The 20th National Women’s Conference of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea (ELCPNG) will be hosted by ELC Papua District at Laloki Secondary School from September 13 to 18, 2026.
ELCPNG Women’s Coordinator Dawa Kale said preparations by ELC Papua for the conference are progressing very well, and the district is ahead with arrangements to receive women delegates and accommodate them during the week-long gathering.
Ms Kale said more than 7,000 women attended the 19th Women’s Conference, which was hosted by ELC Jiwaka in Banz in 2024, and this year ELC Papua expects even more participants.
She said during their recent visit to confirm venue preparations and arrangements in Port Moresby, the organizing committee was satisfied that many requirements on their checklist had been completed.
“Our theme for the conference is ‘Stand Firm in All Areas of Life,’ which relates to our Synod theme ‘Stand Firm, We Are Free,’ taken from Galatians 5:1, including the women’s six pillar programs.
“Our Bible study leaders will be Susan Fumapa, Principal of Lutheran Church College in Banz, and myself. We will facilitate Bible studies for the conference and help our women recognize their potential in all areas of life beyond their responsibilities as wives and mothers in their families,” Ms Kale said.
Ms Kale reminded women planning to attend the conference to prepare in advance, especially with their registration fee of K150 and airfare.
She said all payments must reach her office by the end of April so that ticket purchases and other travel arrangements can be organized early instead of at the last minute.
“There will be no other means of transport to reach Port Moresby for this conference, and all women are strictly advised to travel by plane.
“The church and the National Women’s Office will not be held responsible for any incidents if women choose to travel by other means at their own risk,” Ms Kale added.
The conference will officially open at Sir John Guise Stadium, before delegates move to Laloki Secondary School in Central Province, which will serve as the main venue for the six-day program.
Ten female partners from the Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) are also expected to attend.
Purpose of the National Women’s Conference
The ELCPNG National Women’s Conference is a biennial gathering that brings together Lutheran women from all districts across Papua New Guinea for spiritual renewal, Bible study, fellowship, and leadership development.
The conference provides a platform for women to share ministry experiences, strengthen the church’s women’s programs, and encourage greater participation in community and church life.
Having been held every two years for nearly four decades, the gathering reflects the long-standing commitment of ELCPNG women to faith and service.
This year’s conference also carries special significance as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea, following the nation’s 50th Independence anniversary celebrated in 2025, highlighting the enduring role of church women in the country’s spiritual and social life.
