Reformed Missions

Mulders in Moresby

We are currently experiencing very dry conditions in Port Moresby, with no rainfall for approximately eight weeks. As a result, the student water tanks have been completely emptied, requiring us to purchase 18,000 litres of water. The long dry spell has highlighted our dependence upon the Lord’s provision, not only for our daily needs but also for the rain that sustains life and enables us to collect water for future use. We would appreciate your prayers that God would send much-needed rain soon and replenish the water supplies upon which the College depends. Though the dry weather is causing problems there has also been an unexpected benefit. Our kango patch sits on what is basically a swamp, and even after eight weeks without rain there is still enough moisture in the soil to keep it growing. A hand of kango that used to sell for PGK 1 now sells for PGK 2, and if the mamas are willing to take it to Gordons, they can often get PGK 4 per hand. What was once a modest little sideline has become quite a profitable venture for the students. It's a small reminder that even during a drought, God is still providing. Sometimes he does it in ways we never expected.

"And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19 With much love, Mark and Liz

Vermeulens with MAF - Cattle Raids and Revenge Killings

For many South Sudanese, cattle are more than just animals, more than just a source of food. They are highly valued as a display of wealth and a source of income. And so they are at the heart of the South Sudanese culture and communities. Unfortunately, this often leads to violence as different tribes clash in violent cattle raids. Cattle raids often lead to revenge killings as communities seek retribution for lost cattle and those that have been killed. It's a cycle that goes on and on, leaving many dead and communities shattered. We regularly read reports such as this one below: Intercommunal Violence: Clashes between Luanyjang and Jalwau cattle keepers have reportedly left 50 people dead in Tonj East County following recent violence. The clashes reportedly involved an attack on a cattle camp in Makier, Wunlit Payam, with cattle looted. Casualties were reported at 34 among the allied Jalwau and Akook communities and 16 among the Luanyjang, with many others injured or missing. Although both sides had reportedly withdrawn and the situation was calm, tensions remained high amid fears of retaliatory attacks. In this particular case, these cattle raids and revenge killings went on for weeks. MAF supports missionaries working in this area, and they had been forced into lockdown due to the ongoing violence. Thankfully, the situation calmed down enough that we were able to fly in, pick up the missionary family and get them out to safety in Juba - where they could wait out the unrest before Lord willing returning to serve again. This particular village is about a 1 hr. 30 min. flight from Juba. Driving to the same location would take about 2 full days of driving on rough and dangerous roads. This is exactly why MAF is needed here in South Sudan. To connect these remote locations to Juba and the outside world, allowing families such as this one to serve remote communities with the love of God. Thank you for supporting our work with MAF, so that we can in-turn support these missionaries in their valuable work!

Teachers for Juba Christian Academy

Schooling is one of the number one considerations when people come and go from the mission field. That is why we are extremely thankful for Juba Christian Academy, and for the hard work the teachers do instructing our children. Without JCA we, and a lot of other families, would not be able to serve in South Sudan. That is why it is critical for us to find new teachers for JCA, to replace others teachers that are departing. Please see the ad below and feel free to share widely! Are you creative, passionate about education, and excited to help build a school community where students can grow in faith, knowledge, and purpose? We’re looking for teachers who feel called to serve at Juba Christian Academy in sharing God’s love in South Sudan. We currently have exciting teaching opportunities available: Early Elementary Teacher: Starting in January 2027 Upper Elementary Teacher: An exciting opportunity to help develop educational provision from Grade 6 through Grade 8. Starting in August 2027 Head of School: Starting in 2027 If you’re ready for a meaningful adventure and want to play a part in shaping a growing school community, we would love to hear from you. Please use the links below for more information. https://jcasouthsudan.org/ https://teachbeyond.org/go/explore/opportunities-juba-christian-academy

Turkana Evangelism

At the end of the 20th century, in the south of what was then Sudan, amidst the sufferings and displacement of civil war, huge numbers of tribal people abandoned paganism and confessed faith in Christ. This dramatic conversion of largely illiterate communities, in what is now South Sudan, created an acute shortage of spiritual leaders, with adequate knowledge of the Bible. The few trained pastors had to travel on a circuit every few days to minister in multiple towns and villages. So, in 2002, just south of the border in the more secure Lokichoggio, Kenya, MERF began constructing a ministry center for radio broadcasting and intensive Bible training courses. The first step in construction was to dig a well and MERF freely shared the precious water with the Turkana community living in simple huts nearby, as they still do today. Lokichoggio is the last outpost in rugged, semi-arid northwest Kenya, Turkana district. Due to the harsh climate, poor roads and a semi-nomadic subsistence lifestyle, Turkana tribal communities entered the 21st century isolated, illiterate, poor and largely unreached with the gospel. Kenya’s Turkana tribe and their cousins, the South Sudanese Toposa were known for fierce cattle raids against each other, often resulting in injuries and sometimes deaths. Water of Life In 2003, when the MERF Ministry Center opened in Lokichoggio, Kenya, with the first biblical training course for South Sudanese, Sunday worship services also began. It was a delightful surprise to see so many of the Kenyan Turkana community who freely drank from the safe well water at the gate also come in to drink from the living water of the gospel. Praise God that not only was a local Turkana congregation established that has grown and grown, but also through the years, a number of Turkana men have received intensive biblical training, graduating from MERF’s 3-month Augustine Program alongside the South Sudanese. Traditionally, Turkana follow the grazing of their herds of goats, sheep, cows, donkeys and/or camels. So, they are often on the move. Although, in towns paid labor opportunities have brought some changes. As most Turkana lack access to formal education, printed Bibles are less effective. MERF-trained local pastors, elders and evangelists focus on oral Bible storytelling, audio materials and Scripture songs to enable the Turkana community to easily grasp and remember God’s Word. Traditional church buildings are impractical for most Turkana communities, because they’re always moving. Therefore, ministry happens wherever the people are. It could be under a tree, in temporary shelter or a nearby school classroom. Evangelists often travel by foot or motorcycle to maintain contact with and minister to newly-planted congregations.

