Six things to know about being a mission worker in Guinea

Starting a life in a new country means culture shock, challenges and joys. BMS World mission workers Brad and Ruth Biddulph reveal six essential things to know about serving in Guinea and some life lessons they’ve learned so far

 
1. You need to trust God’s Plan

Brad and Ruth began their journey as BMS mission workers when they went to Zimbabwe in 2011. Their time there came to an end in 2012 and, with heavy hearts they returned to the UK.

Despite the circumstances, Brad and Ruth felt that more mission work was in store for them. “We never felt like God called us to a specific country, we knew there was still more on this journey for us,” Ruth says. “We knew we needed to go and use our skills and serve.” Their prayers were answered with the opportunity to serve in Labe, Guinea.

2. Being a parent changes mission work

Imagine carrying one child on your back, chasing after the other, and navigating through a chaotic market full of unfamiliar sights and sounds. A simple task like shopping for food is now a four hour adventure with children.

As they begin their journey in Guinea, the biggest personal change for Brad and Ruth has been the addition of two children, Ethan and Samuel. The boys have been an incredible blessing in their lives, but their arrival has not always made work easier.

3. Communication is a challenge

Communication is important as Brad and Ruth settle into life in Guinea, specifically when it comes to building relationships. They came equipped to speak French, which is the main language of the country.

Soon after arriving, however, they realised that relatively few people in their area spoke French. Most only speak the local language, Pular.

They have found it a challenge to learn an additional language on their own, but understand the importance. “Even our language learning is part of our ministry,” says Ruth.


4. Ebola isn’t a major concern

In March 2014, the deadly Ebola outbreak began in West Africa. The first initial case was reported in Guinea and, according to the BBC over 2,000 people have died from the disease so far. Thankfully, the number of Ebola cases in Guinea has steadily declined. “There were about 60 cases in January, to now in October when there have been very few cases reported,” Ruth says. “It’s steadily been dropping.” Fortunately, Ebola seems to be under control now and Brad and Ruth feel Guinea is a safe place to be.

5. The rainy season brings muddy roads and loving neighbours  

The middle of rainy season is not the ideal time to settle into a new country. “Just outside our house there was no gravel, just a mud track and one evening our vehicle got stuck,” Ruth says. “It was pouring rain and all the neighbours came out and spent an hour digging the truck out.” The realisation that they are surrounded by such helpful and caring community has been incredibly comforting for Brad and Ruth.

6. Great need for the gospel

The Biddulphs are excited to share Jesus with the people in Guinea.  Around 85 percent of the people in Guinea are Muslims, and Brad and Ruth see that as a great opportunity. “There’s a lot of people who are God-fearing and want to love God and serve God in their lives, but they don’t know Jesus,” says Ruth.
 
And God is clearly at work. It’s evident in the people of Guinea, as they extend generosity and accept the Biddulph family into the community. It’s also easy to see in Brad and Ruth as they embrace the opportunity to serve, wherever God leads them.

 

This article first appeared on the website of BMS World Mission and is used with permission