Lydia Pamplona, who has served in Papua New Guinea since 1980, has helped 84 persons to the point of dedication and baptism. She recently reported that she conducts home Bible studies with 16 people, most of whom now attend meetings. Her personal comments no doubt sum up the feelings of many of the missionaries: “I thank Jehovah for the ministry he has entrusted to me. May he continue to bless our ministry, to his glory.”

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An Interview With Lydia Pamplona

Born: 1944

Baptized: 1954

Profile: After gaining experience as a special pioneer in the Philippines, invited to serve in Papua New Guinea in 1980. Has helped more than 84 persons to learn the truth.

I was thrilled to receive my assignment because it had long been my desire to serve where the need is greater. I was also apprehensive because it would be the first time for me to leave my family. I did not know much about Papua New Guinea, and the little I knew from stories I had heard made me nervous. Mother encouraged me, saying: “Jehovah God will take care of us wherever we are doing his will.” I wrote my letter of acceptance.

When I arrived, the brothers were very kind, and the people were friendly. I placed many books and magazines every month, more than I had ever placed in the Philippines. But the language and customs were very different from mine. I thought: ‘Well, I’ll just serve here for a few years and then go back home and pioneer with Mother again.’

Well, after learning two of the main languages and adopting some of the local customs, I came to know the people better. Throughout the more than 20 years that I have been here, I have had the privilege of teaching the truth to quite a few, and some I have taught to read and write so that they can study properly and make the truth their own. All of this and other blessings make me feel that Papua New Guinea is my home now. If Jehovah wills, I am happy to be used in his service until he says the work is done or until the end of my days here.