Gogodala

  • Pre-Entry
  • Pre-Evangelism
  • Evangelism
  • Discipleship
  • Phase-Out
  • Completed

About the People

The Gogodala people live deep in the sago swamps of the Western Province of Papua New Guinea. Approximately 25,000 men, women and children live in 30 villages stretched out on ridges of land that rise above large lagoons. They build their homes from split palm branches and cover them with thatched roofs made from sago palm leaves.

Missionaries have worked among the Gogodala for more than 60 years, trying to establish an indigenous church among the people. Yet, Gogodala men and women have shared that they never gave up their spirit traditions when they became “Christians.” Instead, they merged the two belief systems, often asking God to bless them before conducting their spirit ceremonies. Please pray that the Gogodala people will come to a true understanding of God’s love and care for them.

Frontier Stories

Sudden Acceleration

Thank you for believing God’s calling for our lives, even though this process has taken longer than anyone expected. We wish we could give each of you a hug of thanks, but that will probably have to wait because we will soon be bound for PNG.

By: Jason Sliger
October 01 2021, 3:21 pm | Comments 0

Coming Back

There is One who cares for them even more than we do. Our Heavenly Father longs for them, and us, to miss Him, appreciate Him and ask when He is coming back.

By: Laurie Erickson
September 01 2021, 10:09 am | Comments 0

Namulu

Sometimes Namulu was viewed with suspicion by his fellow tribesmen because they thought he used his cultural art as sorcery against people to cause sickness or death. But his son, Michael, one of the young workers helping me build the training center, was baptized after studying the Bible with us.

By: Stephen Erickson
August 01 2021, 11:34 am | Comments 0

Second Try

We are not worried, though! During the last few months, both Jason and I have felt God’s providence guiding us to divine appointments, new and important ideas, and a sharpening focus. So we are praying that we will accomplish all He intends us to do during this time that, to us, only seems like waiting.

By: Midori Sliger
August 01 2021, 9:40 am | Comments 0

Hidden Potential

Who around you could bring the next gospel breakthrough? Do not try to predict or select the one who looks promising. Have faith in the power of God! Ask Him for the eyes of Jesus and invest in every willing disciple.

By: Midori Sliger
July 01 2021, 7:50 am | Comments 0

Jojo and the Caring Girls

I was happy and hoppy to be their little wallaby. The missionaries took good care of me, and I could tell that they really loved and cared for the Gogodala people, too.

By: Laurie Erickson
June 01 2021, 10:29 am | Comments 0

Learning How to Say Goodbye

How long until it’s our turn to leave? Good question! The answer is a definite “We don’t know!”

By: Midori Sliger
May 01 2021, 2:40 pm | Comments 0

Follow and Fish

Fishing for men happens when a disciple of Christ is consumed with Jesus and focused on following Him. Their love for Jesus is so deep, and their desire to see His name glorified is so profound that they can’t help but make His name known in all the earth.

By: Jason Sliger
April 01 2021, 4:29 pm | Comments 0

Pathfinder Leaders Needed

Even though the Cabrals’ time on the project was cut short, they made a lasting difference. What a joy it has been for us to work with them! We invite you to join with us in prayer asking God to send the right person or people to fill the vacancy.

By: Stephen Erickson
April 01 2021, 3:18 pm | Comments 0

Work Permit Miracle

We know it will all get done in God’s time. I’m just curious to see how God will do it!

By: Midori Sliger
March 01 2021, 10:08 am | Comments 0

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