A new Executive Committee for the South Pacific Division (SPD) has been voted in by SPD delegates at the General Conference Session—and it marks a significant shift that reflects the growth of the Papua New Guinea Union Mission (PNGUM).
The new committee, which will serve for the 2025–2030 quinquennium, includes five additional representatives from PNGUM, increasing their number from 14 to 19.
“This is the only entity across the Division to receive additional representation,” said SPD president Pastor Glenn Townend. “It’s a deliberate acknowledgment of the rapid church growth and vibrant mission taking place in Papua New Guinea, particularly through initiatives like PNG for Christ.”
Pastor Townend affirmed the SPD’s commitment to supporting PNGUM. “We value the incredible contribution of our members in Papua New Guinea. Their growth is not just in numbers, but in spiritual vitality and commitment to mission—and that deserves recognition and voice in decision-making.”
The General Conference has also allocated the SPD another person to be on the GC Executive Committee. The SPD voted to give this role to the PNGUM—further strengthening their voice at the global level. Geogina Puongo, the head of science at Kambubu Adventist Secondary School, will be the new additional GC Executive member. This gives PNGUM the strongest representation of any SPD Union on the GC Executive, with three members, compared to two from each of the other Unions.
The SPD Executive Committee comprises representatives from all Unions and institutions, including local church members, and will guide the work of the Division over the next five years.
