MISSION TALK WITH DAVID JOHN | KAIROS GLOBAL | PILOT ISSUE | 2017

Author: David John

Intro : David John takes us along on his life changing experiences as a missionary in Papua New Guinea

Tell us about yourself and your mission.

I am a student currently studying my fourth

year of Engineering and Science in Melbourne,

Australia. I was given the opportunity to go on

mission earlier this year, in June 2016, and after

prayer and discussion with past missionaries,

decided to go forth with the calling. The mission

team consisted of Abish, Sojan and Justin. We

spent 4 days in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

reaching out to youth in various parishes and

then headed inland towards the tribal areas

for the next 6 days. The mission was a clear

example of something truly guided by the

Holy Spirit and His presence was eminent in

every gathering, session, game, mass, person,

pilgrimage and the overall journey.

Where was your mission place

and what was was it like?

Our mission took place in mainly two regions:

Port Moresby and Magarima (near Mendi),

Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Regardless of the intimidating title of

“one of the most dangerous cities in

the world,” and watching locals in the

tribes walk around with 2 foot long

‘bush-knives’ as we drove past, the

people we met were very friendly and

accommodating. PNG is an absolutely

beautiful place, with even more

beautiful people. Yes, there are many

issues with the region, especially regarding

moral and ethical values, however, the raw and

genuine desire that lies within them help them

unite and draw closer to God in a marvellous

way.

What are some cultural

similarities and differences of

PNG Youth in comparison to that

of Australian Youth?

Some similarities were their love for music,

activities and games, and of course, food. Others

included the challenges they face as youth in

general.

One of the biggest differences I saw was

that almost all the youth there showed their

commitment and passion to be at the retreat by

travelling about 8 hours on foot, and some even

more, depending on the region they were from.

They attended retreats out of their own will and

cost, and not by parental influence.

What was one of the funniest

memories from the mission?

The photos we have of each other sleeping with

our mouths open in the car or on the couch.

What was the most difficultexperience or moment

on the mission?

“Letting go and letting God,” particularly when

it came to conducting the retreats and trusting

in God working through us. Also it was difficult

to say goodbye to the wonderful people of the

Magarima Parish, whom we had come to know

and love.

What was something thatchallenged you to

become firmer in faith?

The raw passion the locals showed, especially

during praise and worship, and Adoration, was

truly inspiring.

What would you say to a young

person who is considering taking

up this mission challenge?

Pray first, and hear the testimonies of previous

missionaries. Then, if it’s God’s will, don’t

hesitate and go for it. It’s definitely not going to

be easy, but that’s the whole point, since that’s

when you see miracles. I guarantee that it will

be one of the most memorable experiences of

your life.

What have you taken away from

this experience?

One of the most important lessons which St.

Teresa of Avila said, “Christ has no body now

on earth but yours,” and that we are merely

His instruments here to do his will, especially

through the people around us.