Fun at the River

Saturday was another fun day at the river. Jerad and Freddie, the two PNG
boys in Leif's class, were so protective of Noah and Tia. It was really cute
to see. The water was a little higher and faster than we had anticipated,
due to the heavy rains.

BTA - Bible Translation Association

These are the headquarters of the Bible Translation Association of Papua New
Guinea. The PNG Bible Translation Association is a national organization in
Papua New Guinea committed to translating the Bible into the languages of
the country. It is also involved in literacy -- teaching people to read and
write in their own languages. It was formed in 1974 by PNG Christians. To
date it has produced several New Testaments and assisted thousands of people
in learning to read. BTA works closely with the churches in PNG.

Lote New Testament Bible Dedication

In January, another New Testament dedication took place on the beautiful
island of East New Britain. Some of the pictures were taken by a friend who
was one of the photographers at the event. The island of New Britain is to
the East of Papua New Guinea. To get to the dedication involved both plane
and boat transportation, so our family was unable to attend. At some time
during our stay here, we hope to attend one of the dedications. Right now
there are approximately 10 dedications scheduled for 2010.

Scripture Use Conference

In the middle of January, a Scripture Use conference took place in Ukarumpa.  Over 31 churches and para-church organizations attended the conference from all over PNG.  There were 69 participants, although some arrived late due to landslides and roads being washed out.  This was the first time a conference like this was held, uniting together church leaders from various denominations in PNG for a time of dialogue and encouragement.  Workshops were held about Bible translation, children’s ministries ideas, and how to incorporate the “tok ples” Bible (vernacular) into their worship services.  It was a time for pastors to make connections across the country, and strengthen and encourage each other in how God’s word can transform individuals, families and the nation. 

 

Our family was able to talk with a pastor who was involved with recording the scriptures on audio players.  Although, literacy work is done alongside Bible translation, there are still many who do not know how to read.  This avenue opens up God’s word to these people.  In a country where stories are passed on by mouth and memorized, recording scriptures is perfect for them.  It was exciting to hear about this work.

 

Rainy Season

These are the roads between the highlands and the coast.  Without a 4 wheel drive, at times they are impassable.