MAF pilot Michael Duncalfe accompanied David Wilkinson, of South Seas Evangelical Church, on a 14-hour journey in hollowed-out tree trunk canoes to visit the remote village of Bongomachi, Papua New Guinea. The purpose of the journey was to spend the weekend in fellowship with local church pastors, meet with the villagers and show the Jesus film.
Michael reports on his time with the local pastors: "I thoroughly enjoyed and felt not a little privileged to sit and chat with these men who have such a real faith, but who face very great problems because of their geographical isolation. It was an honour to listen to them and maybe make a few helpful suggestions.’’
Cargo Cults
Among topics of discussion were reports of serious problems with cargo cults in the area. Cargo cults believe that Western manufactured goods owned by visitors are intended for the local indigenous people, but foreigners have unfairly gained control of them.
Unfortunately, due to the cults’ intense isolation, they have little knowledge of modern manufacturing and are liable to disbelieve modern explanations. Furthermore, cult teachings suggest that white people (missionaries in particular) hold the key to these blessings and deliberately withhold the information from the local people. David Wilkinson was keen to understand in depth the challenges these cults pose for the local pastors and churches.
Reaching the Remote
Without external input and accountability, remote churches and villages are very vulnerable to ideas and teachings which are not biblical, even though they may associate themselves with Christian beliefs. This is often due to lack of education, training, and the restricted access they have with the outside world.
With nearby Arkosame airstrip lacking operational integrity, Michael talked with local villagers and found them very enthusiastic about the idea of having it usable again. MAF would be able to make more frequent trips to remote villages like Bongomachi, with the ability to ensure that people scattered throughout the lowlands are not forgotten.
MAF has been, and will continue to be, the external link between the people of remote Papua New Guinea, and the teachings of the Gospel.