Yangoru, Sepik Mission – A total of 32 people were baptized at a water baptism ceremony today, the second day of the Abuse Prevention Congress at Kwarabri SDA Church in Yangoru District.

The week-long event, which began Sunday, has drawn hundreds of women from 14 districts across the Sepik region to address the pervasive issue of abuse affecting women and children in Papua New Guinea.

Today's sessions focused on healing and restoration from abuse, with participants learning about the impact of abuse and how to support survivors.

The congress has received overwhelming support from the local community, with the East Yangoru district providing food supplies for participants.

The event’s theme, "Abuse knows no gender," underscores the importance of addressing this issue broadly. The congress continues tomorrow with more sessions and discussions planned.

Background

The Abuse Prevention Congress officially opened on Sunday, August 11, with speeches from local pastors and facilitators. The event aims to equip participants with knowledge and tools to prevent and address abuse within their communities.

Day One Recap

Day one of the congress saw a strong turnout of participants, including representatives from nine districts. The opening ceremony emphasized the gravity of the issue and the need for collective action.

Sabbath Highlights

Morning Sabbath school and panel lesson discussion were led by pastors, ministers, and Women's Ministry Director of Sepik Mission Lucy Moke. Divine service was conducted by Minister Pastor Gilley Waro.

Immediately after the Divine service, a water baptism ceremony was conducted by five pastors: Pastor James Petrus (Maprik), Pastor James Knox (Angoram), Pastor James Amos (Kubalia), Pastor Levai Yirvi (Ambunti), and Pastor Peter Tonny (Keram Porapora).

In addition to the 32 baptisms, 40 church members and interested individuals made commitments during the appeal. Maprik District had 2 new members baptized, Vanimo had 2, and Kwarabri Church and its company churches had 28.

Warastone, Vanimo: A successful Local Church Governance System training concluded today at the Warastone Seventh-day Adventist Church. The five-day intensive program equipped 147 church leaders from as far as Bewani Green, Border, and Vanimo with essential knowledge on church governance, structure, and management. 

Participants, including pastors, elders, clerks, treasurers, and ministry leaders, engaged in in-depth discussions on the Church Manual and its practical application. The training aimed to enhance their leadership skills, improve decision-making, and foster effective church management. 

In the closing remarks, the church leaders and participants expressed their satisfaction for this intensive training, “I am so glad to have this in-depth leadership training held here at Vanimo, it is an added blessing to all of our church leaders here in our district, stated the Regional Supervisor for Vanimo Region, Pastor Gideon Kend. 

The mission is confident that these empowered leaders will significantly strengthen the local churches in the region. The graduates will be celebrated at a graduation ceremony tomorrow afternoon.

Warastone, Sepik: Registration for a crucial Local Church Governance System training commenced today, with the first session kicking off this morning at the Warastone Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The training, which has attracted participants from as far as Bewani Green, Border, and Vanimo, aims to equip church leaders with essential knowledge on the organizational structure of the SDA church, effective governance, and board management.

Participants will also delve into the intricacies of the Church Manual and its practical application.

The training is specifically tailored for pastors, elders, clerks, treasurers, and ministry leaders. It is designed to enhance their leadership capabilities, improve decision-making processes, and ensure compliance with church regulations.

In addition to the training, the Adventist Bookshop from Vanimo will be setting up a stall here in Warastone to provide a wider range of books and literature to the participants.

Other departments such as Sabbath School, Personal Ministries, Communications, and Health and Wellness are also conducting their respective trainings alongside the governance training, providing a comprehensive leadership development opportunity for church leaders.

The mission believe that this training will significantly strengthen the leadership capacity of local churches in the region.

Yangoru, Sepik Mission – A crucial battle against the scourge of abuse in Papua New Guinea began yesterday with the opening of the Abuse Prevention Congress at the Kwarabri SDA Church grounds. The one week event aims to tackle the pervasive issue affecting women and children nationwide.

The congress, themed “Abuse knows no gender,” highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the problem. It will dive into various forms of abuse prevalent in communities and explore strategies for prevention, protection, and healing.

