Shining the light of the Gospel through fabric, thread and love

By Tracy Smith

To those who contributed to the 19th Convention of Lutheran Women of Australia offering. We are filled with heartfelt gratitude to report that the Meri (Women’s) Program at Senior Flierl Seminary has received your most generous financial donation that has truly been an answer to prayer. Thanks to your gracious gift, we were able to […]

To those who contributed to the 19th Convention of Lutheran Women of Australia offering.

We are filled with heartfelt gratitude to report that the Meri (Women’s) Program at Senior Flierl Seminary has received your most generous financial donation that has truly been an answer to prayer. Thanks to your gracious gift, we were able to replace ten of our hand sewing machines, plus purchase two electric sewing machines and one electric overlocker, which will greatly improve the quality and efficiency of our sewing classes. The new equipment has already brought much excitement and encouragement to the women participating in our sewing program this term. These new machines represent a significant step forward in empowering the 2025 and future Meri Program participants by enhancing their learning opportunities, machine operation and care, and personal sewing skills through the making of meri blouses, skirts, children’s clothing, bowl carriers, alter cloth/table laplap, and stoles.

Even more wonderfully, the blessing extended further. Because of the generosity of the donation, we were also able to purchase essential sewing materials and accessories, including fabrics, sewing threads, embroidery cottons, scissors, buttons, power board, and extension power cords. This means our sewing classes can begin fully equipped and ready, with each student having what they need to learn confidently and creatively. Your contributions are sure to make a real difference in strengthening and sustaining the further training and learning of the women who are faithfully following and supporting their husbands who study at SFS and test the call of God to enter the public ministry as a Pastor.

In a beautiful moment of dedication, the new sewing machines and supplies, along with gowns and stoles donated from Australia, were blessed by Pastor Murray Smith during our chapel service held on Ascension Day (29 May). It was a touching service that reminded us of how God lifts and equips us for service, and we committed the tools and the program to his glory and purpose. On behalf of all the women in the program, we extend our deepest thanks (bikpela amamas) to the Lutheran Women of Australia for investing in the skills, dignity, and future of these women who are, in partnership with their husbands, training to share the gospel to the people of Papua New Guinea.

“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17 (NIV)

Logo Description: “Sewing the Gospel” (“Samapim Gutnius”)

Bible Text: 1 Peter 4:10 — “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others…”

1. Core Symbolism
Central Cross and Needle Fusion
– The vertical beam of the cross is a sewing needle, blending spiritual and practical symbolism.
– Thread loops from the needle, forming a heart shape encircling Papua New Guinea and Australia – symbolizing cross-cultural unity and service.

Footprints Motif
– Gentle footprints (like stitched imprints) walk toward the cross – symbolising a journey of faith and service.

2. Fabric and Cultural Texture
Bilum and Aboriginal Art Fusion
– Traditional PNG bilum patterns interwoven with Aboriginal dot art to create a unified fabric panel.
– The fabric placed at the base of the cross is a symbolic “foundation” of the ministry.

3. Hands of Service
– Two hands of different skin tones (representing PNG and Australia) gently holding fabric together, stitching it – an affirmation to unity, collaboration, and humble service.

4. Text Styling
– Main Title: “Sewing the Gospel” / “Samapim Gutnius”
– Font: Handcrafted script-style, warm and inviting – looks like it’s been hand-written.
– Bible Text Reference: “1 Peter 4:10”
– Placed along the curve of the thread.

5. Colour Palette
– Earth tones for grounding: Ochres, rich browns, deep greens — organic, natural look.
– Bilum & cultural vibrancy: Bright magenta, turquoise, golden yellow, and pink in patterns.
– Spiritual highlight: Touches of gold for the cross – symbolising light, hope, and the gospel.

This logo should feel:
Handmade. Heart-driven. Culturally respectful. Spiritually rich. It speaks to sewing physical items and weaving lives together through the Gospel.


Many of our partner churches are working in new territory for the kingdom of God; therefore, spiritual attack is their everyday reality. As a member of a congregation, school, or family, or a couple or individual, you are invited to commit to praying for our partners in mission. For regular prayer point updates, go to www.lca.org.au/international-mission/act-now/pray

Read more stories about our partner church in Papua New Guinea at https://www.lcamission.org.au/category/stories/international-partners/papua-new-guinea/

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About the Author : Erin Kerber


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