McGuckin's In Papua New Guinea    (20 Feb 04)

focus on Ed and Catherine McGuckin, Wycliffe Bible Translators

Ed and Catherine are heavily involved in translating the Bible into the native language (Gapapaiwa) of a society in Menapi, Papua New Guinea. The translation group (SIL – the Summer Institute of Linguistics) is working in about 200 languages in the country of PNG.  Most of these languages, including Gapapaiwa, had never been written before they began their work with them. And, in most cases no outsider had ever learned the language. 

The Christ's Church family helped provide rice during this past drought. Some of these little ones had their hands "full" trying to get their rice home. Thank God the rains have now started in abundance!

Catherine reads on the computer a translation in the language of the kids...Think they are interested?!

Incidentally, this 'reading room' is actually the ground underneath Ed and Catherine's house. These beautiful kids at Menapi have enjoyed working with Catherine and the McGuckin's two beautiful and talented daughters learning and preserving their ancient and historic culture, traditions, songs and dances...and how to love God and mankind. In addition to the Scriptures, Ed and Catherine are also translating a limited number of school books for use in the Vernacular Literacy Program which they started in 1993. They have recorded and transcribed quite a few local stories and traditional tales and put those into books.

How can we help? First, and most importantly, pray for Ed and Catherine EVERY DAY! Not the least of their need for our prayer is for their safety as they traverse open ocean for many, many miles just to get from island to island in a little boat. There are also serious health concerns both for the McGuckin's and for the folks with whom they are working. Second, in addition to the many cultural, spiritual, emotional and intellectual benefits to the translation work, the McGuckin's are sensitive to the physical needs and endeavor to assist in whatever needs arise within the villages. These opportunities require financing. We can help with our prayers and our giving.

With Ed and Catherine there is absolute accountability and integrity! We KNOW these folks. It is such a blessing having close connections with folks (Ed being Barbara O.'s brother - and Barbara & Jim O. being here in Christ's Church)  who are on the front lines of human need around the world. 

If you wish to be part of Ed and Catherine's helping hand to these people you can either send a check to: 

Wycliffe Bible Translators

P.O. Box 628200

Orlando , FL 32862-8200

On the memo line of the check or on a separate note say that it is for Ed and Catherine McGuckin.

Or, you can send it through Christ's Church with the same notation. We will make certain that 100% of your gift gets directly to the McGuckin's.

For other news about Papua New Guinea!

Christ's Church

a non-denominational community church

525 West 15th Street

P.O. Box 996

Fayetteville, Arkansas  72702

Email us at:

james@jhuffman.net