The congress commenced with a vibrant opening ceremony featuring marching and a welcome for guests by Kwarabri youth and women's ministry leaders. Leading the opening ceremony were Mission President Pastor Henry Monape, night devotion speaker Minister Gilley Waro, morning devotion speaker Minister Stafford Opovi, Women's Mission Director Mrs. Lucy Moke, and Kwarabri Community Youth Representative Mr. Noah Paigra.

A series of informative sessions are scheduled throughout the congress, covering topics such as child resilience, child protection, child abuse, parenting, healing from abuse, childcare, and the complexities of divorce. Renowned experts including Mrs. Roselyn Ove, Mrs. Lucy Berak, Mrs. Albina Wohuieneng, Mrs. Joyce Advan, Mrs. Karen Orion, Jeannel Joremari, and Lynah Micah will share their knowledge and experiences.

As the congress unfolds, it is hoped that participants will leave equipped with the tools and inspiration to become agents of change in their communities, working towards a future free from the devastating impact of abuse.

Wewak, East Sepik Province: Minister for Public Service and Member for Nuku, Hon. Joe Sungi, has fulfilled a portion of his K200,000 pledge to the Sepik SDA Mission by presenting a cheque of K180,000 towards the construction of a new office complex.

The cheque was handed over to the Sepik SDA Mission administration team on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, by Nuku District Finance Manager, Steven Auwau. The remaining K20,000 was given in cash during a corporate dinner last year.

Sepik SDA Mission President, Pastor Henry Monape, expressed gratitude to Hon. Sungi and the Nuku District Development Authority for their substantial contribution to the project. The new office complex is intended to accommodate the mission's expanding ministry and operations in the greater Sepik region.

To date, the mission has collected K590,000 of the K1.6 million pledged at last year's corporate dinner. The mission is still waiting to collect the remaining funds to support with the completion of the project.

The District Church of Council for Nuku District expressed satisfaction in supporting the mission's endeavour.

Witnessing the cheque presentation were key figures from the Sepik SDA Mission, including Mission Secretary Pastor Jeffrey Saigomi, Chief Financial Officer Peter Daniel, and Nuku SDA District Director Minister Derrick Daboyan.

Yangoru District, July 27 – A group of church members from Yangoru District extended a helping hand to the residents of Marembainja Village on Sabbath, July 26. The group, comprising youths, Pathfinders, Adventurers, and members of the Adventist Church’s various ministries, donated cooking utensils and clothing to the community.

Despite inclement weather, the group embarked on their journey to Marembainja early in the afternoon. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by village leaders and residents. The church members offered prayers, songs, and biblical messages to encourage the community. In addition to the donations, health workers from Naksimingal provided basic medical services to the villagers.

Grateful for the assistance, the community expressed their appreciation and requested further support. The lack of an Adventist church in Marembainja, despite the presence of two members, has prompted discussions about establishing a place of worship in the village.

The church is calling on the public to pray for the people of Marembainja as they seek to build a stronger presence in the community.

Uttai in Walsha LLG, Green River finally has a permanent church after a dedication ceremony on Sunday. The land for the church was donated by a local couple who were baptized on Sabbath.

Bibles were also distributed to new church members during the dedication. The church is situated in the heart of the community, with a population of 4,000, and is located between Uttai Catholic Primary and Uttai Catholic High School. A pastor's house has also been built at the back of the church to prepare for a resident minister.

The church establishment is part of Sumumini organized church's efforts to expand into the Green Valley, led by Minister Staford. Bewani Green District Director Pastor Kembol also provided support for the project.

Wewak, Papua New Guinea - Nearly 200 church leaders and members from Wewak East & West Coast, Kubalia and Yangoru districts of Sepik Mission are geared up for a comprehensive training program on Local Church Governance. The training, hosted at the Gander Memorial Seventh-day Adventist Church Hall, equips participants with vital skills for church administration.

The program delves into crucial areas like conducting board meetings, managing agendas and minutes, church administration, project and program implementation, financial management, understanding the Seventh-Day Adventist Church structure, and effective governance practices. Training also covers essential topics like Sabbath School operations, personal ministries, and team building.

