melanesia news

Partnerships

Strengthening Our Relationships Prayer, People, Giving Issue 73, Winter 2014/15 ’s the stops for their visitor, even though this was primarily a personal visit. The Government provided drivers and escort, and there was a customary “warrior” welcome at the airport. There was also a tropical downpour which necessitated much drying out of cassocks! The visit only encompassed two nights, but excellent use was made of the time. The Archbishop was able to meet The Governor General, The Prime Minister and the British High Commissioner In August this year, I was privileged to accompany (who has been such a good friend to MMUK). the Archbishop of Canterbury when he visited the These were important meetings with all wanting Anglican Church of Papua New Guinea and the to talk to their visitor about the challenges facing Anglican Church of Melanesia. the islands, but also the significance of the role of the church for the nation. There were useful Archbishop Justin, in the first two years of his perspectives on the current situation after the Archiepiscopate, has set himself the goal of “ethnic tension”, and also reflection on the visiting the Primates (Archbishops or equivalents) implications of the final withdrawal of RAMSI. in each of the thirty-five provinces of the Anglican (Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands). Communion. He will have achieved this by the end of this year. He deliberately travels very lightly The visit then went on to take in the cathedral staffed, but with his wife Caroline as these are with an opportunity for questions and answers intended to be personal visits to each Archbishop. with the large number of people present. This has been extremely valuable in establishing There was also the very moving visit to Tabalia, relationships, particularly with some provinces (Headquarters of the Melanesian Brotherhood) where relations have become strained. It has where the Archbishop dedicated and prayed at also involved some harrowing times, not least in a very fine memorial cross to the seven martyred the visit to South Sudan in the midst of civil war, brothers. where the Archbishop visited a town where there had been recent fighting. Bodies were lying in the street, and he had to consecrate a mass grave for the cathedral clergy who had been murdered. The Archbishop has probably now got the single most informed perspective on the Anglican Communion in all its variety. This then is the context of his visit to ACoM. Readers will not be surprised to know that both ACoM and the state structures of Solomon Islands pulled out

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 2 Visit but first-hand experience, helps the Archbishop to hold within himself, and to convey to others the real nature of the Anglican Communion. But of course what the Church brings is not just economic development, but the gift of the Good News of Jesus Christ. The opportunity to pray and worship with fellow Anglicans is what leads to a true deepening of relationship in Christ, and that too has helped to build up his care for and understanding of, the Primates of the Communion.

Unveiling the new memorial at the graves of the Archbishop Justin will be looking to build on seven martyred Brothers at Tabalia these visits to strengthen the Communion, and to Archbishop David hosted a very generous find ways for all to have a voice in the councils of reception at his home in the evening where a the Church. The challenges to our unity remain, good cross section of people were invited. It was but I have seen a building of trust that can only a particular delight to see Sr Veronica there, who help the process of reconciliation. was enjoying her home leave. She was introduced The Archbishop has three significant priorities to Archbishop Justin, who slightly unnerved her for his ministry, the Renewal of Prayer which he when he said “Oh I have heard so much about believes is underpinned by a Renewal of the you!” Religious life, Reconciliation between Christians In amongst all this there was time set aside for the and between those torn by conflict, and a two Archbishops to talk without staff. I know that Renewed Evangelism. All these elements find Archbishop Justin finds these encounters deeply expression in ACoM. The Archbishop was very helpful and significant. interested in the form of Religious Life undertaken by both the Melanesian Brothers and Sisters of But what does the Archbishop come away with? Melanesia as well as the other two “life vows” I am privileged to read his post visit reports, and orders. The importance of reconciliation is clearly I am always impressed by how much he grasps an important theme still post tension, and the the essential nature of the places he visits. For deepening of faith and the gifts that Melanesians someone like him who is very experienced can bring to this country had already caught his with African conditions and circumstances, I attention and interest. These are all areas where was very interested by how struck he was by ACoM can contribute as well as learn, and I know the challenge of communications in the Pacific. Archbishop Justin was inspired by so much of Whether it is the mountainous terrain of PNG, or what he saw. the small scattered islands of Solomon Islands and Archbishop David and many others felt great Vanuatu, he considered the issues of remoteness encouragement from the visit, and there was as challenging as anywhere that he had a very appreciative lead article in the Solomon encountered. He was very clear about both the Star. As we learn time and time again in MMUK, current contribution the church makes to human face to face encounters in the right spirit can flourishing, and the great potential for more. (The achieve so much. I for one am delighted that work of MMUK in organising the Round Table Archbishop Justin has made the huge effort to go Conference was referenced several times to him.) to the Communion. Pray for him as he seeks to The economic challenges for Solomon Islands build on these visits and help the whole are greater than for PNG, and looming over all communion to be both more aware this is the harsh reality of climate change already and more understanding of their rendering some islands uninhabitable. This brief fellow Christians. +Nigel Stock