Turkana Congregations For several years MERF has aided in the support of four Turkana evangelists who have established four churches in Turkana communities south of Lokichoggio, two are in Lokichar area and two in Kalokol area, near Lake Turkana. The congregation that meets for Sunday worship at the MERF Lokichoggio Ministry Center is a little different. Although Sunday school is in the local language, the service is in English for the mixed tribal group of largely South Sudanese trainees worshipping with the local Turkana church. Evangelist Francis Ekuwon, translates to the Turkana language. He also leads midweek fellowship meetings in several Turkana village communities and catechizes those preparing for baptism. Recently, the fellowship in one of these village communities has grown to become a separate congregation meeting in a local school. So, MERF now also helps in the support of a 2021 Augustine Program graduate, Aaron Lochor, to serve the new church.

Peacemakers We are thankful that despite occasional friction between Kenyan Turkana and South Sudanese, MERF has built a good relationship with the wider Lokichoggio Turkana tribal community over many years through the witness of the Turkana congregation in Lokichoggio. The confidence of the wider Turkana community has also grown from MERF’s daily provision for Turkana families of water and grain in times of drought. MERF also provides education scholarships for some qualified Turkana students. Thus, opportunities to share the gospel have opened up among the Turkana living in a wider and wider radius from the MERF Center. Lokichoggio Evangelist Francis Ekuwon requests: Please pray for us Turkana of Kenya and Toposa from South Sudan to have a long-lasting peace. We are now more than one year and half since we signed a peace agreement. We rejoice that some Toposa nowadays come to fellowship with us at our church. “Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them.” - Psalm 111:2

Van den Dolder update

The van den Dolders in PNG May 2026 Update Greetings from PNG! We tried to put work in the schools on hold this month while we prepared for the renovation of our house at the Bible College. Johan bought all the hardware and timber for the work throughout the month of May and did some prep work in time for his brother and friend (both trades-men from Australia) to come in the first week of June and finish as much as they can.

Our house is on stilts, and is currently a two bedroom, one bathroom which isn’t ideal for a growing family. The plan is to enclose the area under the house and put bedrooms downstairs, so that the upstairs area can be used for living and homeschool. We say we ‘tried’ to put schoolwork on hold, because there inevitably ended up being a few tasks to be done in addition to the ongoing administration work that Johan does. The public objection period for the Intent to Incorporate as an Association finished on the 17th of May. This meant Johan could finally, after one more visit to the District Court, submit our application to incorporate two of our schools. This process started early January and when the final application is accepted it will be an exciting step. It will mean that two of our schools will be officially recognised entities that are able to apply for corporate bank accounts and continue working towards becoming a permitted school. Another reason for thanks to our God is that the Southern River Mission Board approved a Mission Aid project which will see our teachers receive some assistance with their salaries. When we first arrived, we noted that our teachers were at risk of burnout with many of them (especially in the village schools) working for the last few years with close to no pay and with class sizes swelling larger every year. In villages where a person’s livelihood is their vegetable garden, we noted that teachers were finding it harder each year to support themselves. This is intended to be a short-term support that allows teachers to reduce their student numbers significantly without being financially ‘punished’ for it. In the meantime, we will work with the schools to improve their enrolment and school-fee collection policies and find ways to raise their own funds. Our colleagues, Tim and Alana Slaa, had a beautiful baby girl towards the end of May which meant that their two oldest daughters stayed overnight with us. This made for a busy week but we’re grateful to be part of a support system at the Bible College and it’s fun to see our ‘crowd’ of girls running amok on the college grounds.

All in all, we’ve been experiencing some stress over the last few months, and our kids are also feeling the strain of the changes they’ve experienced over the last year. However, we’re grateful for the blessings we continue to experience from God’s fatherly hand. The whole family is looking forward to finally being in our own house after living temporarily in guest housing/rentals since July 2025. Evelyn is also looking forward to having a dedicated homeschool space! As we’re writing this update a little late, the tradies have already arrived and are making good progress– it’s fun to see it all taking shape.