"The turnout for this training has been phenomenal, exceeding our expectations," said a Sepik Mission spokesperson. "We believe this program will significantly equip our local churches to function effectively in accordance with the church manual."

Following a combined fellowship service at Gander Memorial Church this coming Sabbath, participants will be presented with their certificates. An exciting "Walk for Life" initiative organized by the Sepik SDA Health Services awaits them on Sunday morning. Participants will gather for the walk at the mission headquarters before concluding at the church. The weekend will culminate in a celebratory "Governance Toast" to mark the successful completion of the program.

"We are immensely grateful for the enthusiastic participation of our church leaders," concluded the spokesperson. "These valuable trainings will empower our local churches for continued growth and success."

Auwim, East Sepik Province (Papua New Guinea) - June 14, 2024 - Auwim, a remote village close to the border of East Sepik and Enga Provinces in Papua New Guinea, was visited by Adventist Education Services Director Mr. Lancedown Wirise and Senior Inspector of General Education Services Mr.Johnson Hapma on Wednesday, June 12th, 2024.

The purpose of the visit was to initiate the process of registering Auwim SDA Primary School, a beacon of hope for a community neglected due to its geographical location.

Community leaders expressed their deep desire for education in emotional speeches. One leader stated, "Many mocked us, calling us the back page of the province. Yet, we believe your visit today marks a new chapter, bringing us to the forefront."

Mr. Hapma, the Senior Inspector, pledged his support to expedite the registration process. He urged the community to work together with the Seventh-day Adventist Church to make their dream a reality.

Mr. Wirise assured the community that the necessary paperwork for registration is already in order and will be submitted shortly.

Following the program, officials toured the school for an inspection and a reception was held to honor the guests and community leaders.

Special thanks were given to Sr. Christine Gawi, Mrs. Linda Lalo, Masandanai Seventh-day Adventist Church, and volunteer teachers Mr. Venes Singafi and Mrs. Singafi for their two-year initiative to establish the school. Their dedication is bringing vital education services to Auwim.

Wewak, Papua New Guinea - The Sepik Mission has announced the appointment of Pastor Michael Lus as the new Director of Sabbath School and Personal Ministries (SSPM), effective April 10, 2024.

Pastor Lus brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served the Sepik Mission for over 30 years. He hails from Kumun Village in Ward 1, West Yangoru District, and began his ministry in 1992. Over the years, he has held various leadership positions, including Area Supervisor in Bewani (2010-2012), District Director (DD) of Yangoru (10 years), Regional Supervisor for the Yangoru/Wewak region, and most recently, Overall Regional Supervisor (ORS) of Sepik Mission.

"Thank you to Sepik Mission for the call to appoint me into this role," said Pastor Lus. "I will focus on carrying forward what has been started before my appointment and help improve the work of the Personal Ministries department in the local church."

The appointment was made by the Sepik Mission's executive committee. Pastor Lus is expected to play a key role in guiding the mission's Sabbath School and Personal Ministries programs and initiatives moving forward.

Andefuka Village in East Sepik Province will soon have a new health worker stationed at their local clinic, bringing much-needed medical services back to the community.

The Sepik Mission S.D.A Health Services visited the remote village on April 4th, 2024, to assess the situation after the previous clinic, built by the government and handed over to the church for management, had been closed due to lack of staff.

The health needs of the community have been a growing concern, prompting the local level government (LLG) president, Mr. Raymond Pam, to work on building a new clinic facility. The Sepik Mission S.D.A Health Services has been collaborating with Mr. Pam to get the clinic operational again.

Wewak Island West Coast District is gearing up for the PNG For Christ Campaign with a crucial planning meeting held at Sepik Mission in Wewak Hill. Led by Minister Francis Nima, the gathering brought together church leaders, community leaders, and government officials to strategize for the upcoming Awareness Walk.

Scheduled for March 6th, 2024, the Awareness Walk plays a key role in raising awareness about the campaign's core message and encouraging participation from residents across the Sepik region. Participants at the meeting meticulously deliberated on logistics, route planning, and community engagement strategies to ensure a successful walk.

