More than 250 Pathfinders in Papua New Guinea took part in a literature evangelism outreach for World Pathfinder Day, distributing more than 450 books across communities in the Sogeri area.
Pathfinders from the Bisiatabu district were joined by Adventurers, Ambassadors and young people for the outreach on September 19, held as part of local celebrations under the 2026 World Pathfinder Day theme, “Speak, Lord”.
Participants distributed books to members of the public, students at the Sogeri National School of Excellence and residents of communities along the highway towards Rouna Two.
For some of the younger Pathfinders, the activity was their first experience participating directly in literature evangelism.
“We cannot preach like adults, and we were scared too, but we have our leaders and God behind us,” some of the children said. “We just say ‘hi’ and ‘God loves you’, hand them the books and walk away.”
Organisers said the activity was designed to show younger church members that age does not prevent them from participating in mission, drawing on the biblical story of Samuel and Eli.
Bisiatabu District Pathfinder coordinator Walter Toina said literature provides an opportunity for a message to remain with someone beyond the initial interaction.
“You cannot preach like a book can,” Mr Toina said. “Preaching has its limits; it can only survive for an hour or less. But a book can easily become a permanent possession of the reader.”
Mr Toina said he hoped future literature outreach activities could distribute more books and involve Pathfinders in further opportunities to connect with their communities.