With thankfulness to God, we can also announce that we are expecting another baby, due DV in mid-November. Thankfully Evelyn has not experienced too much morning sickness aside from general tiredness and we’re grateful for God’s care so far over the pregnancy.

We left for home a little late from Bethel Christian school in Beretete last week, but we were privileged to experience this beautiful sunset on the “snake road” driving down to Port Moresby from Sogeri. We’re grateful for the blessings we experience living in such a beautiful part of God’s world.

We also look forward to spending two weeks in Australia for Johan’s sister’s wedding later in June. This means our renovation is on a tight schedule but we’re putting in the hard work now so that we can enjoy time with family stress-free ;) That’s all from us, please see some prayer points below. We’re grateful for your ongoing prayers and support. Johan & Evelyn, Ada, Phoebe & Matthew Prayer Points: - Thankful – The tradies are already in PNG working on the house, and we can look forward to settling into our own home over the next few weeks - Thankful – Evelyn’s pregnancy has been going well and we look forward to welcoming baby #4 in mid-November - Request – For God’s peace and blessing for our family while we settle into our new home - Request – for God’s continued blessing over the government processes which willsee our schools becoming permitted/registered schools

Gospel Online Ministries: MERF

The internet is multiplying the reach of the gospel many times over. Through MERF online ministries, people far and wide are hearing God’s Word in mother tongue who would otherwise have had little or no opportunity to do so. The internet also provides an economical way to make Christian literature and biblical training in native languages more widely available. INDONESIA Bahasa Indonesian is the common language of the fourth largest nation of the world. The population is spread over a widely stretched out chain of islands. @reformed_indo is the newest addition to MERF’s online gospel ministries. It is a YouTube channel in the Bahasa Indonesian language just launched to provide illustrated short videos of Bible teaching, beginning with a series on the Canons of Dordt. www.ypriministry.or.id/teologi/ site of MERF’s Indonesian daughter organization, the Bahasa translations of helpful Bible study aids are a free download: The Old Testament Explained and Applied by Gareth Crossley and Dare to Be A Daniel by Stuart Olyott. Other Indonesian online ministries that took off during the Covid pandemic have continued to grow and develop. In Malang, Pastor Yonson Dethan’s YouTube channel, @ChristCenteredPreaching hosts livestream panels, who answer from Bible questions sent in by text. The Jakarta MERF team cooperates with a Christian radio station to do both radio and livestream Sunday School at the same time with children participating. (www.youtube.com/live/n6Za-VDPexc) On Fridays, the internet enables the Jakarta team (Java island) to teach the Bible to enthusiastic government primary school students far away at Patumbak, Deli Serdang-North Sumatra island. The Jakarta team also holds online Sunday school teacher training sessions for participants from all over Indonesia.

SOMALI (Ethiopia, Somalia, Yemen, Kenya, Dijibouti) Gospel radio programs and books for free download: somalforchrist.com AFAN OROMO (most widely spoken Ethiopian language) Gospel radio programs and books for free download: sagaleedhugaaministry.com FARSI (Iran, Afghanistan & Persian Gulf) Farsi Creeds, Catechisms and basic Reformed teaching are labeled in both English and Farsi for free download at Roshdino.org. The new QR code Farsi bookmark links to the gospel YouTube channel @Roshdino-Farsi with short, engaging Bible videos and posts. Print out and share it with Farsi-speaking friends and neighbors or church visitors.

ARABIC (North Africa & Middle East) New QR code Arabic bookmarks are good to share with Arabic-speaking friends and neighbors or church visitors. Dardasha7 tactfully introduces gospel truths via a variety of short programs on popular subjects. Issa-alMasih shares directly the life and teachings of Jesus Christ as revealed in the Scriptures.

Versteeg Ventures -- April 2026

Time sure flies by and it does not seem like nearly 3 months are already finished! But here we are, receiving the last papers of this month for evaluation and the students almost finishing their last exams for this block of teaching! Henry has certainly thoroughly enjoyed teaching the diploma students (seminary class) Dogmatics and Liturgics, and for the Certificate students, Christian Doctrine and Bible Study! The diploma class has 10 students this year, so that means a lot more evaluation of the work done as well! There was not much down time between the blocks as there was a Leadership Conference and then 10 sermons of the students which needed to be evaluated (which became Louis Bernard leading the worship songs as well as delivering his sermon. Right: students Clement, Hure and the finished product of Joshua (right) with Louis leading on the guitar. their exegesis for the block). It was a delight to hear the students present their sermons, one each morning during day opening devotion time. We praise God for how the students have developed thus far!

