[Picture on page 102]

Blanche and Hans van Heydoorn have helped 65 people to the point of dedicating their lives to Jehovah

Another pioneer who has tasted of Jehovah’s goodness is Blanche van Heydoorn. She was baptized in 1961, and her husband, Hans, in 1965. She has been pioneering for the past 35 years. During that time, Blanche raised six children, two of whom are now regular pioneers. This would not have been possible without physical and emotional support from Hans. Together they have helped 65 people to the point of dedicating their lives to Jehovah.

One of Blanche’s many experiences involved her neighbor, Serafina. Blanche had started to study with Serafina, but her husband, Theo, objected strenuously. He burned Serafina’s books and forbade Blanche to enter their home, telling everyone that he was sharpening his machete for her. Hans found out why Theo was so opposed. It seemed that he had a friend whose wife had started to study with a minister of one of the local religions. Later, she ran away with the minister. So Theo was afraid that his wife might do the same. Using Hebrews 13:4, Hans explained our viewpoint on marriage. Greatly relieved, Theo allowed her to continue the study. Serafina got baptized, and after some time, Theo did too. Both are now faithfully serving Jehovah.

Blanche tells of conducting a Bible study at 11:00 a.m., returning home for lunch, and giving birth to her son Lucien two hours later! She continues to treasure her privilege of pioneering. Blanche says: “Pioneering makes you prepare and study continually and gives you satisfaction that cannot be found elsewhere.”