Today the college graduated 61 students from three of our core programs. We awarded Bachelors of Theology, Diplomas of Theology and Missions, and Rice Certificates.
It was a wonderfully sunny day and a sense of joyous relief filled the air. We were relieved to finish what has been a sometimes stressful year full of water shortages and security threats. At the same time we rejoiced to see the end of our work, the finished product. These students will be able to go into all of Melanesia and other parts of the world to do work we could not do. The battle for the Kingdom of God has a new cadre of capable foot soldiers to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.
Our commencement speaker was the Governor General of Papua New Guinea Sir Paulias Matane. Sir Paulias spoke on loving one's neighbor, and he shared his many life experiences. He began life 80 years ago in a village that practiced cannibalism. He learned to read at seventeen and has never been the same since. When he went to school, his teacher told his students that there was one rule that must be strictly followed. No one could not ask him questions. When Sir Paulias became a teacher, he returned to his village and immediately abolished that rule. He is a naturally curious man, a truly Renaissance Melanesian. As a man of grace and courage, Sir Palias is a statesman of the first order. He has visited all seven continents, written scores of books, fights against corruption, and lives out his faith.
In spite of his stature, he surprised us all when he came down to our faculty building early while the students were getting their graduation gowns on so that they could pose for pictures with him.
After the ceremony the students headed off to their mumus (tons of food steamed by hot stones). Hundreds of people came to celebrate and to eat. Sue and I went to one such party off campus. Matthias and his wife Jennifer invited us to come to their place to rejoice with their friends, family and community leaders. After about two hours of speeches we got to feast on mumued pig, chicken, bananas, veggies, rice, soft drinks, and cake (which Sue provided). It was our Thanksgiving.
What a great day! Tomorrow we get on the big bird and head back to the USA for a short two month stay. What a huge change awaits us! Nevertheless, for now we remain content to rest here and enjoy the time we have left.
Again thanks to all of you who pray for and support us. God has been gracious once again to allow us to enjoy this day for all of you. May the Lord richly bless each and every one of you.
1 comment:
Wow! Sounds like a wonderful day! I bet the students were so excited to have the Gov General there. We were surprised to read that you went to Matthias' mumu. So... he did indeed graduate? Tell us more when you have a chance. THanks for posting this blog. We were waiting to hear about it from someone!
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