The people of Hula in Central Province on the 23rd of June, commemorated 150 years since the arrival of missionary Reverend Dr William George Lawes in Papua New Guinea.
The event was held at Hula village where the first arrival took place.
The event marked an event widely recognized as the beginning of the Christian mission that later developed into the United Church in the country.
The milestone celebration brought together National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop, NCD City Manager Ravu Frank, National Capital District Commission officials, church and political leaders, community elders and descendants of the Lawes family, including Anthony George Lawes, who represented the family during the ceremony.
The commemoration formed part of week-long celebrations running from June 23 to June 28 and includes church services, cultural performances and community activities reflecting on the history and contribution of the United Church to Papua New Guinea’s spiritual and social development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Parkop said it was an honor for the nation’s capital to participate in recognizing Hula’s historic role in supporting the arrival and work of the early missionaries.
“I am privileged to be here representing our capital city to commemorate this special occasion and to acknowledge the contribution of the people of Hula in helping the early missionaries to come into our country,” Governor Parkop said.
“It is a story worth acknowledging, worth celebrating and one that has become part of our collective story as a nation.”
Governor Parkop said the anniversary carried added significance as Papua New Guinea marks 50 years of Independence while Hula and the United Church commemorate 150 years since Christianity was introduced to the area.
“It is a remarkable coincidence that our country is celebrating 50 years of nationhood while Hula and the United Church are celebrating 150 years since the arrival of the Christian mission,” he said.
He also highlighted the impact of the early missionaries in creating opportunities for local communities.
“Through the work of the early missionaries, our people from Hula gained access to education, health services and opportunities that improved their way of life. The people of Hula should be proud to celebrate this important milestone,” Governor Parkop said.
The ceremony commemorated the arrival of Rev. Lawes, a missionary of the London Missionary Society, who landed on the shores of Hula on June 23, 1876. His work later expanded to Port Moresby and other parts of Papua New Guinea and contributed to the spread of Christianity across the country.
During the event, City Manager Ravu Frank presented traditional gifts to Anthony George Lawes on behalf of the Hula community, including a traditional bowl known as a Rihu and a table.
Mr. Frank said the gifts reflected Hula customs and values.
“The bowl symbolizes the way we live, while the table represents communication, sharing and bringing people together. These traditional items reflect our way of life and our culture,” he said.
The anniversary celebration stands as a tribute to the legacy of Rev. Lawes and generations of Christians who have continued to strengthen faith, unity and community service throughout Papua New Guinea over the past 150 years.