Baptisms, Conferences, and Literacy…oh my!

It has been a jam- packed, wonderful month here in Dinangat! Throughout the weeks of Christmas, we have talked about the Need for the Savior, the Coming of the Savior, Faith in the Savior, and Becoming LIKE the Savior.  And in the heart of these truths, 3 young girls (including Alayna!) and 1 older woman came forward to identify with the Savior in baptism!  Jordan and Judah were home for Christmas, as well as our co-workers, the Schlegels and the Smiths, and together (isn’t that a wonderful word?) together with the entire village we witnessed the faith of these girls take action!  Such joy!

There is a lot coming up to tell you about!  January 27th – Feb. 2nd there will be a teacher’s training conference led by a veteran missionary who has served the people of PNG for many years!  Our teachers are excited about this opportunity to sharpen their skills. Please Pray that they will be encouraged in their ministries and CHALLENGED to take God’s Word beyond the borders of our village!
Also, we want to let you know of another major change coming up for our family.  This summer, Jordan will begin his senior year in high school, and the Lord has brought us to the conclusion that we need to be with him to help prepare him for his next steps.  So we will once again be moving out to our mission center, and will be continuing with the Dinangat ministry from there.  Please pray!  There is much to do between now and then and we often feel overwhelmed. But this is the Lord’s work, and we are trusting that He will accomplish what He wants done before we re-locate!

Feb. 9 begins our first Post Literacy Course! Please Pray that our believers would have a strong desire to be Good Readers, as it directly correlates with their  independent interaction with the Word of God.  Sadly, this is an area in their lives that we have seen decline over the years.  Our desire is that these precious children, their parents and generations beyond would have a lasting drive to gain the ability to read and love God’s life-changing Word for themselves!