. . .And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” ~ Romans 10:14 (NLT) And I will add, how can they understand the preaching unless it is in their own language.
New Tribes Missions Aviation in PNG exists to support the 40+ church planting locations in rural areas throughout the country. This month we are celebrating several teams in Papua New Guinea that are now able to progress to their next stage of ministry! Because team members have reached a proficient level of tribal culture and language understanding, the Kovol, Kuyu and Lembena people will soon start learning to read and write in their own language. Language consultant, Eric Hedeen says, “these teams are doing the hard work to build relationships, dig deep into the tribal culture and prepare themselves to clearly share the greatest news that we can give. Blood, sweat and tears but for a great purpose.”
While Steve S. “checked out” of the Kovol language and started in on translation and creating literacy materials in August 2024, teammates Philip and Natalie H. have also now finished with full-time language learning! The team will soon be able to move on to begin preparing for the first literacy course in Kovol sometime early next year.
Adam F., Jason H., and Micah M. of the Lembena team also just finalized their official tribal language learning and have moved on with preparations to start the first Lembena literacy course in January.
Jonathan A., Jacob D., and Michael L. finished learning the Kuyu language in August. The team has just finished a literacy kickoff to start working toward the first Kuyu literacy class starting early next year.
Rachel C. also tested out of the Bisorio language in May and is working alongside church leadership for further discipleship of the children, youth and women through literacy, Bible studies and life on life discipleship.
Praise the Lord with us, that He has enabled these individuals to persevere in learning the tribal language and culture. Pray for them as they move to the next stages of literacy, translation, teaching and discipleship!
Family News
Travis’s schedule keeps him flying several times a week. When he’s not flying he’s working on projects in his role as ‘deputy training and competency manager’ which he enjoys.
Becky continues to coordinate Children’s Church on campus, but most of her energy is spent just being ‘mom.’
In September, Papua New Guinea celebrated their 50th Independence Day! Our center hosted a carnival for the families of all of our citizen workers. Becky and Hannah sang in the Independence Day choir, and Travis ran sound. There were lots of activities for kids like trampolines, a water slide, and train ride. The two main competitions for adults were the rugby toss and archery. The prize for the winner of the archery contest was a live baby pig. Sorry, I didn’t get a picture.
Prayer Requests:
Please pray for all the teams mentioned above as they begin to teach literacy and share the gospel in the local languages.
Please pray for good health for all of our missionaries here. Our clinic can handle many illnesses and has the ability to do ultrasounds and x-rays, but more complex health issues or diagnostic tests are usually referred to Australia.
Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and support as we serve church planters in PNG through aviation!
Love,
Travis & Becky
Interested in teaching in PNG or working at the medical clinic? follow these links
Numonohi Christian Academy https://www.ntmpng.org/nca/
Medical Clinic https://www.ntmpng.org/medical/