Construction has begun on a long-awaited church building for the Koya Seventh-day Adventist congregation in Koyaka village, marking a significant milestone for the remote community.
Between April 7 and 8, church leaders and community members gathered in the bush to begin the first phase of the project—cutting and preparing timber for the structure.
District director for Menyamya, Pastor Kevin Pais, described the development as a “historic turning point” for the congregation. He said the project forms a key part of the Menyamya Mission 2026 initiative—a large-scale program by the Papua New Guinea Union Mission to oversee multiple building projects, completions and church organisations across the region.
Despite challenges including limited resources and funding constraints, the Koyaka congregation has pressed forward with determination. Men from the community have taken the lead in milling logs into planks, while others have supported the effort through food preparation and on-site assistance.
Pastor Pais said the current phase—preparing timber—is critical to ensuring the next stage of construction can proceed without delay. He added that leaders have been regularly visiting the site to encourage volunteers and remind them of the mission behind the project.
“This project is a symbol of the persistence and faith of the Koyaka people, who have worked together to make this dream a reality for their community,” said Raymond Aaron, director of the Adventist Church Management System for Northern Milne Bay Mission.
“By establishing a permanent presence in Koyaka village, the church aims to reach every corner of the district with the hope of the gospel.”
