In April/May, Poul and Carol Joensen visited the Sorimi in Papua New Guinea. It was a physically demanding trip with sweaty, practical work. Their weak, rotting little house was torn down and new smaller house rebuilt – all safely, praise the Lord. They were so thankful for their son Isaac and a missionary friend, Thomas, who helped with their knowledge and strength, alongside many Sorimi men who were a great help and naturally very agile for high roof work. The teamwork, conversations and laughter were wonderful. Treated timber and varnished plywood was flown in from town, to help the house last longer and hopefully be more resistant to bugs.
Initially, they all camped in the literacy house on mattresses under mosquito nets, with tinned food and clothes stored around them, and Carol cooked their meals outside by the house. They did very well and know prayer upheld their spirits and endurance during those two weeks. But they were glad to move into the new house for their final week and focus more on discipleship with the people.
They were sad to leave them and although they go through trials, generally the Sorimi believers continue to walk with the Lord. The influence from gold mining continues to be a challenge for them, and soon the logging companies’ road will reach the Sorimi village. The people know their environment is changing, and do not want it to affect their desire to live for Christ and want to continue to be a witness for Him. Please pray for them.
On their return Poul and Carol continued serving at the college teaching and being involved with the Make a Difference conference.
This summer has been very good for them both. Their schedule had been quite continuous and full for the past two years, especially with the Bible dedication last summer and ongoing since then.
They were thankful for the change from the term schedule and being able to be more flexible with work. They also accomplished necessary things at home which had been put off for a long time, enjoyed some relaxation, and times with extended family.
The new academic year began 3rd September. Please pray for the new and returning students. There is a large class of 23 students in the missionary training, following only 14 last year. It will be busy, but Poul and Carol look forward to getting to know the students and being a part of preparing them for future ministry. Their son Jonathan and wife Megan are in this class. They are expecting a baby boy at the end of September!
A big prayer request: the college is still in great need of some volunteers to help Sept-July in various roles like campus maintenance, kitchen, etc. and especially the nursery, where another British qualified worker is needed to allow all children to attend daily.
In January/February, Poul and Carol plan to take another trip to Sorimi. It is valuable for the church and leaders to have ongoing support. There is still plenty for them to do. As the Lord enables them, they desire to return once a year. Poul usually does a block of teaching; they spend much time with individuals encouraging and discipling; also giving ongoing guidance to literacy and Sunday School teachers and updating teaching materials. There is also work to continue with the Sorimi Bible and translating some Old Testament passages into short story formats, along with some key Old Testament passages that are used in foundational teaching.
Thank you for your continued prayers for this ministry and for the Sorimi church and unbelievers. The Sorimi people pass on their thanks too, as they recognise the role you have had in them receiving the Gospel and now having the New Testament.