Jim Akovenko PC-12 Reception Remarks

“In receiving this aircraft today we come to the pinnacle of a journey that has taken many years to complete. While long, our journey has not been routine and certainly not insignificant. On this occasion we can reflect on times of detailed planning, intense praying, and marvelous provision.

“Today we rejoice in the culmination of hope, prayer and vision for the future. We are looking at a new era in the JAARS fleet sophistication. The advanced technology available in the systems of this airplane will be useful and effective in an operating environment that is very harsh. Our crews are professionally trained to operate within this environment so that adequate safety margins will be observed and operations sustained with the highest standards.

“Their expertise and this airplane will be put to use in a remote place, to benefit a people the world knows little about. But God has known them from the beginning. Christ’s command is to make disciples of all nations. Our response is to try new technologies and employ powerful strategies that will make the Word of God available to people in an understandable form—in the language of their hearts.

“The crews who will fly and maintain this aircraft, the linguists and mother tongue translators who will ride in it have given and will continue to give of themselves sacrificially, so that others may know Jesus Christ, the Creator of all. These humble servants of Christ have a focus and commitment that can be likened to that of other champions of the faith, such as Martin Luther, John Calvin and Dietrick Bonhoeffer.

“The people of the islands of Southeast Asia will be the ultimate beneficiaries of their dedication, our pioneering effort and God’s provision. We receive this aircraft on their behalf, to the Glory of God.

“I offer a very special thank you to those through whom He has worked to make this acquisition financially possible, specifically Wycliffe Switzerland, Wycliffe Germany and Wycliffe US. Without your participation in praying and your commitment to tell the story of this need, we would not have reached this moment.

“We stand here today because of the broad team that has been part of the process. We are thankful for the Pilatus organization and their professional competence along with the goodwill attitude of their customer service people. We are privileged to be here and to see God’s work going forward from here, to a remote region of the world through the use of this aircraft.

“I tell you, this is an exciting time to be involved in what God is doing through aviation. May it continue to serve the nations well.

“Thank you.”