Alotau Town Seventh-day Adventist Church and visiting members from Waigani church in Port Moresby joined forces for a major outreach at the Giligili Correctional Institution in Milne Bay as part of the Adventist Church's Global Youth and Children’s Day.

Operating under the Northern Milne Bay Mission of the Papua New Guinea Union Mission, the two churches mobilized members of all ages, from Adventurers and Pathfinders to Adventist Community Services (ACS) volunteers, to share a message of hope and care with inmates and staff.

"The scene at the Giligili gate was one of vibrant color and energy as a convoy arrived to greet the inmates and staff,” said Raymond Aaron, communication coordinator for Alotau Town church.

“Led by the banners of Alotau ACS and Women’s Ministries, the group included Ambassadors, Pathfinders, and Adventurers, all eager to play their part in the day’s mission.

“The visiting brothers and sisters from Waigani church added to the strength of the numbers, creating a beautiful picture of unity within the Adventist family.”

As part of the outreach, church members provided a meal featuring kaukau, fresh fish, and locally grown produce, including yams, taro, cassava, bananas, and greens.

“This was not just about nutrition; it was about dignity,” Aaron said. “By providing the very best from their own gardens and kitchens, the church members sent a clear message to the inmates: you are not forgotten, you are still part of our community, and you are worthy of a feast prepared with the utmost care and prayerful intention.”

​The program also included singing by Adventurers and Pathfinders, with many inmates reflecting quietly as songs of hope were shared. Hygiene kits containing toothpaste, toothbrushes, and soap were distributed, along with Adventist literature.

“This balanced approach—meeting physical needs with food and hygiene needs with supplies—ensured that the impact of the visit was holistic and deeply felt by all,” Aaron said.

He concluded, “The smiles on the faces of the inmates and the tears of gratitude seen during the closing prayers were a testament to the power of a simple meal and a kind word."

Moving forward, the Alotau Town church remains committed to these visitations, ensuring that the light of the gospel continues to shine brightly even in the darkest places, fuelled by the love of a community that truly lives what it believes.

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site, Adventist Record.