My family and I are quite busy preparing to go to Port Moresby then to Hula village. After a few weeks we plan to go to Gulf Province, my wife's home. Yes, I have lived for the last 9 years in Banz which will soon become part of the new Jiwaka province.
Being away from home I have seen so many changes but I am also harnessing the new technological developments like blogs, face book, twitter and friend feed etc. These are all new to me.
I am seeing the good things that can come out from the internet. Although there is a bad side of the internet as well. Internet has helped me in my assignments and quick information, I needed.
One day my daughter wanted to know the names of some governors of certain provinces. I just got the information in a few seconds. The other time my wife wanted a recipe, it was available in seconds.
My e-mail is so full these days because I can get in the net and register to receive certain e-mails. At first when I started I was addicted but now I have slow down a bit.
Thank God for the new and latest technology. However we must discipline ourselves when to get to the net.
Happy reading.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
PNG courses used overseas.
An Australian College has shown interest in CLTC TEE courses written in PNG.Amos Leana, who has been a great supporter of TEE now plans to introduce the CLTC TEE to the Bimbadeen College in Australia.
Amos was recently in CLTC with some of his colleagues to look at the TEE courses and do negotiations to sign an agreement. There were four leaders
who were at CLTC Banz, who attended the Langham Preaching Conference which from November 29th to December 4th. In the past the Bimbadeen students have studied “Come Follow Me” and “Come Let us Worship”. The College Board and the Training Committee have asked for Discipleship courses to be taught at the College. This is not the first time for CLTC TEE courses to be used overseas. Previously the discipleship and Ephesians courses were used in New Zealand. TEE course have been translated into Bahasa Indonesia, Fiji and Swiss languages as well. There was a quiry from Cambodia to translate the marriage courses into that language. So you can see that we are importing our courses as well. We have something to offer to the world.
Amos was recently in CLTC with some of his colleagues to look at the TEE courses and do negotiations to sign an agreement. There were four leaders
who were at CLTC Banz, who attended the Langham Preaching Conference which from November 29th to December 4th. In the past the Bimbadeen students have studied “Come Follow Me” and “Come Let us Worship”. The College Board and the Training Committee have asked for Discipleship courses to be taught at the College. This is not the first time for CLTC TEE courses to be used overseas. Previously the discipleship and Ephesians courses were used in New Zealand. TEE course have been translated into Bahasa Indonesia, Fiji and Swiss languages as well. There was a quiry from Cambodia to translate the marriage courses into that language. So you can see that we are importing our courses as well. We have something to offer to the world.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Writing courses and being involved in curriculum
I thought that I would be a reporter for several years. After the closure of the Niugini Nius I in 1990,I ended up at the Bible Society as a part-time staff. However I worked for 4 years using my journalism training to write newsletters and do promotions as well as writing some brochures about Easter. After that I went back to the print media which was now computerised.In the early days of my career I was using electrical an electrical type writer. Then after a few months I went to work as the Media Coordinator with the PNG Bible Translation Association. This worked helped me to work on a magazine and do profiles for the translators and use a Risograph. Then I left to work with a someone who was self employed and I had to do administrative work and work on visas, passport and work permits. After two years I ended up with the print media again and then left to work in the Highlands for the last 9 years. I had to deal with student matters which were mostly administrative issues then for the last 4 years I have been involved in curriculum development writing course notes. This is something that I never learnt but my writing skills in the print media were put to good use. I also found that someone who is running a correspondence school in Australia was a former journalist and he has written so many new courses. Therefore do not think that all the skills you learnt were not appropriate. Some day somewhere you will utilise those skills in another field or profession
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Self publishing in PNG
I met Rosie a week ago at a conference and she has been living in PNG for the last 13 years. When I saw her interest in writing books, I asked who was paying for the books she printed.
She replied that her supporters back in UK were helping her to pay for the cost. Some of her books were printed in Tari while others were printed overseas. Rosie keeps on writing and she is a doctor by profession. Seeing patients and attending to their needs does not stop her passion to write.
Melanesians can do that too. We can start a bank account for writing. Rosie's books are sold cheaply and the funds go into an account to get more books printed. Check the nearest bookshops, library, stationary shops and even schools to see what books or topics have not been written about. This will give you an idea to write issues that are relevant to Melanesians. Well, you may say that I do not have any money. You could start by writing a 2 page newsletter or even start a ezine, ebulletion or egazette. There are many opportunities and we need to harness them to work for us.
She replied that her supporters back in UK were helping her to pay for the cost. Some of her books were printed in Tari while others were printed overseas. Rosie keeps on writing and she is a doctor by profession. Seeing patients and attending to their needs does not stop her passion to write.
Melanesians can do that too. We can start a bank account for writing. Rosie's books are sold cheaply and the funds go into an account to get more books printed. Check the nearest bookshops, library, stationary shops and even schools to see what books or topics have not been written about. This will give you an idea to write issues that are relevant to Melanesians. Well, you may say that I do not have any money. You could start by writing a 2 page newsletter or even start a ezine, ebulletion or egazette. There are many opportunities and we need to harness them to work for us.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
What careers can writers be involved in
You may see this heading in the post with the photo of a trained journalist. Caine Ruruk completed studies in 1981 at UPNG but after his graduation, his brother passed away. The only option was to return home and be a villager. However Caine still held onto his dreams. He was involved in the youth ministry as well as other community activities.
After living at Wanigela village, Oro Province for over 10 years he became involved in the literacy program and later ended up to work with the PNG Bible Translation Association (PNGBTA).