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 3 New Mothers’ Union President Mrs Vunagi, the wife of Archbishop David, replaces Edith Koete. The vice president is Gwen Koke. Other office bearers elected are: Link Secretary Rebecca Tahosanau and Literacy Secretary Sarah Sikivape They will hold office for three years. Following her election Mary attended a Mothers’ Union Provincial Presidents Conference in Herefordshire, and also met with supporters and school children from Chester, Exeter and Monmouth Dioceses. Mary sent the following message following her visit. Thanks so much for the hospitality you provided for me and privilege to visit schools and meet friends. Please convey my gratitude to everyone. The Mothers’ Union Provincial Presidents Conference was inspiring and has broadened my Mary with members of the Mothers’ Union knowledge of Mothers’ Union worldwide. Back in Chester Diocese home I was able to meet with the ACoM Diocesan Presidents who were here for the General Synod, THE Anglican Church of Melanesia’s Provincial and updated them of the Conference and to give Mothers Union General Council has elected Mary them their link Dioceses. Vunagi as its new Provincial President at its 13th Provincial General Conference. With all our love to our many friends there in UK. God Bless, Mary Vunagi Mothers’ Union Wave of Prayer

Every day a wave of prayer goes around the world as MU members stop at midday and pray for the work of Mothers’ Union and international issues. During a year every Mothers’ Union region is prayed for at least once, and in 2015 the following Melanesian Dioceses will be prayed for, some with UK prayer partners. If you live in any of the UK linked dioceses and would like more information on the Mothers’ Union in Melanesia, please contact MMUK to request resources and guest speakers.

8th – 10th January Hanuato’o with West Yorkshire & the Dales 5th – 7th March Ysabel – no UK links 29th June – 1st July Temotu with Leicester 20th – 22nd August Guadalcanal with Sheffield 14th – 16th September Central Solomons – no UK links 1st – 3rd October Vanuatu & New Caledonia – no UK links 5th – 7th October Central Melanesia – no UK links 8th – 10th October Malaita with Monmouth, Wales 14th – 16th December Banks & Torres with Derry & Raphoe, Ireland

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 4 Flood Appeal Update Following the floods in Honiara in April 2014, For example at Selwyn College, where the river when MMUK supporters were so generous in has moved closer to the main buildings during the appeal for funds, here is the proposal for the the latest disaster. Disaster Funds Allocation in the Reconstruction It is important to emphasise that ACoM will not Phase, from ACoM ‘s General Secretary Dr double up on the reconstruction activity being Abraham Hauriasi undertaken by the National Disaster Committee ACoM will focus its reconstruction expenditures for community rehousing projects and similar on ACoM’s communities, specifically Church and expenditure. parish facilities, church members’ accommodation, For some of the specific projects, we have to facilities at the Religious Orders and other await the individual recommendations to be institutions damaged by the floods. This includes made by the Dioceses of Guadalcanal and Central the repair of water pumps and drainage facilities Melanesia, as well as the final reports from the damaged by the floods at these locations. religious orders and affected schools. To the extent that there are sufficient funds after Dr Abraham Hauriasi meeting the above, we will also use some funding for preventative work against future floods. Thank you

