Kotzebue - Week 25 (39)

I hope this reaches you doing well.

Things have been quite busy here in the assignment. Continuing in the ministry remains the motivating force for our efforts and endeavors as these very long Arctic Summer days begin.

As of today the Sun "rises" (not really) at 3:30AM and "sets" (again, not really) at 2:05AM. As you can do the math you see that the day is filled with about 23 hours of light. Starting this Wednesday, the Sun will not set in the sky until August when the days get a bit shorter day by day. This will be the "midnight sun" that I mentioned previously in my writings.

As the days have gone by leading up to this time, I have been taking steps to get as much sleep as possible in view of the fact that when I would normally sleep the Sun is still shining bright in the sky. This includes covering my eyes with a small cover and trying to close the blinds as much as possible.

Still, as I mentioned before, the sun in the sky is a welcome sight for myself and others as opposed to the total darkness we lived thru for months in the Arctic Winter. What a difference 6 months makes!

Along with this increase in light, and with the kids being out of school, the residents of the village are in full swing with activity. Fishing, hunting, hiking, off roading are some of the things that they are enjoying now. It takes some adaptation on our part,  to tailor the ministry around their schedule and interests.

For example: The hunting that takes place is for Caribou, Beluga whale and Black whale, Spotted Seal. The Native Iñupiat residents have lived off of the land for hundreds of years and have an appreciation and respect for the sustenance that it provides them. This is one aspect of the message that appeals to them. So we try to make an effort to highlight that to them in the ministry in our daily conversations. The locals continue to be welcoming for the most part as we work thru the territory and meet others.

The Kotzebue Sound and Chukchi Sea are mostly thawed (See attached) and rapidly flowing. The mix of Freshwater and Saltwater make the water different colors and levels. This is quite the contrast to when I could walk across it and drive across on car and Snowmachine. Good times indeed.

Tomorrow marks 10 full months of being Isolated from the Organization and Congregation arrangement. Nevertheless, in spite of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, I continue to be strengthened by feeding from the Table of Jehovah and by means of Prayer and daily Reliance on Him. Please be assured that each of you are precious to Him and that "he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

Continuing to pray Jehovah's rich blessing upon all of you, I remain,

Your fellow worker,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: In 1880, Alaska's population consisted of 33,426, of which only 430 were not natives.

Kotzebue - Week 22 (36)

I hope this reaches each of you doing well and busy in the ministry that's been "entrusted" to each one of us. (1 Tim 1:11)

The past 2 weeks proved to be very busy ones returning from a very brief travel time last weekend in Anchorage, Thursday thru Sunday for the 2015 Service Year's final Circuit event. As well, this midweek we moved to another location for our accommodations locally here in town.

As you can no doubt imagine, the time is moving along quite fast here in the field. We are coming down the stretch with the assignment that 1st began some 36 weeks ago back in the month of September in the cruise port of Skagway, AK. Now "North of 68°" the longer days and milder temperatures along with seeing the actual dirt of the ground as opposed to the thick ice that covers the land, remind me daily that we have survived the brutal Arctic Winter only with the Aid of Jehovah.

The average temperature of 30° for the month of May while seeming at sight to be still rather cold to what some are accustomed to in the lower 48, feel closer to a 70° day coming from the average of -30°, -40° we were commonly accustomed to in the months of December - February. And in actuality it truly is a 70° difference for us along with the residents here in the village. It's not an uncommon sight to see some of the neighbors out in shorts and shortslevees in the course of the ministry in a day. While we aren't exactly at that point as far as the type of clothing we wear on a daily basis is concerned, the mild temperatures are a welcome oasis and are noticeable.

The minstry continues to remain the focus of each day. We continue to reach as many as possible with the Kingdom message. By phone, door to door, return visits and the like. The general response is good. People receive us favorably for the most part. One of the more interesting parts of the days come from the fact that with the warmer temperatures come people "on the way out" or with very limited time. So our ministry adapts accordingly, keeping in mind that a good portion of the men in town work as commercial fishermen and are able get back to work for the season.

The words of Paul in the 2 letter to Timothy chapter 4 and verse number 4 continue to be a motivating force in these days for myself. There we read: "do the work of an evangelizer, fully accomplish your ministry."

Imagine the strength that Timothy gained from those final words of a dear friend and companion. That same strength is readily available to you and I today. No matter what circumstance or trial you may be undergoing, please be assured that Our Father will continue to be with you in the final part of these days, making you Strong for the work that he has given us. (1 Pet 5:10)

Praying Jehovah's rich blessing on you, I remain,

Your fellow worker,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: Alaska has over 3 million lakes. The largest, Lake Iliamna, encompasses over 1,000 square miles or roughly the size of the state of Connecticut.

