In February, Ragnar and Elizabeth Niclasen who serve in the Philippines, had a visit from family, and had an amazing time together.
More recently they needed to go down to Manila for an annual church planters meeting, leaving the town where they live bright and early for the big city the day before it, and then returning the day after the meeting.
A couple who are friends and co-workers travelled back with them for a three day stay which was an extra treat. Since they partner with this couple in leading Global Equip meetings (online Bible and mission training), one night they invited the three Global Equip students and their wives from their town, along with one graduate – and one young lady in her first year, to join with them. Although all of them could not attend, the evening was still enjoyable – reminiscing, laughter and serious talks about their future plans.
Recently they had a visit from a lady who has agreed to be their translation consultant for the Kankanaey Old Testament translation which they are really excited about. She travelled for many hours from where she lives in the Philippines to talk about various aspects of that HUGE project. It was great for them to be able to meet face to face and make some necessary decisions.
Even more recently, two young ladies from a Kankanaey village visited them. They just love to talk about the Lord and always have lots of questions.
Ragnar and Elizabeth are thankful that they were able to attend the Annual Kankanaey Believers Conference. Friends from many churches were able to be there and it was wonderful for them to now be part of the audience, listening to their ‘spiritual children’ teach the Word. How encouraging! They took along many copies of the chronological Bible lessons and scrolls of pictures from Genesis to the Ascension. They were able to get the pictures printed on a material that is not destroyed by water. To make sure that the scrolls do not fray on the edges, they spent many hours putting tape on all the sides.
Now they are looking forward to the Annual NTM Philippines Conference. This year they are doing it by islands, so they will meet in Manila with their co-workers from Luzon. It is always an encouraging time of fellowship – also a time to see if they remember their English!
Ragnar continues to work on Bible lessons. Recently he made a trip to the village where they previously lived, via helicopter. They are so thankful that NTM has this service. He wanted to do a final check on some lessons before printing them and having them bound.
He then made one more trip there, this time via land, as he was asked to take part in a wedding celebration.
Ragnar and Elizabeth plan to return to Canada early June this year.
Thank you for praying for Ragnar and Elizabeth and for the Kankanaey people.