The Southern Highlands Province, part of the Western Highlands Mission (WHM), celebrated an historic milestone on January 16, with the dedication and grand opening of its state-of-the-art office building complex in Mendi Town.
The five-year project, that cost almost two million Kina, was described as a “faith project,” and has been completed through the unwavering dedication, prayers and collaborative efforts of local church leadership, business sponsors and congregation members.
Papua New Guinea Union Mission president Pastor Malachi Yani led in a special dedication prayer, marking the building as a symbol of faith and perseverance.
Speaking at the ceremony, Pastor Yani highlighted the importance of the complex in advancing the mission’s administrative and spiritual objectives. “This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the faith and resilience of our community,” he said. “This complex is not just an office; it’s a centre for ministry, service, and inspiration.” He further challenged the leaders and members to work together and be the voice in shaping community attitudes for better living.
The modern office building is designed to support the operational and ministerial needs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the province, featuring advanced facilities for administration, meetings and community outreach programs. The structure represents progress and unity within the Southern Highlands Seventh-day Adventist community.
To complement the program, a brand-new truck was presented to the church by one of the Adventist business sponsors, Joseph Wandi, managing director (MD) for J-Mali Finance, who presented the key to Pastor Danny David. Another Adventist sponsor, Moses Palipe, MD for Ipwenz Construction, also pledged to give a vehicle to Southern Highlands Provincial administration of the church led by Pastor Danny David, Southern Highlands province area supervisor, who facilitated the initial plan and completion of the building project within the five years of his leadership. Pastor David presented the keys of the building to WHM Secretary Pastor Solomon Paul and expressed that the building will be the property of PNG Adventist Association.
Pastor Paul expressed gratitude to God almighty and all who contributed to the project, including business sponsors and professionals who supported its completion. The event brought together a diverse crowd, including church members, sponsors, and key stakeholders, all of whom played a role in making the vision a reality.
The ceremony also included the launch of Adventist Education’s five year strategic plan in Southern Highlands Province, which includes improving the Adventist education system in the province. David Nepo, who finalised the plan and is a former education director at Madang Manus Mission, was pleased to see it being accepted and launched by Pastor Paul at the event.
The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting, speeches, and a tour of the new facilities, followed by celebrations filled with choirs, prayer, thanksgiving, and applause.
