The number of speakers of Ontenu has been in decline. Constant interaction with other people groups has contributed to a shift towards Tok Pisin. Tok Pisin is one of the national languages of Papua New Guinea. Give thanks to God that their knowledge of Tok Pisin connects the Ontenu people with the rest of the nation and with the scriptures.

Ontenu village lies within the highly accessible Kainantu District of Eastern Highlands Province where there are many schools and churches. Their village is connected by road to the Highlands Highway, making it easy for farmers to sell their coffee, betel nut, poultry and livestock. This proximity to the Highlands Highway has contributed to the preference for Tok Pisin over their traditional language.

Nearly everyone is a Christian, but they need greater understanding of the scriptures and a thirst for the water of life.

Literacy levels remain very low. Around 20 per cent of males and 15 per cent of females can read. If any need the scriptures in Ontenu, ask God to provide someone to meet that need.

Pray for an improvement in their literacy and education. Pray also for access to audio scriptures
Pray that they will understand and obey the Tok Pisin scriptures.

Scripture Prayers for the Ontenu in Papua New Guinea.

Wycliffe Bible Translators