Sunday, January 28, 2007

News from the black...

Sorry it’s taken so long to be in contact; communications here in Popondetta and Oro Bay are less reliable than I expected…

Suffice it to say that I have arrived safely.

With many important matters to discuss, let me begin with the trivial:

I have discovered the perfect shoes for the PNG climate: crocs. Light, comfortable, don’t get soggy in mud puddles. It was worth the time and effort traipsing all over Melbourne to find the right size, style and colour.

There are a few issues with this placement at Oro Bay that I am trying to work out. For now, can I just ask that those of you who pray, please mention this situation occasionally. Thanks.

I’m hogging someone else’s computer to write this, so I should go.

Love to all,

Sharmini

Tuesday, January 2, 2007

Happy New Year!

Greetings all! As I type this I'm getting ready to head to Port Moresby for a night before heading to Popondetta and Oro Bay on the 4th. I've had a wonderful time here in Goroka.
I've been staying with a family that works for MAF - Mission Aviation Fellowship. I cannot speak highly enough about what they do here in PNG. In a country with very little infrastructure, they provide an incredibly valuable service, transporting people, coffee, medical supplies and occasionally patients. On Christmas Day this year, they received a radio call about a woman in a remote village with prolonged labour. I was privileged to ride along with the MAF pilot, Tim, and a health worker, Barb, who dropped everything to go. The baby did not survive, but the mother will be ok.
Well... lots of challenges ahead, probably a few I haven't thought of...
For those of you who pray:
Praise God for the work of MAF.
Please pray for a few administrative details that I'm still waiting to fall into place. Also for safe travel, and that when I arrive, I'll be able to get along well with people and get a clear idea of what needs doing.
When I get sorted out, I will let you know my contact details.
Love to all,
Sharmini