Prayer for Papau, New Guinea

Six of our church members are currently ministering in Papau, New Guinea.  They are there for three weeks with a number of tasks--teaching at the pastoral training school, holding VBS's in the villages, and ministering to the forgotten women of that area, affirming their value in God's sight.

This required enormous preparation.  Materials for 2000 chidlren were prepared in advance.  Teaching posters were masterfully and artisically produced as visuals for the women and children (Thanks, Debbie).  Pastor Mark and Logan have studied for several months studying the book of Hebrews to be taught to the young men at the seminary.  The rest of the team--Desiree, Mikel, Mary and Morgan--have been getting ready for their parts, as well, training themselves to clearly articulate the gospel that they will be sharing in the various venues provided.

This is an all-church venture.  Many helped cut out and assemble the materials for the children.  Otghers helped by donating 100 study Bibles for ther pastors.  Otehrs have given to help cover the costs of travel, food, medical supllies and all the other necessitities associated with a ministry as      far-reaching as this--nearly $30,000.  A commissioning service with congregation gathered in prayerful affirmation around the team the Sunday they left was an opportunity for us all to be bound together in this ministry.

The key component, however, is prayer.  "God moves in response to the prayers of His people", writes Billingham in his book, DESTINED FOR THE THRONE.  Some of us are gathering by a small white cross outside of Jackson on Hwy 88 at 7:45 a.m. Thursday mornings; others are meeting together for prsayer in cae groups and Bible studies, remembering the team.  Sunday morning we took time in oiur worship service to join hearts together for the people of Papau, New Guinea--part of the church--the body of Christ around the world.

Everywhere I go people ask me, "Have you heard from the team?"  That m,akes me believe that we are heeding the command to "Pray without ceasing" and even though not physically on our knees before God, our hearts are continually turned towards Him in behalf of those we love--our team and the people of Papau, New Guinea.