The New Britain New Ireland Mission (NBNIM) in Papua New Guinea conducted a New Disciple Retention Training program from February 9 to 13 in Kimbe, Rabaul and Kavieng. The training focused on nurturing and retaining new disciples, equipping church leaders with strategies for effective disciple-making.
A total of 209 participants, including field pastors, ministers, Volunteer In Action (VIA) workers and local church leaders, attended the training facilitated by NBNIM administrators and departmental directors, using materials developed by the South Pacific Division (SPD) Discipleship Ministry team.
The training covered key topics such as the importance of nurturing new disciples, the role of the local church in disciple-making and effective methods for retention and spiritual growth. Facilitators adapted content to the local context, training participants in strategies for strengthening new members in their faith.
NBNIM Stewardship director Pastor Tangis Kurai emphasised that nurturing should be a long-term commitment. “When we nurture individuals before baptism, we can continue supporting them afterward, keeping our focus on their spiritual growth,” he said.
The interactive sessions allowed participants to ask questions and share insights. Minister Joel Dage highlighted the need for all church members—not just pastors—to be involved in disciple-making. “Many times, we think nurturing is the work of ministers or pastors, but it is a responsibility for every believer who has accepted Jesus Christ,” he said.
Another participant, Minister Charle Sonos, expressed his appreciation for the training, stating that it changed his perspective on discipleship. “Nurturing should be a daily part of our ministry. This training has shown me how essential it is,” he said.
The training concluded with the distribution of discipleship materials, equipping participants with resources to implement what they learned in their local churches.
