

The Chicago Evangelization Society is founded to train Christian workers, teachers, ministers, missionaries, and musicians.

1899

The society is renamed "Moody Bible Institute" following D.L. Moody's death.

Early 20th Century

James M. Gray invites Henry Parsons Crowell to financially restructure the institute based on business principles.

2016

MBI changes its policy to allow female students access to the previously male-only pastoral ministry program.

2017

Announces closure of its Spokane, Washington campus and reductions in other programs due to enrollment drops.

2019

Mark Jobe becomes the new president of Moody Bible Institute in January.

2019

President Jobe announces a long-range plan to redevelop portions of Moody's campus in July.

2021

The "North Union" campus redevelopment project is approved by the Chicago Plan Commission in July.

2022

The "North Union" campus redevelopment project receives approval from the Chicago City Council in October.

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