Wingei District marks 75 years of faith and vision
The Assemblies of God Wingei District celebrated a historic milestone this Easter, marking 75 years since the establishment of the Wingei AOG Mission on Mukup Hills.
Hundreds of believers gathered at Mt Zion AOG Local Church in Mukup from April 2–6 to honor the pioneering Australian missionaries who laid the foundation of faith in Wingei District and across East Sepik.
The celebration paid special tribute to Pastor Cyril Westbrook, whose arrival in 1951 brought not only the message of Christ but also vital contributions in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. His legacy continues to shape the spiritual and social fabric of Wingei and its surrounding communities.
Guided by the theme “Holim Pas Jisas Krais: Hold Onto Jesus Christ” [Hebrews 13:7], the Easter Convention urged believers to remember the leaders who first taught them the Word of God and to follow their example of faith and service.
Guest speaker Lyndon Westbrook, son of Missionary Cyril Westbrook, traveled from Brisbane, Australia, representing his 98‑year‑old father. Born and raised in Wingei, Lyndon said his participation symbolized the enduring bond between the Westbrook family and the people of Wingei.
“This is more than a church meeting; it is a homecoming and a celebration of the goodness of God over 75 years,” Lyndon Westbrook said. “We honor the courage of Papa Cyril and the lasting fruit of his work.”
Accompanied by his son Gerald, Lyndon expressed joy at returning to his birthplace and sharing with his son the legacies his grandfather established 75 years ago.
AOG PNG General Superintendent Reverend Pastor Joseph Pandu acknowledged the Australian mission for establishing the church in Papua New Guinea. He said the founding of Wingei AOG transformed the lives of the people, both spiritually and physically.
Beyond commemorating the past, the event also looked to the future. The AOG Wingei District unveiled its new Vision and Mission Statements, charting a path for ministry in the 21st century.
The Vision emphasizes recognizing God’s people in all communities and transforming lives through faith, while the Mission focuses on supporting churches with both technical and spiritual guidance, strengthening initiatives, and fostering sustainable growth.
The Easter weekend featured special services, historical reflections, and community gatherings, all supported by the AOG Wingei District Council. As the Assemblies of God PNG movement enters a new chapter, the Wingei anniversary stands as a powerful reminder of the pioneer spirit that continues to inspire the Sepik region with Pastor Cyril Westbrook and his family still standing as living witnesses to the faith they planted.
