Life in Puná
ECUADOR :
“The name Puná comes from the aboriginal people who used to inhabit the island,” says Bible League’s director in Ecuador. “Now it is inhabited by bare-foot children whose legs are caked with rotting mud; they are surrounded by a multitude of disease infected flies—causing many of them to die young.”

For many years God was not known in this community. When children are taught to drink alcohol, and use and sell drugs, they conform to the ways of the world—learning lifestyles far from Biblical teachings. Our director adds, “Couples do not respect marriage or see it as a means to unite their families. These families continually struggle with loyalty to one another.”

God’s Word ignites a vision
Pastor David had a vision to see this community transformed! As he received Bible League training, he was overwhelmed with compassion for the people. Just as the Lord promises in His Word, Pastor David longed to see light in the midst of darkness.

“Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man.”(Psalm 112:4 NIV)

Because God’s Word was foreign to the people of Puná, the pastor’s task was challenging. “Although not immediate, soon people were strengthened by the Word of God!” adds our director. “Pastor David’s vision became a reality. He planted the seed of God’s Word in the lives of the natives in every town on the island. He continues training them, even today, to work together in service to Christ.”

Experiencing joy
Many children, once slaves to alcohol and drugs, now study God’s Word! The community now experiences physical and spiritual cleanliness. Families are becoming members of churches and experiencing the joy of Christian fellowship for the very first time! Men and women are discovering God’s ordained purpose for marriage—creating unity and loyalty in the home.

“Four churches have been planted so far, and six are in the process,” continues our director. “We can now say that Jesus Christ is known throughout the island of Puná!”