Senior Australian faith-based non-government organizations (NGO) leaders today joined Papua New Guinean Church leaders in Port Moresby, to visit frontline Church-led community programs supported by the Australian government.
The visit brought together Reverend Dr. John Dean, Executive Director of the Anglican Board of Mission, and Melissa Lipsett, Executive Director of Baptist Aid Australia, along with leaders from PNG’s mainline Churches to see first-hand how Churches are working to improve lives in PNG communities.
The delegation visited the Anglican Church of Papua New Guinea Literacy School in North Waigani Port Moresby, where church-led adult literacy programs are teaching people to read, write, and gain essential life skills.
The school supported through the Church Partnership Program, works with PNG churches and Australian faith-based organizations to strengthen service delivery in education, health and social inclusion.
Acting Archbishop of the Anglican Church of PNG, Rt. Rev. Bishop Nathan Ingen, who was also present at the event, spoke about literacy in adults being a positive influence in their lives.
“Adult literacy is not only learning to read and write, but also about restoring dignity, empowering families and opening doors for people to participate meaningfully in society, church life and nation building.”
“Many lives have been renewed with confidence, hope and opportunity.”
Craig Gillies, Counsellor – Subnational, Humanitarian and Accountability, Australian High Commission, echoed similar sentiments.
“It is no exaggeration to say that this school changes people’s lives.”
“It is giving people the tools to learn, to grow and to seize new opportunities for themselves and their families.”
The group also visited St Therese Urban Clinic in Hohola, run by Catholic Church Health Services, which provides essential medical care to people living with HIV through support from the PNG-Australia Transition to Health (PATH) program, reflecting Australia’s continued partnership with PNG churches in delivering trusted, community-based health services.
Melissa Lipsett said the visits clearly showed the practical impact of cooperation between PNG’s churches and their Australian faith partners.
“In Port Moresby today, I have seen what faith in action looks like.”
“Together, Australians and Papua New Guineans are translating their shared values into practical support for those that need it most.”
