Episode 82 - Katie Pedan, Part 1: Missionary Reality & Gospel Need

In this episode, Katie opens up about her life as a missionary in Papua New Guinea, sharing the gritty reality of serving on the mission field. With a humble heart and wisdom rooted in Biblical truth, she speaks openly about the brutal challenges locals face—having no way to defend themselves, no justice, subject to witchdoctors, and spiritual fear—as well as the challenges missionaries encounter just to reach these isolated tribes. Katie’s missionary journey, which began at just 16, has tried her faith and refined her like gold.

You’ll be shocked, challenged, and encouraged by Katie’s missionary testimony, resilience and her faith in Christ. This episode isn’t just about hearing Katie’s experiences, but an opportunity to be moved to prayer for the missionaries who work tirelessly to bring hope where it's needed most.

Click here to watch on YouTube.

0:00 - Sneak Peek: What’s Ahead in Today’s Episode
0:35 - Host Introduction
0:49 - Meet Katie: Missionary, Wife, and Mother of Four
2:01 - Beginnings: Katie’s Missionary Calling at 16
7:11 - Life at the Hub: Katie and Her Husband’s Roles in Missionary Work
8:33 - Reaching the Unreached: Bringing Hope to Isolated Tribes
9:10 - The Missionary Reality: Confronting Abuse, Disease, and Witchcraft
13:01 - Tribal Beliefs: Creation Stories and Cultural Insights
14:35 - Supporting Each Other: Being a Missionary Wife
16:42 - Language Barriers and Rugged Landscapes
21:31 - Safety First: Navigating Risks for Locals and Missionaries
25:29 - Facing Challenges: Countering False Teachings
27:45 - Nurturing New Churches: Building a Strong Foundation
30:30 - News from Home: The Joy of Receiving Post from New Zealand
31:45 - Missionary Life with Kids: Managing a Family of Six on the Base
35:40 - Coping Mechanisms: Staying Resilient on the Field
42:33 - Next Week’s Preview: What’s Coming Up