Legacy & History

Founding and Early Beginnings (1982)

The story of Homu’s Laymen’s Training School begins in 1982, a pivotal year for the Eastern Highlands Mission. Under the leadership of then-President Pastor Ambono John Gate, the mission recognized the urgent need to equip lay members, particularly in remote villages, who were leading churches without pastors or missionaries.

From April 11 to May 23, 1982, the first Laymen’s Training School was held at Homu, initiated by the Eastern Highlands Mission. Pastor Ambono, himself a former layman from Emasa village in Okapa District, presided over this groundbreaking event alongside key leaders:

• Pastor Dough Robertson, Area Supervisor

• Pastor Timothy Palitu, District Director

• Pastor Ambono John Gate, Mission President and founder of the schoola

At that time, the Eastern Highlands district boasted 88 organized churches, many led by dedicated lay leaders. The training aimed to provide these leaders with Bible knowledge, evangelism skills, and church leadership training, empowering them to sustain and grow their local congregations.

Figure:1 from the archives of Homu District Pastors House, showing the footings of the new layman Classroom Building 1982

Homu’s Role as a Training Hub

The Homu school quickly became a vital resource, serving as a launching pad for lay leadership development. Its success was rooted in the commitment of local leaders and the support of the mission.

The Legacy of Pastor Peter Knopper (1985–1988)

Arrival and Continued Impact (1985)

In 1985, Pastor Peter Andreas Knopper arrived in Eastern Highlands as a dedicated missionary and leader. His appointment as Area Supervisor of Mt Micheal Kimi Area of Eastern Highlands and his focus on Homu marked a new chapter for the school.

Strengthening Local Leadership through Practical Training

Recognizing the importance of empowering local laypeople, Pastor Knopper took charge of the Homu Laymen’s Training School, building upon its initial foundation. His approach was notably practical training laymen from remote villages like Okapa, Bena, and Homu in preaching, Sabbath School leadership, and church administration. Many of these trained leaders would go on to serve as elders and church Leaders.

District Oversight and Evangelism (1985–1988)

As District Director, Pastor Knopper utilized his skills as a mission pilot to reach the most isolated churches. His regular visits ensured that remote congregations received spiritual support, guidance, and mentoring. Under his leadership, the number of churches in Eastern Highlands grew from approximately 88 in 1982 to over 300 by 2024.

Homu, under his oversight, thrived as a center for evangelism and community development, including the operation of the Homu Adventist Primary School.

A Spiritually Memorable Farewell (March 4, 1988)

On March 4, 1988, Pastor Knopper preached his final sermon in Homu, delivering Acts 20:17-38, a poignant farewell to the Ephesian elders. His message, emphasizing faithfulness and dedication, deeply resonated with those present. Ministerial Secretary Chester Stanley later remarked that it was “perhaps the best last sermon” a leader could give.

Shortly after this inspiring message, Pastor Knopper tragically was shot down at this home after turning off the generator around 10pm, leaving an indelible mark on the Homu community.

His Enduring Legacy

Pastor Knopper’s commitment to service and leadership has continued to inspire. His family; Sherry, Belinda, and Jonathan served alongside him, exemplifying total member involvement long before the phrase "TMI" became popular.

Homu leaders still remember him as the man who kept the training school alive after Pastor Gate moved on, who broke the isolation of remote churches through regular flights, and who modeled unwavering dedication through his death in service. His last sermon and sacrifice made him a martyr figure, inspiring generations to remain faithful and committed.

Legacy Projects and Continuing Impact

Today, the Homu District proudly honors Pastor Knopper’s legacy through projects such as the “Homu District Pr Knopper Missionary and Upskills Training Institute” and ongoing evangelism crusades. The training and leadership development he championed continue to strengthen the church’s foundation in Homu and beyond.

In Summary

From its humble beginnings in 1982, the Homu Laymen’s Training School has grown into a vital institution that continues to empower local leaders. Pastor Peter Knopper’s practical approach, unwavering dedication, and sacrificial service have left a legacy that endures, inspiring new generations of leaders to serve faithfully and bravely.

The Knopper family, 1987: from left Jonathan, Peter, Rochelle, Talitha, and Sherry. Photo courtesy of Corrine Knnoper, (Source from, ESDS)