BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo
THE General Secretary of the Church of Melanesia, Andrain Toni, has called on the clergy to take greater responsibility in building a resilient Church for future generations.
Speaking during the 18th Synod of the Diocese of Ysabel, Toni said the diocese appeared to be relatively well resourced for its present ministry demands, but stressed that resilience required responsible stewardship of the Church’s people and resources.
He said a resilient Church was one that used its people and resources wisely while ensuring that its foundation remained firmly rooted in Jesus Christ.
“A resilient diocese is one that remains standing because its foundation is in Jesus Christ,” Toni said.
He challenged clergy and Church leaders to look beyond the present and consider what they were building for generations to come.
“The challenge today is whether we are building something equally strong for the generation coming after us,” he said.
Toni noted that the Diocese of Ysabel became a diocese in 1975 and has now reached its 50-year milestone.
For five decades, he said, the diocese had administered the affairs of the Anglican Church of Melanesia across Isabel, Western and Choiseul provinces, as well as the Russell Islands.
He said the anniversary provided an opportunity for the diocese to reflect on its history while also considering its responsibilities for the future.
According to Toni, the Diocese of Ysabel currently has 72 active priests, eight administrative staff, four zones, 31 parishes and 181 vestries.
The diocese serves more than 33,000 people, based on figures from the 2019 census.
Toni said the size and reach of the diocese demonstrated the importance of responsible leadership and stewardship of its human and material resources.
He also described the Synod as an important time for clergy and Church leaders to come together to seek God’s plan and divine wisdom for the Diocese of Ysabel.
Toni urged participants to use the Synod not only to discuss the challenges facing the diocese, but also to discern ways of strengthening its ministry and ensuring that the Church remained resilient.
He said the future strength of the diocese would depend on the decisions being made by its leaders today and their commitment to building a Church that could continue serving its people for generations to come.
作者:本·比卢亚
在杰杰沃
美拉尼西亚教会(Church of Melanesia)总干事安德雷恩·托尼(Andrain Toni)呼吁神职人员在为未来世代建设有韧性的教会方面承担更大的责任。
托尼在伊萨贝尔教区(Diocese of Ysabel)第18届主教会议上发言时表示,该教区目前在满足现有事工需求方面资源相对充足,但强调韧性需要对教会的人员和资源进行负责任的管理。
他说,一个有韧性的教会是明智地使用其人员和资源,同时确保其基础牢牢扎根于耶稣基督之中。
“一个有韧性的教区是因为其基础在耶稣基督之上而屹立不倒,”托尼说。
他挑战神职人员和教会领导者超越当前,考虑他们为未来世代所建设的内容。
“今天的挑战是我们是否在为后来的世代建设同样强大的东西,”他说。
托尼指出,伊萨贝尔教区于1975年成为教区,现在已迈入50周年里程碑。
他表示,五十年来,该教区管理着美拉尼西亚圣公会(Anglican Church of Melanesia)在伊萨贝尔、西部和乔伊索尔省以及拉塞尔群岛的事务。
他说,周年纪念为教区提供了反思历史的机会,同时也考虑未来的责任。
根据托尼的说法,伊萨贝尔教区目前有72名在职牧师、8名行政人员、4个区域、31个教区和181个教堂。
根据2019年的人口普查数据,该教区服务于超过33,000人。
托尼表示,教区的规模和覆盖面展示了对人力和物质资源进行负责任领导和管理的重要性。
他还将主教会议描述为神职人员和教会领导者共同寻求上帝计划和神圣智慧的重要时刻。
托尼呼吁与会者利用主教会议不仅讨论教区面临的挑战,还要探讨加强其事工和确保教会保持韧性的方法。
他说,教区未来的力量将取决于其领导者今天所做的决定以及他们对建设一个能够继续为其人民服务的教会的承诺。
Child protection training at Mary Mazzarello strengthens safeguarding and reinforces commitment to safe spaces for vulnerable people. The Catholic Archdiocese of Honiara has reinforced its commitment to creating safe environments for vulnerable girls, young mothers and children through a Child Protection and Safeguarding Workshop held at the Mary Mazzarello Development Center in Henderson. The half-day [...]
The post CHILD PROTECTION TRAINING REINFORCES MARY MAZZARELLO’S SAFE-SPACE COMMITMENT appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo
CLERGY FROM the United Church and the Anglican Episcopal Church have joined the Diocese of Ysabel’s (DOY) 18th Synod in Jejevo, Buala, demonstrating growing cooperation among sister churches in Solomon Islands.