Sunday April 12 found us on the road to Veifa’a (160 kms NW of Port Moresby). This distance in Canada is not really that far, but it took us 3 hrs 30 minutes to drive each way, dodging deep pot holes all over the road, often Students Clement Pere, Moale Tau, Louis needing to drive on rough shoulders and forever swerving left and right! We Bernard, Joshua Kombra delivering the had to go through about 20 deep stretches of water on the road for the last sermons they wrote. Louis is also a skilled 10 kms. In some places, the mud water actually flowed over the hood of our guitar player, leading the singing for morning; evening devotions. truck. Rita was taking photos but at the worst spot, when we were actually stuck, she just shut her eyes and held on tight forgetting to snap that crucial photo of the water flowing over the hood and windshield of the truck while Henry was rocking the car back and forth until he got out! Henry was very thankful for the difflocks in this Land Cruiser, especially since the water was waist deep! Thankfully we got home again to tell this story! The LORD was good to us and brought us safely through tough spots and to the College! During the second block there was also a classis in Veifa’a. That affected our teaching schedule because Iga Kila, one of our 2nd year diploma students, had requested preaching consent.

We thank the LORD that Iga received permission to preach in the Reformed Churches of PNG!

On Sunday April 19, we had a wonderful time of fellowship with the LORD’s people in Beretete (a place we call ‘home away from home’), with Pastor Nawai leading the service! I was able to finish and handover all the colouring pages for the Kindy Sunday School classes in Beretete. Sunday School takes place before the first service Sunday morning which also includes a few children from the village. The teachers were delighted to receive the material. They are using the Love the Lord Your God Sunday School program in Tok Pisin, originally written by Inge Pol in the Indonesian language. We had planned to travel to Lae, which is about 1 hour flight over the mountains from us, but that did not work out. Therefore, we spent our last Sunday with the 9 Mile congregation. Henry offered to assist Pastor Aisi of 9 Mile Church by leading the first service; Pastor Aisi led the second service.

Items for Praise and Prayer: Praise: - We thank the LORD for a relatively large seminary class this year by which we can prepare many young men for preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ according to the Scriptures. - We thank the LORD that the last classis in Veifa’a could give a positive recommendation for 9 Mile congregation to proceed towards instituting the offices of elder and deacon in their church. - We thank the LORD for a wonderful and fruitful time of service and fellowship with these brothers and sisters of our Lord in Papua New Guinea. - We thank the LORD for the expertise of Australian mechanics in keeping the RCBC vehicles in excellent condition. Prayer: - Please pray that the LORD would continue to equip the leaders of the churches to also give sincere attention to the third mark of the church as there are many members who are straying but not receiving attention/visits. - Please pray for continued harmony at the Reformed Churches Bible College as it is not unusual after a few months to have some conflicts arise as students and families come from various areas of PNG and are now constantly in close quarters for their work and studies. - Please pray for a safe return back to Canada and that the LORD may be gracious to allow us to serve next year again, as the need is still present. We thank the LORD for His gracious care over all who love Him! In Christ Alone! Henderik & Rita Versteeg

Mulders in Moresby

30th May 2026 And just like that the month of May has come and gone. I’m glad I took a few photos during the month or I wouldn’t know what really happened. 😊 It was actually a quiet month without many dramas. We had one drama; one of our students, Maiso Jimby, developed a severe case of pneumonia and needed to be admitted to hospital so that his lung could be drained and so that he could have medication administered intravenously. Fortunately we have a “medical reserve” for exactly these situations which allows us to use the private hospital and get attention immediately. The public hospital really was not an option in this particular case. Maiso needed to stay in hospital for 5 days and we were asked to give blood to help boost his haemoglobin levels. So, I took 4 students and we all got checked out to see if we were compatible to Maiso’s blood. Unfortunately, none of us were a match so the hospital needed to use their dwindling blood bank supply. They must have found something because Maiso is now back at the college and in good spirits. We thank God that he blessed the treatment and allowed Maiso to make a good recovery.

“….Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1 : 9 With much love, Mark and Liz You can follow us on Instagram: Liz: liz_mulder Mark: MuldersInMoresby Our mailing address is: PO Box 590 Waigani Papua New Guinea

Brazil Newsletter

Thank You for Your Support! Pr. Jon Chase During the past few months I had the opportunity to visit several supporting churches across Alberta, Manitoba, and British Columbia while on furlough. It was a blessing to reconnect with many brothers and sisters and to share about the Lord’s work in Brazil. Thank you to everyone who attended the presentations, welcomed us so warmly, and continue to support this mission with your prayers. We are grateful for your encouragement and partnership in the work of the gospel.

Conference in João Pessoa Mission Worker Br. Chris Boersema Last year we attempted twice to organize a Diakonia Conference in Recife, but both attempts had to be cancelled due to lack of interest. Since AMB had already paid for the conference hall, I contacted the hotel to ask whether the credit could be transferred to another location in their chain. To my pleasant surprise, they agreed. This opened the door to organize a conference in João Pessoa, about an hour and a half north of Recife. Together with Pr. Victor, we organized a two-day conference in November with the goal of promoting the Reformed Christian faith in the city and helping the IRB congregation there become better known. The conference was held November 13–14 under the theme: The Blessings of Salvation in Christ. I spoke on “What Is Sin?” and it was encouraging to see visitors attend and families travel from Esperança to participate in the Friday evening session. The response was very positive, and we are already discussing the possibility of hosting another conference next year.

