United church in Karama opens doors

KARAMA United Church in Central Kerema, Gulf opened recently after 20 years of construction.
The church was opened by Gulf Governor Sir Christopher Haiveta and Kerema Open MP Thomas Opa, with contributions of more than K130,000 and building materials.
Opa said the church was initially formed by women and mothers of Karama in 2004.
“They started with the pouring of concrete in 2004 with a total of K52, 000 after countless fundraising projects were carried out by selling of sago, betel nut and fish through basket to basket exchange,” Opa said.
He said over the years, Port Moresby residents also helped with the fundraising toward the project.
The contribution of former governor Havila Kavo and others were acknowledged as their contributions had played an immense role in the completion of the church.
“Many involved have since passed away and it was a momentous occasion for the people of Karama to finally see the completion of the church project,” Opa said.
“The church is designed like Noah’s Ark and is symbolic. It paves the way for the village to be the pinnacle of transformation for young people to grow in the word of God.
“We continue to partner with churches in Kerema and Gulf to ensure we set the building blocks in Christian values and ethics.”