Each year MMUK organises two shipments to In memory of Desmond Probets, his children Melanesia containing items requested by the Sarah, Julian, Jeremy, Emma and Jonathan will Anglican Church, Mothers’ Union and the four be running the Brighton Half Marathon on 22nd religious orders. One recent request was for February 2015, to raise money for projects in theology books for the Society of St Francis’ library. Melanesia. If you would like to sponsor them, Here is the response received from Br. Francis. please contact MMUK or visit - http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/giving I on behalf of our Franciscan brothers in Melanesia, would like to acknowledge the support rendered to the Society of St Francis - in the province of the Solomon islands, especially for the Double the learning gifts and likewise, your prayers. It has shown to us Imagine turning up at school early to ensure how much you loved us. We’re happy and looking you got a desk to work at. This was the reality at forward to the same support. one ACoM school. But pupils now at St Francis Vaturanga have Thank you and God Bless. Br. Francis. new desks thanks to supporters. Thirteen double Since April Devon CofE Schools have raised desks have been £484.38 by holding various fund raising events to made in the buy resources for ACoM Schools. carpentry classes by Year 3 at Selwyn College, Thanks to the many parishes who continue to providing practical support MMUK. Do let the Charity know if you are experience for planning a fund-raising event. These can now also the pupils be listed on - there. http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/giving

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 5 Peace Building

Head Brother Matthias MBH, Fr Graham Mark, provided security at ports and airports so that vital Coordinator of ACoM’s Peace and Reconciliation supplies could be imported. They provided safe team and Revd Richard Carter recently transport for evacuees and collected weapons to contributed to a consultation on the peace help restore peace, disposing of them at sea. They building capacity of the Anglican Church. In camped on the front line between the militants collaboration with the Anglican Alliance, Coventry for months, refusing to give up on the young men Cathedral and Lambeth Palace, individuals from so much like themselves. Seven of the brothers around the Anglican Communion were brought were killed by one of the militia leaders, when together at Coventry and Lambeth for a three day they went to talk about possibilities for peace.” conference to examine the church’s role in conflict Andy’s hopes for the research are to share this prevention and early warning. learning on conflict prevention, bring together During the conference, Revd Andy Bowerman, Co- the best research strengths and the Church’s Executive Director at the Anglican Alliance, Laura experience with its extensive network of over 85 Payne from Coventry University, Professor Alp million Anglicans. Özerdem and Professor Alan Hunter of the Centre Andy said, “We expect that this research will for Trust, Peace and Social Relations, presented contribute towards building the body of findings from their field research carried out in knowledge and tools which will help address Solomon Islands and Nigeria earlier this year. conflict situations before they become violent. Laura said, “We chose Nigeria and Solomon Islands Where successful conflict prevention and early as the case study locations because they are so response mechanisms can de-escalate conflict different. Nigeria is a huge country, with quite an and serious social harms can be avoided. Damage even split of Christians and Muslims. The Solomon to economies, infrastructure and social relations Islands is a collection of islands which has a can be prevented. However, we will always need population that is recorded as being around 97% more long term solutions too. Often the only real Christian. During our visits to these countries we way to prevent violence permanently is to build wanted to find out what the church has been able the levels of trust and fairness in societies and to to do when violent conflict breaks out and where address people’s grievances. When we can do this, opportunities were taken and missed.” our resources can be used for providing public services and improving quality of life. We can Conflict in Solomon Islands broke out in 1998 prosper in peace.” over access to land, employment and other opportunities in the capital of Honiara, on the One and half billion people live in countries island of Guadalcanal. This was partly driven by affected by conflict, and they are three times growing migration from the neighbouring island more likely to be undernourished. The World Bank of Malaita. The church played a big role in the believes the cost of the average civil war to be resolution of this conflict with the Melanesian more than 30 years’ worth of GDP (a measure of Brothers at the heart of the resolution. national economic output). Conflict is more than costly. It is development in reverse. Laura said, “The Brothers were vital in providing much-needed humanitarian support. They Anglican Alliance Remembering Sr Ruth CSC at Ham, who worked and chairman of the Truth & Reconciliation served in the Solomons in the 1970s, Commission from 2009-12, and Dean of St living at Patteson House and Tetete Ni Barnabas Cathedral. Kolivuti. Melanesian Brother Thomas Dakatia Rev Canon Dr Sam Ata, Melanesian Novice Jackson Londo

