Relying on MAF, Emrick Willie, a Bible school student, is taking a drum kit to his remote Baptist church in Bak, to take worship to a new level in one of the most isolated parts of Papua New Guinea.
Story by Mandy Glass
Emrick Willie, a first-year student at Kwingia Bible Theological College at the outskirts of Mount Hagen, was preparing to return to his remote home at Bak, West Sepik Province, for the Christmas holidays. His journey carried not only personal significance but also a special mission—to deliver a drum kit to his local church.
“The church really needs this,” Emrick explains. “It’s in a remote part of Papua New Guinea, and hard to access as such. But somehow, God is good. He worked through the hearts of some workmen, who supported me with their one-tenth to buy this drum [kit] and take it home.”
In our homes, we have no road access. We only depend on the plane, MAF.
Emrick belongs to the Baptist denomination and sees the instrument as a tool to glorify God in his home community.
“This is specifically for Menmahab Local Baptist Church in the ward of Bak,” he shares.
Transporting the drum kit is no small task. From the airstrip at Bak, Emrick and others will walk two hours to reach the church.
“There is no road access at all,” he says. “We walk by normal foot. Some people will be there to help carry the parts, and we will take them to the church.”
Like many living in remote areas, Emrick relies on MAF for transport. “In our homes, we have no road access,” he says. “We only depend on the plane. As students or pastors, we apply for a subsidy.”
Once approved, Emrick and others pay 80% less, which makes travel affordable for them. Grateful for the opportunity to serve his church and community, Emrick expresses his thanks.
“I’m happy that you interviewed me about these things. I’m really proud to have this conversation with you. God bless you.”
Through MAF’s support, Emrick has access to study at his denomination’s Bible college in a different part his country. His determination ensures that even in the most isolated places, worship can flourish.
The video below takes you on a flight into Willie's area... Enjoy!