Geoffrey Bull facts for kids

Geoffrey Taylor Bull (June 24, 1921 – April 11, 1999) was an English Christian missionary and author. He spent many years sharing his faith and writing about his experiences, especially his time in Tibet.

Early Life and Calling

Geoffrey Taylor Bull was born in London, England, on June 24, 1921. His parents, William and Ethel, had strong Christian beliefs. When he was 15, he was baptized. He joined a group of Christians called the Open Brethren. This group believed in following the Bible simply.

Geoffrey first wanted to work in banking. But by 1941, he felt a strong call to become a missionary. He was especially interested in working in Central Asia. He may have been inspired by another missionary, George W. Hunter. Hunter had worked alone in China for many years.

Missionary Work and Imprisonment

After World War II, leaders in his church supported his dream. They agreed to send him to Central Asia. In March 1947, Geoffrey Bull and George N. Patterson traveled to China. They went deep into the country, near the border with Tibet. For three years, they learned Mandarin and Tibetan.

On July 29, 1950, Geoffrey entered Tibet. He saw the last days of Tibet's independence. Soon after, the Red Army invaded Tibet. They arrested Geoffrey, saying he was a spy. He was kept alone at first. Later, his captors tried to change his way of thinking. They wanted to "brainwash" him. But Geoffrey said his "faith in Christ kept him from mental breakdown." He was held captive for three years and two months. On December 19, 1953, he was released to British officials in Hong Kong.

Later Life and Ministry

After returning home, Geoffrey married Agnes (Nan) Templeton. They got married in June 1955 in Scotland. The Bulls then spent a year in Australia. From June 1959 to August 1960, they served as missionaries in North Borneo. This area is now called Sabah, Malaysia.

Geoffrey Bull also traveled worldwide. He taught about the Bible in many churches. He died on April 11, 1999, after a church service in Scotland. He was buried there. His wife, Nan, passed away in May 2009 and was buried with him. He was survived by his three sons, Ross, Peter, and Alister. Peter died in 2000.

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