Kudjip, Papua New Guinea: Jiwaka District organized its second Laity Retreat on 27-30 June 2024 at Kudjip, Papua New Guinea. More than 147 laywomen and men from 37 local churches participated in this gathering. In the evenings, hundreds also attended as they opened the services in the community. The retreat’s theme focused on “Transforming and equipping laities for church growth and discipleship” based on Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

This retreat hopes to change the perspective of the members of the local church about their role as laity. During the 4-day retreat, it has set out clear lines of responsibilities for the laity and clergy, making the laity see and understand their roles, responsibilities, and accountability within their own local church. Many have also confirmed that in this retreat, their focus has changed from being centered on their local church to seeing the big picture of the district and global church structure.

This event included workshops on topics such as How to Prepare District Reports, Prayer, Discipleship, Church Growth, Healthy Budgets, Comparative Religions, Why Am I a Nazarene, the Holiness Doctrine, Church and Culture, Stewardship, Mission and Compassion, and the Clergy-Laity Model of Leadership. The workshops were led by pastors and lay leaders, including Dr. Mark Louw, the outgoing Asia-Pacific Regional Director.

One of the highlights of the event was a moment of reconciliation between the laity and clergy, where responsibilities are often overlooked. Mr. John Taime represented the laity and offered a public apology to the clergy if they had overlooked the responsibilities intended for the laity and/or overstepped the boundaries intended for the clergy. It was an overwhelming moment, and the Holy Spirit’s presence could be felt moving during this time.

The retreat was also made possible by the lay women and men of Jiwaka District, who generously gave their resources to cover the expenses for this event. They believe that the laity are instrumental in moving the gospel forward. They support the clergy with resources to spread the gospel and play a vital role in church growth and development.