Do you ever wonder what happens to our students after they leave Emanate? What are they up to now? Where did they go? Was coming here worth it to them? Let’s hear from the Swenson family and find out what they have been doing!

Q: Where are you from?

A: We are from northern Vermont, about 5 miles from the Canadian border. That was home for Ellen and I as kids and during our married life prior to missions training.

Q: When did you graduate from Emanate?

A: We graduated from Emanate in December 2015.

Q: Where are you now?

A: We live in Madang Province, Papua New Guinea.

Q: What are you up to these days?

A: We joined the Tanguat work here last year (2018). We are currently in culture and language acquisition [CLA] among the Tanguat people. 

Q: What did you learn at Emanate that helped prepare you for your ministry?

A: We learned so many valuable things during our time at Emanate which helped us prepare for the ministry here. We’ll just specifically mention a couple of things. For us gaining a very good overall perspective of the teamwork (and challenges that come with that) between teammates and then the greater team on each field and globally was very helpful in preparing us for the joys and challenges of teamwork. We also learned a lot about the importance of working with the local churches on the field, so that when there is a new church that is established, there would be a connection to the greater church in that country, which is vital for the continued growth and encouragement of the church. The culture and language acquisition modules at Emanate prepared us well for coming to PNG, learning the trade language (Tok Pisin), and now for learning the tribal language. We also learned so much through informal conversations with Emanate and Ethnos Canada leadership which helped encourage us, challenge us and further prepare us for ministry.

Q: What else would you like us to know? 

A: Emanate was an awesome fit for our family. Our kids were able to learn so much about life as missionary kids during our time there. We desire to help those coming behind us, so if you have any questions for us please don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

Q: How can we be praying for you?

A: You can be praying for us as we continue on in CLA. Pray specifically that we would be continuing to build good relationships as we go through the process of CLA.

It is always so encouraging to hear where the students that graduated from Emanate have found themselves. Pray for Paul and Ellen as they continue with their work and subscribe here! to hear more stories from around the world.