August 2022
Dear Praying Friends,
At the end of our last newsletter, I mentioned a young man who was facing a challenge with his heathen teacher and Head-Master concerning his refusal to participate in the “traditional” pagan dance. After a few weeks went by, I talked with the Head-Master about how this would affect this student's grade in school. The Head Master said it may be the termination of this student's time at the school if he did not participate in the “Arts” class. These types of threats are common to keep the people “in line”. Pray for Kena and others who are affected, that when tried again, they will be strong for Christ, no matter the outcome.
Every time I sit to write this bi-monthly newsletter, I find it hard to express what a privilege Father has given me. What a wonderful opportunity to preach the glorious Gospel in a foreign country, far from the country of my nativity. Even though sometimes I wonder what is being accomplished in Kaintiba for the Lord, the knowledge I gain from the Scriptures shows me that I need not “see” all the results today. As I continue in several different ways to communicate the great Work of Christ to these people, I know that He is glorified. Only Eternity will reveal what our life in Kaintiba has gained…..at the physical level it seems futile and not economical, for sure.
This month I thought it might be good to let you hear from 2 Helzerman children, and others to come in future newsletters. This is from Glory, age 7: “So I am writing a paragraph. I love it here and sometimes my family and I sing specials. We do Junior Church, also. Whatever child comes 4 weeks in a row, gets a small gift.” This part is from Serenity, age 13: “I enjoy helping the kids here, with their sores. Lately there have been several people with scabies, but my patients are getting better and the sores are slowly healing. Another thing I enjoy is playing the guitar for the [congregational singing], while my sister Hope plays the violin, and my mom plays the piano.”
Yes, it is a joy to do ministry with the family and for the family. Just as my parents incorporated the ministry they had with me and my siblings as I was growing up, so Christi and I do with our own. IF I were to gain any reward for this labor here in Papua New Guinea, they for sure will take part in that glory with my Saviour. We are happy that these 5 children we currently have with us are a joy to work with and apply themselves to this ministry. One prayer request we have about them is our upcoming renewal of our 3 year Work Permits. Hadassah’s is the most critical. We are asking for an extension due to the need to finish her high school education with us. Her current visa status ends effectively on the 22 day of December. We would like to see it extended another 6 months, at least, if possible.
Another prayer request that has just come to light is the desire among our members to start a Christian School! That is huge, and we know nothing of undertaking such a task. If it is the will of the Father, He could make it come to pass. Other questions I have for them: could our people even afford the cost required or the ability to do the level of education that would be taught?? So many questions of even how to start the process and finding a teacher or teachers who would be able to help? A school would definitely open more doors of ministry for us, but is it the Fathers will, or is it even time yet for this to happen? Please pray God will give us the direction one way or another.
Christi’s Corner: Our son, Titus, and Abigail Sjoblom are in a courtship. Though it became official before June’s prayer letter, I failed to mention it. We are pleased with how God is leading them in their lives.
I am doing a reading class with my former literacy classes to help them develop independent reading skills. It is a burden on my heart to see them read for themselves. We are memorizing the books of the New Testament, as well as learning how to find them in the Bible. I did introduce this in the former class, but wanted to drill it so that they are able to do it themselves.
For His Glory,
Mark and Christi Helzerman
Hadassah,
Grace, Hope, Serenity, and Glory
E-mail: mhelzerman@gmail.com