The PNG For Christ Campaign transcends religious boundaries, aiming to promote spiritual values, foster moral well-being, and strengthen community bonds. It envisions a positive societal impact and serves as a continuous endeavor, not a one-time event, as Minister Nima emphasized.

The campaign's reach extends beyond Wewak, encompassing various communities throughout the Sepik region. It aspires to touch hearts, inspire positive change, and unite people on their faith journey. Through collaboration with local leaders, the campaign seeks to address societal challenges, including law and order issues, through a holistic approach.

Deputy Administrator Alphonse Kami echoed his support for the campaign, highlighting the significance of community rehabilitation and moral upliftment. The collaboration between the Seventh-day Adventist Church, local leaders, and government agencies promises a brighter future for the region.

Reaffirming the mission's unwavering commitment to working alongside the government, Pastor Henry Monape, president of the mission, stated, "Together, we aim to create a godly society, where compassion, unity, and spiritual growth prevail."

This collaborative effort signifies the collective commitment of various stakeholders in Sepik to create a more positive and unified region through the values and message of the PNG For Christ Campaign.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is on the rise in Papua New Guinea and it is accounted for 47% of the total deaths, including 20% of deaths attributed to emerging NCDs and 27% of deaths due to endemic non-communicable diseases. Leading causes of deaths (CODs) from emerging non-communicable diseases identified include cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and diabetes.

This is due to Papua New Guineans' attitude towards food choices and the lifestyle the people live.

To help combat NCDs in the country, the church has initiated the program, "10,000 Toes as a packet to fight NCD, in particular the diabetes epidemic."

Seventh-day Adventist Church's contribution to decreasing lifestyle diseases, has initiated the program 10,000 Toes Campaign to combatting, arresting and reversing diabetes and the other lifestyle diseases.

Vanimo 10,000 Ambassadors training just had their training from February 12 to 23, 2024. In the training, the local churches sent three participants representing the churches of Aimbai, Sombol, Amanab, Bewani, and Ituly SDA Local Churches. These churches are from the rural outskirts of Vanimo, while in the urban area, we have participants from Tawa, Waraston, and Vanimo Village SDA Churches. Twenty-four (24) participants were chosen by the local churches, while another five participants were enrolled because they were interested in being part of the 10,000 Toes Campaign, and a total of 29 ambassadors graduated.

Interestingly, the Church Regional Supervisor and Bewani Green District Director attended the training and were graduated among the church members who graduated that day.

The ambassadors were trained on 10,000 Toes Bio metric-weight, height, BMI, blood pressure, blood sugar level, knowing the normal and identifying the abnormal. They were also trained on the Live More Abundantly (LMA) as a Lifestyle Medicine package to treat lifestyle diseases.

Now, Sepik Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church has 49 10,000 Toes Ambassadors and is looking to increase this number when 10,000 Toes go rural in East Sepik Province.

10,000 Toes Campaign against Diabetes & Save 10,000 Toes from amputations.

Despite heavy rain and wind, 23 people were baptized in Forok Village, Turubu LLG, Wewak, on February 24. The baptism was a result of a two-week evangelism series conducted by Joe Philip, sponsored by Maur Seventh-day Adventist Church and assisted by Wei and Koil Island Adventist Choir groups of the East Coast Schouten Island district of Sepik Mission.

The baptism ceremony itself took place during the rain, with the nearby creek swollen and overflowing its banks. The rain and the flood did not stop people from neighboring communities and new interests to witness the baptism. The baptism was conducted by the mission president of Sepik Mission, Pastor Henry Monape, assisted by the outgoing district director Pastor Tony Peter and the newly appointed district director Pastor Rayden.

Pastor Monape commended the church for their commitment and perseverance to stand in the rain to worship on the sabbath and to conduct the baptismal ceremony. He said, “𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙘𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙅𝙚𝙨𝙪𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙖𝙙 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧.”

The program was a pre-evangelistic event preceding the upcoming PNG for Christ campaign that would be held nationwide here in Papua New Guinea on April 26th to May 11th. There is great interest in the area after this event prompting Maur church to further focus its efforts in other such programs in Forok and the surrounding communities.

