of a true zeal for missions, it is definitely a
good one. Jesus did say that for where your
treasure is, there will your heart be also
(Matthew 6:21). The churches in Aklavik
and Inuvik computerized their record
keeping of giving in 2007, and those records
indicate these two churches have given over
$1,200,000 to missions since that time!
Having spent time in both these churches
and fellowshipping with the Christians
there, I can tell you that their giving is
very indicative of their hearts to reach the
world with the Gospel. These Believers are
so thankful that someone came to their
communities with the lifesaving message
that Jesus saves and they genuinely desire
that all would have the same opportunity to
hear this message!
makes the hour or so drive by ice road or
boat in warmer months to minister in the
church in Aklavik weekly as this church is
currently without a pastor. The Lord has
given Pastor Featherstone a vision to further
the Gospel ministry, especially in the Arctic
region. He and I have spoken on a number of
occasions about the need for more laborers
in this part of the world.

I asked Pastor Featherstone if he would share
some of the challenges he has encountered
while serving well inside the Arctic Circle.

His answers displayed his desire to see more
laborers come and help in this part of the
world. While he mentioned the challenge
of cold arctic winters (the temperature
hovered around -40 for the week plus
we were there in March) and the impact
that has on maintaining buildings
Tony & Paula Bulawa with the
and vehicles, he also spoke of the
Featherstone family in Inuvik
subzero temperatures facilitating
easier travel as ice roads are opened.

Mostly, he focused on the challenges
of the lack of enough hours in a
day, balancing responsibilities with
a young family, caring for multiple
churches, Sunday always coming,
needing to write messages, people
to visit, and administrative duties.

While manageable with one church,
it becomes challenging with two or
sometimes three churches.

Through the years since 1973, there have
been other men and their families who have
been a part of these ministries and have
planted other churches. On this trip it was
our privilege to spend most of our time with
Riley Featherstone and his family. Brother
Featherstone has served as the pastor of the
First Bible Baptist Church in Inuvik since
Easter Sunday 2017. The Lord is using this
family in a tremendous way to lead the
church in Inuvik. Pastor Featherstone also
22 BIMI
Number 2, 2024
When I asked Pastor Featherstone to
share what he considered to be the
rewarding part of the ministry, his
answer revealed his pastor’s heart
for the people he serves. “The most
rewarding aspect is gaining a further
reach and trust within the community.

Funeral services and community events foster
friendships and deepen trust.” This truth is
vitally important as the “locals know that most
who move to the North will eventually leave.”
Pastor Featherstone continued, “Additionally,
witnessing growth in the congregations is
encouraging. Preaching multiple times a
week you wonder on whether a difference
is being made. However, as lives change and
testimonies are shared, it becomes evident



Paula Bulawa speaking
to ladies in Inuvik
that individuals are drawing closer to the
Word of God, which is immensely gratifying.”
I also asked Pastor Featherstone to share
some words of encouragement for those
who may follow the Lord’s leading to
minister in the Arctic. His advice is good for
anyone considering service as a missionary.

His response also shows his heart for more
laborers to come and help in this needy part
of the world. “If the Far North of Canada or
other remote northern regions interest you,
learn about the area. Numerous YouTube
creators promote the culture of the North,
offering valuable insights. Consider visiting
an established New Testament church in the
area you are interested in. If called to serve in
the Far North while challenges abound, the
rewards outweigh them. Your relationship
with God will deepen, and you will discover
the truth in His promises that He will never
leave nor forsake you. If you are unafraid
of the dark or the cold,
I would be delighted to
assist you in embarking on
ministry in the Far North
and address any questions
you may have.”
such a blessing to see what the results can be
when we trust in the Lord with all our hearts,
leaning not to our own understanding but
allowing the Lord to direct our paths.

Space does not permit more than a footnote,
but I would like to mention that the legacy of
Dave Bickish and his pioneering missionary
spirit live on, not only in the Arctic but also
in the life of his grandson Peter. Peter Putney
was heavily influenced by his mother who
grew up on the mission field and who passed
her love for missions on to him. Peter and his
family are presently serving as missionaries
with BIMI in Colombia, South America.

We truly never know all the Lord will do
when we allow Him to direct our paths!
Are you willing to allow the Lord to direct
your path? If you would like to know more
about church planting missions in the Far
North, please feel free to contact me at
farnorthdirector@bimi.org. W
Pastor Featherstone with the Bulawas
Paula and I are very
thankful for the time we
had with the Featherstone
family—to have
met the Christians in these
communities and to have
served, though briefly,
in these churches. It was
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