The Hands of Hope community service team from Pacific Adventist University (PAU) carried out a mission outreach to Gabadi, Central Province, from October 10–12.
As part of their graduation community service project, the team, comprising final year theology and ministry students, presented the Gabadi Seventh-day Adventist Church with a new church signboard—the first it has had in 35 years. They also donated secondhand clothing and conducted a series of worship programs.
“Mission Gabadi” was coordinated by team leaders Pastor Moses Melua, Minister Begana Leonard and Pastor Roy Tukar. The idea for the outreach originated from Pastor Tukar, who identified the church’s need during his pastoral practicum in June. Upon sharing this with the Hands of Hope team, members agreed to adopt Gabadi as their community service focus.
The funding for the signboard and the secondhand clothing was provided by the students themselves. Transportation support for the mission was jointly provided by Gerehu Seventh-day Adventist Church and PAU. Gabadi church is a branch of Gerehu church under the Central Papua Conference.
Church elders and community members were overcome with emotion as the long-awaited signboard was unveiled. Many expressed gratitude and joy, acknowledging that this visible symbol of identity would strengthen the presence of the Adventist faith in their area.
This community service initiative formed part of the PAU graduating class’s commitment to give back to the community as an expression of faith in action.
Church pastor Michael Gamaeah extended heartfelt appreciation to the Hands of Hope team for choosing Gabadi as their mission field. He also congratulated the final year students on their upcoming graduation and encouraged them to continue their ministry with dedication and humility in 2026 and beyond.
The Hands of Hope team concluded their visit with a dedicatory prayer over the new signboard before returning to PAU, inspired by the experience and determined to continue serving communities.