His work involved encouraging literacy teachers, training them and publishing literacy materials like big books, shell books and even working on curriculum. Well, you can see that Caine's journalism training became handy.
Come on you writers, authors, roving scribes and photo journalist, there's lot of opportunity out there and grab one if you can.
After living at Wanigela village, Oro Province for over 10 years he became involved in the literacy program and later ended up to work with the PNG Bible Translation Association (PNGBTA).
His work involved encouraging literacy teachers, training them and publishing literacy materials like big books, shell books and even working on curriculum. Well, you can see that Caine's journalism training became handy.
Come on you writers, authors, roving scribes and photo journalist, there's lot of opportunity out there and grab one if you can.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Help me know more about blogging
I am so excited about blogging. At times I do not have the time to write. With the students now on holidays, I seem to have some time.
One thing I want to do now is to have a new mail to blogger. Can someone who is reading this help. I have made some changes so you will now see more changes coming.
Thanks
One thing I want to do now is to have a new mail to blogger. Can someone who is reading this help. I have made some changes so you will now see more changes coming.
Thanks
How to write despite being busy
As Melanesians we seem to lag behind in writing. This is because we are oral learners. However we do have our own writing which was so symbolic. Such writing is seen in designs on tapa cloth, designs in lime pots, even tatooing of bodies.
This should not stop us from striving to write. I just attended a conference conducted by some Australian preachers and their idea for people to continue preaching is to start a preaching class. The preachers will meet and discuss their outlines and encourage each other. This is the same concept use by the TEE department.
I believe Melanesian writers can form such groups in their towns or villages and start encouraging each other. The writers can share ideas and be accountable to a leader. They may write book reviews, short stories, legends, poems and other forms of writing.
In the past there were writing competitons but I hardly see one these days. I remember while I was at High School,the English teacher offered a prize for the best essay. There were rules made to stop people from speaking their languages. Such regulations helped us but I also value my own language.
Any we need to encourage a new breed of writers. Now with the internet and the different programs writers can write as much as they like. That's all for today.
This should not stop us from striving to write. I just attended a conference conducted by some Australian preachers and their idea for people to continue preaching is to start a preaching class. The preachers will meet and discuss their outlines and encourage each other. This is the same concept use by the TEE department.
I believe Melanesian writers can form such groups in their towns or villages and start encouraging each other. The writers can share ideas and be accountable to a leader. They may write book reviews, short stories, legends, poems and other forms of writing.
In the past there were writing competitons but I hardly see one these days. I remember while I was at High School,the English teacher offered a prize for the best essay. There were rules made to stop people from speaking their languages. Such regulations helped us but I also value my own language.
Any we need to encourage a new breed of writers. Now with the internet and the different programs writers can write as much as they like. That's all for today.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Naming a child the Jiwaka way
On Saturday my family and I were invited to attend a child naming ceremony at Bung village. The child was about three months old and his name was not called until the ceremony was made. The child had two other cousins and one of the cousins was almost six months but his name was not given yet.
We walked for over 30 minutes and reached the destination. When we arrived there were a group of people making a mumu. Other ladies were cooking and preparing greens to be boiled in a huge pot.
The family decided that they would also make their eldest daughter's birthday. We brough five banana cakes. All the invited guests were busy preparing food. The ceremony which was supposed to be held on Christmas Day had to be rescheduled as I had planned to be at home for Christmas.
Table were taken and food was put on two tables while waiting for the mumu. We celebrated the birthday and then later the grand father, chief of the Asamp clan stood up and shouted: "Who is waiting at the back of the house, you must come out. My wife carried the child in the bilum and the child's grand mother was there as well. The grand mother shouted: "Oh hhh ohhh!". The she accompanied my wife to the table. The grand father called " Timothy John, you come and get your food". The crowd cheered and shouted and they congratulated me as the child is my name sake.
Grand father Ali read Psalm 139:15 and prayed. Then he dedicated the child to God so that the Lord would protect him and keep him and use him for his glory. That was the event that I witnessed and it is similar to the naming of John the Baptist. However in the olden days the Jiwaka people worshipped the sun god. All the babies were dedicated to the sun god. These days as the people are Christians they dedicate their children to God.
We walked for over 30 minutes and reached the destination. When we arrived there were a group of people making a mumu. Other ladies were cooking and preparing greens to be boiled in a huge pot.
The family decided that they would also make their eldest daughter's birthday. We brough five banana cakes. All the invited guests were busy preparing food. The ceremony which was supposed to be held on Christmas Day had to be rescheduled as I had planned to be at home for Christmas.
Table were taken and food was put on two tables while waiting for the mumu. We celebrated the birthday and then later the grand father, chief of the Asamp clan stood up and shouted: "Who is waiting at the back of the house, you must come out. My wife carried the child in the bilum and the child's grand mother was there as well. The grand mother shouted: "Oh hhh ohhh!". The she accompanied my wife to the table. The grand father called " Timothy John, you come and get your food". The crowd cheered and shouted and they congratulated me as the child is my name sake.
