2022 has been a rewarding year for the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea.
Head Bishop, Rev. Dr. Jack Urame, said the church began the year with a joyful celebration of its 33rd National Synod, hosted by Papua district in Port Moresby.
“In 2022, the church has been blessed with a new university. The National Parliament has endorsed the ELCPNG Act and the Lutheran University Act, and the work of establishing the university is in progress,” he outlined.
“The church has also been blessed with the landmark of 100 years of Christian influence in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea.
“Kainantu District celebrated the first 100 years of the arrival of the Gospel of God's love in the Highlands. This is a milestone achievement by the grace of God.
“So, it has been a rewarding year. However, as we journeyed through the year, we have encountered many challenges as well. Issues in our daily life, as well as national and global issues such as violence, sickness, death, war, hunger, climate change, ecological injustice, political instability, economic decline, and other forms of human suffering have affected many individuals, families and communities.
“These challenges indicate the reality of our broken world and our human struggle to find peace, freedom and satisfaction.
“Another big challenge we faced this year was the National General Election. The election has been described by many as the worst in the political history of PNG. Up to now, we have not fully recovered yet from the election aftermath.
“There is still disunity within communities and instability within the government. We should take these challenges as lessons to find new ways to rebuild our communities and nation. Therefore, we must take the challenges of 2022 as new opportunities for growth, reconciliation and forgiveness to find peace and freedom.”
Rev Dr Urame said despite the challenges, life and mission continue with a new awakening and spirit of solidarity among Christians across the country.