Kotzebue - Week 20 (34)

As usual I hope that this reaches each of you doing well and busy in the field.

This week was a full and busy one as we are coming to the end of another month in the Springtime of the Arctic. Walking thru the territory is something we have had to get used again. Why do I say that?

We now are having to walk thru a very unique and interesting combo of extremely uneven and treacherous snow, mud, slush and ice along with getting splashed regularly by those who are passing by on their Snowmachines, 4 Wheelers and Vehicles.

Ironically, this week was the 1st time I have seen some of the actual earth and ground of Kotzebue in the 6 months we have been here. It's been a new sight as the ground is completely covered in ice and snow for the majority (9 months) of the year.

On the subject of ice, the Frozen Chukchi Sea is begining to break apart and melt in sections as we experienced 1st hand walking across this week in the ministry. (See attached)

The days continue to be long and full of sunlight. As of now, the Sun rises at 6AM and sets after 11PM. As I had mentioned earlier, this has had a very nice effect on the town and people in general for the most part. With temperatures in the 20s and 30s the milder weather is a pleasant welcome for all that call this ancient hunting village home.

Last week I got a phone call from a very interesting young man. He was previously contacted by mail by one of the brothers in a local congregation in the Anchorage area. He asked me to come by and see him in his home during the week because he wanted some study material. He warned me that I was going to be in for a ride with him in the call. After speaking with him and setting a time to visit I contacted the local brother to get some more background on him. The brother informed me that he had a very "colorful" past, being a 3 time Felon, extreme alcoholic, drug user and very violent. He recommended that it would be best not to go alone to his home.

I visited him early in the week and we were able to talk at length and answer many of his questions. He told me about his past in Prison and some of the "dark issues" he has to contend with. Interestingly, he told me that he didn't want to study with me because he wanted to do it on his own. I asked him why? He let me know that he frequently gets drunk and becomes violent and that he wanted me to be careful with him as he could get out of control most times. I thanked him for letting me know and told him that I would respect his wishes.

Before leaving I asked him to call me if he needed anything or had any questions to which he said he would do so. He thanked me for coming and taking the time to see him. I look forward to seeing how Jehovah will guide him and help him to make the necessary changes in his life.

It truly is a joy and privilege for each of us as servants of the Most High to carry "the glorious good news" to all sorts of people, to the most distant corners of this Planet. Yes, to you and I, it's been "entrusted". (1 Tim 1:11)

Praying Jehovah's rich blessing on you, I remain,

Your fellow worker,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: The Yukon River, almost 2,000 miles long, is the third longest river in the U.S. There are more than 3,000 rivers in Alaska and over 3 million lakes. The largest, Lake Iliamna, encompasses over 1,000 square miles.

Kotzebue - Week 19 (33)

I trust that each of you are doing well.

We have reached the conclusion of another busy week in the field here in Kotzebue.

There's not very much to report to you by way of new updates at this time, other than the fact that we continue covering the territory and cultivating our return visits. Some have the potential to turn into Bible Study's with some time and patience.

Harriet continues to progress and enjoys her new Bible. I will have to order her a Large Print copy as she has some trouble seeing and reading the smaller print. I will also do the same with the Publications such as the Bible Teach book for her once she is ready to begin considering that publication. Hopefully that will be soon in the near future with the aid of the Holy Spirit on her heart and my continued endeavors in her behalf.

She has a profound love for the bible and when I visited her this week, she shared with me some of her favorite verses. In the 7 times that she has read the bible over she has found quite a few of them as you can imagine. She continues to read it each day in spite of her limited eyesight and health issues.

I continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers daily. May Jehovah bless your whole souled efforts to exert yourself in the ministry, in the days ahead.

With love and greetings,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: The state of Rhode Island could fit into Alaska 425 times.

Kotzebue - Week 18 (32)

I hope as you read this you all are well and enjoyed your Special Talk today. No doubt each of us is looking forward to Perfect Family Happiness soon to come in the near future.

This week proved to be another good one as we continued making our way thru the territory. Our progress is being seen in the people we are reaching on a daily basis in this village we have been assigned to cover.

We continued in the field taking the time to reach new homes and returning to visit those who we had previously met. This includes Harriet from last week at the Memorial. As you may remember, she expressed interest in the New World Translation as she has a deep love of the Bible and various translations. I was able to get one ordered for her and deliver it to her this week. You can imagine her joy and appreciation for God's Word as I handed it to her still in the plastic wrapping. She took it from me and held it close, thanking me for braving the cold to walk and bring it to her home. The beginning of this week she will be traveling to Anchorage for some matters and will return later. I'll visit her again to see her thoughts on what she will read in those pages that she dearly cherishes.

