North Ambrym Cyclone Lola — Recovery Update and Prayer Request

Dear brothers and sisters — thank you for praying for North Ambrym. Over the last 15 years, we’ve faced multiple cyclones, and Cyclone Lola has been the most severe yet. We are trusting the Lord for protection, wisdom, and provision as we begin to rebuild. Below are the immediate needs, specific prayer requests, and ways your church can help. Photos and a giving link are included at the end.

Community evacuation center — a long-term investment

Since the 2015 Category 5 super Cyclone Pam, we have planned for a safe, shared evacuation hall for three nearby villages. This building will serve as a cyclone shelter, a hall for Bible teaching and training elders, a church meeting space, a dining hall, and a venue for literacy and other community programs. Importantly, the design includes a dedicated room for the translation office so scripture work, consultant reviews, and training can continue on-site even during large gatherings or storms. It is a practical expression of loving our neighbors and preparing for future storms. Please pray for the resources and skilled labor to build a cyclone-safe structure, and consider giving toward this long-term shelter and ministry hub.

Update 2026: The evacuation center has footings and four walls up. The Team plans to purchase the supplies needed for the trusses and cement slab in the coming months. Thank you for your prayer and giving. 

School and Water Supply — 

Our recently approved primary and secondary school — which serves nearly 250 children — lost most roofs and several classrooms. The water source the village has relied on for decades was buried by landslides, and the pipeline was destroyed. We are exploring a nearer coastal spring (available only at low tide) and other options for immediate potable water. Please pray for wisdom, practical solutions, and funds to repair pipelines and replace roofs so our students can return to class safely.

Update 2026: The community water supply is up and running. The school continues to make repairs as resources allow. 

Tool shed and community repair supplies -

Community tools, spare hardware, timber, wheelbarrows, and repair supplies were buried under collapsed walls and ruined by the rain. These tools are critical for repairs across the village. Pray that we can recover or replace them quickly so local teams can begin rebuilding without waiting for outside assistance.

Update: We plan to purchase the necessary supplies when we return in 2026. The tools and resources help to continue repairs and upkeep of the infrastructure that keeps the translation and church work moving. 

Water tower — quick repair

The 6-meter water tower toppled and the tank landed on our house roof, pulling the footings from the ground. We praise God the trusses were spared; local carpenters can repair the purlins and roofing quickly if materials are available. Please pray for replacement footing materials and a safe, prompt repair team.

Update 2026: This project has been provided for and is complete. Thank you for your prayers and prompt giving. 

Chicken coop — food security

The chicken coop was destroyed, but by God’s grace, only two of 40 layers were lost. These hens are a steady source of protein for the translation team and community. Rebuilding the coop is a low-cost, high-impact need. Pray for replacement materials and small-scale funding to restore food security quickly.

Update 2026: Minor repairs have been made, and the hens are happy layers once again. When we are settled back in the village in the middle of 2026, we plan to make more permanent repairs. Thank you!

Tree House - 

On a lighter note, the children’s tree house was destroyed, and the slide was damaged.

Update 2026: We plan to rebuild the tree house once we are settled back in the village. 

How you can help

Pray: Please bring these needs before the Lord. Specific prayer points are below.

Give: Financial gifts will pay for water repairs, roofing and building materials, tools, and the evacuation hall. 

Share: Forward this update to your church or small group and consider a special offering.

Send teams: We welcome skilled volunteers for short-term trips when safe to travel.

Prayer requests (specific)

Closing

We are grateful for your partnership in prayer and giving. Thank you for standing with and for the people of North Ambrym. Please let us know if your church would like a short presentation or a regular update.