Ngavalus Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kavieng district, Papua New Guinea, was officially opened and dedicated on August 21 after five years of construction.
The project, valued at more than K250,000, was funded largely through the support of church member Garry Baki and his family ministry, B5 Ministry, which contributed around 80 per cent of the cost. Additional funds were provided by the Kavieng District Development Authority (KDDA).
Until now, members had worshipped in a bush-material structure. With growing attendance and limited facilities, work on the new building began in 2018.
The dedication program drew hundreds of people, including church members from the district, community representatives, public servants, government leaders and pastors from other denominations.
New Britain New Ireland Mission secretary Pastor Richard Koroi, who delivered the dedicatory sermon and prayer, encouraged members to worship God with sincere hearts. KDDA manager Michael Panga joined him in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Representatives from other denominations also shared messages. Pastor Situa Longo of the Ngavalus United Church urged members to “serve God with the right motives and allow your hearts to shine like the new church building.”
Former elder Andrew Lakaia expressed joy at seeing the completion of the long-awaited project. “Opening of the church gives me extraordinary strength and I glorify God,” he said. Local pastor Benjamin Taru added, “I thought it would be a small occasion, but God brought many people. Praise and glory be to Him.”
The celebration concluded with gifts, singing and a meal.