Rev Hillary Bero of the United Church travelled from Seghe in Western Province to attend the week-long synod, while Rt Rev Lonsdale Hoamana of the Anglican Episcopal Church travelled from Honiara to participate in the gathering.
Their presence was acknowledged by DOY Bishop and Synod Chair, Rt Rev Christopher Hope Fihu, who welcomed the two clergies as guests and partners in the Christian faith.
Bishop Fihu said the Diocese of Ysabel was a vibrant Christian community with strong values shared across different denominations.
He said these values should be used as a foundation for strengthening the Christian faith and promoting greater cooperation among churches within the diocese.
Fihu said the current DOY administration was ambitious in establishing closer partnerships with sister churches so that together they could better serve God’s people and communities.
“We want to establish closer partnerships with sister churches so that God’s people can be better served,” he said.
Secretary General of the Anglican Church of Melanesia, Adrian Toni, also acknowledged the participation of Rev Bero and Rt Rev Hoamana in the synod.
Toni said their presence reflected the deep respect the Anglican Church has for sister churches and the importance of working together for the benefit of communities.
He said stronger relationships among churches could contribute to building better communities and, ultimately, a greater Solomon Islands.
The participation of the two clergies adds an ecumenical dimension to the 18th DOY Synod, which brings together clergy, church leaders and representatives from across the Diocese of Ysabel and neighbouring Anglican communities.
BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo
THE 18th Synod of the Diocese of Ysabel (DOY) has entered its second day of deliberations at Jejevo, with church leaders turning their attention to key reports and matters concerning the future direction of the diocese.
Day-two began with prayers, followed by an opening address from the Chair of the 18th Synod.
The programme also included a minute of silence and an address by the Secretary General of the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM).
Synod members are expected to debate the Bishop’s Charge delivered during the official opening of the synod.
Diocese of Ysabel Synod enters day-2. Photo credit – Ben Bilua
They will also move to debate the Secretary General’s address before considering a series of reports from senior church leaders and diocesan officials.
The Vicar General’s Report and the Diocesan Secretary’s Report are among the key items on the agenda.
Senior priests from the four regions of the Diocese of Ysabel are also scheduled to present reports on the state of their respective regions.
These include the Senior Priest’s Report for the Lawe Region, followed by reports from the Tuvano, Gaoma and Zamako regions.
The reports are expected to provide synod members with an overview of the work, challenges and priorities of the church across the different regions of the diocese.
The 18th Synod brings together clergy, church leaders and representatives from communities within the Diocese of Ysabel to deliberate on the church’s mission, ministry and development.
The synod is also providing an important platform for members to reflect on the Bishop’s Charge and consider priorities for strengthening the diocese in the years ahead.
Further deliberations are expected to continue throughout day-two as synod members work through the scheduled agenda.
BY BEN BILUA
Jejevo
BISHOP of the Diocese of Ysabel (DOY), Reverend Christopher Hope Fihu, has paid tribute to his predecessor, the late retired Bishop Ellison Quity, acknowledging his significant contribution to the ministry and development of the diocese.
Speaking during the opening of the Diocese of Ysabel’s 18th Synod, Bishop Fihu said Bishop Quity had served the diocese faithfully and left behind an important legacy that continued to shape the church.
He acknowledged Bishop Quity’s vision and commitment to reconciliation, saying his pastoral leadership had helped lay the foundation for healing relationships within the Anglican Church.
“As your Bishop, I gratefully acknowledge the faithful ministry of my predecessor, the late retired Bishop Ellison Quity, whose vision and commitment to reconciliation have left a lasting legacy within this Diocese,” Fihu said.
He said important steps had been taken during Bishop Quity’s tenure to heal relationships between the Diocese of Ysabel and the Anglican Episcopal Church of Solomon Islands (AECOSI) at Kolotubi.
According to Bishop Fihu, the reconciliation process was an important part of strengthening relationships and restoring trust between the two church bodies.
He also recognised the contribution of the current Vicar General, Reverend Dudley Palmer, and Diocesan Project Officer, Reverend Jacob Pitu, for their role in facilitating the reconciliation process.
“This sacred work was diligently facilitated by our present Vicar General, Fr. Dudley Palmer, together with our Diocesan Project Officer, Fr. Jacob Pitu, whose patient ministry helped rebuild trust, restore relationships, and foster mutual respect,” he said.
Bishop Fihu said the work of reconciliation was more than simply repairing institutional relationships, but was part of the church’s wider calling to promote healing, unity and mutual respect among its members.
The tribute also highlighted the importance of recognising the contributions of past church leaders as the diocese enters a new chapter under Bishop Fihu’s leadership.
