October 18, 2024 - The Women's Fellowship (PW) of GKI Metanoia Dekai, Yahukimo, held a spiritual tour that lasted for seven days, from October 2 to October 9, 2024. Led by the committee chairwoman, Antomina Yembise, the group visited the Alfa Omega GKI Waisai congregation in Raja Ampat with the goal of strengthening fellowship between churches and sharing the culture of the Papua Highlands.

The spiritual tour featured the traditional Papua Highlands custom of bakar batu (stone cooking), where two pigs were cooked together using hot stones buried in a pit. "Bakar batu is a cultural tradition we brought and shared with the people of Waisai. We were thrilled to see their enthusiastic response to this event," said Antomina. The event was attended by numerous officials and community leaders who helped make the occasion lively and fostered a sense of togetherness.

In addition to the cultural activities, Antomina conveyed an important message at the heart of the spiritual fellowship. "We come with different personalities, but the Lord Jesus unites our hearts to work together and support each other. We hope to bring joy to the Alfa Omega congregation in Waisai," she said. This message encourages participants to prioritize unity in diversity and to work together in the love of Christ.

During the event, PW GKI Metanoia Dekai also engaged in evangelism in Waisai. The participants shared testimonies about their lives in the Papua Highlands while emphasizing that the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of cultural background. "We want to affirm that the Gospel knows no cultural boundaries, and we are here to bless one another," added Antomina.

Around 60 participants took part in the event, which was also supported by the Secretary of the Waisai Classis. In addition to introducing the culture of the Papua Highlands, the event provided an opportunity for the congregations in Waisai and Dekai to enrich each other's faith experiences.

Through this event, it is hoped that the relationship between the GKI Metanoia Dekai congregation and the Alfa Omega GKI Waisai congregation will grow stronger. Unity in diversity remains a key foundation in building a stronger church and having a positive impact on the communities in both regions.