APPRECIATE 170 YEARS OF THE SPREAD OF THE GOSPEL: A PRECIOUS HERITAGE OF PAPUA’S CIVILIZATION

A viral video on social media has stirred deep emotions and concern among the people of Papua. The video shows several young individuals involved in party-like activities at Kwawi Beach, Manokwari, where the event took place as part of the cleanup in preparation for the 170th anniversary of the Spread of the Gospel in Papua. The incident happened at Kwawi Beach, not on Mansinam Island, and therefore, all parties are expected to refrain from making excessive comments. However, this should also serve as constructive feedback for the organizing committee to ensure better supervision in future events.

Kwawi Beach, Manokwari, is a place of sacred preparations as part of the commemoration of the Spread of the Gospel, which brought spiritual liberation to the people of Papua. Every year, this commemoration is celebrated through spiritual activities and deep reflection. Unfortunately, the behavior seen in the video is considered disrespectful to the sacredness of such an important moment.

Based on the information we gathered, this incident occurred at Kwawi Beach, Manokwari, during the cleanup of the area in preparation for the 170th-anniversary celebration of the Spread of the Gospel, scheduled for January 5, 2025. Amid the preparations that were supposed to be filled with spiritual meaning, a group of young people engaged in party-like activities. Due to minimal supervision, the incident gained public attention after going viral on social media.

Some netizens compared the incident to the atmosphere of Brazil’s Carnival, which is often associated with excessive euphoria. “Mansinam Island must always be respected as a symbol of our faith,” wrote one social media user. This place is not merely a historical site, but also a symbol of the Spread of the Gospel, which brought the acceptance of the Gospel and Jesus Christ as the Savior of the people of Papua.

Religious leaders and community figures have expressed their concerns with compassion. “Mansinam Island is a sacred place entrusted to us by the Apostles of Papua. We must honor it and preserve the meaning of its commemoration,” they stated.

All young Papuans are expected to appreciate the arrival of the Gospel, which came at a high price through the dedication of two European figures, the Apostles of Papua, Ottow and Geissler, who devoted their entire lives to the Papuan people 170 years ago. Their sacrifice is an inseparable part of the spiritual legacy we cherish today. Therefore, respecting Mansinam Island means honoring a priceless struggle.

May this incident serve as a gentle reminder for the younger generation to better appreciate their cultural and spiritual heritage. As stated in Ezekiel 38:23, we are reminded to uphold the holiness of God and express gratitude in our daily lives.

The organizing committee is expected to conduct an in-depth evaluation and take preventive measures to ensure similar incidents do not occur in the future, especially during preparations at Kwawi Beach. Additionally, discussions with the younger generation are necessary to instill awareness of the importance of preserving and respecting the historical significance of the Spread of the Gospel on Mansinam Island.

Mansinam Island is a symbol of spiritual awakening and cultural strength that has been passed down from generation to generation. With humility, let us safeguard this honor and take this incident as a valuable lesson for building a better and more blessed future.