Albert Schweitzer’s Letter to the Paris Missionary Society, written July 9, 1905: Beginning of the History of the Doctor from Lambaréné

Abstract

Albert Schweitzer sets a striking example right in the middle of all notable thinkers of the XX century. By his self-sacrificing work in Lambaréné hospital, he showed how valuable the human life may be, and how a man can fully devote himself to the direct service of the people. This is why Albert Schweitzer has become the symbol of humanism and also of reverence for life. Every story has a beginning. On a Sunday day, July 9, 1905, Albert Schweitzer wrote a letter to the head of Paris Missionary Society, Alfred Boegner, in which he expressed his sincere aspiration and willingness to serve in the distressed provinces of West Africa.

Time has preserved the text of this momentous document for us. And now we gladly publish it in Russian translation.