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BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo, Isabel
THE Bishop of the Diocese of Ysabel, Reverend Christopher Hope Fihu, has delivered a powerful Bishop’s Charge calling on clergy and church leaders to remain faithful to Christ and carry forward the legacy of those who established the Anglican Church in Isabel.
Fihu made the call today [yesterday] during the official opening of the Diocese of Ysabel’s 18th Synod at Jejevo, Buala.
The synod is the first conducted by Bishop Fihu since his election and consecration as Bishop of Ysabel on November 2, 2025.
In his address, Fihu said the Diocese stands between memories and hope, strengthened by the faithfulness and sacrifices of generations who came before.
He said the calling of God now placed on the clergy was to continue their duties in the same spirit demonstrated by the pioneers of the Diocese.
“It is therefore with profound thanksgiving that I stand before you for the first time to deliver my Bishop’s Charge as your bishop, having been consecrated on the 2nd of November 2025.
“I thank Almighty God for His sustaining grace, the Anglican Church of Melanesia, my brother bishops, the clergy and the people of this Diocese for your prayers, encouragement and faithful partnership as I begin this sacred ministry,” Vihu said
He said the Diocese was built on a strong foundation laid by faithful bishops, clergy, catechists, missionaries, chiefs and generations of God’s people.
Vihu said their prayers, sacrifices and steadfast devotion helped establish and spread the Gospel throughout the islands.
“Their story is now our stewardship. The faith they received, they handed on to us; the faith we received, we must now faithfully hand on to those who come after us,” he said.
Fihu said the 18th Synod was more than a constitutional meeting of the church.
He adds that the gathering was not simply about receiving reports, approving programmes or discussing church administration, but represented the beginning of a new chapter in the common life and mission of the Diocese.
Vihu said the synod provided an opportunity for clergy and church leaders to seek the mind of Christ, listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and discern together the future God was calling the Diocese towards.
He also acknowledged the challenges facing the Diocese and its communities including climate change as a growing threat to low-lying communities and their livelihoods, while economic hardship continues to place pressure on families.
Vihu also pointed to social divisions and moral struggles that are challenging traditional community values.
Despite these challenges, Fihu acknowledged the continued commitment of clergy and parishes serving communities across vast distances with limited resources.
“Yet, these realities do not define us. Neither fear nor uncertainty shall shape our future.
“The church has never placed her confidence in favourable circumstances, but in the risen Lord. DOY will continue this new chapter with God’s help,” he said.
Fihu said the theme of the 18th Synod, “The Diocese of Isabel is a Resilience Diocese of God,” was both a declaration of identity and a call to faithful discipleship.
He said a resilient Diocese must be deeply rooted in Christ, steadfast in prayer, nourished by the Word and Sacrament, united in love, faithful in stewardship, courageous in mission and confident in God’s promises.
“It must be formed in us through a deliberate return to God, through repentance, worship, reconciliation and renewed surrender to Christ,” Fihu said.
He urged the clergy and people of the Diocese to embrace the new chapter with faith and courage, drawing strength from Christ and remaining committed to the mission entrusted to them by God.
More than 100 clergies and church leaders are currently at Jejevo to be part of the synod. The delegation arrived last week on board M.V Uta Prince 1 and M.V Southern Coast.
Special session will be conducted throughout the week until Friday.
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BY BEN BILUA
In Jejevo
THE Diocese of Isabel has completed construction of its new diocesan hall with support from the Australian Government and Maringe/Kokota Constituency.
Clergies, church leaders and delegates attending the Diocese of Isabel’s 18th Synod witnessed the blessing of the newly completed hall in Buala yesterday.
The new facility is expected to play an important role in supporting the Diocese’s programs, meetings and other church activities.
The completion of the hall marks another significant development for the Diocese as it continues to strengthen its facilities and provide better spaces for church programs and community activities.
Church leaders attending the 18th Synod welcomed the completion of the project, saying the hall would provide an important venue for future diocesan events.
The official opening of the hall is scheduled for Friday this week.
A delegation from Honiara is expected to travel to Buala to officially hand over the completed building to the Diocese of Isabel.
The handover will formally mark the completion of the project and the beginning of the hall’s use for diocesan programs and activities.
BY JOSES SAREN
An apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints met with about 1,100 members and friends of the Church in Honiara on Tuesday.
Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed the congregation during a devotional held on August 18, 2026, as part of a ministering tour of the South Pacific, the Church said in a statement.
He was accompanied by his wife, Sister Susan Gong.
“My name is Gerrit Walter Gong. Gerrit is a Dutch name, Walter is an American name, and Gong is a Chinese name.
