NTM

Simon and Lavonne’s first two years in Panama were spent in Spanish study. God then led them to work with the Naso people in the jungles of northwestern Panama. After waiting almost a year for permission from the Naso leadership, God opened the door for them to move into a small Naso community in 1999. The first three years were spent in culture and language study. They saw God work in the hearts of several people who had openly opposed them moving into their village. Each of these people gradually softened their attitudes towards the Challinors. After completing culture and language study Simon began writing Chronological Bible lessons to teach the people. Meanwhile Lavonne finished up language and culture study and home schooled their four boys. In 2005 Simon began teaching the Bible lessons to a small group of interested Naso people. At times they found the overall spiritual apathy of the people very discouraging, but continued on with the Bible teaching, trusting God to build His church. In the spring of 2006 Simon finished teaching 65 Bible lessons. They were thrilled when a few adults and a few children put their trust in Christ as Savior. Since then other Naso people have professed faith in Christ as they have come to understand and believe the Gospel. Currently the Challinors are involved in ongoing discipleship of the Naso believers, and developing Bible lessons in Naso for teaching the believers. Simon is currently teaching the Bible lessons to several unsaved Naso families who have expressed interest in having God’s word taught to them. Lavonne continues to teach the boys. This year (2009/10) she is teaching/overseeing Michael in 9th grade, Daniel in 7th grade, Robbie in 5th grade, and Andrew in 4th grade.