Pray for Papua New Guinea

11 million people speak more than 830 unique languages in Papua New Guinea. It is the world’s second-largest island nation and one of the most culturally diverse countries. Towering mountains and expansive swamplands keep much of the population isolated — only 15 percent of the country’s people live in urban areas. These geographic barriers have divided the nation into hundreds of tribes. The people of this diverse nation are fiercely committed to their own, working together as communities to provide food and shelter for one another. Even while their loyalty lies with their own people, they will gladly welcome foreigners into their villages and share their culture with those willing to listen.

The nation’s greatest challenge is reflected in its motto, “Unity in Diversity.” The motto carries a painful irony, as the nation has a history of tribal fighting and revenge killings. Today, “witch hunts” are increasing as those accused of black magic face torture and death at the hands of their neighbors. Anyone — but especially women — can be blamed for a sudden illness, death, or food shortage. The nation’s rugged terrain has also slowed the development of infrastructure. Little access to medicine means people die from diseases like tuberculosis that have simple cures. The nation’s struggles are not limited to rural areas. In the cities, people deal with the constant threat of crime. The nation’s youth are especially at risk as they deal with increasing gang influence in addition to limited education and low employment. Human trafficking is widespread, and little action has been taken to resolve it.

Statistics show that 95 percent of people claim Christianity, but few truly understand the Gospel. The name of Jesus is mixed with traditional spirit worship, and few people have a true understanding of the Gospel. God’s Word is still unavailable in the languages of numerous tribes. Besides Bible translation, audio Bibles are also a key need for the 40 percent of the population that is non-literate. By His grace, God has been working through His Church to fulfill these spiritual needs. Numerous organizations are translating the Bible into different languages. Missionaries are serving throughout the islands, providing physical assistance, planting churches, and raising up faithful disciples within Papua New Guinea.