Members of the Baha’i community in Port Moresby, visitors throughout the four regions in PNG, other parts of the Pacific including distinguished guests were fortunate to witness the inauguration and dedication of their newly constructed House of Worship at Tokarara on Saturday 25th, 2024.
The structure, inspired by the traditional craft of weaving, was initiated in 2019 and finally completed in 2024.
Chairperson of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’i’s of PNG, Tony Lakame remarked that the House of Worship stood as a crowning achievement of the Baha’i’s countless acts of service.
“Each steel represents a story of love, sacrifice and perseverance – we are inspired by those who have applied the teachings of their faith towards the betterment of the world.”
NCD Governor Powes Parkop who was present at this auspicious event commended the Baha’i community.
“The establishment of the national Baha’i House of Worship in Port Moresby is a testament to the unity and collective spirit of the Baha’i community.”
“It is a beacon of light, inviting all to come together in prayer, in reflection and in harmony.”
This year is also the Platinum Jubilee, the 70th Anniversary, of the Baha’i Faith in PNG marking the establishment of the faith in 1954 before the country achieved its independence.
The House of Worship was officially opened to the public on Monday 27th May 2024.
Currently, there are around 60, 000 Baha’is located in more than 250 localities across PNG, spanning through to the New Guinea Islands, Highlands, Momase and parts of Southern.
The Baha’i Faith is an independent world religion and is not a sect of Islam as many mistakenly believe.
Baha’i’s believe in the same God as Christians do.