Campinas Report from Pr. Jon Chase We are thankful to report encouraging growth in the congregation in Campinas throughout 2025. The Lord continues to gather and build His church through new members, covenant families, and strengthened leadership. On June 1, 2025, seven families and two individuals (9 total) were welcomed into the congregation by profession of faith. Later in the year, two additional members were received—on October 12 and December 14—from other Reformed churches. The Lord also blessed the congregation with the baptism of seven covenant children on June 1, followed by two additional baptisms later in the year. There was also great joy in the life of the church through two weddings in October and November, as new Christian families were established. By the end of 2025, the congregation had grown to 44 communicant members and 40 non-communicant members. Looking ahead to 2026, several catechumens are expected to make profession of faith, and four families from the Araraquara mission are anticipated to be received as members early in the year. We are grateful for how the Lord continues to bless and establish His church in Campinas, and we pray for continued growth through new visitors and families learning about the Reformed faith. Report from Br. Chris Boersema I traveled to Campinas at the end of November to speak to the men of the congregation, presenting a book called “The Deacons’ Toolbox”. It did turn out to be a blessed Friday evening, on 11/28. Several of the men also engaged well in the discussion, and they all are looking forward to the official publication of this book sometime next year, by the ICRC Diaconal Committee, which I am also a member of. It was also nice to have a few opportunities to visit with Pr. Elienai, as well as with elder Giancarlo. On Sunday I attended both worship services in Campinas.

New Podcast: Mais que Cinco Pontos Pr. Jon Chase & Pr. Adriano

Together with Pr. Jon Chase and Pr. Adriano, we recently launched a new podcast: Mais que Cinco Pontos (More than Five Points) The goal of the podcast is to explore a broad range of biblical and theological topics that help listeners understand the richness of the Reformed faith. Episodes are released every two weeks on YouTube, and topics discussed so far include: • church discipline, • psalm singing, • covenantal preaching, • church federation, • Christian forgiveness, and other aspects of Christian doctrine and practice Missionary Update Missionary Jim Witteveen Looking Ahead for Our Family As a family we continue to be thankful for the Lord’s care for us in Brazil. We are also beginning to plan for a transition, as we expect to return to Canada in November 2026. With our sons approaching graduation, the coming year will involve many decisions and preparations. We appreciate your prayers as we seek the Lord’s guidance for the road ahead. Travels and Ministry Visits. Alongside the regular ministry in Caraguatatuba—preaching, catechism instruction, Bible studies, and pastoral visits—I have also been travelling to serve other congregations. Recent visits include: • Campinas – officiating a wedding and leading worship • Araraquara – teaching catechism, leading worship, and giving a Bible study • Cabo Frio – preaching and administering the Lord’s Supper These visits are always an encouraging opportunity to strengthen connections between the churches. IJC Student Update Missionary Jim Witteveen The 2026 school year at the Instituto João Calvino (IJC) has begun. Please remember these students in your prayers: Weliton: Returned to study after a nine-year hiatus, while continuing to work in Caruaru. Luan: Now in his final year of studies as he prepares for the ministry. Felipe: Continuing his internship in Maceió and recently retook his Church History exam.

Vermeulens with MAF--UPDATE: Clean water for Hong Akon!

You may recall a story we shared back in February about a location we visited with Every Village where the locals were collecting dirty water from a hole in the ground. We shared this: At the second location, we found a hand-dug hole in the ground, with a small pool of water at the bottom. As soon as we stepped out of the vehicle, the smell was overwhelming. The community told us they share this water source with monkeys, resulting in extremely polluted water. As we approached, the women began to sing—praising God that after so many years, someone had come to see their situation. You can read the full story here: [Dirty Water](http://vermeulenswithmaf.epistle.org/updates/69863564529f249799053d92) That village was called Hong Akon, and their only access to water was through this hole in the ground with extremely dirty water. The Every Village team was so moved by the scene at that village, that they immediately committed to drilling a well there as soon as possible. We were just informed that the new well in Hong Akon has just been completed - and the village now has access to fresh, clean water. As clean water flowed for the first time the ladies from the village gathered to sing and praise God for blessing them in this way! We are grateful for the work of the Every Village team, as they continue to serve the South Sudanese people. And we are thankful that we can support them through our work with MAF, allowing them to reach the remote corners of this country. Please continue to pray that God would bless the work of MAF and Every Village, and that He will continue to bless the village of Hong Akon.

Vermeulens with MAF -- Exciting news to share!

