EOYM 2023

Venue: Walume SDA Church, Imbonggu District  Duration: Two Weeks Organised by: Pr. Koivi Ako & ETS Leadership

A testimony of God’s goodness at the foot of the mountains
In 2023, the End-Time Swallows gathered for our end-of-year ministry at Walume in the Imbonggu District of Southern Highlands Province. Nestled below one of PNG’s tallest mountains, Walume greeted us with its cold nights and clean air.

Five of our embassies were presented, and as always, we travelled with a spirit of unity and purpose. But nothing prepared us for the welcome we received. As soon as we arrived, the Walume SDA Church and the surrounding community met us with joy, celebrations, and even a marching-girls parade across their open field, what the locals proudly call “the Red Carpet” of Imbonggu District. It was a beautiful way to begin the two weeks ahead. Because Walume sits at a road junction that links Mendi, Ialibu-Pangia, and Western Highlands, people are always moving around, especially during Christmas and New Year. So at first, attendance was small. But those who were there came with open hearts, and as the days passed, more people stayed back, listened, and joined in. God was quietly working from day one.

Hosted by One of Our Own
A special blessing this year was ministering alongside Pastor Koivi Ako, one of the early members of ETS since the 1990s. Today he is a full-time minister of the Adventist Church, serving faithfully with his wife, Rose, and their children — Dannimsam, Daniella, and Danita. Pr. Ako and Walume SDA Church hosted us in the 2023 EOYM, and his commitment, humility, and love for the ministry set the tone for everything that happened. Together with the Walume church members, his family made sure we were supported, cared for, and spiritually refreshed.

Revelation Like We’ve Never Heard It Before
The heartbeat of the two-week EOYM was the nightly message shared by Elder Rungi Pingi. His preaching was centred fully on the Revelation of Jesus Christ. Not just beasts, symbols, or timelines — but Jesus Himself.
Many of us, including long-time Adventists, heard the book of Revelation presented in a way we had never experienced before. The focus on Christ lifted our hearts, opened our eyes, and reminded us that truth is progressive. God continues to reveal Himself deeper and clearer to those who seek Him.
Even Pastor Koivi and his family said the messages touched them in unexpected ways. It was clear God had something special for Walume this year. As a result, 8 souls were baptized into the family of God. PTL
Healing Hands for the Community
Besides the nightly meetings, God opened doors for us to serve the community through medical ministry. We held two full-day clinics led by:

• • Pritchard Tabali – Doctor in training
  • Lorry Lawrence Lako – Dentist from Madang General Hospital

The turnout was overwhelming:

• • 30+ patients received dental treatment
  • 150+ patients were treated for general medical needs

They were supported by our hardworking ETS members — Steward, Gilfred, Edna, Jesse, Baki, and others. The community was grateful not only for the treatment but for the compassion shown. Every prayer, every smile, every simple explanation reminded them that God cares for the whole person.
Pritchard also shared nightly Health Talks that opened many eyes to how simple everyday choices can make a huge difference.

Practical Skills for Everyday Life
Another highlight was the hands-on training led by Paul Andakis. He taught the community how to build:

• basic heat-retaining ovens suitable for cold climates
• simple, hygienic septic toilets with good ventilation

These practical lessons were a blessing, especially for families looking for better ways to cook, stay warm, and maintain healthy living conditions.

A Ministry Marked by God’s Presence
Almost 100 Swallow members camped at the Walume SDA Church throughout the EOYM. The nights were cold, but the fellowship was warm. The work was demanding, but the joy was greater. And every day, we witnessed God’s hand guiding the ministry. The people of Walume welcomed us with open arms, and in return, the Lord used ETS to touch lives — physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
As we left Walume, we carried with us the reminder that:
Where God leads, He provides. Where His people gather, His Spirit moves. And when Christ is lifted up, hearts are changed.
Praise the Lord for His leading in EOYM 2023.