“We each have a name. Treasure your name. Bring honour to your name,” Elder Gong told the congregation.
He reminded members that they carry the name of Jesus Christ upon them when they are baptized and partake of the sacrament.
Elder Gong urged the congregation to pray daily and treat others with kindness.
He also spoke of five gifts he said have come from Heavenly Father in the latter days: the First Vision, the Book of Mormon, the priesthood, the Church itself, and the temple.
“God is our Father, Jesus is the Christ, and there is a living Prophet on the earth, President Dallin H. Oaks,” he said.
Elder Kevin R. Duncan, a General Authority Seventy travelling with the Gongs, also addressed the congregation. He shared that he first found a Book of Mormon as a teenager and it changed his life.
“I witness that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, and another testament of Jesus Christ,” Elder Duncan said.
Elder Hans T. Boom, a General Authority Seventy and member of the Pacific Area Presidency, said the Book of Mormon offers answers to questions such as marriage and providing for a family.
“God has not forgotten those upon the isles of the sea. All He asks is that we keep His commandments,” Elder Boom said.
Sister Susan Gong compared life to a book, saying no one knows what the next chapter holds. She shared lessons she learned from her late sister-in-law, also named Susan Gong, during the final months of her life.
Sister Nancy Duncan told the congregation that the greatest service they can offer is within the walls of their own homes.
Sister Marjan Boom encouraged those present to remain faithful in keeping the Lord’s commandments.
Khalil Polyn, who is not a Church member, attended the devotional at a friend’s invitation.
“Today was about learning something, and I felt a strong feeling pass through me. I want to find a way to maybe become a member of the Church,” she said.
Nelson Nanama, a local Church member, said he felt the Spirit strongly during the messages shared.
John Junior Hoisei, another Solomon Islands member, observed that every speaker centred their message on Jesus Christ.
Steward Kausimae, a recently returned missionary who served in Papua New Guinea, said he was struck by Elder Gong’s message that the gospel is always true.
In a separate interview with Island Sun, Elder Goold provided additional context about the Church’s presence in the Solomon Islands.
“With only 12 apostles in the Church worldwide, Elder Gong’s visit to Honiara was a rare and significant occasion for local members.
“The Solomon Islands became its own mission in July,” Elder Goold said.
It was previously part of a larger mission that also covered Vanuatu and New Caledonia, he said.
He mentioned that a mission leader now lives in the Solomon Islands and oversees the missionaries and the Church locally.
Elder Goold said the Church has about 4,000 members in the Solomon Islands and almost 90,000 missionaries serving around the world.
He said of those, about 50 are currently serving in the Solomon Islands, most of them young missionaries from Tonga, the Philippines, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and Australia with one Solomon Islander waiting on a visa to serve his mission in Papua New Guinea.
The Church’s Pacific Area, which includes Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands, has about 629,700 members in more than 1,300 congregations.
Worldwide, the Church reports more than 17.8 million members in 32,000 congregations.
Elder Gong has served in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles since 2018.
Photo credit: LDS
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作者:约瑟斯·萨伦
耶稣基督后期圣徒教会的一位使徒于周二在霍尼亚拉与约1100名教会成员和朋友会面。
十二使徒定额的长老盖瑞特·W·冈(Elder Gerrit W. Gong)在2026年8月18日举行的敬拜活动中对会众发表了讲话,这是他南太平洋传教之旅的一部分,教会在一份声明中表示。
他与妻子苏珊·冈(Sister Susan Gong)一同出席。
“我的名字是盖瑞特·沃尔特·冈。盖瑞特是一个荷兰名字,沃尔特是一个美国名字,而冈是一个中文名字。
