CHURCHES ROLE IN THE 50TH JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS PIVOTAL: PM

By Lethisa KOLOKOL

Since 1975, churches have played a significant role in the development of Papua New Guinea, as the country prepares to celebrate its 50th jubilee year in the coming months, the role of church in nation building has never been more crucial.

Leaders of Pentecostal churches, women representatives and church youth leaders in the country gathered this week at the APEC haus in Port Moresby for an information session on churches awareness, discussing on how church will help to prepare the country for the celebrations of PNG’s golden jubilee.

The meeting facilitated by the Department of Community Development, Youth and Religion (DCDYR), saw the special attendance of Prime Minster James Marape, who was accompanied by his father, Pastor Marape, the secretary for the DCDYR, Jerry Ubase and other distinguished leaders.

Having a background in Seventh Day Adventist church, Prime Minster Marape has always been committed to supporting church, emphasising on the word of God as his driving force in his leadership.

“A nation that sits on solid foundation is a nation that will last for a long time, the foundation is God and family and church is an effective anchor of family and communities” he said.

He emphasised that since 1975, churches have played a significant role in the development and progress of the country, as such it is inoperative that they have a pivotal role in its 50th jubilee.

“The history of the country has a deep root in church, with the first catholic missionary came to Yule Islands in Central Province and many others that followed after” Prime Minister said

He also announced that after having discussions with the Minster for Foreign Affairs, Justin Tkachenko, his government has dedicated the month of August to churches.

With the 26th of August being National Prayer Day, the country will unite in prayer for a reflection of the past 50 years and for a sense of direction going forwards the next 50 years.

Prime Minster Marape emphasised that country should celebrate the 50th independence celebrations as God wants it to be.