Last week, Sepik Mission Secretary Pastor Jeffrey Saigomi had the privilege of visiting Sasarman organized church in Beglam, Ambunti District. This beautiful church building, funded by Hands Across the World, boasts a vibrant membership of over 200 baptized members!

With its strong and active church governance, Sasarman church has incredible potential to reach even more villages in the Blackwara area. We're excited to see their continued growth and impact!

The journey wasn't complete without a stop at Beglam SDA Primary School, a small school nestled in the valley, lovingly run by Sasarman church. The SDA community here has ambitious plans to build a mission clinic, transforming the village into a sub-SDA mission station for the Blackwara area.

We're incredibly grateful for the dedication and passion of our church leaders and communities in Ambunti District. Their commitment to spreading the gospel and serving their neighbors is truly inspiring!

Kreer SDA Primary School received a special blessing and prayer service ahead of the new school year, led by Sepik Mission President, Pastor Henry Monape. The ceremony, held at the Gander Memoral Seventh-day Adventist Church hall, saw teachers, parents, and P&C representatives gather to support the school community.

The recently upgraded school, transitioning from elementary to primary, received new teachers for the year. A new male teacher and a couple of female teachers joined the existing, predominantly female, teaching staff.

Distinguished guests and teachers offered remarks before Pastor Monape delivered the dedicatory prayer. He shared the story of Joseph and Jacob, emphasizing the importance of favor and blessings, before praying for the students, teachers, and the school's success in the new year.

The event was witnessed by the Education Director of Sepik Mission, Mr. Lancedown Wirise, P&C Chairmen Mr. Tom Balagawi and Mr. Anton Namuesh, and other members of the school community.

Forty three people were baptized at Sawarin Seventh-day Adventist Church in Sepik Mission on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 following a 2 weeks evangelistic series in preparation for the upcoming PNG for Christ campaign.

Pastor Cyril Kulanawi, evangelist, and director of Personal Ministries and Sabbath School, led the event under the theme: “Revelation of Hope.” 

Also assisting were the Adventist Health Services, who offered regular wellness checks to the community in addition to leading informative health talks before the program began. These talks aimed to highlight the significance of prioritizing a healthy lifestyle.

In a joyous celebration under the open sky, forty-three individuals sealed their decisions to follow Jesus through baptism. More individuals, deeply moved by the experience, joined the queue, their hearts and minds set on receiving baptism soon.

“This world is coming to an end and there is no time for us to waste hiding the truth, it is time for us to sound the alarm of truth so that the world can know before the soon return of Jesus,” stated Pastor Kulanawi on the last closing night of the 14 days event.

Teachers from Adventist schools across East Sepik Province gathered at Sepik Mission headquarters on Wewak Hill yesterday, January 25th, 2024, for their annual Teachers Resumption Day. The event served as a powerful reminder that their classrooms are not just battlegrounds for knowledge, but for the very soul of their students.

Personal Ministries and Sabbath School Director Pastor Cyril Kulanawi, opening the day with a devotional message, drew on Ephesians 6:10-17 to paint a vivid picture of the true enemy Adventist teachers face. It is not mere academic struggles or unruly students, but cunning spiritual forces that seek to corrupt the values and foundations of Adventist education. Kulanawi's message resonated, reminding teachers that their work transcends earthly concerns and carries eternal weight.

Sepik Mission President Henry Monape followed, equipping teachers with the practical tools needed for their work. He emphasized the importance of work ethic, professionalism in dress, and punctuality, reminding everyone that even small actions carried out with excellence become key elements in the work of Adventist education. Monape's message highlighted that professionalism isn't just about outward appearance, but about the dedication and quality teachers bring to their classrooms.

Japaraka, Papua New Guinea - The Japs Seventh-Day Adventist Church culminated a week of spiritual renewal with the dedication of their new church building on January 21st, 2024. The weeklong fellowship meeting, led by Stewardship Director Pastor Gahphu Kaple, prepared the church both physically and spiritually for the momentous occasion.

The dedication ceremony was officiated by Mission Secretary Pastor Jeffrey Saigomi and other representatives from the Sepik Mission. In his address, Pastor Saigomi emphasized the significance of the church as a place where God dwells among His people. He urged members to respect and cherish the new building, using it solely for God's purposes.

