In the early 2000s, what is known as the Rainbow Curriculum for the teaching of Christian Education in Lutheran schools across Papua New Guinea, was developed by a German missionary. This was a carefully prepared series of books designed for use from primary through to secondary school. It provided structured, Bible-based teaching to support students’ […]

In the early 2000s, what is known as the Rainbow Curriculum for the teaching of Christian Education in Lutheran schools across Papua New Guinea, was developed by a German missionary. This was a carefully prepared series of books designed for use from primary through to secondary school. It provided structured, Bible-based teaching to support students’ faith formation within Lutheran education in the national education system of Papua New Guinea (PNG).

However, over time, a number of challenges emerged. The curriculum was not always easy for teachers to use in the classroom, and many schools found it difficult to afford the number of books required. Some of the materials were written in Tok Pisin, whereas it is now compulsory for schools to teach in English. Alongside these practical issues, broader cultural and societal changes within the country, as well as evolving government education requirements, meant that the teaching of Christian Education began to decline in many Lutheran schools.

Recognising these challenges, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea (ELCPNG) identified the need for a renewed and updated Christian Education curriculum which would be more accessible, easier for teachers to use, and better suited to the current educational and cultural context.

After exploring a number of possible approaches, Mr Geoff Narekine was appointed to develop the new curriculum. Geoff brings significant experience to this role, having served both as a classroom teacher and as a lecturer at Balob Teachers College.

Each level of the curriculum is carefully developed to match the age and stage of learners at each grade level, ranging from preparatory to grade 12. Beginning with simple truths such as “God made me and loves me,” students are gradually introduced to deeper themes, including God’s work of salvation, life in Christ, and faithful living within society.

In a context where there are concerns about moral and ethical challenges within wider society, this work plays an important role in forming both faith and positive character in young people.

Each grade level within the Rainbow Curriculum includes approximately 120 lessons, combining Bible teaching with content linked to the church year. Assessment is part of the curriculum evaluating students’ knowledge, skills and understanding including attitudes and values, which will be carried out in a variety of ways- through observations, revision questions, tests, practical activities, role plays, dance, dramas and quizzes. Detailed teacher guides support each lesson, helping to make the curriculum practical and accessible for those in the classroom.

The curriculum follows a clear and intentional progression:

• knowing God
• building a relationship with God
• understanding salvation as God’s gift
• growing in personal faith
• applying faith in everyday life

While originally intended for Lutheran schools, there is growing interest from government schools as well. In Papua New Guinea, Christian Religious Instruction remains part of the national education system, and the Rainbow Curriculum is seen as a valuable resource that aligns with national frameworks for character and values education, while also offering faith formation.

An important aspect of this work is the support and training of teachers. The curriculum has been designed to be user-friendly, but ongoing training will be essential to ensure teachers feel confident in delivering it effectively. Looking ahead, there is hope that Rainbow Curriculum training will be integrated into teacher education programs, equipping future teachers with the skills needed for Christian Life Studies.

The Rainbow Curriculum is part of a wider mission to support young people in Papua New Guinea to grow in faith, to know God’s love, and to live as Christians in their communities. As this work continues, it remains a shared partnership between local leaders, churches, schools, and international supporters. Together, they are contributing to the formation of a generation grounded in faith and equipped for life.

If you would like to join in God’s mission by financially supporting the distribution of the rewritten Christian Life Studies Rainbow Curriculum, we invite you to visit Donate Now – LCA International Mission and select ‘Papua New Guinea’ and ‘Christian Education’.

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