Re-elected executives challenged to adopt role of servant leader

By JACINTA COHLEE
RE-ELECTED executives of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea were challenged to adopt a servant leadership role rather than simply being leaders.
Pastor and Missionary teacher from the Philippines Lutheran Church, Rev Edwin Huevas, made the statement during the installation of the re-elected executives at Ogelbeng Seminary in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands, recently.
The installation ceremony was for the head bishop, Rev Dr Jack Urame, Assistant Bishop, Rev Lucas Kedabing and the general church secretary, Bernard Kaisom.
Urame, Kedabing and Kaisom were officially dedicated to God, renewing their contracts and tasked with the responsibility of leading the ELCPNG in their final term of four years, from 2024 to 2028.
Huevos reminded the executives of the qualities essential for their leadership based on the bible reading 1 Peter 5: 1-4, pointing out that having been re-elected by delegates from the 17 ELCPNG districts during the 34th synod, they must perform their duties with willingness, honesty, and humility, serving the Lutheran faithful at all levels.
It was an historic event, marking the first time an installation of church executives was held outside of Lae it attracted more than 500 persons, witnessing the programme. “You must always know that a good church leader has the responsibility to care for God’s flock, which includes the Lutheran church members,” Huevos said.
“If you serve with willingness and joy, you can go the extra mile in leading the people, despite challenges.
“Failure to do will result in being held accountable by God.”
He challenged them to serve eagerly, and not be motivated by monetary gain.