Interestingly, she took a Bible Teach book from me at the Memorial so I am keenly interested to hear her thoughts on that as well. If the opportunity presents itself perhaps a small study may be started with her soon. I continue to pray that Jehovah touch her heart with His word.

On another note, the weather continues to remain milder and more favorable to reach people in a relaxed and inviting state then previously when we 1st began in the assignment back in December. The extended days of Sunlight are welcomed by one and all including myself. As of now, the Sun rises around 8am and sets closer to 11PM each night with the time getting longer by 10-12 minutes each day that passes. This will prove itself to be very interesting when the sun is still up at 1 or 2 AM with continual light for 24 hours soon. I will be sure to share pictures with you when this starts to occur.

Please continue to remain faithful to your ministry and may Jehovah bless your efforts this week as you persevere in the work he has given all of us, that of "making disciples of people of all the nations." (Matt 28:19) Continue joyfully enduring any trials you may be faced with, fully confident in Divine victory. You all remain a subject of my daily prayers to our Tender Father Jehovah.

With warm love and the best of wishes,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: Alaska is the United State's largest state and is over twice the size of Texas. Measuring from north to south the state is approximately 1,400 miles long and measuring from east to west it is 2,700 miles wide.

Kotzebue - Week 17 (31)

I hope you're all doing well as this special week concludes.

No doubt you're still deeply reflecting and thinking of this past Friday with the celebration of the Lord's Evening Meal and your own appreciation of the offering of Jehovah, and His only son as a sacrifice in each of our behalf.

You will be happy to know that after another full week in the field of inviting others, on Friday we held the Memorial here in Kotzebue. Ironically, it was also the 1st ever meeting of Jehovah's Witnesses that was held in the community.

We held it in a modest meeting room of a small hotel here in town that is used for the local community events. We had 5 visitors to make a total of 7 in attendance for our program. (please see attached pictures)

One of them was my Return Visit named Harriet. She is an elderly woman about 89 years old very kind, warm hearted and hospitable. Earlier in the week I visited Harriet in her home to invite her and her family and friends to the Memorial. After talking for almost an hour there in her home, I picked up on something very notable about her. What was it? She has a genuine love for the Bible.

This is something I would later recall on Friday evening when she attended the program and spoke one on one to me.

Why do I say this? Well, after expressing to me how many different translations of the bible she has and how many times she has read the entire bible over, she stared in amazement at my New World Translation. I handed it to her and watched as she turned each of the pages carefully examining it's contents and touched the words on the leather with a respectful reverence. After I showed her the features of it and why it's a special translation I offered to get her a copy which she agreed to with tears in her eyes.

She has a mild and gentle personality having endured many trials, including various of her own health problems and losing her husband in death to Cancer. Through it all, she has maintained her faith, which she told me gives her an inner strength, enabling her to cope with the challenges of life.

She listened intently as I gave the discourse and afterward expressed to me that she wasn't going to attend at 1st as she wasn't feeling well earlier in the day but that she had prayed and felt that she needed to be in attendance because of her appreciation of Jesus' Sacrifice.

Also in attendance was Alice and her 3 children who we met in the door to door minstry. They also were encouraged to attend from Harriet. Most families in town know each other, or are related thru blood or marriage. This gives them very close bonds that enable them to have close contact with each other.

They too seemed to enjoy the program and all 5 of them, including the little ones took our literature and expressed interest in the message. We look forward to continuing to cover this territory and reach many, many more with this life-giving message.

I am glad to share this brief update with you regarding our Memorial. Thank you for your support, thoughts and prayers in behalf of each of us. What a joy to be unitedly serving with you from this vast and distant land!

You all continue to be in my expressions of sincere appreciation to Our Father. May Jehovah be with each of you in the days to come.

With Warm Love and Greetings,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: Alaska has an estimated 100,000 glaciers, ranging from tiny cirque glaciers to huge valley glaciers. There are more active glaciers and ice fields in Alaska than in the rest of the inhabited world. The largest glacier is the Malaspina at 850 square miles. Five percent of the state, or 29,000 square miles, is covered by glaciers.

Kotzebue - Week 16 (30)

Good Morning,

I hope this reaches you reading this doing well in your respective locations and assignments.

I'm very sorry for not writing to you all sooner. Things have been quite busy caring for certain necessary matters in connection to my assignment. I also was able to take a break from the long, dark and bitterly harsh winter with a small vacation earlier in the month.

Some may or may not be fully aware of the rather challenging circumstances that would be faced being assigned above the Arctic Circle at the beginning of the winter as you can imagine. In the month of December when it's dark for about 22-23 hours out of the day, the cold reality is the Sun will not be rising more than just barely the horizon. The temperatures are usually 30 degrees below zero or more.