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 6 Round Table Conference

was seen as a natural development partner in both Solomons and Vanuatu, because of the strength of its position in society in the two nations. There was a major emphasis on leadership training, capacity building and project management skills during the conference. Overseas participants came from Australia – Anglican Board of Mission, Anglican Overseas Aid, New Zealand – Anglican Missions Board, UK and USA. Honiara-based participants included delegates from Mothers’ Round Table Conference delegates Union, OXFAM, World Vision, Save the Honiara June 2014 Children and SIDC, as well as the UNDP Global Environment Fund’s Small Business Financing Unit. The Anglican Church of Melanesia held a successful three-day working conference for its The Melanesian Mission UK assisted ACoM in partner agencies in Honiara with the assistance of making the arrangements for the Round Table, MMUK. and trustees Andrew Cartwright and Sr Veronica were present throughout. Fr James Oulds and Over 50 delegates attended from 5th to 7th wife Marilyn provided the essential pastoral and June, drawn equally from the different parts of administration support. Fr James is Archbishop the Anglican Church’s organisation in Solomons David’s Commissary in Australia. Islands and Vanuatu, and from representatives of overseas Mission Agencies and a number of the NGOs based in Honiara. Archbishop David Vunagi, who chaired the Round Table, said: “This was a first for the Church, as there has never been a meeting before of so many of our partners, together with the Bishops and many representatives of other parts of the Church at one time. We hope to repeat this in about three The British High Commissioner, Dominic years when it will be a good moment to review Meiklejohn, was one of the keynote speakers developments.” at the conference, and also hosted a reception Priorities and communication were the key words at his residence for all the delegates and other throughout the conference. invited guests at the end of the second day. His At the conference, Abraham Hauriasi, General Excellency the Governor General was present at Secretary of ACoM, first reviewed the Church’s the reception. priorities for development over the next three The Round Table had been planned before the years, which were based on its latest Strategic tragic flooding in April. All those present agreed Plan. that these events underlined the importance of Detailed situations were then presented and good cooperation between all parties including discussed by the group in the context of each of the church, as being vital to the effective the priorities, leading to a series of agreed actions delivery of relief and development and next steps. services then and in the future. Many of the agencies and NGOs said that ACoM

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 7 Unseen Chain

The Anglican Province of Papua New Guinea

Journey through Lent in Prayer with the Religious Communities of Melanesia In the Melanesian English Prayer Book the Religious Communities pray a special prayer for Absent Friends: LORD our God, you are in every place and no space of land or sea can ever separate us from you, we know that those who are far from each other are still with you, and we pray you keep at the rising again of the just, and go in together in your holy care those dear ones from whom we to that house of many rooms which you have now are separated, that both they and we coming prepared for them that truly love you, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Lent 2015 provides a wonderful opportunity to renew and strengthen our collective prayer for the Religious Communities in Melanesia. Lent is a time for listening and tuning our nearer to you, may come nearer to each other, hearts to the heartbeat of God’s love pulsating held together by the unseen chain of your love, in throughout our world, and throughout our lives in the holy union of your Saints, so that whether times of prayer, work, community, and rest. or not, as seems best to you, King of heaven, we meet together again here Here is an invitation to join a global pilgrimage of on earth, we may surely meet again prayer this Lent by taking five simple steps:

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 8 Membership 2014/15 : tear-out section To ensure that you are kept up to date with all that is happening with the Melanesian Mission in Melanesia and in the UK, please can you complete this tear-out section and return it to the Executive Officer.

