Karuan, Papua – A warm and reflective atmosphere filled the panel discussion titled “The Direction of PAR GKI Windesi: Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow” organized by the Church Classis Board (Badan Pekerja Klasis) of Windesi. The event served as an open dialogue for Sunday School Teachers (GSM) and Sunday School Children (ASM) from various congregations to reflect on the direction of PAR (Children and Youth Fellowship) ministry within the scope of the Windesi Classis amidst the changing tides of our time.

The panel discussion opened with a worship service led by Candidate Preacher Jhon Asso, S.Si.Teol, and was officially inaugurated by the Head of the Windesi Classis, Rev. Maria Wayar. In her opening remarks, Rev. Wayar stated, “Today we are grateful not just for a celebration, but for the great hope we see in our children and youth. Their presence, their enthusiasm, reflects a living and hopeful future for the church.” Furthermore, she emphasized that the panel discussion marks a new and creative step by the Classis Board. Through this forum, space is opened for children, youth, and Sunday School teachers to explore the journey of PAR ministry—past, present, and future. This is not merely a discussion, but a collective process of affirming the direction of children and youth ministry.

Moderated by Candidate Preacher Jhon Asso, S.Si.Teol, the discussion featured main speakers Rev. Maria Wayar, S.Si.Teol (Head of the Windesi Classis), and Rev. Agustus R.B. Torey (Classis Secretary), with deep responses from Elder Irik D. Karubui (Deputy Secretary of the Classis). In addition to the three core speakers from the Classis Board, the panel also received warm and innovative responses from other candidate preachers and Sunday School teachers who participated actively. The central theme raised critical awareness for all: how can the Sunday School generation face global challenges like moral degradation, spiritual crisis, and the relentless influence of social media?

As the first speaker, Rev. A. Torey highlighted the reality of children’s and teenagers’ inability to compete—especially in education—as a symptom of a deeper problem: weak spiritual mentoring and a crisis of values in congregational life. The panel encouraged participants to reflect deeply on the root causes, the mission of PAR, and the relevance of church guidelines in practical ministry. Rev. Torey emphasized that alcohol, drugs, and spiritual crisis are urgent realities that hinder children's growth. Referring to Luke 18:16b, he stressed that the church must return to its calling—giving serious attention to children as part of the Kingdom of God.

Furthermore, in her presentation as the second speaker, Rev. M. Wayar highlighted that Sunday School was once a formal institution within the church, offering consistent ministry and serving as a primary platform for instilling faith values. However, today, major challenges arise externally—through environmental influence, drugs, alcohol, and social media—which often erode children’s zeal for fellowship.

Participants—especially the Sunday School Teachers—expressed their concern over the weak coordination within the PAR organization at both congregational and classis levels. GSM Julian Lakojana and Saul Parerawai described a situation that requires synergy and relational strengthening within ministry structures. Panelists responded by underlining the need to improve coordination across organizational levels, provide creative training for GSMs, and create an age-appropriate mapping system so transitions into higher ministry levels can be well-managed.

Several key recommendations emerged from the panel discussion, particularly on the critical role of parents in nurturing children’s spirituality. “Parents are the first teachers at home. Fellowship begins in the family,” emphasized GSM Magdalena Ruhukail. Tangible suggestions included foundational training for GSMs, preparation for lesson delivery, and the implementation of a “Family Nurture Month.” Candidate preachers also contributed innovative responses regarding future ministry development—such as training programs at the congregational level focused on spirituality in the digital age, Christian ethics, and parental involvement in accompanying Sunday School children.

In closing, panelists encouraged both GSMs and ASMs to remain faithful in service and maintain purity in life. “Teenagers, don’t rush into marriage. Finish your education, build strong character, and keep your body as the temple of God,” Rev. Wayar urged.

A critical takeaway and hope for the future is that this panel discussion becomes a significant milestone for PAR Windesi Classis to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of its ministry to children and youth. Looking ahead, concrete actions are expected—greater synergy among ministry units, sustainable mentoring, and the revitalization of Sunday School with contextual and joyful approaches.

(By Paul Kapisa)