During this unique time of year, the town and it's residents are dealing with some of the more difficult realities of life they have to face. Usually this would be issues within the family and some very deeply complicated social matters.

As you can imagine, the Sun has been a welcome sight for the residents of Kotzebue, as well as the surrounding hunting villages of the Northwest Arctic Borough. (Ambler, Buckland, Deering, Kiana, Kivalina, Kobuk, Noatak, Noorvik, Selawik, Shungnak)

With a total population of over 7,600 the Northwest Arctic Borough is 85 percent Iñupiat Eskimo, making it the largest concentration of Iñupiat people in the world. Subsistence activities are an integral part of the lifestyle; caribou, moose, seal, whale and fish are important daily foods. This area boasts some of the most pristine, unperturbed wilderness in the world. During the summer months (which I'm looking forward to) from what residents tell me, they enjoy unparalleled boating, fishing and hunting.

The Borough has been occupied by Iñupiat Eskimos for thousands of years. "Qikiktagruk" (now known as Kotzebue) was the hub of ancient Arctic Trading routes. Most of the villages have also existed for thousands of years, but some developed as supply stations for interior gold mining.

The Northwest Arctic Borough has no roads connecting it with the rest of Alaska, and no roadways connecting any of the villages with each other. However, in the winter, once the Kotzebue Sound and the Kobuk River freeze, a road is plowed through the snow on top of the ice connecting Kotzebue with the Noorvik and Kiana along the Kobuk River.

Having no natural harbor, the Sound is ice-free for only five months of the year. Deep draft vessels must anchor 15 miles out, where cargo is transferred to smaller barges and transported to the shallow docking facility in town here. Supplies are then air lifted to the villages.

With about 14 hours of Sunlight a day now our activity in the minstry has been in full swing here in town this week. Along with each of you, we are busy preparing for the celebration of the Lord's Evening Meal here in Kotzebue. Our time has been spent with inviting all locally and from the surronding villages to the Memorial. I have observed a noticeable difference in people and the town as a whole as a result of having actual Sunlight. People have been exceptionally kind and friendly to us and the message of the Kingdom we are bearing. At almost every door we are invited in to talk to them and the entire family about who we are, why we are here and what we think of the town and Alaska as a whole. We hope and pray that some of these earnest ones will attend this important observance with us.

Interestingly there are certain things that will be unique to our celebration this coming Friday. One is that we won't exactly have an "After Sundown" here to pass the Emblems.

Here is another: Alcohol consumption is limited by local ordinances. With the exception of Kotzebue, the sale and importation of alcohol is illegal in the villages of the Northwest Arctic Borough. In Kotzebue, alcohol may be imported, but cannot be sold within city limits.

So that raises an issue as far as the Wine is concerned. We are still trying to find a working solution to that.

More importantly it will be the 1st ever public meeting of Jehovah's Witnesses held in the village and area of the Northwest Arctic. This is a momentous occasion for the history of Theocracy in remote Alaska. What an honor to have a role in sharing in that increase! (Isa 60:22)

I continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers on a daily basis here in the Northwest Arctic. May Our Father Jehovah continue to be with each and every one of you.

Thank you for taking the time to read. I look forward to writing to you again shortly.

With Warm Love and Best Wishes,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: The Northwest Arctic Borough covers approximately 40,762 square miles in Northwest Alaska. It is the second largest Borough in Alaska and is roughly the size of the state of Indiana.

Kotzebue - Week 8 (22)

I hope this reaches you all doing well.

As we enter into this 6th month or the halfway point of this uniquely eye-opening and special assignment, it has been a time of reflection and appreciation. More of a sincere and sober acknowledgement that we have only been able to get to this point and much further with the aid of the Holy Spirit and Jehovah's Strong Hand to assist us.

The words found in the book of 1 Peter 5:10 have proven to be a highlight of these past months for myself. There we read: "But after you have suffered a little while, the God of all undeserved kindness, who called you to his everlasting glory in union with Christ, will himself finish your training. He will make you firm, he will make you strong, he will firmly ground you."

My prayer is that you too will allow Jehovah to "finish your training" in the final part of the days we are now living. Standing on the threshold of the destruction of this wicked system of things, the time has arrived to trust implicitly His Strength, knowing that he will "firmly ground you" and bolster your faith for the momentous times we face.

With warm love and greetings,

M.J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: Alaska boasts both the highest point (Mount Denali at 20,306 feet), and the lowest point (the Aleutian Trench at 25,000 feet below sea level) in North America.

