AFTER TWO GENERATIONS, THE BIBLE IN THE NGALIK LANGUAGE

After decades of dedication and perseverance, a dream has come true in Dekai, Papua: the Bible has finally arrived in the Ngalik language – marking a new chapter of hope for an entire language community.

Over 60 years ago, the story began with the pioneering spirit of two missionaries: Ed and Shirley Maxey arrived in the village of Silimo in 1960. With great commitment, they not only built a house and an airstrip but also dedicated themselves to learning and writing down the Ngalik language. They found support in two local young men, Enos and Amos, who passionately devoted themselves to translating the Bible.

Something remarkable happened in 1989. Buzz, the son of Ed and Shirley, together with his wife Myrna, took over and continued the work that Buzz’s parents had started.

Two generations, one mission.

Over all these years, the Gospel, amid all the tribal wars, captured the hearts of the people.

All along, MAF accompanied the project, providing flights and logistics so that the translators could continue their work.

The joy of the MAF team was all the greater when they were able to participate in the festive Bible dedication ceremonies in the town of Dekai in Papua last February.

However, the work is not yet finished—to this day, there are still numerous language groups in Papua waiting for the Bible in their mother tongue...