Membership of The Melanesian Mission is open to any individual, church or organisation interested in promoting the work of the Charity. Only registered Members can vote at the Mission’s AGM and elect the Charity’s Trustees. There is no subscription for membership, though it is hoped that members will support the work with prayer and giving. The Mission is required to keep an up-to-date register of all its members.

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Currently I am I would like to I would like more committed to undertake the information to following activities undertake these activities Prayer Support Personal Giving Gift Aid Parish Giving Fund-raising Events Organising Displays Giving Talks School Partnerships Graphic Design Skills Assisting with Newsletters Volunteering in Melanesia Other activities / areas of expertise available to MMUK In an effort to reduce costs, future magazines will be available online at http://mission.melanesia.anglican.org. The Melanesian Mission will only post copies to those members who request a printed version. Please indicate if you wish to receive a printed copy of this magazine, and for parishes, please state how many copies you require.

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The Executive Officer The Melanesian Mission 21 The Burlands Feniton Honiton UK EX14 3UN

Fold Fold

Many thanks for completing the form for 2014/15 of God’s love

The Anglican Province of Melanesia

1. Choose one Bible verse to accompany you throughout Lent. This verse will provide a rhythm and refrain for your prayer. 2. Commit to placing this verse in four locations in your home to remind you of the unseen chain of God’s love. 3. Pray this verse daily for yourself, your local 5. Your verse and your name will be distributed community and for the four Religious on a simple prayer card to Brothers and Communities in Melanesia. Sisters across the four communities in Melanesia who will pray with you during 4. Email your Bible verse to Associate and Lent. Companion, Catherine Duce cath_duce@ hotmail.com, who (along with Sarah 6. Indicate whether you wish to receive short Crompton) will be in Solomon Islands during reflections from Melanesia with quotes and Lent. (For those not on email, post the prayers celebrating different aspects of the verse to the Charity, who will pass it on to work, prayer and communal life of Religious Catherine). Communities during the season.

MMUK Lent Appeal 2015 Can you donate £20 for 20 kg sack of rice? This will provide 140 meals for a community. Cheques made payable to The Melanesian Mission and sent to the Charity: 21 The Burlands, Feniton, Honiton, EX14 3UN

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 9 CSC General Chapter and culture. It is important for us Islanders to preserve our identity and culture and be able to demonstrate them on special occasions. I am very proud of our traditions and treasure them as part of our cultural identity and diversity. The preparations for the General Chapter were demanding and challenging, but the Solomons Sisters worked Sister Veronica (far right) with the Sisters and their families tirelessly under Sr Kathleen, the Solomon Islands Provincial. The excitement The first CSC General Chapter to be held in the and new experiences, made them give of their Solomon Islands took place in September and best, and the General Chapter was a great success. was attended by 55 Sisters. The Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia (David Vunagi) In the midst of our busy schedule, we took a day presided at the opening service. After the re- out to visit the other Religious Orders. We visited blessing of Sr Linda Mary for a second term as the Society of St Francis Brothers at Hautambu, Mother Superior, we had the Life Profession of and then drove to the Melanesian Sisters’ Sisters Lillian Mary Manedika and Rachel Teku. Headquarters, at Verana’aso. At midday we joined Their vows were received by Bishop Nathan Tomé, the students at Selwyn College assembled in Bishop Visitor for the Solomon Islands Province. their Chapel, and we spent time talking about our Community’s work and ministry and the countries The Life Profession Service was wonderfully we come from. After a wonderful lunch we visited colourful and inspiring. Sr Lillian is from Gela and the Melanesian Brotherhood. The Assistant Head when she came to make her vows, her family Brother gave us a tour and we paid a visit to the dressed up in their traditional costume and seven martyred Brothers before heading home. presented her to Sr Linda Mary. Sr Rachel is from Ulawa and her family and relatives too presented On 18th September, some Sisters went to the her in their own traditional style. This is the first Cathedral and some to All Saints for worship. time in our Community in the Solomons that two It was important for the Sisters to experience Sisters have made their Life Profession together. Melanesian worship and also to meet people in these parishes. A feast is always given after the Service for everybody to share. The families of the two Sisters Finally we visited the Christian Care Centre. The presented gifts and live pigs to the Community as women and children were very glad to see the a token that they have freely given their daughters Sisters. to the service of God and His ministry. At the end of the General Chapter, I came back General Chapter business started in our newly to the UK with Sisters Anneth and Margrosa, who blessed Chapter House on the next day with will be here for six months based at St Michael’s presentations by Sisters from different Convent, Ham Common. Melanesian islands. Dressed in their own Sr Veronica, Sister of the Church & MMUK Trustee traditional costumes, they explained to the visiting Sisters their customs