Grand father Ali read Psalm 139:15 and prayed. Then he dedicated the child to God so that the Lord would protect him and keep him and use him for his glory. That was the event that I witnessed and it is similar to the naming of John the Baptist. However in the olden days the Jiwaka people worshipped the sun god. All the babies were dedicated to the sun god. These days as the people are Christians they dedicate their children to God.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Keep writing
I have kept exercise books which I use as journals. This is good. Whenever you think of something you need to write it down. Always keep a pen handy. One day I got a few TEE courses and I marked when I was travelling on my way to the hospital. I am motivated to see such people as Governor General Grand Chief, Sir Paulias Matane who keeps on writing. He has written so many books. We need more Melanesian writers who can write about their experience to motivate others. There is no need to wait. We must also look for printers or people who will fund the books that we will be writing. Furthermore we need to start networking and starting writer's guilds or start small writing groups to keep everything going. We cannot wait. I was challenged by a friend who never had any experience in carpentary and building, but these person who was good at organising found some people to work with him. My freind learnt from his experience. Do not think that you are not good at writing so that you can just sit and wait. The best thing is to team up with gifted artists, proof readers and teachers who can help you out.
Make friends with people who have IT savy so that they motivate you and help you. Think of a subject or a theme and start writing now. When I was about to start my thesis I sought advice from people who were academics to get ideas from them.
Make friends with people who have IT savy so that they motivate you and help you. Think of a subject or a theme and start writing now. When I was about to start my thesis I sought advice from people who were academics to get ideas from them.
Writing in busyness
For the last few months I kept writing my thesis. I wrote at night, early morning and when my wife and daughter were watching TV. I even wrote after eating lunch. I had to be disciplined and I manage to write 10, 300 words or so.
Now I will be working on the bibliography and to do the corrections and reduce the number of words. It is not easy but one must put aside other work and interest to complete the thesis. It has been a challenge for me.
Besides that I counsel and help other students who write their thesis especially proof reading them. My dream is to write a book of my own. For the last 5 years that I have been in the DTE department, I have written at least 5 Tutor guides. This is a small achievement but I must write more and more. I completed one TEE course but now I will have to work on the corrections. There are more books or studies to be worked on.
Never give up. If you do not have the time you need to collect items and also to make plans to write and set aside some time and write. Even if you spend five minutes to correct a footnote or locate some of the books or notes that you have used. These days modern technology has made write much easier. So keep writing and think about Melanesian issues.
Thanks and have a enjoyable time reading. TKwara
Now I will be working on the bibliography and to do the corrections and reduce the number of words. It is not easy but one must put aside other work and interest to complete the thesis. It has been a challenge for me.
Besides that I counsel and help other students who write their thesis especially proof reading them. My dream is to write a book of my own. For the last 5 years that I have been in the DTE department, I have written at least 5 Tutor guides. This is a small achievement but I must write more and more. I completed one TEE course but now I will have to work on the corrections. There are more books or studies to be worked on.
Never give up. If you do not have the time you need to collect items and also to make plans to write and set aside some time and write. Even if you spend five minutes to correct a footnote or locate some of the books or notes that you have used. These days modern technology has made write much easier. So keep writing and think about Melanesian issues.
Thanks and have a enjoyable time reading. TKwara
Monday, September 21, 2009
I am now working on my thesis
Well friends,
I am now back. I have been busy writing my thesis. It will be 9,000 words and I have already written 5,000. A friend lent me his computer, so I can write any time when I feel like writing. Sometimes I write at lunch hour or at night. When I am free then I will write also.
To write, you must be motivated. You need to start collecting materials such as magazines, journals or find as many books as you can on the subject. Where there is an internet, you need to make use of it as well. Write questionaires to give to peopel who can help you.
Read lots of books on the subject you are writing, take notes and listen to conversations. Seek advice from people. Read thesis written by other people. Email your friends to help you. Also pray a lot so that the Lord will give you the inspiration to write.
There will be setbacks, opposition, lack of interest but you must prevail and persist. Know that what you are writing is for your people, your community.
I had a friend who wrote his thesis and after six months of his graduation, he passed away so suddenly. I was lucky enough that this man gave me a copy of his thesis to keep. We had discussed and sometimes I read his paper.
Although my friend is no longer around, what he has written will be a legacy to his people because it talks about spiritual growth.
That's all for now.
Bye
Timothy Kwara
I am now back. I have been busy writing my thesis. It will be 9,000 words and I have already written 5,000. A friend lent me his computer, so I can write any time when I feel like writing. Sometimes I write at lunch hour or at night. When I am free then I will write also.
To write, you must be motivated. You need to start collecting materials such as magazines, journals or find as many books as you can on the subject. Where there is an internet, you need to make use of it as well. Write questionaires to give to peopel who can help you.
Read lots of books on the subject you are writing, take notes and listen to conversations. Seek advice from people. Read thesis written by other people. Email your friends to help you. Also pray a lot so that the Lord will give you the inspiration to write.
There will be setbacks, opposition, lack of interest but you must prevail and persist. Know that what you are writing is for your people, your community.
I had a friend who wrote his thesis and after six months of his graduation, he passed away so suddenly. I was lucky enough that this man gave me a copy of his thesis to keep. We had discussed and sometimes I read his paper.
Although my friend is no longer around, what he has written will be a legacy to his people because it talks about spiritual growth.
That's all for now.
Bye
Timothy Kwara
Monday, September 14, 2009
Monday, August 31, 2009
So busy these days.
Hi fans,
I have been quite busy with so many commitments. I had to rewrite a Children's ministry course and then start to work on course notes that I left unfinished in 2005. The problem is that I do not have my own computer.
For the month of August I was trying to learn to use the facebook program. I have managed to find 97 friends. So in August I did not manage to do anything on my blog. However it is good to have a blog of your own. A friend of mine has several blogs, since he works in the newspaper some of his articles are posted on his blog.