Kotzebue - Week 7 (21)

I trust that this reaches you all doing well and busy in the ministry. This past week was a very very frigid one here in the territory. Temperatures ranged from the "warmest" being -17°F all the way to -38°F.

As you can imagine it takes a good amount of time for one to acclimate to such extremes in temperature. As you may be aware,  the wind plays a very significant factor in how cold the temperature will range. Also at those same times for health reasons, it is advisable from the Locals and official reports not to be exposed to that extreme of cold for a prolonged time. Things such as severe windburn & frostbite become more likely to occur.

On the topic of Cold and the elements, notice what the book of Job chapter 37 helps us to appreciate. There we're told to do something starting in verse number 2.

There it says: "Listen carefully to the rumbling of his voice. And the thunder that comes from his mouth."

We are told to "listen carefully" to "his voice". That being our God, Jehovah. And we know that by examining the context of the subsequent verses.

Verse 3: "He unleashes it under the entire heavens and sends his lightning to the ends of the earth."

Verse 4: "After that is a roaring sound; He thunders with a majestic voice, and he does not hold it back when his voice is heard."

Verse 5: "God thunders with his voice in a wonderful way"

There we are helped to appreciate the powerful facets of creation coming from the "majestic voice" of Jehovah. Lightning, Thunder etc. Knowing the source of these wonderful elements draws us closer to Him does it not?

Notice what we are further told continuing on in that verse: "He does great things that are beyond our understanding."

Yes, we as imperfect humans have such a limited scope of understanding things from from the standpoint of Jehovah. But yet he allows us to "see" limitedly by means of creation.

Notice what's next said.

Verse 6: "For he says to the snow, ‘Fall to the earth,’ and to the downpour of rain, ‘Pour down mightily.’"

This I thought was very fitting as most parts of the US are now getting some considerable snowfall. And then in verse 7 we read: "God puts a stop to all human activity so that every mortal man will know His work."

Have you ever seen when an entire town or area will shut down because of elements like snow, sleet or perhaps something else? Yes Jehovah "puts a stop to all human activity" at times. Gives us time to consider "His work" and draw closer to Him as the God we have the privilege of worshipping today.

Look further in verse 9: "The storm wind blows from its chamber, and the cold comes from the north winds."

In verse number 10 we read: "By the breath of God, the ice is produced,
And the broad waters are frozen solid.

I immediately thought of the Frozen Kotzebue Sound and Chukchi Sea. (See attached) All from the "breath of God".

Here's the point in verse 14: "Listen to this, Job; Stop and consider carefully the wonderful works of God."

Yes Job was told to consider there's that key word again, carefully "the wonderful works of God". To meditate on them. To really think of what they mean and how they apply directly to us in our daily lives.

We feel as verse 22 says: "God’s majesty is awe-inspiring."

Some have asked how one would dress for a day in view of the conditions we live and preach in. And how much land we cover in a day.

The answer to the 1st question can be summed up in one word: Layers.

To elaborate further, we have to dress in layers according to the weather. Of course the gear we dress in for the ministry and day to day activities aren't your typical Coat, boots, glove and hats. They are designed for this type of cold and Arctic living. I remember what one brother at the Branch office gave me as advice coming from South Florida to Alaska. He told me: "Don't waste time or money trying to find cold weather clothes in South Florida. You have to get Alaska gear in Alaska." Very very true.

Not having a vehicle in this territory and climate can be a challenge. Some teams utilize vehicles for their territory however, we usually walk anywhere from 3 to 5 miles a day in service. While difficult at times, it has proven to be more efficient in reaching people on foot in a compact village such as this.

What would be the 'job description' of an Isolated Special Pioneer?

There is a good definition found in the 2003 Yearbook regarding specifically Nicaragua. Here's what it had to say:

"Temporary special pioneers, drawn from the ranks of zealous regular pioneers, work remote towns and villages in the RAAN and the RAAS for four months during the dry season. These hardy pioneers contend with extreme heat, rugged terrain, snakes, wild animals, contaminated water, and the risk of contracting an infectious disease. Their goal is to give a thorough witness, conduct Bible studies with interested ones, and hold Christian meetings, including the Memorial. The results they obtain also help the branch office to determine where special pioneers should be assigned. Over the years, this program has led to the forming of congregations and groups in the towns of Waspam and San Carlos, along the Coco River in the far northeast."

With the exception of some of those specifics of Nicaragua and the "extreme heat" for us, that pretty much sums up well what the purpose of our assignment here in these remote areas is. We count it a true joy and honor to make such whole hearted sacrifices for the Kingdom Good News.

While you may not have to contend with such extreme or difficult circumstances in your ministry, perhaps something else of an extreme nature specific to you could be your trial. Be assured that Jehovah Cares for you. (1 Pet 5:7) Continue to trust in the Comfort He provides you. Rely solely on Him for Strength and Support.

