Pastors pray over Prime Minister

Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister Peter O’Neill was surrounded by Seventh-day Adventist pastors at Korobosea church for a prayer and dedication for his leadership and government.

The Prime Minister was invited to attend a church service and unveil a million kina proposed state-of–the-art refurbishment of Korobosea church to cater for the influx of membership in the city.

Mr O’Neill acknowledged the contributions of the Adventist church with other Christian denominations in the country, saying churches played an important role in all communities throughout PNG.  “Not only in spiritual development but in provision of health and education services as well,“ Mr O’Neill said. “My government appreciates these services.”

The Prime Minister pledged K1.5 million to the delight of the local congregation. K1 million of this donation comes from the current church-state partnership program and the remaining K500,000 comes from the Prime Minister’s discretionary fund.
President of Papua New Guinea Union Mission, Dr Leigh Rice, thanked the Prime Minister and acknowledged his government’s support.

“Your presence testifies to the close relationship that exists between church and the national government in providing services to the people of this country," said Dr Rice.

Dr Rice also thanked Korobosea church members for their contribution in tithes and offerings and taking the initiative to engage in the major facelift project for their church. “These visible externals reveal a much more important internal quality—a healthy church,” Dr Rice said. He told the congregation they were a fine example of the vision of the church in PNG to be always growing and excelling in all areas of ministry.

Senior church pastor Kadasa Damaro was overwhelmed with the support of the Prime Minister which was needed to complete the church.

"The project needed K3 million and we raised K2.3 million through fund raising activities. The contribution of the Prime Minister is good news," said Pr Kadasa.

Editor's note: Since receiving this story, the Papua New Guinea government has been experiencing some political upheaval. Continue to pray that God guides the leaders and the people of Papua New Guinea.