I may try to post some of my assignments on the blog. During the last few weeks we had seminars on sorcery in Papua New Guinea and how this problem can be solved. So many innocent people were murdered for no reason.
Community leaders need to find ways to handle this issue that is tearing the society apart. Maybe there should be laws made to deal with this issues. An Australian lady is now working on a TEE course on sorcery. This will be good as the issue will be dealt with in a Christian manner.
Now that I managed to find some time I decided to write something. I also managed to find that while I did not write there was a someone who decided to follow my blog. So let's all keep writing and never give up.
There was a followed who emailed me to encourage me to continue writing. Let's be balanced and not stop along the way. Better stop here knowing that time is precious.
I have been quite busy with so many commitments. I had to rewrite a Children's ministry course and then start to work on course notes that I left unfinished in 2005. The problem is that I do not have my own computer.
For the month of August I was trying to learn to use the facebook program. I have managed to find 97 friends. So in August I did not manage to do anything on my blog. However it is good to have a blog of your own. A friend of mine has several blogs, since he works in the newspaper some of his articles are posted on his blog.
I may try to post some of my assignments on the blog. During the last few weeks we had seminars on sorcery in Papua New Guinea and how this problem can be solved. So many innocent people were murdered for no reason.
Community leaders need to find ways to handle this issue that is tearing the society apart. Maybe there should be laws made to deal with this issues. An Australian lady is now working on a TEE course on sorcery. This will be good as the issue will be dealt with in a Christian manner.
Now that I managed to find some time I decided to write something. I also managed to find that while I did not write there was a someone who decided to follow my blog. So let's all keep writing and never give up.
There was a followed who emailed me to encourage me to continue writing. Let's be balanced and not stop along the way. Better stop here knowing that time is precious.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
How keeping assignments will help in the future
Hello Readers,
I have been kept so busy trying to complete teaching notes on Children's ministry Ministry Training Group. Now I will be preparing the course outline for TEE leadership therefore my articles are quite few at this stage.
I am now posting a new article. At times I wonder why I have been working in a Bible College for the last 9 years. Yes I have often been questioning God when I think of my family members at home. It was at CLTC that I have completed my Diploma and now I look forward to getting a Advanced Diploma. When I look back I see the experiences that I have gained.Take for instance email, digital camera and internet, I learnt all these things in Banz.
Anyway, happy reading,
TKwara
Banz
WHP
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
What to do with your assignments
Hello friends,
I have been quite busy for the last 14 days. I am taking a study and busy working on manuscripts for TEE courses that have been in the computer for several years. Often teaching, preparing notes for courses and mentoring students often take up time. Besides that there are administration work like dealing with emails. letters and attending to phone calls or attending meetings. This has made me quite busy. I do not time to write letters since these days as I can rely on a mobile phone to talk to my relatives or friends. It is only those who live in the remote areas who rely on letter writing (snail mail).
Well, what can you do with assignments? I am still working on a degree course while I work and at the same time I am also teaching. This maybe too much but I know how to manage as I have done all my theological studies part-time.
I keep all my assignments in different folders. You never know that one day those articles will be helpful. I still keep some of my assignments from my High School days. I have keep speeches that I have used before. I take notes when I attend a gathering or even take notes when listening to the radio or watching the newspaper.
Whatever information you gather can be a gold mine one day. In 1987 I attended a ceremony in which a Minister was installed to look after the work of Lifeline. That same man was posted to be my pastor and the notes I gathered were used to write a story.
Do not throw your articles. I still keep a note book with all my newspaper cuttings with my byline and those news articles that I wrote. I may use them to write a book one day or use the articles for some of my lessons.
I even keep all my sermons, Bible teaching notes and even secular subject notes. Such articles come handy when I need them. I also cut newspaper articles of interest and file them away. So keep your letters or diaries as well. One day you will need them and they can refresh your memories.
Good luck to all the readers, stap isi tasol.
I have been quite busy for the last 14 days. I am taking a study and busy working on manuscripts for TEE courses that have been in the computer for several years. Often teaching, preparing notes for courses and mentoring students often take up time. Besides that there are administration work like dealing with emails. letters and attending to phone calls or attending meetings. This has made me quite busy. I do not time to write letters since these days as I can rely on a mobile phone to talk to my relatives or friends. It is only those who live in the remote areas who rely on letter writing (snail mail).
Well, what can you do with assignments? I am still working on a degree course while I work and at the same time I am also teaching. This maybe too much but I know how to manage as I have done all my theological studies part-time.
I keep all my assignments in different folders. You never know that one day those articles will be helpful. I still keep some of my assignments from my High School days. I have keep speeches that I have used before. I take notes when I attend a gathering or even take notes when listening to the radio or watching the newspaper.
Whatever information you gather can be a gold mine one day. In 1987 I attended a ceremony in which a Minister was installed to look after the work of Lifeline. That same man was posted to be my pastor and the notes I gathered were used to write a story.
Do not throw your articles. I still keep a note book with all my newspaper cuttings with my byline and those news articles that I wrote. I may use them to write a book one day or use the articles for some of my lessons.
I even keep all my sermons, Bible teaching notes and even secular subject notes. Such articles come handy when I need them. I also cut newspaper articles of interest and file them away. So keep your letters or diaries as well. One day you will need them and they can refresh your memories.
Good luck to all the readers, stap isi tasol.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
FW: For PNGOD
Hi this is the latest article for Hausman.