My prayer is that Jehovah keep you and prove to be with you in the days ahead. Yes He will never leave you. He will never fail you. Truly, His "majesty is awe-inspiring".

Warm Love and Best Wishes,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: Alaska is the only state to have coastlines on three different seas: the Arctic Ocean, Pacific Ocean and the Bering Sea.

Kotzebue - Week 6 (20)

Something we all have access to, and live our lives every day by is Time.

What is your view of time? Does it echo the sentiments of Paul?

In the book of 1st Corinthians Chapter 7 and verse number 29 we read: "Moreover, this I say, brothers, the time left is reduced."

So next we may ask ourselves: "What time is it?"

Well, we notice there the expression "the time left." What is the significance of this being used?

Paul was there helping the congregation in Corinth to appreciate that there was indeed time that would be left before the conclusion of the system. But he used the adjective, "reduced" to emphasize the importance and criticality of the time itself that still existed.

When some thing is "reduced" what comes to mind? Perhaps we think of something that is lesser in nature. Maybe is the cost of an item or food. In any even it is quite less than that of what would be a "regular" type. So, if the time left is "reduced" then it is the same concept as mentioned above. When it comes to time, as it concerns the Wicked Days we live in,  it is significantly less than it was before. Day by Day, Week by Week, Month, Year and so forth.

Keeping that in mind as we go about our ministry and our daily lives in this system of things should do what for us?

Notice the words of Ephesians Chapter 5 and verse 15. It says: "So keep strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons."

Paul admonishes the congregation in Ephesus to keep "strict watch"...not just casually "looking" or glancing at time and events but with a sense of discipline and focus. "Strict watch." But now on who? Others? No, there it says "how you walk."

So in application, we don't look at others and what they do. We don't put our attention on comparisons of what someone else may be doing, rather we look at ourselves. 'What am I doing when it come to my view of time and effort in this system?'

Next we find the words of verse 16: "making the best use of your time, as because the days are wicked."

Again, your time. Not the other person. Not a comparison or competition. But on You. Why? Would we agree that the days we have left to live in this system would be accurately termed, wicked? Then be determined to make "the best use of your time."

Verse number 17 goes on to say: "On this account stop being unreasonable, but keep perceiving what the will of Jehovah is."

This idea of "perceiving what the will of Jehovah is" was particularly evident this week in the ministry and territory. We continue to find good progress and interest within the local community. We use many methods of preaching to reach individuals. This week we used telephone territory and that proved to be effective in reaching some. In addition to door to door, we also use informal methods as well. "Time" as we've mentioned, will continue to be useful in determining whether or not the truth will take root in the hearts of our neighbors here in this unique community. If it is the "will of Jehovah", His Word and Spirit will have a moving and profound effect on their lives. It's our individual responsibility each day to do our part to "perceive" it and act in harmony with the direction we receive.

May we do our utmost to "keep perceiving what the will of Jehovah is" on a daily basis in our individual assignments wherever that may be. Acting in accord with it, will bring us rich blessings not only now in the ministry but with eternity in view. My prayers and thoughts are with you as you continue on in the precious ministry that each of us has been assigned to.

With Love and Best Wishes,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Week: The city of Juneau has a city limit that is larger than the state of Delaware.

Kotzebue - Week 5 (19)

I hope this reaches you doing well in this winter over the past few days, weeks and months.

With some "warmer" temperatures (in a very relative sense, meaning anything with double digits lol) this week, the ministry proved to be enjoyable, as is always the case, but noticeably more comfortable then some of the past weeks. This may come from the fact that naturally over the course of time, I have become more accustomed to some of the rather routine and daily aspects of living that accompany an assignment in this part of the earth.

Also there is a slight notice in the length of the daylight that we are starting very slowly to get again. Upwards of about 8 mins a day. Very soon here in the month of May we will go to another complete extreme where the Sun will not set for the Summer. This is known as the "Land of the Midnight Sun."

The midnight sun is only found above the arctic circle, when the sun dips but never fully sets.

Alaska receives more sunlight in spring and summer than any other state and many other parts of the world. For example, in Barrow, the state’s and country's northernmost community, the sun does not set for more than two and a half months—from May 10 until August 2. (The contrast is from November 18 to January 24, when the sun never rises above the horizon.)

The real boundary of the midnight sun is the Arctic Circle, latitude 66 degrees, 33 minutes north and 44 seconds latitude. That imaginary line marks the lowest latitude at which the sun remains above the horizon for a full 24 hours during summer solstice (June 20 or 21) and below the horizon for a full 24 hours during winter solstice (December 21 or 22).

