Church leaders in Sandaun Province have warned over the damage the novel and movie "The Da Vinci Code" could cause on the Christian faith.

Speaking on a live radio talkback show, pastors Samuel Sabo of Newman Lutheran Church, Jeffrey Pais of Assemblies of God (AOG) Vanimo, Revered Joseph Toua of Vanimo United Church, Fr. Martin We-en of the Aitape Catholic Diocese and Bishop of Vanimo Diocese Cesare Bonivento urged Christians to be on their guard and to stand firm on their faith.

They also warned people not to let the book and the movie deceive them.

Pastor Samuel said he had seen the movie and warned it could make people lose their faith in Jesus.

He said the movie contradicted what the churches had been teaching about family values. The leaders said children, in particular, should be prohibited from watching the movie or reading the book.

Many listeners called to comment on the issue. A commentator suggested leaders call a public gathering to create awareness on the controversial movie and the book, and to come up with remedial action on the damage that may have been caused to the Christian faith.

The church leaders agreed to set up a committee to carry out awareness on the issue.