Retreat encourages Adventist professionals to put God first

Participants shared stories of God's goodness in their businesses, careers and personal lives.

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Bougainville Mission in Papua New Guinea recently hosted a professionals retreat which brought together Adventist business men and women from across the region to reconnect, recharge and refocus spiritually.

Under the leadership of stewardship director Pastor David Tovirika, the retreat emphasised the importance of acknowledging God as the foundation of all success.

Participants shared stories of God’s goodness in their businesses, careers and personal lives. The central message: putting God first leads to holistic growth and sustainable empowerment.

Mission departmental directors took turns leading sessions alongside fellow Adventist business professionals. 

There were also presentations by the Mission administration team. President Pastor Mathias Foxsy encouraged unity and collaboration, emphasising the importance of working and growing together. Secretary Pastor Mathew Walter presented an overview of the Papua New Guinea Union Mission Strategic Plan (2026–2030), outlining the purpose and direction for the years ahead. CFO Thomas Ariku reported on the status of financial stability in sustaining the Mission’s goals.

According to the Mission’s media and communication director Nigel Nemson,  the retreat strengthened faith and spiritual commitment, helped participants understand Mission pathways and strategic direction, built unity, and encouraged stewardship and accountability to inspire excellence in service and leadership.

“Participants expressed great appreciation for the retreat, noting how it clarified the Mission’s direction and renewed their commitment to serving both God and community through their professions,” he said. “This gathering marked another significant step in empowering Adventist professionals in Bougainville to live out the principle of ‘God First’ in business, leadership and life.”

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