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 10 First Group of UK Associates

In June the first group of people from the UK were Canon Brian Macdonald-Milne and Lesley Mackie made Associates to the Community of the Sisters from Ely Diocese, Katie Drew and Revd. Cate of the Church of Melanesia, at a special service Edmonds from Exeter Diocese, Revd. Richard at St Andrew’s Church, Ham, led by Revd. Richard Carter, Sarah Crompton and Elizabeth Grande Carter from St Martin in the Fields, London. from London Diocese, Lay Canon Barbara Rowe from St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Diocese, Olivia The Community of the Sisters of Melanesia (CSM) Maxfield-Coote a Westcott ordinand from Truro was formed in November 1980 by Nester Tiboe Diocese and Revd. Helen Griffiss from Winchester and three other young women from Melanesia. Diocese, joined Catherine Duce who is from The aim of the religious community is to offer London Diocese, to become the first group of young women in Melanesia the opportunity Associates in the UK. of training in mission, so that they may serve Christ in the church and society where they Catherine said: “I am overwhelmed that 10 people live. CSM also provides pastoral care for women have committed themselves to support the Sisters and teenage children across Melanesia. The through prayer and giving. Although not as well- community runs along similar lines to the known as the Melanesian Brothers, the Melanesian Melanesian Brotherhood with vows of poverty, Sisters are undertaking ground breaking work in chastity and obedience, which can be renewed the Solomon Islands, with very limited resources. every five years. “Four of these new Associates are also planning Associates pledge to support the community to visit and work with the community over through regular prayer for the life and work of the the course of the next year, to build their community, to support or help the community understanding and fellowship with the Sisters. in times of need, “I am praying that both spiritually and awareness for this physically, to take care religious community of the Sisters when increases across they are visiting their the UK and more area and homes and to people are inspired extend the ministry of to support the Sisters the Sisters. and Novices,” said Catherine Duce an Catherine. ordinand from Westcott If you would like was the first person more information from the UK to be made about the Sisters or an Associate when she what it means to be lived with the Sisters in an Associate, please Melanesia in 2013. Since contact the Charity. then Catherine has been committed to helping the Sisters by increasing New UK Associates Left to right in picture: Top row - awareness of the community and Olivia Maxfield-Coote, Elizabeth by fund-raising for water projects. Grande, Katie Drew, Revd. Richard Carter, Canon Many people were inspired by the Simply Living Brian Macdonald-Milne, Revd. Helen Griffiss, Lesley Mission team which comprised of members from Mackie, Revd. Cate Edmonds, bottom row - each of the four Melanesian religious orders, Canon Barbara Rowe, Catherine Duce, including the CSM Head Sister Collin Wobur. Being Sarah Crompton. an Associate (or a MBH Companion) is a way of continuing a relationship with the religious orders.