Exciting news to share! We have some exciting news to share... Lord willing in November we will be welcoming another little one! We are very excited and thankful for this blessing! Jacob is excited, and hoping for another little sister. Rhett is a little impatient and wants to see the baby now! And Breanna has no idea what's going on :) This news means that we have adjusted our schedule slightly and will be back in Canada in mid-October. We'll be in Alberta for the birth of the baby in mid-November, then spending Christmas and January there also. After which we hope to travel to Ontario to catch up with family, and meet with you our supporters, before heading back to South Sudan. All these plans are up-in-the-air still (pun intended), so we appreciate your prayers that things will fall into place. We are currently in Nairobi enjoying a short break after a very busy few months. We took a few days to head to the coast to enjoy some sunshine and time on the beach. The kids loved walking the beach, looking for shells and hermit crabs, and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean! Just before our break we celebrated Breanna's 2nd Birthday - she is full of life, starting to form words, and brings such joy to our every day. While at the coast we celebrated Rhett's 4th Birthday! We are thankful for his energy and constant inquisitiveness that he brings to the family. He is currently in Pre-School, attending 3 mornings per week and enjoys interacting with classmates and teachers. Jacob is currently 5 and will Lord willing celebrate his birthday next month. He is currently in Senior-Kindergarten, and loves his reading and doing maths! We ask for your continued prayers for the family during this season. That we would be effective in our ministry during the coming months. That Emma's morning sickness would settle after a rough first trimester. Please also pray for all the planning and preparation that we will do for our home assignment - that everything needed would fall into place in due time. Thank you for your continued support of our ministry in South Sudan!

Mulders in Moresby

30th April 2026 We waltz into their lives wanting to help and as we do so we start building a trust environment with our national brothers and sisters. Slowly, over many years, they open up more and more, revealing deeper personal thoughts as they see you’re here for the long haul. We become as much a part of their lives as they become a part of ours. And then it happens, the decision is made to go back home. It hurts. It’s what we experienced this month as we informed the Board of Governors, workers, students and church community that this will be our last year. It’s time for us to leave and hand over the reins to someone else. Though tears were shed, there was understanding of our decision. We have the rest of the year to say proper goodbyes. As our dear friend, Apa, said, “We know that all missionaries will leave.” We’ve been asked what we’ll be doing next year, the truth is we have no idea, and that’s ok. God will provide and the beauty of not knowing means we can focus on our current work without being distracted by a new position elsewhere. So; we have work to do and it’s a privilege to be allowed to do that. Here’s a snapshot of the events in April.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29 : 11 With much love, Mark and Liz You can follow us on Instagram: Liz: liz_mulder Mark: MuldersInMoresby Our mailing address is: PO Box 590 Waigani Papua New Guinea

MERF -- April 2026

Arabic Media Ministry Update

We praise God for enabling MERF to bring life-changing biblical content 24/7, in Arabic, online and by radio across the Arab world and beyond. This touches the lives of hundreds of thousands of Muslims. For several decades the efforts of MERF’s Arabic Media Ministry team, staff and volunteers, have been blessed with steadily growing interest in the gospel of Christ. Many have come to saving faith. The team prayerfully work together to write and produce engaging scripts and short radio and video programs sharing the Savior. In the last three months alone, the team has produced more than 60 new episodes along with daily posts. They have also introduced many new AI-animated videos. Over the past year, interactions across various social media platforms have continued to steadily increase, reflecting a growing desire for spiritual guidance. Past gospel programs remain available online. New episodes are regularly recorded. New gospel programs are always being developed and produced. The team takes a 3-pronged approach to reach three different target groups at the same time. The newest website provides solid biblical literature for Arab Christian leaders and others interested in serious Bible study. The other two sites appeal to the young Arab Muslim majority who have never heard the gospel

MERF-ArabicLibrary.com offers valuable resources to Arab Christians for personal and group Bible and theological study for free download or in print form. New materials are regularly introduced. The website and social media pages regularly introduce new Arabic books and materials freely offered for download or in print form. This has dramatically expanded access to solid Christian literature across the Arab world. The books and articles are received with joy. MERF-ArabicLibrary.com not only gives Arab churches and seminaries much needed resources, it also inspires individuals to learn and grow in faith. Praise God for this vital tool which equips Arab Christians for service. In contrast, Dardasha7.com (Chat 7) reaches out very very widely, drawing the interest of hundreds of thousands in the young Arab majority by a variety of engaging short programs. The programs gently weave quotes of Christ’s sayings and Bible teaching into compelling drama and interesting discussions on various topics relevant to youth. They stimulate meaningful conversations about faith and daily struggles. Direct engagement is growing, with thousands of comments and messages. Some take serious interest in the gospel and inquire in private chats. Please pray for them. Issa-alMasih.com (Jesus the Christ) is specifically directed to the growing numbers of Muslims who actively search for more information about Issa-alMasih. It focuses on the teaching of Jesus and biblical truths, with clear and accessi ble resources. There are hundreds of direct inquiries from serious seekers. By God’s grace, many are encountering the love of Christ, asking deep spiritual questions, and wanting to learn more. Some express the desire to follow Him. Please pray for the Lord’s wisdom and grace to those who follow up contacts and provide them with confidential personal care.