Thanks
Tkwara
From: Timothy Kwara [mailto:tkwara@cltc.ac.pg]
Sent: Thursday, June 11, 2009 9:18 AM
To: 'rsos@naufm.com.pg'
Subject: For PNGOD
Well friends, I have been quite busy lately since I have visited the Telefomin area in West Sepik and the Wewak and Maprik Districts in
A sad thing that I find is that some people are misled by others and join a cult. Others have lost interest because there was no tutor at hand to help them. I also witness how life is going on in other parts of the country. This gives me an idea of how to minister to others. I Iearn a bit about history, languages and even get to know the people better. It’s fun and exciting to go on such adventures. As a former journalist, I love travelling and meeting people. At present I stay in one place only but I also get to know the Bible college students. It is fun to mentor the students and encourage them to face life’s journey.
Some weekends I go to a village which is 30 minutes by foot from CLTC and run Bible studies. Already a literacy group has been started so that those who are unable to read and write can learn. The leader of the Bible study group has been asking me about starting a school. I do not have the time but I have asked some students to help me. There are some trained teachers at the school and they will provide their support. Another student is a literacy specialist and has offered to help as well.
Believe it or not the Bible study group is made up of former gang members. There was even someone who had harvested a big marijuana plant when the Bible study was started. However that person is now learning about rice growing at the College. He changed his life at the time when the Bible study was started. It is great to be involved with these kinds of people. They are forgotten people group but now find place in God’s ministry.
We plan to set up a committee so that the people can manage the ministry themselves. The group was started by an American missionary, Dan Anderson. Then later an
On Wednesdays afternoon, I am involved in helping out at the Awana ministry. It’s a long time since I participated in teaching children. Sometimes I get tough on the children. However the kids that I am with are now getting to really understand their memory verses. I know I am quite busy but at least I can help in some way or another.
Last Sunday I visited a church nearby known as the Kar Waghi or
Therefore let me encourage you now. You do not need to go long way to minister to other places. The neediest mission field may be near your door step. Go out now and find it. Please pray for this people that God will work in their lives. Yes through knowing God they now have a big dream to help themselves be educated, be literate and be adventurous.
Anyway, I better stop here and see you around next time.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
More time to write
Well my friends,
I am now back after a month long break. It was not a break after all. I travelled to Telefomin from April 9th to 16th. When I returned I had to write a report. After that I was planning for my next trip to Wewak, Maprik and West coast. That is the reason why I have not written anything for a month. This does not mean that I was not staying idle. I was still writing reports, replying emails, replying letters and preparing for both trips.
When the Dean and I travelled we are also asked to promote the work of the Distance Theological Education (DTE). Therefore we have to write down what we will say. When I was at Telefomin, I was asked to talk to interested people so I shared on how studying God's Word will help the people.
I found that our studies in Theological Education by Extension (TEE) will equip community leaders and help young people to be confident. The people in the rural areas can improve their English by studying TEE courses. They will also learn about marriage, youth ministry, worship, discipleship etc.
In Maprik I also spoke to Bible College students. At Walahuta I spoke at a TEE graduation and at Brugam, I shared to Bible College students. Well, I had to write all my speeches. So you see it was not a break at all. I also visited the Central Sepik FM station at Maprik and shared about TEE studies.
Well I was writing reports, letters and replying e-mails and had no time to get on the internet. But since I am back and for the sake of my readers and fans I am writing this piece. This shows that we need more time to write.
I have always told my students- write everything down on paper then take your work and type it into the computer. To go and sit down and type straight away will be quite a difficult task.
Bye for now,
Tim Kwara
Banz. WHP
I am now back after a month long break. It was not a break after all. I travelled to Telefomin from April 9th to 16th. When I returned I had to write a report. After that I was planning for my next trip to Wewak, Maprik and West coast. That is the reason why I have not written anything for a month. This does not mean that I was not staying idle. I was still writing reports, replying emails, replying letters and preparing for both trips.
When the Dean and I travelled we are also asked to promote the work of the Distance Theological Education (DTE). Therefore we have to write down what we will say. When I was at Telefomin, I was asked to talk to interested people so I shared on how studying God's Word will help the people.
I found that our studies in Theological Education by Extension (TEE) will equip community leaders and help young people to be confident. The people in the rural areas can improve their English by studying TEE courses. They will also learn about marriage, youth ministry, worship, discipleship etc.
In Maprik I also spoke to Bible College students. At Walahuta I spoke at a TEE graduation and at Brugam, I shared to Bible College students. Well, I had to write all my speeches. So you see it was not a break at all. I also visited the Central Sepik FM station at Maprik and shared about TEE studies.
Well I was writing reports, letters and replying e-mails and had no time to get on the internet. But since I am back and for the sake of my readers and fans I am writing this piece. This shows that we need more time to write.
I have always told my students- write everything down on paper then take your work and type it into the computer. To go and sit down and type straight away will be quite a difficult task.
Bye for now,
Tim Kwara
Banz. WHP
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Usefullness of the hausman (ceremonial house)
Last Sunday I went to Kala village which is 30 minutes away from CLTC. The college van took us and we were dropped off at the turn off which leads in to a bush track. Eight students and I walked for 1 hour before reaching our destination. It was the cell group ministry weekend and my cell group was sent to
As we were walking, I caught up with one of the final year (Diploma Th 4) students from West Sepik. He was talking about how the young people were being influenced by movies and from what they hear from their peers. He also referred to sex aids used by young people. This trend is very frightening because there is no proper teaching for the young people.
