A book review by Fiona TaylorThe Reentry Team is a critically important book for every church who receives returning missionaries back into their congregation, or for those in contact with overseas workers. In a very detailed and practical way, Pirolo spells out the process of re-entry – highlighting what to watch for and ways to assist. The method is drawn from Acts 14:26-28 and 15:35 where Paul and Barnabas are welcomed back into the fellowship at Antioch.  I was so excited about becoming more involved in supporting overseas workers after reading this book, as it gave detailed examples of what you can do. Pirolo suggests that the book could be sent to overseas workers to help them in their ‘homecoming’ – I would heartily endorse that suggestion. It provides great insight into the process ahead for adults and children, and gives many case studies to work through with questions to consider.
This book also easily lends itself to a home-group setting or for someone’s support team to work through. Pirolo’s book Serving as Senders touches on re-entry, but he received so much feedback on this topic that he wrote The Reentry Team to expand on the topic and add extra material. If you are involved in the lives of missionaries, I would consider these two books your foundation for effective support. I cannot recommend this book highly enough, and would imagine that using this material with returning workers would improve their transition immeasurably. Both books are available through the Wycliffe New Zealand office (prices include shipping within New Zealand): Serving as Senders $12
The Reentry Team $22 |
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A book review by Fiona TaylorMany of our lives have been touched by cancer – whether in our immediate family, extended family or friends. This book is an intimate and honest account of lives used mightily by God in cross-cultural ministry with the Gimi people of Papua New Guinea, and challenged by a fight with cancer.
 I was deeply moved by the openness of the author, Nancy McBride (from USA). She is not afraid to show human failure and God’s wonderful healing grace. Sam McBride, a farmer from the Waikato, served as Director of Wycliffe NZ from 1982–84. We are invited into the lives of the McBrides as they walk through the shadow of death, as they follow God’s call which suddenly seems undone in the face of terrible illness. Readers are reminded that God makes no mistakes – He is sovereign and has all things in His hand, working all things for His glory. Sam’s life is a beautiful illustration of this – a humble, godly man with an incredible strength of character and faith.
Throughout this book we can see real illustrations of God’s love in action. What would we do in the face of a cancer diagnosis? What can we do for those around us who are walking this path? Be prepared to be challenged – the commitment, prayer and practical support given by those around the family is something to model ourselves on. Books are available through the Wycliffe New Zealand office (prices include shipping within New Zealand): Two Lives, One Dream $24 |
To the Ends of the Earth A book review by Fiona Taylor.  This coffee-table book is a magnificent visual celebration of "where we've been and who we've been there with" - dedicated to those serving with and along-side Wycliffe. It is produced in full colour by Wycliffe Australia with interesting layout and many inspiring photos – some paired with scriptures or inspiring quotes that outline the importance of Bible translation and literacy work; others stand alone, saying more than any words could do. 
This book also contains essential information about Wycliffe and the task we are committed to. If you're looking for a 'gift with a message', I highly recommend "To the ends of the Earth". I proudly display our copy in our home for guests to enjoy. Complete the Resources Order Form to get your own copy for $17.00 including postage (within New Zealand). |
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Hidden People - a classic |
 This is the remarkable and inspiring story of the impact of the Scriptures on a small, dying tribe in Papua New Guinea. By 1959 the number of Binumariens had dropped from 3000 to 111. A great New Zealand Wycliffe story of Bible translation. A classic! (352 page paperback) Tribal fighting, and cultural beliefs around childbirth were sure to see it drop further. God wants everyone to hear the gospel, but surely these people were "too insignificant to spend the best years of your life translating the Bible for them." (85). However, God didn't say to reach the big groups and leave the rest, nor go to the easy-to-reach places and just pray for the others. God had a plan to draw these people back to Himself. New Zealander Des Oatridge and his Australian wife, Jenny, obeyed God's call to this tiny group, which others might have seen as too dangerous given their cannibalistic past, or as too geographically remote. "I've heard of places in the world where knowledge of the Bible in the language of the people has revolutionised a culture. I have enough faith to believe it can happen here." (p83) "I know it must sound mad to you. But some individuals carry on about saving species of birds, fish and animals from extinction. It seems that not many people are at all interested in a vanishing race of people. An endangered people seldom rate a mention by anyone." (p85) Des' words are true for many involved in the work of Bible translation. The faith, passion and conviction to do the work carry them through the stormy times of translation. During the Oatridge's time with the Binumarien they encountered many seemingly impossible hurdles, which God alone brought them through - a death in their family, sickness, and a language learning standstill. For many years they lived and worked with the people, sharing their lives and faith, learning their language and culture. They witnessed the effect of God's Word in the heart language of a people and the radical transformation this brought about. It seemed as though God had written the Bible just for them. A people once without hope now had a reason to live. A truly inspiring book which gives insight to the work of Wycliffe Bible Translators around the world. |
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