Papua New Guinea River People Flock to Suki Conference

More than 400 members and friends of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from villages dotting the banks of the Fly River in the Western Province recently gathered at Gumaka for a special Church conference recently.

The conference was organised by Church leaders for the Suki District which has congregations in Eniawa, Kiru, Pukaduka, Sapuka, and Suki.   

Despite the long distances travelled, often by canoe or motorized dinghy, people came, wanting to know more about the Church.  

Some travelled a full day each way.  One group of more than 60 people came from the Suki Village, travelling more than a day’s journey each way. Some families brought mats, pillows, clothing, and food and camped nearby to be ready for the two-day, semi-annual conference.    

During the Saturday evening session, local Church leaders receved training on how to fulfil administrative duties and minister effectively as they seek to follow Jesus Christ.  Local women Church leaders who oversee children, young women from 12-17 years old and all adult women also received special training.     

Members of the congregation were taught about tithing and were encouraged to hold daily family scripture study and daily family prayer.  The Ricker family, of Suki Branch, were invited to do a role-play of a Family Home Evening as part of the Saturday Adult Session.  

Instruction given by District President Aewa Ricker reiterated the sanctity of the family and the need for parents to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ in the home.  Lessons were also taught on self-reliance, both spiritual and temporal. Training included the importance of planting gardens, storing food, expanding their education, whilst always remembering to spiritually feed their souls.   

After the Conference, more than 80 young people attended a special activity emphasizing their 2016 theme “Press Forward.”   

Mission President Voi Taeoalii extended an invitation for the young people to align themselves with the Prophet and prepare to serve an honourable full-time mission. He complimented the District on their first two missionaries currently serving in the Papua New Guinea Lae Mission and the five that are currently preparing to serve.