New Departmental Leaders Appointed at Sepik Mission 15th Business Session

07 Oct 2025

CARLTEX, WEWAK: The Sepik Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church has appointed new departmental directors to lead its ministries for the next five years during its 15th Business Session, held from October 5–7, 2025, at Gander Hall in Carltex, Wewak.

Themed “Growing in Christ – I Will Go Win 1,” the session brought together delegates and church representatives from across East and West Sepik provinces to review the past five years and set a renewed direction for mission growth and spiritual revival.

The session commenced on Sunday afternoon, October 5, with registration followed by an opening worship program led by Pastor Cameron Wari, the newly appointed Undersecretary of the Papua New Guinea Union Mission (PNGUM). In his message, Pastor Wari encouraged delegates to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ and the mission of reaching one soul for the Kingdom.

The following morning’s devotion was taken by Pastor Charles Paul, the newly appointed Secretary of the Sepik Mission, who shared a message on unity and faithfulness in service.

Also present during the session were Pastor Henry Monape, re-appointed President of the Sepik Mission, and Mr. Bilfred Kangei, Associate Chief Financial Officer. PNGUM Secretary Pastor Leonard Sumatau later joined the meeting to oversee the appointment process.

Delegates reviewed reports presented by various departments, highlighting ministry achievements, membership growth, and ongoing evangelistic activities across the Mission.

The newly appointed departmental directors for the 2025–2030 term are:

    •    Pr. Graham Ovasui – Sabbath School and Personal Ministries

    •    Min. Esseneth Toulik – Women’s Ministries and Children’s Ministries

    •    Pr. Rayden Wanji – Adventist Youth Ministries (AYM) and Family Life

    •    Pr. Martin Sungu – Stewardship and Ministerial

    •    Mr. Melvin Hames – Education

    •    Mr. Daiven Watio – Health

    •    Min. Joe Philip – Communication

A special dedication prayer for both the newly appointed and outgoing leaders was offered by Pastor Cameron Wari at the close of the session, committing their leadership to God’s guidance for the next quinquennium.

The 15th Business Session concluded on Tuesday evening, October 7, following the appointments and closing remarks from mission and Union representatives.

Joe Philip

Author