“我们每个人都有一个名字。珍惜你的名字。为你的名字带来荣誉,”冈长老对会众说道。
他提醒成员们,当他们受洗并领受圣餐时,他们身上承载着耶稣基督的名字。
冈长老呼吁会众每天祈祷,并善待他人。
他还谈到了他所说的五个来自天父的礼物:第一次异象、《摩尔门经》、圣职、教会本身以及圣殿。
“上帝是我们的父亲,耶稣是基督,地球上有一位活着的先知,达林·H·奥克斯会长,”他说。
与冈长老同行的七十位总权威长老凯文·R·邓肯(Elder Kevin R. Duncan)也对会众发表了讲话。他分享了自己在青少年时期首次找到《摩尔门经》的经历,并表示这改变了他的生活。
“我见证《摩尔门经》是上帝的话语,是耶稣基督的另一部见证,”邓肯长老说。
七十位总权威长老汉斯·T·布姆(Elder Hans T. Boom)表示,《摩尔门经》为诸如婚姻和养家糊口等问题提供了答案。
“上帝没有忘记海岛上的人们。他所要求的就是我们遵守他的诫命,”布姆长老说。
苏珊·冈(Sister Susan Gong)将生活比作一本书,表示没有人知道下一章会发生什么。她分享了她从已故的嫂子苏珊·冈(Sister Susan Gong)身上学到的教训,讲述了她生命最后几个月的经历。
南希·邓肯(Sister Nancy Duncan)告诉会众,他们能提供的最大服务是在自己家中的墙内。
马尔扬·布姆(Sister Marjan Boom)鼓励在场的人们在遵守主的诫命方面保持信心。
卡利尔·波利(Khalil Polyn)在朋友的邀请下参加了敬拜活动,虽然她不是教会成员。
“今天是学习的日子,我感受到一种强烈的感觉。我想找到一种方式,也许成为教会的成员,”她说。
当地教会成员纳尔逊·纳纳马(Nelson Nanama)表示,他在分享的信息中强烈感受到圣灵的存在。
另一位所罗门群岛成员约翰·朱尼尔·霍伊塞(John Junior Hoisei)观察到,每位发言者都将他们的信息集中在耶稣基督身上。
斯图尔德·考西梅(Steward Kausimae)是一名刚刚归国的传教士,他在巴布亚新几内亚服役,他表示冈长老的信息让他印象深刻,福音永远是真实的。
在与《岛屿太阳》的单独采访中,古尔德长老提供了关于教会在所罗门群岛存在的额外背景。
“全球只有12位使徒,冈长老访问霍尼亚拉对当地成员来说是一次罕见而重要的机会。
“所罗门群岛于7月成为自己的传教区,”古尔德长老说。
他提到,所罗门群岛现在有一位传教区领导人,负责监督当地的传教士和教会事务。
古尔德长老表示,教会在所罗门群岛大约有4000名成员,全球有近90,000名传教士在服役。
他说,其中大约50名目前在所罗门群岛服役,大多数是来自汤加、菲律宾、瓦努阿图、巴布亚新几内亚和澳大利亚的年轻传教士,还有一名所罗门岛人正在等待签证,以便在巴布亚新几内亚服役。
教会的太平洋区包括澳大利亚、新西兰、巴布亚新几内亚、斐济和所罗门群岛,拥有超过629,700名成员,分布在1300多个会众中。
全球范围内,教会报告在32,000个会众中有超过1780万名成员。
冈长老自2018年起担任十二使徒定额的成员。
照片来源:LDS
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BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Catholic mothers in and around Malaita Province are marking the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which will be celebrated tomorrow, August 15.
The Feast of the Assumption is an important occasion in the Catholic Church, commemorating the belief that Mary was taken body and soul into heavenly glory at the end of her earthly life.
The feast also serves as a sign of hope for believers, reflecting the Christian belief in resurrection and eternal life with God.
Buma Parish Mothers during parade yesterday. Photo supplied.
At Buma Parish in West Kwaio, celebrations began yesterday with a parade followed by an opening Mass.
One of the mothers, Maria Sao, said discussion sessions would continue today and tomorrow ahead of the main celebration tomorrow afternoon.
“We started our programme yesterday, with mothers from all eight zones within Buma Parish gathering for the celebration,” she said.
“We opened the programme with a parade and Mass. Today, we will have talks focusing on Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her assumption into Heaven.”
Meanwhile, Catholic mothers at Auki Parish are also marking the feast at Auki Island, where mothers from different zones have gathered for the celebration.
The Feast of the Assumption of Mary is celebrated by the Catholic Church every year on August 15 according to the Catholic calendar.
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SDA Signing Strengthens
Church Women's MOU
Two representatives of the Seventh-day Adventist [SDA] Church, Delmay Dalipada, Coordinator of Adventist Women and Barbara Kyere, Youth Representative, have signed an addendum to the historic Memorandum of Understanding previously signed on 21 July by church women leaders at the Inter-denominational Christian Women's Leadership Forum on Gender Equality Theology.
In July women representatives from four Christian denominations have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work together towards reinstating the Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA) Women’s Desk, approximately 12 years after it was formally abolished.
The signing was a major outcome of the inaugural Inter-denominational Christian Women’s Leadership Forum on Gender Equality Theology, held on 25 May 2026 in Honiara, Solomon Islands.
The forum brought together representatives from the South Seas Evangelical Church, Anglican Church of Melanesia, Roman Catholic Church and United Church.
