Have you heard about the incredible events at Ela Beach? It is related to Hillside Adventist Church in Port Moresby. This is a story of faith and community. It shows how Hillside Adventist Church plays a vital role.
Imagine the scene at Ela Beach. Thousands gather before dawn. They are ready for a mass baptism. This event was part of the PNG for Christ 2024 evangelistic series. Hillside Adventist Church was deeply involved.
The communication teams worked all night. They set up speakers along Ela Beach. By 4 AM they were done. But church members had already started arriving. Many walked miles. Others used vehicles to get there by 7 AM.
Organizers announced a stunning number. Five thousand people were waiting to be baptized. They had to finish before noon. The low tide would make immersion impossible. Think of the logistics involved in coordinating this event. Hillside Adventist Church helped coordinate.
As the ceremony began, leaders prayed over loudspeakers. Pastors began baptizing candidates. Soon, 48 pastors were baptizing. By 11 AM it was mostly done. The scale of this event was truly remarkable.
Deacons led candidates to the water. Deaconesses waited with towels and garlands. Choirs sang and speakers broadcast music. One church member called it a spiritual feast like never before. Hillside Adventist Church celebrated many new members.
After the baptisms, the work continued. Volunteers helped with the massive cleanup. One visitor remarked that they could finally rest. A local member replied that the retention program for new converts started the next day. Hillside Adventist Church immediately began working with new members.
This event was part of a larger evangelistic series. International speakers preached at over 2000 sites. Adventist radio and TV supported the effort. The series aimed to welcome new members after months of Bible study.
Just as the baptisms at Ela Beach touched so many lives. Hillside Adventist Church continues to spread hope. The church expands its building. It welcomes new members into its growing family.