Mission Partner Update - The Williamsons, May 2025
3 language groups, 3 local churches, 21 church leaders!
Ever since we made the shift to become itinerant from our church plant a few years ago, one of the desires that has been heavy on our hearts has been to see greater networking and interdependence among the different local churches in the Ramu Valley. We know that for this to become a reality, it requires intentionality and creating spaces where these leaders can come together.
This past week, I had the privilege of hosting a three-day workshop here in Madang. We invited 21 leaders—including elders, deacons, and Bible teachers—from three different people groups: Itutang, Kaze and Iski (eight of them from the Iski!).
The first day was dedicated to sharing reports of what God is doing in our respective areas. For the next two days, I had the opportunity to teach on the importance of Biblical, “life-on-life” discipleship—both in our homes and within the church. We also spent time addressing the dangers of passivity in Biblical leadership, especially among elders.
It was truly an honor to host these men. I have deep respect for the challenges many of them face, and yet, through it all, they continue to faithfully carry the work and walk closely with our Father.
One of the leaders said of the workshop, "I'm so thankful for this teaching, I see that first I really need to focus on myself and make sure I'm being a faithful disciple of Christ before I can lead others." Another said, "I know God has called me to lead the church, like the parable of the talents that we learned about in the workshop, God has entrusted me with leading the church. There are times that because of laziness or fear of men that I have not been faithful in carrying out that work - either in going to correct someone, or going to encourage someone, or seeking out those whom I can dsiciple. It's like the man in the parable who buried the talent and didn't produce a profit. I don't want that, I want to grow in my faithfulness."
We are praising God for the hearts that have been challenged, uplifted and spurred on. Please pray with us for these 21 leaders from Itutang, Kaze, and Iski.
Fully Funded!
For those following Judah and Eden’s summer plans, you know they are both heading overseas to be part of Interface—a five-to-six-week college-level missions course run by Ethnos360 each year in Papua New Guinea and Brazil. Judah will be going to Papua New Guinea, and Eden will be heading to Brazil. Their prayer is that God would use this experience to reveal how they can be involved in cross-cultural church planting in the future.
We’re excited to share that both of their trips have been fully funded—praise the Lord for His provision! We know many of you played a part in making this possible, and we are truly grateful. Please join us in praying for Judah and Eden as they prepare for this incredible journey!
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