In the Murik Lakes of East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea, Darapap Adventist Primary School stands on the brink of closure. Three-quarters of its land has been submerged by the rising sea, a direct consequence of climate change. Founded in the early 1970s on low-lying terrain vulnerable to erosion and flooding, the school has valiantly weathered countless challenges. But the unrelenting tide of climate change has proven too much to bear.

The impact of climate change has been crippling for Darapap. Closed for almost a year, the school's fate hung in the balance. However, a flicker of hope emerged in a recent visit and meeting with the community. Director of Adventist Education Services, Mr. Lancedown Wirise, discussed relocation options, and a decision was made: the school will relocate to the land where the Seventh-day Adventist Church once stood.

Relocation brings challenges, but also opportunities. Mr. Wirise urged everyone to join hands in constructing temporary classrooms while permanent structures rise on higher ground. "I will make sure to send teachers to help get the school running again," he assured. For the community, Darapap represents more than just a school; it is the sole hope for their children's future and the village's survival. With their remaining land on the verge of vanishing beneath the encroaching waves, education offers a path out.

Isaac Wamakoru's story is one of unwavering faith and dedication. Born into an Assemblies of God background, his life took a pivotal turn during his primary school years when he encountered the Seventh-day Adventist faith through Christian Religious Education classes. A spark ignited within him, leading him to seek deeper understanding through Bible study with his teacher and eventually to the doors of Guarip Seventh-day Adventist Church.

As Isaac transitioned to high school, his commitment deepened. He joined the Adventist Students Association and was baptized in 2014. His path then led him to pursue studies in Tropical Agriculture at Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources & Environment at Vudal Campus.

Like many young people, Isaac grappled with the temptations of his age. He struggled with alcoholism until a health scare served as a wake-up call. He quit alcohol and reconnected with his faith, a decision that would shape the rest of his life.

Returning to his village after graduation, Isaac married his beloved Jeannel, and together they became parents to a beautiful daughter. In 2018, he ventured to Port Moresby seeking employment, but unfulfilling jobs and a yearning for purpose led him back to Wewak.

It was there that inspiration struck. Armed with a chainsaw, Isaac embarked on a mission to build a new church in his village, starting with humble beginnings in a chicken hut. He reached out to his brothers' children and to former addicts, his faith-filled gatherings marked by the rhythmic call of the garamut.

Despite facing negativity and resistance from his community, Isaac persevered. His father eventually offered him a plot of land, and with support from the Guarip Seventh-day Adventist Church and the Sepik Mission, the dream of a permanent church began to take shape.

Tragically, Isaac's life was cut short by a long-term illness at the young age of 29. But his legacy lives on. On January 12th, 2024, during his funeral service, Sepik Mission Secretary Pastor Jeffrey Saigomi announced that the newly constructed church would be named in his honor: The Isaac Wamakoru Memorial Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Isaac Wamakoru's story is a testament to the power of faith and the ripple effect of one person's dedication. He may be gone, but his church stands tall as a beacon of hope in his village, a lasting reminder of his unwavering commitment to sharing his faith and making a difference in the lives of others.

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Adventist Community Service of Satmali Seventh-day Adventist Church reached out to families in Amgavi village today, bringing not just essential supplies but also a touch of hope. Nestled in the heart of Karawari, Middle Sepik District, Amgavi is a bustling village with over 3,000 residents. Recognizing the basic needs of the community, the church members embarked on a mission of kindness, distributing clothes and soap to 70 fortunate households.

While the limited supply meant that not everyone could be reached today, the joy in the recipients' homes was palpable. Lit by smiles and gratitude, each package of clothes and laundry soap held the promise of a little comfort and a helping hand. Pastor William Laki, the church pastor, aptly captured the essence of the initiative: "Before we can share the love of Jesus, we must first meet the needs of the people." This act of compassion serves as a stepping stone towards the upcoming "PNG for Christ" program in the district, paving the way for a future filled with hope and support.

