Thursday, June 5, 2008

Assignment Update

We found out this morning that we will be assigned to work with the Lavukaleve language in the Russell Islands! A translation was started in this language several years ago and abandoned, so we are excited to help reignite the excitement over getting God's Word in their language. Please pray for the Lavukal people and for us that our hearts would be knit together.
If you want to Google Earth our new location, we will be at 8 degrees and 59 minutes S and 159 degrees 6 minutes E. Here's what Wikipedia has to say about the Russells:
The Russell Islands are two important small islands, as well as several islets, of volcanic origin, in the Central Province of the Solomon Islands. They are located approximately 48 km (30 mi.) northwest from Guadalcanal. The islands are partially covered in coconut plantations, and have a copra and oil factory at Yandina. Yandina also has basic services, including a store, post office, and airport. The Lavukal people live on these islands. Their language is Lavukaleve.
There is also a settlement of Polynesians, resettled from Tikopia, that lives in Nukufero on the west side of the largest island of Pavuvu. In Yandina, people from all over the Solomon Islands have come to work for the plantation. In addition to their native languages, they speak Solomon Island Pijin, the Lingua franca of the Solomon Islands.
In 1943, as part of American military operations during World War II, the islands were occupied by U.S. troops. Remnants of U.S. presence, such as concrete slabs and large metal storage sheds still exist.
Havuna Primary School and Yandina Community High School are in the Russell Islands.

1 comment:

Arin Rollins said...

So exciting to know where you're going! I guess you'd better find a lot of recipes that include coconut! :o) We're praying for you and your medical clearances. Dusty remembers having to get all the shots to go to Malaysia and it was not fun! Poor kiddos...