So I've started this blog to allow friends, family, and curious others to follow our journey towards starting a new adventure in Papua New Guinea. Let me give you the story...
Shortly after Christmas 2009, Clinton said to me "have you thought of going on missions lately?" That was all it took for us to start a search of where New Tribes Mission had need of my nursing skills and Clinton's office/computer skills. It turned out PNG needed both of us. We very quickly filled out our on-line questionairre forms and thereby started the long process of going on missions. We have signed on for a 2 year term as "associate missionaries" with New Tribes Mission of Canada. We will be serving in support roles (nurse and office manager) on the main center in PNG "Lapilo". This center is the hub for all missionaries with NTM in PNG. It houses the clinic, flight base, store, school for missionary kids, and the leadership. It is here in this "hub" that we will serve our 2 year term. Associate missionaries are vital to the field of mission work, because the tribal missionaries would not be able to function in the tribes without the backing and support of the "support" missionaries.
Currently our paperwork is in PNG to get our work permits. In order to get my work permit, I need to be registered as a nurse in PNG first. This process takes quite awhile, so while we're waiting for the work permits to come through we're working on the paperwork for our entry permits. This includes blood tests for all of us, x-rays, vaccinations, and more paperwork. It is a long process, but we've felt God walking with us each step. Those around us have been very encouraging. Our local church and conference have approved us and are backing us as we head to PNG.
We have many fears and apprehensions, but we're confident that this new chapter in our lives is one that will change the course of the rest of our lives. We also walk in faith that this is where God is wanting us to go. Please pray with us as we continue to prepare for our move to PNG. Pray for:
-quick turn-around on paperwork
-that we would get the basement finished and the house ready for sale (and that it would sell quickly and for a good price)
Thanks for reading this blog, I'll try to keep it updated regularly!
Blessings, Clinton & Rolanda
