“If we cannot fly, we will sail. If we cannot sail, we will walk. If there is no road, we will find a way.”
This determination to reach even the remotest communities with the gospel of Jesus Christ reflects the mission challenge shared by Papua New Guinea Union Mission (PNGUM) president Pastor Danny Philip during a recent presentation to church leaders and employees.
Drawing on Matthew 24:14, Pastor Philip emphasised the importance of Spirit-filled leadership, prayer and the responsibility of every employee to recognise their personal sphere of influence in advancing God’s mission.
With nine missions and one conference serving a nation of approximately 11 million people and more than 800 languages, Papua New Guinea presents both extraordinary opportunities and significant challenges for evangelism.
From isolated highland villages to remote coastal and island communities, reaching people often requires considerable effort, resources and determination.
Yet Pastor Philip’s message was clear: no mountain is too high, no river too wide and no community too remote for the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Central to the challenge is the recognition that mission begins with prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit.
The Union continues to prayerfully support its nine missions and one conference, recognising that effective evangelism requires more than programs, resources and strategic plans. It requires spiritual preparation, unity and a willingness to follow God’s leading.
Pastor Philip has previously highlighted the significant role of fasting and prayer in the PNG for Christ evangelistic campaigns of 2024, acknowledging the prayers of local communities and the worldwide Church.
As preparations continue for OneVoice27, this emphasis on prayer remains foundational.
Pastor Philip challenged pastors, teachers, administrators and support staff to look beyond their individual responsibilities and recognise how their daily work contributes to the broader mission of the Church.
Whether serving in an office, classroom, health facility, local congregation or remote mission station, every employee has opportunities to influence others for Christ, he said.
His presentation also highlighted the importance of understanding the entire discipleship pathway—from studying communities and developing relevant content to distribution, engagement, personal connection, church community, decisions for Christ, baptism and ongoing nurture.
The challenge was to see beyond individual activities and understand how each contribution connects people to Jesus.
Mission does not end with baptism, he emphasised. It continues through intentional nurture and the development of disciples who will disciple others.
According to Pastor Philip, the OneVoice27 initiative provides an opportunity for church members and employees across Papua New Guinea to unite in sharing the gospel through personal relationships, local congregations, community outreach and digital platforms.
However, he said, the call is not simply to develop more programs or embrace new technology. It is a call to spiritual renewal, intentional discipleship and prayerful leadership.