Ramadan Programs Last month was Ramadan, the lunar month of Muslim fasting from sunrise to sun set. It provided a spring board to share the gospel. MERF’s Arabic Media Team made Ramadan relat ed episodes in regular pro grams and even prepared a special program on fasting. Rather than belittle the four weeks of daylight fasting, the radically different gos pel perspective of Christ’s teaching on prayer and fast ing in the Sermon on the Mount is presented so that the purity, wisdom and love of Christ clearly shine the gospel far above all forms of man-centered and man made religion. The program “Fasting is Our Right” was promoted on various social media platforms by short videos, with this description in Arabic: A spiritual journey during fasting that moves us from form to essence, from habit to true mean ing. It explores how fasting provides the opportunity for self-examination, a genuine recognition of one’s sin fulness and need for divine redemption. Fasting is not just abstaining from food; rather it develops a desire for a transformed life. During Ramadan, there were about 800 thousand views of the program and about 10 thousand reacted directly. Some reactions were negative and even included some name-call ing. Such receive gentle and polite responses and invita tions to seek after Christ’s saving grace. Others with partial knowledge, seek to know more. For example: During Ramadan, there were about 800 thousand views of the program and about 10 thousand reacted directly. Some reactions were negative and even included some name-call ing. Such receive gentle and polite responses and invita tions to seek after Christ’s saving grace. Others with partial knowledge, seek to know more. For example: - Was the Christ who came in the flesh God or the Son of God? How did the Christ take the form of a dove? REPLY: “The gospel does not say that Jesus did that. Jesus is God in the flesh and as such he is called the Son of God.” -As Muslims we believe that Jesus the Christ (Issa alMasih) is God’s Word and Apostle. Is it true that he is God’s Son in the flesh? REPLY: “John 1:1-5 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God…. “ Praise God for: • Open doors to reach new audiences through different platforms and formats, especially in seasons like Ramadan. • Clear signs of impact, as content continues to resonate deeply and spark meaningful conversations. • Faithfully sustaining the ministry despite challenges and changing circumstances. • Creative growth and collaboration in the team, leading to more diverse and relevant programs. • Encouraging responses from viewers who engage with the gospel message behind the programs. Please Pray for: • Deeper impact, that con tent would not only be viewed, but truly trans form hearts and lives. • Guidance in developing new programs to address real questions and struggles people are facing today. • Open doors for wider reach into regions and communities that are still difficult to access. • Protection over digital platforms and communication channels, ensuring continuity and effective ness. • Continued provision of resources to sustain and expand this vital ministry.

Church Members 18 and up JULY 7-14, 2026 John Calvin Centre Larnaca, Cyprus Biblical Missions Retreat MERF provides Accommodation & Food Email merf@merf.org : SUBJECT: July Missions Retreat • name, date of birth, church • church leader recommendation • completion of the following as 4 short sentences: The Bible impacts my daily life by ….. Christ is precious to me because ….. I serve Christ by ….. I share the gospel by ..

Van den Dolder update

Another busy month here in PNG with plenty of things happening. At the beginning of themonth Covenant Christian School (9 Mile, Port Moresby) experienced quite the transition instaffing. Two teachers handed in resignation letters at the end of March for separate reasons. Due to the training we had done last month there were available people ready to step in andthe school board was able to hire two new teachers. We left for Lae around this time andJohan advised the board at 9 Mile not to wait for him but to finalise the hiring of newteachers and the saying goodbye to the old teachers. We are thankful how this worked out asit is easy for the board to look to Johan for guidance during this time and wait for him to sortthings out. They were able to hire an experienced teacher and one who has no experience atall but has completed grade 12 and plans to attend teachers college next year. While the newhire is a younger, less experienced teacher, the head teacher at CCS has been impressed withher willingness to learn and her attitude to her work.

We arrived in Lae on the 9th of April. It’s only a 1hr flight and we’re thankful everything went smoothly and on time. Because our time was limited in Lae, we were conscious of making the most of our time and not doing things that can just as easily do in POM – e.g. sitting behind a desk. So, our visit to Lae was busy with visits to the Ombudsman Commission to address the ongoing issue of land title for Living Water Christian School (LWCS; Kamkumung, Lae), visits to the department of education to research how we can register our teachers without putting them through 3 years of college, and plenty of visits to the schools for observation and training. On the 19th of April we attended church in Wantun and because it is a 3hr drive we stayed overnight in the church. After church (as this is the only time all the church members are together) Johan presented to them a speech about his role in the school as this was creating tension within the community. His speech addressed their role as parents in the covenantal education of their children and their ownership of the school. We are not sure how it was received as most of the proceeding conversations were in tokples (the language of their village) but we’ve been told it was well received. Pastor Tony was very appreciative of the speech and wants Johan to come back at the closing day of school and reach the whole school community. Being in a village context where most families are subsistence farmers, school fees must be kept low to provide access for children. The school is highly motivated to create alternative local fundraising options that are sustainable, and we’re excited to work with them on this. As you can see in the ‘before’ and ‘after’ picture of the school building below, the school has slowly been building a classroom through local fund raising and some assistance from Mission Aid in Australia. Previously they held classes in a classroom made of bush materials which wasn’t ideal during heavy rain.

