Panama’s church gets a glimpse of unity.

Panama (NTM/MNN)–New Tribes Mission celebrates the unity of the Panamanian church.

Thirty tribal church leaders from the Embera, Buglere, Guaymi and Kuna tribes overcame language and cultural barriers to pray and worship together at the second annual Shepherd’s Conference last week.

“We are excited to see this glimpse of glory as we all look forward to that day when believers from every tribe and nation will gather from around the world and worship together before the throne of the Lamb that was slain,” missionaries Terry and Lori Hyde wrote.

Moreover, encouraging the New Tribe Missionaries, they said, “The [Embera] church wants to hold the conference there.” Hyde adds, “It’s good to see the indigenous church wanting to take the responsibility for the conference. We would like it to be something they do for themselves, not something the missionaries do for them.”

The tribal leaders brought devotionals, church reports and messages to challenge and encourage each other.
“One of the most valuable things is the time they spend talking and fellowshipping together. … Hearing them pray together is a thrill,” Terry wrote.

Please pray for the elders, that each one comes away with an understanding that he is part of something bigger than just his family and his community.

Pray also for safe travels. Guaymi leaders are traveling the farthest to Piriati, coming from near the Costa Rican border by bus and by boat. Five Buglere leaders are hiking four days. The Kunas are traveling by canoe and foot. And some Emberas also are boating and hiking from another village in the Darien jungle.