As a youth, Papa Masi found himself imprisoned in Kavieng, New Ireland Province. But what could be the end of his story was only the beginning. It was within those prison walls that God called him. Under the ministry of the CLC Church, he found redemption, embraced the Baptist faith and was baptized. His heart was ignited with a passion to serve the Lord, and from that moment on, his life’s mission became clear to share the Word of God and lead others to salvation.
Papa Masi’s journey as a Pastor begun in Wewak, where he served under the guidance of the late Reverend Joseph Maru, the senior Pastor of AOG Full Gospel Church. Reverent Maru was not only a mentor but a spiritual father to Papa Masi, and together, they labored tirelessly to bring the gospel to the people of East & West Sepik. His dedication and commitment to evangelism took him to Ilingita Bible School, where he was equipped to fulfil the calling of God had placed on his life. Upon graduation, he returned to Wewak, serving alongside late Reverend Maru, leading countless souls to Christ, and baptizing hundreds young and old alike
Today, 15th September 2024, at AOG Full Gospel Church, we gathered to honor the life of an extraordinary man, a servant of God, a father, a husband and a Pastor who touched the lives of many. Papa (Father) Tony Masi was born on August 21st, 1951, from Alimo village in the West Sepik Province, PNG. His journey was not always easy, but it was a powerful testament to the grace of God can bring.
Throughout his 39 years of ministry, Papa Masi became a pillar of faith in Wewak and beyond. His influence was profound, particularly within the AOG Wewak Urban and Sepik District (AOGWUSD).His passion for the local churches was unwavering, and he was deeply invested in nurturing Pastors and leaders who would continue the work he had started. Today, as we look across the nation, we see the fruits of his labor- pastors graduating from Bible colleges, new churches being build, and the Gospel being spread far and wide.
Papa Masi was not only a pastor, but a beloved husband, father, & grandfather. He was married to his wife from Dagua village on the west coast of East Sepik Province, and together they raised three children & were blessed with grandchildren. His family was his foundation, and they shared in the joys & sacrifices of his ministry.
As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of the words from 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.” Papa Masi’s labour was certainly not in vain. The churches he helped established, the lives he touched, and the souls led to Christ are a lasting legacy that will continue for generations to come.
Messages of gratitude and love have poured in from churches across the region-from Hawain to Swambokau, Wom to Omega, Yawasoro to Niugo. The AOG Full Gospel Town church, New Heights, Elshadai, Perigo, Sawarine, and AOG Wewak District Board, all stand today as testimonies of his faith and perseverance. His life’s work was to conquer new ground for the Kingdom of God, & he did so faithfully left behind a trail of transformed lives and communities
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Papa Pastor Tony Masi, we salute you. Your legacy of service, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the Gospel has set the foundation for a new generation of Pastors and leaders. You held the church strong, and now, through your ministry, young men and women have taken up the mantle. The fruits of your labor are evidence on every life touched, every soul won, & every church built. Your reward, we know, awaits you in Heaven, as promised in Philippians 4:19 “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”