Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has extended a warm welcome to Pastor Ted Wilson, President of the General Conference of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church, on his arrival in Papua New Guinea.

Pastor Wilson, who serves as the World President of the SDA Church, is visiting PNG to lead the ‘PNG for Christ’ Evangelistic Reaping Campaign, which takes place from April 26 to May 12, 2024, across the country.

Prime Minister Marape emphasised the importance of partnerships between the government and religious organisations without compromising independence of churches.

“I appeal to SDA Church members to rise and shine for the Lord and for the country as real Christians should,” the Prime Minister said.

He expressed his belief that Papua New Guinea could greatly improve if its citizens endeavored to act right and law abiding for both God and their country.

“Our government gives total support to the work of the Christian churches, but at the same time, does not impede other religions from practicing their faith,” the Prime Minister said.

He highlighted that the Constitutional Amendment aimed at designating PNG as a Christian nation supports Christianity while simultaneously protecting other religions and their worshipers.

“Papua New Guinea is a pronounced Christian nation, with over 97 percent of its citizens and residents identifying as Christians,” Prime Minister Marape said.

He acknowledged the significant role churches play in directly connecting with the populace and fostering change through the teachings of Christ.

Prime Minister Marape praised the SDA Church for initiating the ‘PNG For Christ’ campaign in collaboration with its global leader, Pastor Wilson.

“I look forward to the successful outcomes of the ‘PNG For Christ’ campaign nationwide,” he said.