During our first monthly trip to Epau village to teach and preach, Arthur (one of the local leaders) suggested that he and I go and invite a couple of people to that night's study. Two of the Christian ladies in Epau were married, but their husbands were not Christians. One of the men we went and visited was Leisong's husband, Bob. Arthur asked if he would come to the study that night, and he immediately accepted the invitation. He came to the study that night, and to every single subsequent study and worship service the church conducted.

Bob's is a unique story here in Vanuatu because the majority of the population is religious. However, prior to that Saturday night study, Bob had never been inside any type of church building. Seemingly, it was simply because no one had ever asked (the culture here practically forbids the wife from making such a suggestion).

Bob works at a saw mill in Eton village which is owned by Eddie Karris, the first ever convert here in Vanuatu. As soon as Eddie found out Bob had shown some interest, he began talking with him and signed him up for a Bible Correspondence course. The mission team held a series of studies focused on evangelism in Eton November 14-17, and Bob was present each evening after work.

When Flexon and I arrived in Epau on November 26, Bob stated his readiness and desire to baptized for the remission of his sins. Flexon, who was converted in June, was able to baptize him in the Pacific Ocean. Afterwards, it was wonderful to see Bob, Leisong and their youngest son all sitting together on a bench...celebrating the new birth together.

EB