The warm welcome extended by the Amgavi community speaks volumes about the impact of such gestures. In a world often defined by hardship, the Satmali Adventists have chosen to be beacons of light, offering not just material necessities but also a testament to the power of human kindness. This act of generosity serves as a gentle reminder that even the smallest acts of compassion can have a ripple effect, leaving behind a trail of hope and inspiration in their wake.

As the church prays for the opportunity to return with further assistance, one thing is certain: the seeds of goodwill sown today have taken root in the hearts of the Amgavi villagers. The spirit of giving has transcended the limitations of material possessions, fostering a sense of connection and shared humanity that transcends distance and circumstance. In the end, it is not just the clothes and soap that will be remembered, but the act itself, a testament to the enduring power of compassion to bridge divides and build a brighter future, one kind deed at a time.

Kreer SDA Primary School, which started as an elementary school in 1995, has graduated its first batch of 29 grade six students under the newly introduced 166 education system. 

The school, which is almost 28 years old, received approval from the Adventist Education Services of Sepik Mission and the East Sepik Provincial Education board to upgrade from the old Outcome Based Education (OBE) system to the new 166 system in 2020.

A special dedication program for the pioneer graduating students was conducted and officiated prior to the graduation ceremony by the church Pastor for Gander Memorial Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Pastor David Kiak. He congratulated the students for their achievement and encouraged them to continue their education with faith and diligence.

The graduation ceremony was attended by dignitaries such as School Inspector for Wewak East Coast Cluster, Mr. Philip Rofunduo, Mission Secretary for Sepik Mission, Pastor Jeffrey Saigomi, Education Director for Sepik Mission, Mr. Lancedown Wirise, Chairman of the Board of Management for Kreer SDA Primary School, Mr. Tom Balagawi, and the Assistant Chairman of the Board of Management, Mr. Anton Namuesh.

Mr. Wirise announced that the school has officially been recognized by the government as a registered institution and is now eligible to receive fundings and other support from the government. He also commended Gander Memorial Seventh-day Adventist Church, Sepik Mission, the Provincial Education Department, parents, board and the community for their support to bring the school to this stage.

The Wewak island West Coast District of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Papua New Guinea has concluded another successful evangelistic campaign on the 2nd of December, 2023 at Woginara 2 village. The campaign resulted in four baptisms and 27 people who responded positively to commit their lives to Christ.

The program was part of the PNG for Christ campaign, a nationwide initiative to spread the gospel and plant new churches in the country. The district Director of Wewak island West Coast District, Pastor Francis Nima, led the campaign and preached the messages of hope and salvation to the villagers.

The district Director for Wewak East Coast, Pastor Tony Peter, later joined the campaign at the end of the week to conduct the baptism of four new members. He expressed his joy and gratitude for the work of God in the village. “It was thrilling to see this many people making a commitment of their lives to Christ,” he stated. He also encouraged the new converts to remain faithful and grow in their relationship with God.

The Ambunti Adventist Primary and Elementary School in East Sepik province hosted a combined graduation ceremony this year on Tuesday, 28th November, 2023. The event was attended by more than 200 students, parents, teachers and community members, as well as two special guests from the Sepik Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The graduation program began with a prayer and a sermon by Minister Kimon Kaple, the church pastor of Ambunti Seventh-day Adventist Church. He urged the students to obey God and their parents, as obedience is the key to success in life. He also congratulated the graduates for their achievements and encouraged them to continue with God wherever their pathway may lead.

The headmaster of Ambunti Adventist Primary School, Mr. Hames, welcomed the guests and thanked them for their time and presence. He said that the school was blessed to have the Sepik Mission delegates, who were Mr. Joe Philip, the communication director, and Mr. Lancedown Wirise, the education director of the mission. He also acknowledged his hardworking and dedicated teachers, the parents of the students, and the students for making it this far in their education.

The highlight of the program was the presentation of awards and gifts to the students who excelled in their academic and extracurricular activities. The top students in each grade received certificates, gifts and other prizes from their teachers. In appreciation of their teachers, the students presented gifts.

The program ended with farewell speeches from a grade eight student representative and a grade seven student, respectively. They expressed gratitude to everyone who made their schooling and, ultimately, this graduation possible.