4,000 women gather in Goroka to celebrate UFW’s 50th anniversary
The United Foursquare Women [UFW], a vibrant ministry of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Papua New Guinea, is celebrating its 50th Jubilee Anniversary this week in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province.
The event has brought together more than 4,000 women from across the four regions of PNG in Highlands, Momase, Southern, and the New Guinea Islands, for a weeklong celebration of faith, unity, and legacy.
The 50th anniversary marks a significant milestone, commemorating both the founding of the United Foursquare Women’s Ministry at Kapamarigi village in the Upper Bena LLG, Unggai-Benna District, and 69 years of the Foursquare Gospel Church in the country.
On Tuesday morning, dressed in vibrant red, yellow, blue, and violet, the women took to the streets of Goroka in a 'Jesus March' before gathering at the National Sports Institute for the official opening ceremony.
Pastor Mavis Veneo, Director of United Foursquare Women PNG, reflected on the journey of the ministry and its lasting impact.
“Since the establishment of the Foursquare Gospel Church, the church has grown from glory to glory,” she said.
“The number of women joining the church through the United Foursquare Women’s Ministry has grown significantly over the years.”
She added that the turnout of women from across the country is a strong testament to the spiritual growth and influence of the ministry.
“This growth has only been possible because of the strong spiritual and family-oriented foundations laid by the early missionaries.”
The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including President of the Foursquare Gospel Church PNG Rev. Kario Veneo, Pastor Paul McCarthy, [President of the Foursquare Gospel Church Australia], Rev. Wamb Tongia [General Supervisor of the Foursquare Church], Members of the National Executive Council NEC of the Foursquare Church PNG, Pastor Chris Kopyoto [Chairman of the National Administration Board] and Leaders of the National United Foursquare Women
The anniversary celebration continues throughout the week with spiritual programs, worship, and fellowship, marking five decades of women’s empowerment through faith.