Tonga is made up of 170 islands and is located in the Pacific Ocean near Fiji, New Zealand and Australia. Some of the islands of Tonga still have active volcanoes! The Assemblies of God currently have 6 missionaries, 80 churches with more than 2,000 people attending. However, there are fewer than 50 pastors, thus creating a need to train more! Right now there is a Bible School that is training 31 more workers. Please pray and ask God to raise up more Pastors for these churches on the islands of Tonga.
Some interesting facts about Tonga:
- In Tonga, a family living in one home doesn't just include parents and children, but all relatives! When a family member needs a place to stay, he or she is always welcome.
- Faka Tonga, the "Tongan Way"of life, is relaxed. Tongans like to take time to visit with each other and to enjoy each day.
- The evening meal is the main time of day for the family to gather. Father helps with the cooking and then says a prayer of thanks for the meal when all is ready.
- Many families in Tonga farm...they grow pumpkins, vanilla beans, yams, and coffee to sell in other countries.
- In 1966, missionary Larry Larson and some other missionaries from the Fiji Islands arrived in Tonga to preach the gospel. Many Tongans accepted Jesus and were baptized in the Holy Spirit. They studied the Bible together and some high school students actually started prayer groups in their school. Soon after that they Assemblies of God was formed in Tonga.
- And don't forget what Winnie told us... only men play drums and only girls juggle. Interesting.
BGMC is a great ministry for kids in the US to help missionaries overseas...In Tonga alone, BGMC has provided books for pastors, paid for Children's Ministry equipment such as puppets, clown outfits, costumes, and whatever else they need.
Thank you kids for giving to BGMC!! See ya Sunday!
Pastor Carrie
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