A former Basic Computing Training student is now providing Every Home for Christ missionaries with essential skills to thrive in today’s digital world.
Story by Kowara Bell, MAF Technologies
Joel Maipson is a testament to the impact of the computing course facilitated by MAF Technologies for student missionaries at Every Home for Christ’s Discipleship Training School in the rural Mul Baiyer community in Papua New Guinea’s Western Highlands.
As a volunteer in his thirties, Joel juggles multiple administrative roles within the ministry while recognising the rising demand for digital skills in ministry. A local man from Rugli, he recently stepped up as a trainer, transitioning from trainee to mentor for the next generation of missionaries.
This transformation was made possible through MAF Technologies’ Basic Computing Training (BCT) program, which equips ministry workers with essential digital skills for effective communication and outreach of the gospel.
“The first time I stood before the students, I was overwhelmed with compassion and was glad to share a knowledge that was new and valuable to them,” Joel said.
Although his university study wasn’t computer related, Joel shared that the basic knowledge he gained helped him quickly grasp the course, leading him to volunteer as a BCT facilitator.
Every Home for Christ aims to share the gospel in every home across Papua New Guinea, working through local volunteers and church partnerships. The BCT course strengthens the practical side of Every Home for Christ’s mission by preparing ministry workers to share the gospel more effectively to every doorstep in a digitally connected society.
The skills they've gained have greatly helped them present the gospel through their mobile phones and computers – it’s been incredibly encouraging to witness such impact...
“We have seen positive outcomes,” said Pastor Aron Nikkie, National Director for Every Home for Christ. “The skills they've gained have greatly helped them present the gospel through their mobile phones and computers – it’s been incredibly encouraging to witness such impact together with MAF Technologies.
“With our own trainers now in place, Every Home for Christ aims to expand and establish a computer lab for the school and invite other churches and ministries to join the course.”
Pastor Aron pointed out that by equipping them with the right skills, they’re preparing them for the future, as technology is crucial in today’s world.
This aligns with Joel’s decision to become a BCT facilitator, a natural step, driven by a passion for discipleship and a thorough knowledge of both the spiritual and technical needs of growing church leaders.
“It was a joyful moment, knowing that I was not just imparting information, but also empowering them to improve their lives in preaching in their church or to get a job at a supermarket,” Joel said.
Senior BCT facilitator for MAF Technologies, Caine Ruruk, said that the program aims to shift from running all BCT courses for one church or organisation to equipping them to deliver their own training independently.
“Since Every Home for Christ has an agreement with MAF Technologies for a two-week BCT course for first-year students each year, they can now replicate this approach and offer similar training to their own audience with Joel’s assistance,” Caine said.
Caine emphasised that the key is to identify potential trainers during the course, which lays the foundation for a long-term plan where organisations like Every Home for Christ can eventually run their own BCT sessions once their trainers are trained.
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