The Adventist Church in New Britain New Ireland Mission (Papua New Guinea) has achieved a historic milestone. Church members from the Pomio district have successfully reached the remote Bush Mengen tribe, conducting a weeklong program that led to the tribe’s first two baptisms. Led by Elder Ben Uva Tagaliurea, the mission team visited from November 4 to 10, offering Bible teaching and practical skills training.
Previous outreach attempts in 1983 had failed due to cultural confrontations and fears of headhunting and local sorcery, which forced the mission team to withdraw. More recently, Elder Tagaliurea took on the challenge with his family, working in the area since graduating from the Rarokos Layman Training School in 2023.
The mission group’s journey to the Bush Mengen tribe involved travel by boat, truck, river crossings and several kilometres on foot. Upon arrival, the locals were intrigued by the Adventist presence and expressed curiosity, especially when the team used technology like projectors and slides for presentations.
In addition to preaching, the team offered training in tailoring, coconut oil extraction, adult literacy, financial literacy and cooking techniques, resonating strongly with the tribe.
Health and wellness were also part of the program. An Adventist nursing professional delivered health talks on lifestyle diseases and held a free clinic, where hundreds came in for medical consultations and treatment.
As a result of the program, two members of the Bush Mengen tribe chose to be baptised—the first baptisms in the tribe. Other attendees showed interest in learning more, with tribal leaders noting that the Adventist church was unique in addressing both spiritual and practical needs.
“Other churches have come and offered spiritual guidance, but the Adventist church brought both spiritual and practical support,” one leader said.
Elder Tagaliurea and the Pomio district team are asking for ongoing prayers and support as they continue working with the Bush Mengen tribe, aiming to expand the presence and impact of the church in the region.
