Farewell

 

After 3 wonderful and fulfilling years in Vanuatu it is time for us to leave full time ministry here as missionaries to the local AOG church.

We would like to say thankyou to the Ni-Vanuatu people for the warm fellowship we have had with them during this time, and the members and pastors  of the various churches we have regularly ministered in.

Especially we would like to thank the National Executive for the way they have supported us in  re-establishing the Royal Ranger Program in Vanuatu.

Not forgetting the people back home in Australia who have supported us  with prayer, encouragement, and finance. THANKYOU ALL!

We are encouraged by the words of Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:58:

Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your work in the Lord is never wasted.

Royal Ranger Closing 2010

Last night the Royal Ranger Outposts gathered together at Pango FWC for their last meeting for 2010.    The new Shefa Committee have  clear vision for 2011 and beyond, it did us good to see their passion to Reach, Teach, and Keep Boys and Girls for Jesus. More groups are now including girls and this is a good move. 

Two Outpost Ranger of the Year Medals were awarded, both these Rangers showed great excitement when their names were announced.

Russell’s talk centred on the Eight  Blue Points on the Royal Ranger Emblem. (The Royal Ranger Code).

A Royal Ranger is:

Alert: Mentally, Physically, and Spiritually.

Clean: in body, mind and speech.

Honest: does not lie, cheat or steal.

Courageous: Brave in spite of danger, criticism or threats.

Loyal: Faithful to his church, family, outpost and friends.

Courteous: Polite, kind and thoughtful.

Obedient: Obeys his/her parents, leaders and those in authority.

Spiritual: Prays, reads the Bible and witnesses.

This was also our farewell with Royal Rangers Vanuatu. Russell has now stepped down from his position of Director. Royal Rangers now under the National Youth Director, and each province under a Province Commander.

We  praise God that we have been part of re-establishing Royal Rangers in the nation of Vanuatu with a local indigenous curriculum and program and that he has raised up local leaders to take our place.

JBI Graduation photos

Yesterday 6 students graduated, 5 with a Diploma and 1 with a Certificate. After a very stormy and wet morning the weather cleared.  This was an answer to prayer as the graduation was held outside at Pango Family Worship Centre.

 

The School Choir entertained us with 2 very well rehearsed items led by Pastor Kiel. Pastor Russell Bokokoto dedicated the graduating students . Each staff member played a part in the graduation. Pastor Russell Harbour was the Graduation speaker, the title of his message, “Please Step Forward”.

                    

As is customary, the graduating students were congratulated  by those who attended, they were given salusalu’s, and lengths of calico (traditional gifts). They were also sprinkled with talcum powder. (another ni-vanuatu custom).

We were given a lovely painting of the JBI Campus, painted by a very well known Ni-vanuatu water colour artist. We were also farewelled as we will be returning to Australia to live, but visiting Vanuatu  on a part time basis each year for ministry and teaching.

School Photo 2010

Today at Paonangisu

We left home early at 8.00am in our hire car to travel the 50km to Panoangisu village. We had been invited by Pastor Timothy to return as he wanted Russell to preach one more time before we leave.  Robyn  ran an open Sunday School before the main service. The children were waiting at the church from 7am, we arrived at 9am.  We enjoy visiting the smaller churches around the island, it is so special to be part of what God is doing in the churches of Vanuatu.

After a lovely lunch supplied by the two pastors wives, we drove to Emua village. Pastor Michelle had indicated that he also wants us one  time before we leave. We have no Sundays left, and only one Friday, so we have agreed to come and preach at a combined service for the 3 AOG churches on  North of Efate  on the 22nd October.

The above photo is of Pastors Timothy, Russell and David waiting for the start of the 10am service.