Sixty-seven Pathfinders and their leaders from Mt Diamond Secondary School (Papua New Guinea) recently embarked on a transformative Honours Camp near the historic Laloki Mine, where hands-on scientific discovery met profound spiritual growth.
The long-anticipated weekend was an unforgettable experience for the young people as they learned more about their faith and the natural world, thanks to in-the-field biology lessons from a Pacific Adventist University (PAU) lecturer.
The camp, held the first weekend of August, was the culmination of months of dedicated planning by youth leader Danny Mondo, Ambassador leader Roanley Mondo, Pathfinder director William Kairi, and associate director Peilyn Kairi.
Their collaboration with the Seventh-day Adventist Church-run Mt Diamond Secondary School and the invaluable assistance of Collin Aruna, a respected member of the local Rei Koiari clans, were instrumental in securing the picturesque campsite, setting the stage for an extraordinary adventure.
The camps immersive approach to learning was what made it one of the most meaningful camps ever led, according to Mr Mondo. “Instead of confining themselves to workbooks, Pathfinders ventured into the surrounding forests and streams, engaging directly with nature.”
Under the expert guidance of Dr Darren Bito, a biologist from PAU, participants were introduced to the fascinating world of bryophytes—a diverse group of non-vascular plants, including mosses, liverworts, and hornworts, which thrive in damp environments and lack true roots, stems and leaves. Campers marvelled at the vibrant green, purple, and brown Thallus liverworts, various crustose and foliose lichens, common mosses, and even the rare reddish-gold amoeboid slime moulds clinging to decaying wood.
“I’m so happy because I learned so many new things this weekend,” shared Digara, Pathfinder captain for the Sparrow Unit.
Pathfinder Ranger class teacher Lynsi Gowi echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting discoveries such as intricate leaf patterns, evidence of forest insect feeding, and the startling cordyceps fungus, known for “mummifying” its insect hosts.
The students’ creativity shone through as they built an earthen oven from local clay, using it to bake fresh buns for everyone.
Beyond scientific exploration, the camp offered a rich spiritual dimension. Minister Ednan Maingen led impactful sessions on spiritual gifts and Bible marking—his thoughtful presentations beautifully complementing the nature studies.
Local youth Razeeve Kave from Kerekadi village found resonance in these sessions. “One thing that’s new to me is learning about spiritual gifts,” he said. “Coming to this camp helped me understand and discover many things I never knew existed.”
Mr Aruna confessed his “amazement” at learning about such “tiny and extraordinary life forms” existing so close to home and found it inspiring to witness young people engaging with nature in such a meaningful way. Mr Kairi reiterated these sentiments, describing the weekend as a “blessing” for both Pathfinders and leaders, each gaining new insights from the PAU team’s guidance.
The campsite itself, graciously made available by Mr Aruna, was nestled within the historic Laloki mine area, once operated by the British after World War II. Over decades, the land naturally recovered, transforming into a peaceful sanctuary—an ideal setting for reflection and connection with God.
“The Pathfinders participated in a well-structured Sabbath program that balanced spiritual maturity with youthful energy,” said Dr Bito. “The atmosphere felt like a training ground–not for conquest, but for mission–dedicated to raising a new generation committed to service, life-giving action, and sharing their faith.”
