BACKGROUND AND CHURCH GROWTH
BRIEF BACKGROUND HISTORY
The Church of God Papua New Guinea (COGPNG) is in affiliation with and has become a part of the global Church of God movement, Cleveland, State of Tennessee, in the United States of America, operating under a well-defined national structure guided by its Church Constitution. Since its establishment, COGPNG has grown into a thriving Christian community, impacting lives across the country. The foundation of this church was laid in 1995 when Bishop Aiya Pokoi Yambaki and his wife, Mrs. Naomi Pokoi, responded to God’s call to establish a fellowship of believers in Lae, Morobe Province.
From its humble beginnings as a family fellowship, the church has expanded its presence across multiple provinces, spreading the message of Christ and strengthening communities through faith-based initiatives. In 2003, COGPNG achieved a significant milestone when it was officially registered as a Church Organization with the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), solidifying its legal and operational framework.
Today, Bishop Aiya Pokoi Yambaki serves as the National Superintendent of COGPNG and Chairman of the National Church Board (NCB). His leadership, along with the steadfast support of Mrs. Naomi Pokoi, has been instrumental in shaping the church's vision, fostering growth, and ensuring its alignment with the biblical mission of the Church of God worldwide.
NATIONAL STRUCTURE AND LEADERSHIP
The growth of PNG COG necessitated the development of a strong leadership structure to oversee its expanding ministries. Under the guidance of Bishop Aiya Pokoi Yambaki, a National Church Board (NCB) was established to provide spiritual direction, governance, and administrative support. As the National Overseer and Chairman of the NCB, Bishop Aiya Pokoi Yambaki has played a pivotal role in shaping church policies, training leaders, and expanding outreach efforts across Papua New Guinea. His leadership style is deeply rooted in faith, wisdom, and service, ensuring that the church remains focused on its core mission of evangelism, discipleship, and community transformation. Alongside Bishop Aiya Pokoi, his wife Mrs. Naomi Pokoi has been a cornerstone of the church, providing unwavering support in pastoral care, women's ministry, and church administration. Her commitment to the ministry has strengthened families, empowered women, and nurtured spiritual growth among believers.
CHURCH GROWTH AND EXPANSION
Since its official registration in 2003, PNG COG has experienced rapid growth, establishing 17 local church centers across five provinces:
1. Morobe Province – The birthplace of PNG COG and home to some of the earliest church centers.
2. Southern Highlands Province – A rapidly growing region with strong youth and evangelistic movements.
3. Jiwaka Province – Known for its dynamic leadership and vibrant church community.
4. Western Highlands Province – A strategic location for outreach and church planting efforts.
5. National Capital District (NCD) – The heart of PNG’s capital city, serving as a hub for national church activities.
Each of these provinces has seen remarkable transformation, with new converts, growing congregations, and increased community involvement. PNG COG's emphasis on evangelism, discipleship, and church planting has contributed to this sustained growth.
MINISTRY FOCUS AREAS AND IMPACT
EVANGELISM AND MISSIONARY
PNG COG remains committed to spreading the Gospel, with missionary teams traveling to remote areas to share the message of Christ. The church organizes crusades, outreach programs, and revival meetings, leading many to salvation.
YOUTH AND CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Recognizing the importance of the next generation, PNG COG has actively invested in youth and children’s ministries. Programs such as Sunday School, youth conferences, and discipleship training ensure that young people are grounded in faith and biblical teachings.
WOMEN'S MINISTRY AND FAMILY SUPPORT
Mrs. Naomi Pokoi has been instrumental in leading the women’s ministry, empowering women through prayer groups, counseling sessions, and community outreach programs. PNG COG believes in strengthening families as the foundation of a strong Christian community.
FUTURE VISION AND ASPIRATIONS
As PNG COG looks to the future, it remains committed to its vision of expanding God’s Kingdom throughout Papua New Guinea. The church’s strategic focus includes:
- Expanding its presence in all 22 provinces of PNG through new church plants and outreach programs.
- Strengthening leadership training to raise more pastors, evangelists, and church workers.
- Building partnerships with international Church of God networks for missionary support and theological training.
- Enhancing social impact programs, including education, health, and humanitarian aid.
The Papua New Guinea Church of God has come a long way from its humble beginnings in 1995 to becoming a nationally recognized and globally affiliated church organization. Under the faithful leadership of Bishop Aiya Pokoi Yambaki and Mrs. Naomi Pokoi, the church has grown, expanded, and touched countless lives.
As PNG COG continues its mission of evangelism, discipleship, and community transformation, it remains anchored in God’s Word, guided by the Holy Spirit, and committed to the Great Commission. The journey ahead is filled with promise, and by God’s grace, PNG COG will continue to shine as a beacon of faith, hope, and love in Papua New Guinea and beyond.
To God be all the glory, honor, and praise!
Amen.