“How can we bless more people in Papua New Guinea?” Elder Jeremy Jaggi of the Pacific Area Presidency queried. One of the many blessings unfolding in the developing Church in Papua New Guinea was the official opening of a temporary Missionary Training Centre (PNG TMTC) on 20 February 2026.
The inspiration for the PNG TMTC addresses both the desire and challenges PNG young adults and youth face as they prepare to invite others to come unto Christ. One of the pressing challenges locally is obtaining and processing documentation needed for passports and visas.
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Elder Arthur Kambu of Wewak, East Sepik Province, received a mission call in February 2025 with an England MTC date of June 2025, but delays in visa acquisition postponed an on-time departure. After a year of waiting, Elder Kambu shared, “There was a time when I felt forgotten and wondered whether I would still serve a mission.” That worry was alleviated when the PNG TMTC opened and he became one of its first missionaries. “I now feel confident to teach the gospel to my brothers and sisters,” said Elder Kambu.
Elder Moses Ikai, from Gabnal Village of Jiwaka Province, and a convert to the church stated, “My big brother went to serve a mission in Uganda. When I was 12 years old, I was motivated by him and was willing to take upon myself the name of Jesus Christ and enter the waters of baptism. The Saviour is always there for me and I will perform the work He has commanded me to do.”
Elder Ngene Seke, from the village of Penkup Kolla Gumtree in Jiwaka Province, is a second-generation member and the first in his family to serve a mission. “Studying in Church College of Fiji changed my life and my plan to serve the Lord. I was very happy to receive my mission call to PNG to serve my own people and invite them to come unto Christ.”
All three elders arrived at the MTC needing to be set apart. Two have received a patriarchal blessing and one has been endowed. This intake represents the many faithful PNG missionaries whose patience and faith in their Saviour carries them onward in spite of challenges. And with a temple dedication on the horizon, a local temporary MTC in place, and a functioning patriarch on-site, the vision of sharing Christ’s message of peace and hope with others will be fulfilled by Elder Ikai, Elder Kambu and Elder Seke expanding the opportunity for more prospective missionaries from beautiful Papua New Guinea to serve as emissaries of Our Saviour, Jesus Christ.