As we talked and discussed along the way I thought of how teaching and nurturing was done in the olden days in the hausman (ceremonial house). The same trend can be seen in the Old Testament as the Israelites were warned by Moses to pass on teachings which they heard from Moses onto the next generation. And that the next generation would keep passing on the tradition. (Refer to Deut 4). In Deut 4:9-14, there is a trend that emerges in the OT- where parents are the teachers, Bible as the text book and house as the classroom. Deut 6:7-9 also talks about teaching the younger generation. This kind of instruction was done in the hausman or the rupu as my people call it. Nowadays such places for instructions are not around therefore the onus is now on the church.
How can we do this in the modern age? Well in
In the past such issues were taken care of in the hausman o hausmeri. However due to modern influences we need to consider doing what the African churches have done. Think of Bible studies, TEE, cell groups or other small groups were people can discuss and come up with ideas to help the younger generation before it is too late. Due to the sensitivity of the issue, we can come up with relevant, biblical and Melanesian ways of reaching, encouraging and strengthening our people. Remember our young people are our future and our destiny.
Usefulness of hausman
Last Sunday I went to Kala village which is 30 minutes away from CLTC. The college van took us and we were dropped off at the turn off which leads in to a bush track. Eight students and I walked for 1 hour before reaching our destination.
As we were walking, I caught up with one of the final year (Diploma Th 4) students from West Sepik. He was talking about how the young people were being influenced by movies and from what they hear from their peers. He also referred to sex aids used by young people. This trend is very frightening because there is no proper teaching for the young people.
As we talked and discussed along the way I thought of how teaching and nurturing was done in the olden days in the hausman (ceremonial house). The same trend can be seen in the Old Testament as the Israelites were warned by Moses to pass on teachings which they heard from Moses onto the next generation. And that the next generation would keep passing on the tradition. (refer to Deut 4)
How can we do this in the modern age? Well in Africa a church has come up with a youth program that relates to young people. The youths are taught how to handle peer pressure, how to abstain from fornication, how to relate to the opposite sex and so on. I think it would be good for the churches to address such issues.
In the past such issues were taken care of in the hausman o hausmeri. However due to modern influences we need to consider doing what the African churches have done.
As we were walking, I caught up with one of the final year (Diploma Th 4) students from West Sepik. He was talking about how the young people were being influenced by movies and from what they hear from their peers. He also referred to sex aids used by young people. This trend is very frightening because there is no proper teaching for the young people.
As we talked and discussed along the way I thought of how teaching and nurturing was done in the olden days in the hausman (ceremonial house). The same trend can be seen in the Old Testament as the Israelites were warned by Moses to pass on teachings which they heard from Moses onto the next generation. And that the next generation would keep passing on the tradition. (refer to Deut 4)
How can we do this in the modern age? Well in Africa a church has come up with a youth program that relates to young people. The youths are taught how to handle peer pressure, how to abstain from fornication, how to relate to the opposite sex and so on. I think it would be good for the churches to address such issues.
In the past such issues were taken care of in the hausman o hausmeri. However due to modern influences we need to consider doing what the African churches have done.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Always write down what you hear and are taught
A friend of mine who was a computer wiz was so helpful and always shared his knowledge about computers. He was so friendly and helped us those who are computer illiterate. Being close to such a person really helped me. Even if we were typing on the computer and encountered problems that took us hours to solve, he would be there to help us.
When we had questions, the answers were on the tip of his fingers or the tip of his mouth. As a result of our constant nagging from the DTE office, this person made a manual for us. He taught us many tips and tricks but today I cannot recall some of the lessons that I learnt. It was because I had not written them down. However I have some good IT contacts who have given their time to help me when the similar questions popped up. After being a fool I have become wiser by keeping a small note book to glue any print outs from the internet or to write down anything that I find interesting or helpful from e-tutorials.
I am so grateful for those who have shared their knowledge with me. Yes, knowledge is for sharing, empowering and helping those who are unfortunate. I remembered an overseas staff member who walked into my office one day and showed me several things about the email. I did not ask this person for help. E-mail is one thing that I just picked up by exploring the program myself and experimenting what to do. I did the same with blogging. I am not an expert but there was someone who just gave me some instructions and I just picked up from there. Partly I had read some newspaper articles and did my own research.
What a pity as I ask the same questions today about computing, I feel like a fool for not recording what I was taught. As usual since being Melanesians who belong to an oral culture, we take things for granted. It pays to record what you are taught. Thanks to some good IT friends that I have today, they give their time to help me.
I have several journals which I recorded my devotional thoughts. After some months and years I always look through the journals and they reveal to me my spiritual state in those times. It shows how I have grown in the Lord. I would like to encourage you to keep a spiritual journal for the future.
Likewise recording helps in our spiritual journey too. Keeping a devotional journal is part of a spiritual discipline. For example some spiritual disciplines are fasting, memorizing scriptures, studying God’s Word, Fasting, prayer etc. You can learn about some of these spiritual journals in a TEE course called “After God’s own heart”.
It reminds me of a student, who went to the phone booth to make a call but realized that he had forgotten the phone number. In a similar way another person rang the number but forgot what to say. It is like shopping with a shopping list. If we have good memories we can buy what we want. Keep recording things down today.
As a result of loosing many of the good things I learnt about computing, I still keep my assignments at CLTC as well as sermons and devotions and other work that I have done. I have copied all my sermons at CLTC on CD for future use and as resource for teaching in the future. Yes, I better stop here; remember to make a note of all good and helpful things. Cheers.
