mgpcpastor's blog

Reblogged from Rob Duncanson at Bondia Timor Leste:

After today the communication may be sparse, as we will be off to Liquica tomorrow morning.
It is now just on 6pm, and we look out on a glassy sea, with beautiful muted blues and greys going from sea to the cumulo nimbus clouds above Atauro Island.
It has been a good day.
We met with the Dili congregation in Balide this morning with Robert Benn preaching. (incidentally he used to be known as Pa. Robert (Pa. = Pastor), but we have renamed him on this trip as Pa. Benn as people were getting very confused between Pa Robert and Pa Rob and Pa Benn is certainly easier to say than Pa. Duncanson).
Robert preached in Bahasa Indonesia and was interpreted into Tetun.
The Bible readings were in Indonesian as the parts read from have not yet been translated into Tetun. The fact that, as he preached, Robert had to be translated into Tetun obviated the fact that at least some in the congregation, had little comprehension of the Bible readings. They need the bible in their own language!
The Dili congregation has no building. It was very hot, under the light tarpaulin which acts as their only shelter from the elements – it only seemed to slow the sun down a little, but not stop it! As Robert preached he had a rising tide of perspiration which, by the end of the sermon had saturated every square millimetre of his shirt.
My perception of the congregation is that they are stronger now than on the last visit. Stronger in numbers, but also more committed and enthusiastic for the gospel. The singing was great and they make full use of all the capabilities of their keyboard which was a gift last year from a congregation in Australia.
(After a good thunderstorm this afternoon, the light is now dropping and the grey sea is starting to merge into the grey sky with the occasional flash of lightning in the distance – beautiful – I should be out there taking photos instead of up here talking to you!)
We have further good discussions with locals and amongst the team. It has been very worthwhile for our developing relationship.
It must be time for some food, so I had better not hold the team up any longer. (you can proof read this yourselves)
Thankyou for all you support for the gospel here in TL.

Baromak fo bensaun (God give blessing).
Rob