Lutheran uni tops synod talks

By ZACHERY PER
THE Lutheran University, to be established in Lae, has dominated discussions of the past two days at the 28th Evangelical Lutheran church synod at the National Sports Institute in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province.
The bishop’s report, secretary’s report, treasurer’s report and the Lutheran University report dominated proceedings. 
Discussions and debate on church issues will continue until Friday.
After the opening on Sunday by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, the programme began on day one with Bible study, welcome address, formalities and introduction for the meeting.  
The keynote address was made by Dr Zirazuki Kemung, who stressed the importance of family and marriage.
His address was in line with the synod theme of ‘Wokabaut wantem femli insait long pasin bilong givim’.
All the delegates from the 18 Lutheran districts and guests were sheltered under a huge permanent haus win erected for the conference.
It was an eye opener for many who came from coastal areas.
Security provided by the host Goroka district to participants was strict, ensuring petty crimes like bag-snatching and pick-pocketing were at a minimised.
Prominent Lutheran faithful s like Education secretary Dr Musawe Sinabare, Institute of Medical Research director Prof Peter Siba, Constitutional Law Reform Committee chairman Dr Erick Kua and lawyer-cum-philanthropist Kelly Naru were among those present.
The synod continues for a week, with the closing and handover ceremony to the next host on Friday.