The next morning was spent bringing in the new shipment My Father’s World curriculum and observing in the classroom. It was great to sit with the teachers and discuss the curriculum. The teachers at this school clearly have seen transformation in their hearts and lives because of the work of Jesus Christ, and this overflows into their teaching. It was a privilege to deliver a training session on Covenant Education and biblical classroom management in a later visit during that week. A couple of teachers have had this before but it is always good to refresh and have conversations about how they can manage a few challenging situations in their classrooms.

The last week in Lae we spent a bit more time with LWCS. Johan was able to sit in Board meetings and discuss future plans. Johan still helps this school the most with the work he took over from the previous Mission Support Worker and we’re looking at ways to hand this over. In Lae as well, Johan gave a refresher course on Covenant Education and biblical classroom management. We were very encouraged by the Christian character of the school and look forward to developing this more through the implementation of the My Fathers World curriculum.

The last exciting development of the month was that the IPA (Investment Promotional Authority) accepted the Intent to Incorporate application of two of the schools. This is a big step into them becoming a recognised entity. Their names will be LOGOS GLORY REFORMED SCHOOL INC. and COVENANT REFORMED SCHOOL INC.. The school leaders felt it appropriate to make the distinction that our schools aren’t just another one of many Christian schools but also wanted to keep the name that was significant to them. We had to buy an ad in the local paper and have a one-month objection period. Personally, things still continue to go well. Flying to the other side of the country and staying in a different house for close to a month has its struggles but the kids did well. The kids are still unsure what actually is our house-house but they enjoy the travelling. Evelyn brought along all the homeschooling work and we try to keep the main routines the same no matter where we go. We did feel by the end of our time in Lae were very ready to go back home. The house at Lae (pictured below) is situated in the Lae City Mission compound. LCM is a centre that takes in struggling young men and teaches them life skills and presents them with the gospel. Reformed Ministries NE used to be based here before moving up to the Highlands at SIL and we still have one house at the compound that is available to RM members. It is a very big house and the kids love playing hide and seek in it. Throughout the month we were there we hosted a number of people/groups coming and going. The smaller area we are in has an energetic dog. At night it is very much appreciated as it is a deterrent for any curious people but during the day it is a bit of a hindrance as the kids don’t want to go outside and play meaning everyone feels a bit couped up by the end of the day. Thankfully Lae city is not too far away and we’ve found a nice playground where the kids can burn some energy. Lae also has a large main market. Below, right. As you can imagine, going to the market with small children is always an experience and a half. We stand out as it is and the Papua New Guineas love seeing white children as this is quite rare in PNG.

Adaline lost her first tooth. Quite literally, in fact. We don’t know where it is. It was wobbly for a while and then suddenly it was gone one day. She likely swallowed it. A bit of a pity for the first one. She was a bit worried the tooth fairy wouldn’t know she’d lost it or that we were now in PNG so we wrote the tooth fairy a letter explaining what had happened – thankfully in the morning the letter was taken and some money was sitting there for her.

Thanks again for your ongoing love and support. Johan, Evelyn and the kids Prayer Points: - Thankful – our visit to Lae could be productive and relationships strengthened. - Thankful – we can start the process of renovating ‘our’ house. - Request – the preparations for renovations may go well. - Request – a continued blessing on the teaching happening in the schools. Keep in Touch! Email: johanlvdd@hotmail.com, evelynjvdd@icloud.com Facebook: JohanEvelyn van den Dolder Instagram: @evelynjvdd Whatsapp: Johan (+61 420926345), Evelyn (+61 457211881) Website: www.vddpng.com

RUTFs, Missionaries, and Rain!

On a recent Friday I was scheduled for a charter flight up to the North-East to a town called Maban. Maban sits close to the Sudanese border, making it a hot spot for Sudanese Refugees fleeing the ongoing conflict in Sudan. So on this particular flight I loaded up over 700 kgs of RUTFs. Ready-to-Use-Therapeutic-Foods are small packages of a highly nutritious paste that is fed to malnourished children. This food was going to be used in refugee camps to help those who are displaced from their homes and have little to no nutrition. Also on board were two translators who were going to work amongst the refugees to help ongoing translation work. After the three hour flight north I off-loaded the RUTFs and picked up a missionary family. This family had previously lived in Maban and are now working in another African country. They came back for a visit and to help the current team with their work of Bible translation and community projects amongst the refugees. It's special to hear about the ongoing work, and to see the dedication that these families have living in such remote parts of the world - all for the furtherance of the Gospel and the Kingdom of God! After loading up it was time to head back South to Juba. Along the way we dodged some growing thunderstorms, and flew threw some rain. After 4 months of dry season - these were some of the first rains that we've seen. The new season means big storms, heavy rains, and wet runways - but it also brings cooler days and smoother flying! Storms avoided we made it safely back home to Juba - all in a typical day! Thank you for supporting this work, allowing MAF to serve the remote areas of South Sudan!