At the equator, the sun rises straight up from the horizon and sets straight down to it. In Alaska, the sun travels in a slanting 360 degree circle in the sky, so even if it's below the horizon, it's barely below it for a long period. This means that even though the sun isn't visible, we still receive very bright twilight that can last for hours or until the sun rises again.

For example, Fairbanks, which is below the Arctic Circle by almost 200 miles, still receives 24 hours of light for a long period in the summer. Conversely, in winter, the sun may only be above the horizon for a few hours, but there are many more hours of visible light due to the very low arc the sun travels across the horizon.

As you are no doubt aware and as I have previously mentioned, this is also the land of "Celestial Phenomena." (See Skagway - Week 11) Particularly more noticeable at this time of year and being this Far North.

When it's not cloudy, the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights are visible to the naked eye. I have attached a picture that a sister further south of us was able to capture this past week.

Parhelions, more commonly known as sun dogs or mock suns, appear as fuzzy rainbows or bright spots in the sky "dogging" the sun. You are most likely to see a sun dog in the morning or afternoon during the winter. Records of this phenomena date all the way back to the ancient Egyptians. Famous Ancient Greek philosophers even made mention of sun dogs.

Sun dogs are the result of ice crystal clouds called cirrostratus clouds refracting or reflecting light from the sun. The clouds form a halo around the sun that interacts with sunlight. If light refracts through it, the sun dog shows a spectrum of colors. Red is a main color because it is refracted less than other colors. White sun dogs are caused by reflecting light. Sun dogs mostly appear when the sun is "near" the earth, or below a 61 degree angle relative to the horizon. Therefore they can only be seen around sunrise or sunset, unless you are in Alaska during the winter where the sun is always low in the sky. I have also attached a diagram and picture of a Sun Dog so you know what I'm referring to.

That being said, this week in the ministry proved to be a very interesting and busy one. (See attached photos) Taking into consideration local factors, there are various ways that we approach the territory here. For example, as we are well aware, the door-to-door ministry is a tried and tested method that is a touchstone of our work as ministers in this time of the end.

In dealing with Inupiat locals in their native village, there are a few methods that work well. When working from door to door, it's not uncommon for them to invite you in to their homes right away. In some cases, they do this without even coming to open the door. They will let you know from inside the home and thru the door, without knowing who is there, to just "come in". You can imagine both my teammate and my suprise (coming from larger cities) when this occurs.

You can also imagine their surprise when they see us enter their home. They can clearly tell, that we aren't natives and this usually leads to a good intro as to why we are not only at their door but living among them in the village. Also the looks we get as we walk for miles in the rather frigid temperatures and snow allow for a good intro into our message. We are very careful to be respectful and considerate of their culture and customs when dealing with them. We are cognizant of the fact that it will take a good amount of time, effort and patience to share the Kingdom Message with the native people of this land.

The words of the Apostle Paul came to my mind this week. Found in the book of 1 Corinthians chapter 9 and verse 23 notice what's said. There we read: "But I do all things for the sake of the good news, in order to share it with others."

Observe the attitude of Paul. He had the desire to share the good news with as many as possible. And he was willing to do anything, really "All Things" to help others.

What can you and I gain from his good example? The lesson for each of us is: 'Am I willing to do all things for the sake of the good news'? 'Will I do anything to share the good news with others'? Ask yourself that question honestly and really examine your feelings on that matter. Now, this doesn't mean that we have to be in a distant or foreign assignment to answer that question accurately. It's even moreso in our local congregations and territories that this is answered. When we really think thoroughly and meditate deeply about People and their Lives, we start to get the foundation and the formulation of what the answer may be.

The real answer to that question comes from the deepest, inner feeling of ourselves and our Relationship with Jehovah. That is what will reveal what the true answer to that question is.

The good news is something that people in this world desperately need and have the unique opportunity to benefit from. And you and I have the assignment to carry this life saving message to others. We must put forth effort to examine ourselves regularly. May we consider it a joy and honor to share the positive and hopeful message with our neighbors. My heartfelt petition each day is that Jehovah along with His Spirit, permit me to "do all things" for the Iñupiat people and give them the opportunity to have "a future and a hope." (Jer 29:11)

Keeping you close in mind and in my prayers on a daily basis, I trust that Jehovah will continue blessing each of you in the days ahead.

Sending you the warmest of love and greetings,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Day: Nearly one-third of Alaska lies within the Arctic Circle where temperatures rarely go above 50 degrees during the year. It is common for temperatures to be 20 degrees below zero and lower during the winter. Winds ranging from 20 to 50 mph push the wind chill to 60 degrees below zero and lower.