This is a picture taken by some friends in North Wales,
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Journalism helps in course writing
When I was selected to do Journalism in UPNG in 1985 I thought I would spend the rest of my life as a reporter in some of the newspapers. Being a son of a teacher, I also thought of being a teacher as well. However my English teacher at Sogeri National High School encouraged me to take up journalism. At that time I was the editor of a literary magazine writing poems and collecting articles from students.
So I applied to do Journalism and was accepted. After a four years with Niugini Nius until it folded and went into liquidation. I then joined the Bible Society as the Distribution Officer but also wrote newsletters and sent in prayer requests to the Asia Pacific headquarters. Most of the prayer points were used in the Bible Society publications.
From 1987 till now I have worked in several newspapers and another Bible translation organisation as a media coordinator. I also did some part-time work with an employment agency doing visas, work permits not knowing that such skills were preparing me for the role of the Registrar of CLTC from 2000-2004. I wrote the College's magazine for former students and the college newsletter.
Then at the end of 2004 I was transferred to the Distance Theological Education department as the Assistant Dean. In this job I have editted, checked, proof read course notes in English and Tok Pisin. Certainly my journalism training has really been put into good use.
I have just completed a course on leadership and will be continue to format a Tok Pisin course. Here at CLTC I have also taught journalism to students especially print media. I have helped in making brochures for special events as well.
So all of you scribes there be thankful for your training and do not be surprised that if you end up somewhere your journalist skills will be greatly needed.
That's all for now
So I applied to do Journalism and was accepted. After a four years with Niugini Nius until it folded and went into liquidation. I then joined the Bible Society as the Distribution Officer but also wrote newsletters and sent in prayer requests to the Asia Pacific headquarters. Most of the prayer points were used in the Bible Society publications.
From 1987 till now I have worked in several newspapers and another Bible translation organisation as a media coordinator. I also did some part-time work with an employment agency doing visas, work permits not knowing that such skills were preparing me for the role of the Registrar of CLTC from 2000-2004. I wrote the College's magazine for former students and the college newsletter.
Then at the end of 2004 I was transferred to the Distance Theological Education department as the Assistant Dean. In this job I have editted, checked, proof read course notes in English and Tok Pisin. Certainly my journalism training has really been put into good use.
I have just completed a course on leadership and will be continue to format a Tok Pisin course. Here at CLTC I have also taught journalism to students especially print media. I have helped in making brochures for special events as well.
So all of you scribes there be thankful for your training and do not be surprised that if you end up somewhere your journalist skills will be greatly needed.
That's all for now
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Keeping Diaries
This year I received my 2009 diary in March. This was because the lady who was supposed to give us the diaries went on leave. For the last two months I kept writing down things on paper. I even bought a note book to write "things to do".
Well, I am not use to writing down tasks on any book. It was quite hard for me. Now that I have got a diary, I feel more organised. I can write down dates for deadlines for assignments and other events that I want to attend.
There was a diary in the email but I am used to writing down things on a diary. I only used the in-built diary in the computer when I feel like doing it.
Em t'sol
Happy writing
Well, I am not use to writing down tasks on any book. It was quite hard for me. Now that I have got a diary, I feel more organised. I can write down dates for deadlines for assignments and other events that I want to attend.
There was a diary in the email but I am used to writing down things on a diary. I only used the in-built diary in the computer when I feel like doing it.
Em t'sol
Happy writing
Good to remember recipees.
Melanesians never had recipes and they just cooked their meals according to what they knew was right for those that they had invited. Pictured here are people at my daughter, Hephzibah’s birthday party which was held on 17.01.09. It was two days earlier.
We decided to make something simple and delicious.
Monday, March 9, 2009
More Melanesian theological books needed
For the last few weeks I have been studying salvation as part of my Bachelor of Theology course. We were given an assignment to write about salvation in the Bible and in Melanesian culture. To my dismay there were very few books written on the topic.
This means that I have to think back to my culture and write up something about it. It is good that the Melanesian Institute has done so much research and written on some of the topics. Books such as Catalyst, Point and Umben provide a valuable service to theological students.
The books written by Melanesian Institute provide good materials when it comes to writing essays, assignments and thesis. The thoughts are useful and opens up the minds of students who have forgotten their culture.
So all the intellectuals out there, you need to write and share openly about what is on your mind.
em t'sol TK
This means that I have to think back to my culture and write up something about it. It is good that the Melanesian Institute has done so much research and written on some of the topics. Books such as Catalyst, Point and Umben provide a valuable service to theological students.
The books written by Melanesian Institute provide good materials when it comes to writing essays, assignments and thesis. The thoughts are useful and opens up the minds of students who have forgotten their culture.
So all the intellectuals out there, you need to write and share openly about what is on your mind.
em t'sol TK
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Calling on theologians
The Distance Theological Education section of the Theological Departments needs course writers. There is a great need for Melanesians tp start write writing Theological Education by Extension (TEE) courses.
In some countries these TEE courses also include themes such as health, first aid, community development. The courses are offered at Diploma, certificate and at Masters level as well. In India TEE courses are offered at Master's level and the award is called Master in Theological Studies (MTS). They also offer Bachelor of Theological Studies (BTS).
As for developed countries, they have online schools and provide their lessons through correspondence, through CDs and through the email. This is something that our people in PNG and all Melanesian countries need to do so that we can develop our home grown TEE materials.
Since TEE was developed 33 years ago courses are still offered at certificate level. We need to have big dreams and pursue them. We can do it when we have the faith to do something new.
