NABIRE, CENTRAL PAPUA – Central Papua Governor Meki Nawipa has said that the church plays an important role in the development of Papua’s communities, particularly in strengthening education, promoting social solidarity, and instilling values of peace and brotherhood.
“The government cannot work alone. Support and cooperation from all elements of society, including religious institutions and church leaders, are essential,” Nawipa said during the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Bethel Pentecostal Church (GBGP) in Nabire on Saturday (October 17).
According to Nawipa, the church has long made significant contributions to the lives of people in Papua, not only through spiritual guidance but also by supporting education, encouraging social responsibility, and promoting peace, brotherhood, and unity.
For this reason, the Central Papua Provincial Government considers the church a strategic partner in creating a harmonious, dignified, and prosperous society.
Nawipa said collaboration between the government and religious institutions was necessary to support development across various aspects of community life, including character building and strengthening social solidarity.
He also called on the church to pay greater attention to children and young people as the next generation of church members and the future of Papua.
According to him, youth development must continue to be strengthened so that young people grow up embracing the values of love, compassion, brotherhood, and a commitment to maintaining peace within their communities.
“Let us continue to build a life filled with love, preserve peace, and make our differences a strength that enables us to live together in brotherhood,” he said.
On the occasion, Nawipa also expressed his appreciation to the church’s founders, ministers, and congregation members who had dedicated their time, efforts, and sacrifices to sustaining and developing GBGP’s ministry over the past 70 years.
The 70th-anniversary celebration was held at the Kristus Sahabat Kita Hall, within the Kristus Sahabat Kita Catholic Parish complex on Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, Morgo Urban Village, Nabire District, Nabire Regency, Central Papua.
The Central Papua Provincial Government hopes to continue strengthening its partnership with religious institutions and all elements of society to support regional development and build a peaceful, harmonious, and prosperous Papuan community.
