Volunteers in Action (VIA) field director Dr. Neil Watts and Papua New Guinea Union Mission Stewardship Director Lesley Yamahune visited the New Britain New Ireland Mission from September 12 to 17, 2025, meeting with local volunteers and Bible workers.

The visit, which coincided with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations, brought together five VIA workers and 20 Bible workers for training, reporting, and spiritual encouragement.

Volunteers in Action is a group of church members from Australia and New Zealand who support and equip national lay workers serving in remote areas across the Pacific. During the visit, Watts expressed appreciation for the volunteers’ dedication and the continued support of VIA sponsors, who help advance the gospel through financial and practical assistance.

Participants presented reports from their areas and discussed both the challenges and successes of ministry in remote regions. Yamahune conducted sessions on stewardship and practical ministry, including topics such as time management, family farming, budgeting, and faith gardens.

“The VIA workers and Bible workers left encouraged to continue serving faithfully despite the challenges of distance and culture,” said Yamahune.

About Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea is part of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s South Pacific Division (SPD), which also includes Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific island nations. Headquartered in Wahroonga, New South Wales, Australia, the SPD supports mission, education, and health initiatives through local conferences and union missions.

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site, Adventist Record. Join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news.