More than 300 Adventist young people and leaders gathered at Lienbel church ground on Lihir Island, Papua New Guinea, from June 22 to 27 for a weeklong youth leadership workshop organised by the New Britain New Ireland Mission (NBNIM).
Participants came from the Lihir, Susurunga and Namatanai districts, with some travelling up to six hours by boat and vehicle to attend the inaugural event. The workshop was facilitated by NBNIM youth director Minister Bera Atahu, retired youth director Pastor Benis Kotoveke and his wife Ellie Kotoveke, along with local pastors.
Each day began with morning devotionals led by Pastor Kotoveke and Pastor Paul Bopalo, while evening worship services were presented by Minister Atahu under the theme “I Will Go and Refocus on Adventist Youth Ministries.”
The training covered key areas of youth ministry, including the roles and responsibilities of AYM leaders in local churches, Pathfinder and Adventurer requirements, honours programs, uniform guidelines, curriculum updates, and Master Guide and senior youth leadership training. Participants also learned about district coordination, reporting procedures and practical ministry skills such as drill and marching.
In addition to the classroom sessions, participants engaged in community service, including grass cutting and maintenance around the local community hall. A local church leader, Elder Jackson Tozik, provided machinery to help improve a nearby byway, leaving a positive impact on the community.
“This training has helped us understand the actual functions of our roles,” said Albert Negehove, Lihir district coordinator. “It’s time for the church to refocus on youth ministry. The future leaders of the Church and our country are in this group.”
Minister Atahu encouraged attendees to take what they had learned and apply it to their ministry. “May you be the hands that hold the pen and make a difference in the lives of young people for eternity,” he said. “Our Church today needs spiritually dynamic people who can lead young people to Jesus.”
Lihir District director Minister Charley Sonos added, “The training has empowered our youth leaders with knowledge and skills. They now understand the importance of their roles in both the Church and the wider community.”
The workshop concluded with a renewed sense of commitment among participants to revitalise Adventist Youth Ministries in their local churches.
