The Norwich and Papua New Guinea link group works to support, friendship, projects and mission to bring together the country of Papua New Guinea and the county of Norfolk.
A connection was first established by Bishop David Hand from Norfolk, who went on to be the first Archbishop of PNG in 1977. David’s father was vicar of Tatterford, Norfolk and when David retired as Archbishop of Port Moresby in PNG, he returned to be Priest in Charge of several parishes in West Norfolk.
Papua New Guinea is a new and diverse country, known locally as the Land of the Unexpected. The Anglican Church has a strong presence across the nation, in the highlands and islands, playing an important role in the life of the people and communities.
The link group continues the connections and involvement, supporting the church and people through projects, outward giving and ministry.
Part of the work of the Link group is in connection with The Bishop of Norwich’s Lent Appeals. They are biannually focused on Papua New Guinea and the diocese has raised large amounts of money to deliver support where needed; in recent years classrooms, church building projects and community and health endeavours.
A Prayer for Papua New Guinea
Heavenly Father,
We rejoice that wherever in the world we are, we are held in your embrace. We thank you for all that we share with our brothers and sisters in the Church of Papua New Guinea, so far away but so close in our hearts.
During 2020 and 2021, as Covid19 has affected so much, our communication lines have been reduced and it is hard to stay in touch.
Father, we ask that you be with all our brothers and sisters in Papua New Guinea in their isolation and as this pandemic continues to spread around the world to faraway places.
We pray for the health of your people in the provinces and in the city of Port Moresby, that they may know you are beside them in their journeys, their homes, and their families.
Let us join together in the Diocese of Norwich and pray for health and wisdom for the people and Anglican Church in Papua New Guinea.
Amen
The Papua New Guinea Link Group is made up of clergy and lay people who are committed to working together in raising awareness and the profile of Papua New Guinea and enabling support to be provided for the Anglican Church and its people.
Our team includes:
- The Revd Phil Charlesworth
- The Revd Sue Martin
- The Revd Janet Allan
- Mr James Allan