The original article is available here: https://www.solomonstarnews.com/church-women-sign-mou-to-r.../
This marks an important step in strengthening inter-denominational cooperation among church women leaders in Solomon Islands, with all five church denominations represented within the Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA) now included in the MOU.
The addendum affirms the SDA representatives' support for the shared commitments outlined in the original MOU, including the proposed reinstatement of the Women's Desk within SICA.
The signing was formally witnessed by representatives from the four other SICA member denominations, as pictured, together with Lady Vunagi, forum adviser and wife of the late Sir David Vunagi, former Governor-General of Solomon Islands and Julia Nho, co-host of the forum and PhD candidate.
In this significant moment of shared engagement, discussions focused on the way forward for reinstating the Women's Desk, including the development of Terms of Reference for the Women's Desk, clarifying its role in bringing churches together on gender equality, and exploring how the forum can best contribute to and support this work.
This signing further strengthens the collective commitment to support women, families, youth, and communities across Solomon Islands through church-led cooperation, paving the way for future generations and advancing gender equality in Solomon Islands.
Author: Inter-denominational Christian Women's Leadership Forum on Gender Equality Theology
//End//
Photo caption: Back row, left to right: Sarah Belende Manedetea, Women's desk, Catholic Archdioceses of Honiara; Lady Mary Vunagi, forum adviser; Delmay Dalipada, Coordinator of Adventist Women; Barbara Kyere, Youth Representative of Kukum Seventh-day Adventist Church Church; Florence Naesol, National Women's Coordinator, South Seas Evangelical Church; and Matilda Maneniaru, Chair Lady Catholic Women's Council.
Front row, left to right: Sandra Rollands, Former President of the Mother's Union, Anglican Church of Melanesia; and
Clara Ramofafia, Women's Representative, United Church.
“GOING TO HEAVEN IS A SERIOUS, INDIVIDUAL MATTER” – EVANGELIST KARL JACK
Pastor and Evangelist Karl Jack emphasizes that the journey to heaven is a serious and deeply personal pursuit, encouraging Christians to reflect thoughtfully on their spiritual readiness for Christ's soon return.
Evangelist Jack, from Papua New Guinea (PNG), was among over 300 pastors who participated in the recent nationwide Solomon Islands for Christ evangelism campaign, hosted by the SDA Solomon Islands Mission from July 5–18, 2026.
Delivering powerful and inspiring messages at the Teteko SDA Church, Solomon for Christ site within the Stonefield Community in Honiara, Evangelist Jack reminded believers that there is no time to delay in preparing our hearts and lives.
“There is no shortcut to heaven. The pathway is through faith in Jesus Christ and accepting Him as our personal Savior,” he emphasized.
He encouraged everyone to examine and reflect on their faith, actions, and spiritual commitments, and to live lives aligned with God's will on this sacred journey.
“While we live in a world full of challenges, let us learn to confess, love, forgive, believe, and be baptized as we prepare for our Savior’s soon return.”
He also highlighted that many Bible prophecies are being fulfilled, as seen in the books of Daniel and Revelation, and signs of His return are gradually becoming evident, as described in Matthew 24.
“The time for salvation is now. As followers of Christ, we should take our spiritual preparation seriously before it’s too late. Let’s prepare our families, children, neighbors, and ourselves to meet our Savior.”
He added that understanding the significance of this spiritual journey serves as a reminder to live intentionally, with compassion and righteousness, as we look forward to the eternal life promised beyond this world.
“We are all on a spiritual journey. Whether we worship on Saturday (Sabbath) or on Sunday, what matters most is our commitment to living a life that reflects God's will on this sacred path.”
At the same time, he encouraged believers to seek truth in the Bible.
“True understanding is found in the Word of God. While fellowship is important, the Bible is our ultimate guide.”
The two-week program united people through gospel messages and uplifting songs, resulting in 29 individuals making a decision to follow Christ through baptism at the conclusion of the event at Teteko SDA Church.
- TETEKO SDA CHURCH COMMUNICATIONS
One hundred years after the first Seventh-day Adventist mission arrived on Guadalcanal, the Seventh-day Adventist Church is commemorating a century of faith, service, and growth.
A low-key programme marking the historic milestone was held over the weekend at New Tenabuti Community in Northeast Guadalcanal.
Note: This TV News Package was first aired on 27/07/26.
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在第一批基督复临安息日会传教士抵达瓜达尔卡纳尔岛100年后,基督复临安息日会正在纪念一个世纪的信仰、服务和成长。
上周末在东北瓜达尔卡纳尔的新特纳布提社区举行了一场低调的纪念活动。
Note: This TV News Package was first aired on 27/07/26.
