Neesima and the students met Tanaka, the twelve students prostrated themselves in the way they would greet a lord. However, Neesima just bowed lightly, and Tanaka only shook hands with Neesima. It was at this point that Neesima decided to accompany the Iwakura Mission. 2. Educational Tour of Europe Having gained Tanaka's trust, Neesima was asked to guide, interpret, and write a report on his visits to various schools in the U.S., and about the educational system in America. Neesima was later requested by Tanaka to join their educational tour to Europe. Neesima took one-year away from Andover Theological Seminary to accompany Tanaka and interpret for him. As they saw the roles of various schools in Europe and the United States, the government officials began to have the idea that Japan also needed to reform its educational system. Tanaka felt that he needed Neesima’s help, and he wanted Neesima to go back to Japan with him. However, Neesima had decided to resume his studies at Andover Theological Seminary, so he declined the offer. At this time, Neesima already had a dream of establishing a Christian school in Japan. 3. Speech at the Annual Meeting of the American Board After coming back from Europe to the United States, Neesima received a letter from Gordon, whom Neesima had known and who had been sent to Osaka as a missionary by the American Board, asking Neesima to return to Japan and help in their ministry. Neesima, who became a licensed minister after graduating from the theological seminary, was chosen to be sent on a mission to Japan by the American Board. In October, 1874, the 65th annual meeting of the American Board was held in Rutland, Vermont. Neesima joined the meeting and was to speak. He addressed the audience passionately. To a packed audience of 1000 in the hall at Grace Church, he insisted on the need to increase the Christian spirit in Japan and to introduce Christian education there. When Neesima asked for donations, many of the audience agreed and ultimately about $5,000 was donated after his speech. The story of one farmer who gave the $2 meant for his train ride home has been passed down from generation to generation. Neesima left for Japan with a desire to preach Christianity and establish a Christian school in Japan.
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