A historic day unfolded as two churches in the Bisiatabu District, Central Papua Conference broke ground for relocation, signalling a fresh chapter for their congregations and a safer, more accessible place of worship.
The 15 Mile Seventh-day Adventist Church is relocating due to growing membership and the deteriorating state of its current structure. The worn canvas shelter and bamboo roofing produce white particles, posing health risks to members and making a larger, safer worship space essential.
For Rouna Works Seventh-day Adventist Church, the relocation is driven by space constraints and accessibility. Members decided to move the church beside the roadside, ensuring easier access for nearby communities and travellers.
During the ceremony, Minister Sinias Ray, the church pastor reflected on the spiritual significance of giving. “Giving land to build God’s church is an honoured privilege. It has consequences and also blessings for genuine giving.”
A family representative donating land to Rouna Works Church shared, “We have agreed to give a 50m-by-50m portion of land to the Rouna Works Seventh-day Adventist Church.”
Church pastor thanked the family on behalf of the congregation. “We are deeply grateful for your generosity. God will reward your hearts and your generations.”
Pastor Jebulon Apua the District Director (DD) of the Bisiatabu district reminded members of the sacredness of worship spaces. “The sanctuary is a special place where heaven meets earth,” he said. “The presence of God makes the sanctuary sacred.”
The groundbreaking ceremony included dedication prayer, singing, and the symbolic turning of the soil. Church members, local leaders, and community supporters gathered to witness this milestone.