In some countries these TEE courses also include themes such as health, first aid, community development. The courses are offered at Diploma, certificate and at Masters level as well. In India TEE courses are offered at Master's level and the award is called Master in Theological Studies (MTS). They also offer Bachelor of Theological Studies (BTS).
As for developed countries, they have online schools and provide their lessons through correspondence, through CDs and through the email. This is something that our people in PNG and all Melanesian countries need to do so that we can develop our home grown TEE materials.
Since TEE was developed 33 years ago courses are still offered at certificate level. We need to have big dreams and pursue them. We can do it when we have the faith to do something new.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Melanesian Journal of Theology
Melanesian Journal of Theology (MJT) published by CLTC is a journal worth reading. Since there are not many books, comentaries and encyclopaedias about Melanesian theology, MJT is so helpful. Non Melanesians also contribute articles.
When students are given assignments based on Melanesian thinking, MTJ proves to be useful and helpful.
For further details contact deanofstudies@cltc.ac.pg
Thanks
Tim Kwara
CLTC
When students are given assignments based on Melanesian thinking, MTJ proves to be useful and helpful.
For further details contact deanofstudies@cltc.ac.pg
Thanks
Tim Kwara
CLTC
Monday, January 26, 2009
Writing about personal experiences
The other day, I read titled 'The land of the unexpected' it was written by Shirley Fountain, a lady who had lived and worked in certain parts of PNG. As I read the book, I was moved to write about my experiences in CLTC, Banz. Shirley and her husband had also lived and worked in CLTC.
The experiences in the book were similar to my experiences at CLTC. I shed a few tears because I went through the same experiences when I first set foot at CLTC.
Therefore it is good to write personal journals and diaries and record the history for the future.
Hope I will get some comments on Melanesian writing. Even when searching for anthropological stories most were written by expatriates.
This is something to think about.
The experiences in the book were similar to my experiences at CLTC. I shed a few tears because I went through the same experiences when I first set foot at CLTC.
Therefore it is good to write personal journals and diaries and record the history for the future.
Hope I will get some comments on Melanesian writing. Even when searching for anthropological stories most were written by expatriates.
This is something to think about.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
To learn more about blogging
It is so good to blog and express yourself. I want more people to follow this blog but I am just a new comer so I will be learning. Thanks to a good friend in China who was able to help me out.
Is it possible to use cut and paste and put in articles that I have written some time ago. I would like to see more Papua New Guineans using this medium to express themselves and promote what they are doing.
I started a writing club at the institution that I worked in. At first there was so much interest but when the students graduated that the was the end of the club.
I believe that if we are serious in writing then, we will see more PNG books in the Library, archives, bookshops etc.
I hope that this dream will come to fruition in the years to come.
TK
Is it possible to use cut and paste and put in articles that I have written some time ago. I would like to see more Papua New Guineans using this medium to express themselves and promote what they are doing.
I started a writing club at the institution that I worked in. At first there was so much interest but when the students graduated that the was the end of the club.
I believe that if we are serious in writing then, we will see more PNG books in the Library, archives, bookshops etc.
I hope that this dream will come to fruition in the years to come.
TK
Christians Writing for Melanesian
It is so great to read books written by other people. One of the books that I really wanted to possess after seeing it in the Library was the African Bible Commentary (ABC). A few days later someone gave me a copy. This Commentary has been so helpful to me in my assisgnments, research and reading for understanding.
I wonder if there will be a Melanesian Commentary for people in Melanesia to use. The ABC is so helpful and since African and Melanesian cultures are quite similar, I easily understand what I am looking for.
PNG needs more books written for its own people. There is the Melanesian Journal of Theology which is helpful with lots of Melanesian issues discussed. Some of the articles may be one day used in the Melanesian Bible Commentary (MBC).
There are organisations in the country writing and printing books for Melanesia but more needs to be done. When the missionaries first went to Fiji, they told Bible stories and this stories were told to others. The church in Fiji made large print Bible and other Bible helps. You can read about all this in "The Deep Sea canoe" a text book for the name of the same TEE course supplied by Christian Leaders' Training College(CLTC) in Banz, WHP.
I would like to encourage Melanesian to keep copies of their sermons, teaching sessions, journals all other materials that one day will be turned into books.These days there are CDs, DVDs and mobile phones which are useful since PNG has an oral culture. People get lazy to write. I would like to encourage nationals to keep writing. Let's make some Melanesian books for the future generations.
I wonder if there will be a Melanesian Commentary for people in Melanesia to use. The ABC is so helpful and since African and Melanesian cultures are quite similar, I easily understand what I am looking for.
PNG needs more books written for its own people. There is the Melanesian Journal of Theology which is helpful with lots of Melanesian issues discussed. Some of the articles may be one day used in the Melanesian Bible Commentary (MBC).
There are organisations in the country writing and printing books for Melanesia but more needs to be done. When the missionaries first went to Fiji, they told Bible stories and this stories were told to others. The church in Fiji made large print Bible and other Bible helps. You can read about all this in "The Deep Sea canoe" a text book for the name of the same TEE course supplied by Christian Leaders' Training College(CLTC) in Banz, WHP.
I would like to encourage Melanesian to keep copies of their sermons, teaching sessions, journals all other materials that one day will be turned into books.These days there are CDs, DVDs and mobile phones which are useful since PNG has an oral culture. People get lazy to write. I would like to encourage nationals to keep writing. Let's make some Melanesian books for the future generations.
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