Kotzebue - Week 4 (18)

What does it mean to be Thankful?

I had a few opportunities to do some reflecting this week on the yeartext for 2015: "Give thanks to Jehovah, for he is good." These words are taken from the 106th Psalm verse 1.

With the idea of being Thankful, lets go back 101 years to the year 1914 notice what the 2014 yearbook helped us appreciate regarding that time:

"By year’s end, the Messianic Kingdom had been firmly established in the heavens, and some Bible Students thought that their work was done. Little did they know that they were about to enter a period of testing and sifting. The yeartext for 1915 was “Are ye able to drink of My cup?” based on Matthew 20:22 in the King James Version. The “cup” Jesus was referring to included the trials that he would face up until his death. The Bible Students were about to face trials, both from within and from outside their ranks. Their response to those trials would prove their loyalty to Jehovah."

Very powerful and timely words I'm sure you would agree. Next, notice what's said further as found in our 2015 yearbook regarding that noteworthy year of 1915:

"Then, as now, it was important for Christians to remain focused on Kingdom interests. “We who are now awake should be very active and energetic in the service of God,” stated The Watch Tower of February 15, 1915. God’s servants needed to remain alert. The Watch Tower continued: “We are to watch. What should we watch? Preeminently we should watch ourselves, to keep ourselves from the snares of the present time.”"

If that was true some 100 years ago isn't all the more so applicable to the times in which we live now in the final part of these days?

To further add to this thought of Thankfulness if we look in the book of Deuteronomy 33rd chapter and verse number 25 we are told in the latter portion of that verse: "...And you will be secure all your days."

Now in context we see that in verse 1 Moses is speaking to the Nation of Israel for what will be the last time before he dies and they cross into the Promised Land without him. Notice in that verse he is called "the man of the true God".

He was building their faith and comfidence for the trials and tests that would lie ahead of them. They would be made to feel "secure" by the Strength of Jehovah. How do we know this?

In verse 27 we read: "God is a refuge from ancient times, His everlasting arms are beneath you. And he will drive away the enemy from before you, And he will say, ‘Annihilate them!’"

Imagine how comforting those words would be to the Israelites in the days of their Journey  We too can feel "secure" and put trust in our "refuge" even in the wicked days in which we live on our Journey to the New System of Things

Notice how this is even more surely and truly shown in verse 29. There we read: "Happy you are, O Israel! Who is there like you, A people enjoying salvation in Jehovah, Your protective shield And your majestic sword? Your enemies will cringe before you, And you will tread on their backs.”

Yes we are Happy. We are "a people enjoying salvation in Jehovah." Think about what that means for a moment. Our happiness doesn't come from this world or external forces. These things don't dictate our true Happiness. But, we could use the expression, it's an "inside job" for us. It's in Jehovah. What though of this expression, "protective shield"?

Imagine a Large Shield that has been carefully crafted and made for battle. Now take this sheild and let's imagine that the soldier it was given to perhaps used it for a table for his family to eat from. Would that shield be being used? The answer is Yes. It does serve a good purpose as a Table. You could use it for a table and it wouldn't be wrong in and of itself. But now, is that the proper use of the shield? There we can see the difference. A shield is only as good as it is used for its proper purpose. If you have a shield for a battle yet fail to put it to good use, then that shield has not been used for that which it was made originally.

The application for you and I is this: Jehovah's shield is for a protective purpose but if we fail to keep ourselves under it and avail ourselves of the proper use of it, then we have missed the point of His Protection. May that never be the case with each of us. What about this "majestic sword" He has? It's interesting that the expression "majestic" is used here. Previously in translation, the adjective used to describe this sword of Jehovah was "eminent" or prominent, distinguished, noteworthy, lofty. Now we see the word "majestic" is used. Meaning: of lofty dignity, stately, grand. Don't these descriptive words, help us to be drawn ever Thankfully closer to our Good God and Father Jehovah?

We can each agree that this beautiful and timely provision for us as "his people" is so very vital for our lives in these critical last days.

My prayer is that each one of us continue to find reasons every single day we live, breathe, move and exist not just this year but for all eternity, to be Happy to "Give thanks to Jehovah" our God, our Creator, our Father, our Friend. Reflecting on the beautiful protection we have as His People today and turning our sights to the Grand blessings you and I enjoy now and look forward to come in the near future, truly we have All the reason to Praise Him, "for he is good."

With Warm Love and Best Wishes,

M. J. Penfield

Alaska Fact of the Day: Alaska boasts the northernmost (Point Barrow), the easternmost (Pochnoi Point on Semisopochnoi Island in the Aleutians), and the westernmost (Amatignak Island in the Aleutians) points in the United States. (See attached)