Churches across the country will benefit from a K1 million funding commitment announced by Jason Peter, Member for Huon Gulf and Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion, during the closing ceremony of the Evangelical Lutheran Church (ELC) Malaclo Circuit’s 50th Anniversary celebrations held in Salamaua LLG, Morobe Province.
The three-day event was held at Buakap Primary School from 3rd to 5th October 2025.
It brought together church leaders, circuit pastors, and community members to reflect on five decades of faith and service.
The event was held under the theme “Let your light continue to shine for God’s glory” (Matthew 5:16).
In his keynote address, Minister Peter repeated the National Government’s commitment to supporting churches, announcing that K1 million has been allocated through the Department of Community Development, Youth and Religion for the rehabilitation of rundown church buildings across the country in 2025.
He also emphasized that the Department is working towards reviving mission stations operated by various church denominations, acknowledging their ongoing role in community service, moral guidance, and social development.
The Minister urged pastors and church elders to remain faithful to their calling and to serve God’s people with integrity and humility.
He reminded church leaders to avoid becoming involved in politics for personal gain and to focus instead on their mission to promote faith and unity in their communities.
In addition to the national commitment, Minister Peter, through the Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGD-DDA), has also delivered K729,000 in 2025 towards church-related programs within the district.
Of that amount, K649,000 was allocated for infrastructure maintenance, while K45,000 supported ministerial activities. Additional funds remain available for use before the end of December.
The ELC Malaclo Circuit, the host of the anniversary celebrations, received K249,000 in direct support. This includes:
- K180,000 – Infrastructure Maintenance
- K10,000 – ELC Mama Geyamsao Support
- K10,000 – 50th Anniversary Celebrations
- K5,000 – ELC Malaclo Circuit SAM Support
- K20,000 – Church Bell Setup Materials
- K4,000 – Labour & Transportation
Highlights of the celebration included the opening and closing ceremonies, the dedication of the historical Malaclo Church, the launch of the Geyamsao Conference Hall, and a Sunday worship and ordination service.
The event was attended by senior church leaders, including the Yabim District President and Wampar District President, as well as local officials and members of the wider ELC-PNG community.
Minister Peter commended the ELC Malaclo Circuit for its 50 years of committed service, encouraging the congregation to continue being a light of faith, unity, and hope in the Huon Gulf District and beyond.
