Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has called on church members and communities in Hela Province to unite in faith, support the building of churches, invest in education, and use their God- given talents to improve their families, province, and nation.

Prime Minister Marape was speaking at the decommissioning of the 55-year-old Habare Seventh Day Adventist Church building in Tari, marking the end of an era for one of the area’s long-serving houses of worship and the beginning of a new chapter for the congregation.

Speaking at the church gathering, Prime Minister Marape said lasting development begins when people work together with faith, discipline, and a willingness to contribute.

He urged communities not to rely solely on government support, but to take ownership of their own progress through hard work, sacrifice, and collective responsibility.

“A strong nation is built when strong families, strong churches, and strong communities work together,” Prime Minister Marape said.

Drawing from the Bible, including Exodus, Daniel, Matthew, and Revelation, the Prime Minister said God had always called His people to willingly contribute towards building places of worship and strengthening community life.

“In Exodus, God told Moses to build a sanctuary so He could dwell among His people,” he said.

“That message still applies today. When people give freely, work together, and build for God, they are also building hope and unity for future generations.”

Prime Minister Marape said every person had a role to play in supporting church and community development.

“Some can give money, some can give labour, some can give leadership, and some can give prayer and encouragement,” he said.

“If you can give K100, K1,000 or more, give according to your means. If you cannot give money, then give your time and your hands to help. Everyone can contribute something.”

He also challenged members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Hela and across Papua New Guinea to be hardworking and productive people who use their abilities wisely.

“God gives talents differently to each person. Some receive five talents, some two, some one. What matters is not how much you receive, but what you do with what God has given you,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“The church of God must never be lazy. It must be made up of hardworking men and women who use their gifts to serve others.”

The Prime Minister placed strong emphasis on education, describing it as one of the most important pathways to empowerment and national progress.

“Education enlightens people. It opens minds, creates opportunity, and helps families rise above poverty,” he said.

“That is why every child in Hela and Papua New Guinea must be encouraged to complete school and pursue a better future.”

Reflecting personally at the age of 55, Prime Minister Marape said life was precious and uncertain, and people should focus on values that endure beyond material wealth.

“What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his soul?” he asked.

“Our years on earth are limited, but what we do in those years can bless generations to come. Let us live with purpose.”

Prime Minister Marape thanked church leaders, pastors, elders, and community members for their loyalty, prayers, and dedication to both faith and nation-building.

He called on all Papua New Guineans, especially during the nation’s 50th year, to renew their commitment to faith, education, service, and unity.

“Let us build our churches, build our schools, build our communities, and build Papua New Guinea together,” Prime Minister Marape said.