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St. Mark Horabau Anglican
Church Dedicated in Aruligho
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
Hundreds of worshippers gathered on Sunday 19 July 2026, to witness the dedication of the new St. Mark Horabau Anglican Church in Aruligho, North West Guadalcanal, under the Sahalu Parish of the Diocese of Guadalcanal.
The dedication brought together Anglican congregations from South Guadalcanal and churches within Sahalu Parish, including Vila, Vatupilei and St. John Duidui.
Sister churches from the South Sea Evangelical Church (SSEC) and the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church also attended to celebrate the occasion.
The dedication service was led by the Rector of Kolina Parish, Fr. Edward Kalea, who served as the main celebrant.
During the Gospel message, the Vicar General of the Diocese of Guadalcanal, Fr. Clement Tino, preached from 2 Chronicles 7:14, reflecting on God's dedication of King Solomon's Temple and the importance of living faithful Christian lives.
"This is the place where our hearts, minds and souls are shared, and where we stand in a right relationship with God," Fr. Tino said.
He reminded the congregation that everyone entering the church should understand what God expects from His people.
Fr. Tino highlighted four key principles from the scripture: to humble ourselves before God, remain committed to daily prayer, seek the Lord with all our hearts, minds and souls, and turn away from sinful ways.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the newly dedicated St. Mark Horabau Church, George Hili, thanked the hardworking members of the church for their dedication and commitment throughout the preparation of the project.
He also acknowledged churches from South Guadalcanal, congregations within Sahalu Parish, and sister churches for their support and participation during the dedication program.
Mr. Hili paid tribute to those who had planned and envisioned the establishment of St. Mark Church over the years, saying their dream had now become a reality.
The celebration concluded with a community feast, cultural performances, and Christian singing and dancing, marking a joyful milestone for the people of Horabau and the wider Sahalu Parish.
DIOCESE OF CENTRAL MELANESIA
OPENS 22ND DIOCESAN SYNOD
“Connected and United in Christ for Holistic Growth”
The Diocese of Central Melanesia (DoCM)has officially opened its 22nd Diocesan Synod, bringing together clergy, parish representatives, Synod members and observers from across the Diocese for a week of prayer, fellowship, reflection and important discussions on the life and mission of the Church.
Hosted by Christ the King Parish, Gilbert Camp, the Synod will run from 19–24 July 2026.
The gathering began with a retreat and opening Eucharist on Saturday at Saint Luke’s Church, Herebae/Okwala.
On Sunday afternoon the synod delegates marked the formal opening marked by a procession of clergy and representatives from parishes across the Diocese, including the Missionary Parish of Rennell and Bellona, together with parish committees, Synod members and observers.
Around 80 participants are taking part in this year’s Synod.
For Christ the King Parish, this is a significant occasion.
Established in 1978, the parish is hosting the Diocesan Synod for the first time. Parish Chairman Mr Charles Maelanga welcomed the delegates and shared a brief history of the parish.
The Assistant Bishop, the Right Reverend Othnielson Gamutu, acknowledged and thanked Christ the King Parish for its hard work in preparing for and hosting the Synod.
The Diocese of Central Melanesia is one of the four original dioceses of the Anglican Church of Melanesia, established following the inauguration of the Province in 1975.
During the opening ceremony, the Diocesan Bishop, the Most Reverend Leonard Dawea, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia, formally declared the 22nd Diocesan Synod open.
As the Synod continues throughout the week, members will gather in prayer, reflect on the life and mission of the Diocese, discuss important matters and discern together the way forward for the Church.
Connected and United in Christ for Holistic Growth.
- ACOM Media
+7
中美拉尼西亚教区
召开第22届教区会议
“在基督里团结相连,实现全面成长”
中美拉尼西亚教区(DoCM)正式召开第22届教区会议,汇集了来自教区各地的神职人员、教区代表、会议成员和观察员,共同进行为期一周的祈祷、联谊、反思以及关于教会生活和使命的重要讨论。
此次会议由基督君王教区主办,会议时间为2026年7月19日至24日。
聚会以在希尔贝/奥克瓦拉的圣路加教堂举行的静修和开幕圣餐开始。
周日下午,会议代表通过神职人员和来自教区各个教区的代表的游行,正式标志着会议的开幕,包括来自伦内尔和贝洛纳的传教教区,以及教区委员会、会议成员和观察员。
今年的会议有约80名参与者。
对于基督君王教区来说,这是一个重要的时刻。
该教区成立于1978年,首次主办教区会议。教区主席查尔斯·梅兰加(Mr Charles Maelanga)欢迎代表们,并分享了教区的简要历史。
助理主教奥斯尼尔森·加穆图(Right Reverend Othnielson Gamutu)对基督君王教区在准备和主办会议方面的辛勤工作表示感谢。
中美拉尼西亚教区是美拉尼西亚圣公会的四个原始教区之一,成立于1975年省份成立后。
在开幕仪式上,中美拉尼西亚教区主教、美拉尼西亚圣公会大主教伦纳德·道维(Most Reverend Leonard Dawea)正式宣布第22届教区会议开幕。
随着会议在一周内的持续进行,成员们将聚集在一起祈祷,反思教区的生活和使命,讨论重要事项,并共同探讨教会的前进方向。
在基督里团结相连,实现全面成长。
- ACOM Media
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
An SDA group from West Rennell District turned out July 13 to clean up the Tigoa Meteorology Headquarters in Rennell and Bellona Province.
