A young Tongan boy wins a staring contest with the camera lens. Renowned for their hospitality, loyalty and fierce determination, Tongans are preparing to assist the ministry of Bible translation throughout the Pacific. The Bible Translation Organisation (BTO) of Tonga is focused on recruiting and training Tongans. It became the first independent sending organisation in the Pacific Islands to join the Wycliffe Global Alliance with the signing of an MOU on 14 August 2013. The chairman of the board, Uiliami Fukofuka says, “I was thrilled when I signed for my country to be part of this worldwide alliance! It gives me great comfort that we are working together with over 100 other national bodies. We know that we have a small contribution to make, but it is important in the Kingdom of God. Therefore it gives us much encouragement to continue.” Read more. Please pray for the young and growing BTO Tonga.

Photo & Words: Elyse Patten