The group spent the past two weeks volunteering around the Tigoa station. The initiative follows a decision by the group’s committee to provide community cleaning services in the area.
Speaking to the Island Sun yesterday, SDA Western group leader Rodney Tuiaki said the effort was an expression of Christian faith.
He said the group wanted to demonstrate biblical teaching in action by engaging youths and families in providing essential community services, working “with faith and heart as Christians”.
The group has also cleaned the police station and the mini hospital in addition to the Meteorology office, Tuiaki said, describing the work as a reflection of Christian life and mutual support in faith.
Tigoa Meteorology Substation Officer Lewis Hopa thanked the SDA Western Rennell District on behalf of the Meteorology Office for its community service.
He said he appreciates the group’s tireless teamwork, noting that despite difficult circumstances, members had cooperated fully and lent a helping hand.
The group’s clean-up drive has covered several sites around Tigoa station, the police station on Sunday, and the mini hospital and Meteorology office yesterday. Their community service program is ongoing, with the next work site yet to be decided.
Hopa also noted that although no ships have arrived from Honiara for months following a recent ship fire, the community continues to rely on local food. He said the SDA Western group’s efforts show that working together and helping one another is the way forward for the community.
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BY JOY OFASIA
The Solomon Island Ayr–Townsville Anglican Seasonal Choir members gathered at All Saints Church in Ayr on the 5th of July to celebrate the 48th Anniversary of Solomon Islands’ Independence with a special thanksgiving service led by Bishop Joseph Keith.
During the celebration, Bishop Keith expressed his joy at seeing the Solomon Islands community remain strong in their Christian faith and committed to the work of the Church.
He commended the congregation for their heartfelt worship, saying the way Solomon Islanders sing hymns, dance, and pray with reverence is a blessing to the wider Church.
“The All Saints community has been deeply touched by the way Solomon Islanders worship God, Your faith and devotion show that God comes first in your lives,” Bishop Keith said.
The Bishop also thanked Solomon Islanders for their contribution as seasonal workers in Australia. He acknowledged that while many are working hard to support Australia’s economy, they are also sending income home to strengthen their families, communities, and the economy of Solomon Islands.
Bishop Keith expressed his joy at seeing the Solomon Islands community remain strong in their Christian faith and committed to the work of the Church. Photo credit @ Group Chairman Timothy Magusi
Reflecting on the day’s Gospel reading from Matthew 9:18–26, Bishop Keith spoke about the story of the ruler’s daughter being raised to life and the woman healed through her faith in Jesus.
He said the passage carries a powerful message for Solomon Islands as the nation marks its 48th year of independence. Just as Jesus restored life to the young girl, God can bring new life, hope, and unity to the nation. He encouraged believers to approach God with faith, reminding them that, like the woman who touched Jesus’ cloak, faith brings healing and restoration.
Bishop Keith reminded the congregation that this year’s Independence celebration falls on the fifth Sunday of 2026, making it a special opportunity to gather in thanksgiving, celebrate Solomon Islands’ rich culture through traditional songs and dances, and strengthen unity as one Church family.
Group Chairman Timothy Magusi thanked all leaders and members of the Solomon Island Ayr–Townsville Anglican Seasonal Choir for their dedication and teamwork in making the celebration a success.
“As your chairman, I am deeply grateful to everyone who worked together to make this celebration meaningful,” he said. “We came together in Christ to give thanks to our Heavenly Father as we remembered the 48th Anniversary of Solomon Islands’ Independence. Let us continue to uphold our faith, serve with joyful hearts, honour God, support both Solomon Islands and Australia, and prepare faithfully for the future.”
The celebration concluded with prayers of thanksgiving, joyful worship, and a renewed commitment by the Solomon Islands community to continue living out their faith while serving both their homeland and their host nation.
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