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 11 Talk Champions showed great initiative in school, making their own resources and adapting some of the activities to match the age of their class. The children were happy in their classrooms and were keen to learn when teaching was well paced and the teacher was smiling and positive. However many of the teachers lacked confidence in their own abilities to speak English. They were shy and could be reluctant to participate. The same behaviours were quickly noted in the children in their classrooms. We encouraged the teachers to be ‘performers’; to talk loudly and clearly at the front of the class and to have the same expectations of the children. During the school summer holidays, three teachers from Devon travelled to Honiara to hold This visit was short but the impact was clearly a Talk Champions workshop with teachers from visible in the responses of the participants four of the Anglican Church’s primary schools. during the training and most importantly in the Expecting around 15 teachers to attend, Amanda engagement of the children in the classrooms. Parsons, Ruth Clark and Ruth Ingrouille where It would greatly benefit the children if the ACoM thrilled and a little surprised to find themselves Schools could agree how they can move forward working with over 70 teachers. utilising the skills of their existing good teachers and agree how standards can continue to be self- The purpose of the training, which was requested monitored. by the Church’s Education Department, was to explore different teaching strategies to encourage It was a privilege and a great deal of fun to work pupils to talk (in English) in the classrooms. Here with such a dedicated group of teachers. Thank the teachers reflect on their visit - you for the opportunity. During our time training and observing in schools, Ruth Clarke - Feniton CE Primary School we realised from the very start that the teachers Ruth Ingrouille - Tipton St John CE Primary School in the Solomon Islands share our same passion Amanda Parsons - Feniton CE Primary School and commitment for caring for the children and improving their learning. The issues we face daily as teachers are the same: how do we ensure the children are happy, are listening and are making progress? Sharing these issues helped us to relate quickly to each other and to build a sense of mutual respect. The teachers themselves proved to be ardent, diligent learners, and many (by the end of day one) were lively and keen to return to their schools to put into practise what they had learned. The hospitality we were shown could not be rivalled and we were impressed by the teachers’ willingness to give everything a go (with a little friendly encouragement!). The teachers

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 12 The three teachers were only in Honiara for a very brief time but the effects of their training are ongoing, with recommendations for further improvements left in place. MMUK is hoping to bring a ‘Champion’ from each school to the UK in 2015 to continue this training and to go back to share their extended knowledge in their school. If you would like to part sponsor a teacher or could host a teacher please let the Charity know. If you would like to read more about the teachers’ time in Honiara, you can read their travel log at http://pidginpost.wordpress.com. British High Commissioner Dominic Meiklejohn with Ruth Ingrouille & Amanda Great Conference 2015 The Head Brother has issued an open invitation PAPUA NEW GUINEA REGION NOMINATIONS for Companions to attend the Great Conference in BR. SAMSON GIS October 2015. Please let the Brotherhood know if BR.MARTIN OGOBA you are planning to attend. BR. KELLIOT BETU BR. JOE AISOUL Here are the names of the Brothers nominated by Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and VANUATU REGION NOMINATIONS Vanuatu Regions for the positions of Head Brother, BR. EXLY WOTAI Assistant Head Brother and Regional Head Brother. BR. GILLION MONAGAGI SOLOMON ISLANDS REGION NOMINATIONS BR. NATHANIEL TAGOA BR. JESSIE ARAIASI BR. GREGLY SINE BR. NELSON BAKO The Brotherhood requests that in your prayers you BR. DAVIS CYPRIAN remember these Brothers. BR. ALBERT IROGA Water Projects Many supporters and even a MMUK trustee have been busy over the past year raising money for the Community of the Sisters of the Church of Melanesia’s (Melanesian Sisters) water projects. Trustee Revd Martin Cox (pictured left), swam one mile at Lake Windermere as part of the Great North Swim sponsored event, raising over £700 for the Sisters. The initial fund-raising campaign last year installed a pump for the Sisters, and funds raised this year will go towards water storage tanks and sanitation blocks. Many thanks for all donations.

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 13 Archbishop David Tours UK

to see supporters in the Dioceses of Chester and , and also attend the inauguration service of the Rt. Revd Robert Atwell as the . At this service the Archbishop was joined by Bishop Willie. Thank you to all the Archbishop’s hosts.

In Chester with Bishop Keith of Birkenhead, Archbishop David and Bishop Peter of Chester Archbishop David visited the UK for 12 days in the summer. During his short visit the Archbishop attended a Melanesian Mission Trustees meeting and was able to feedback on the Round Table Conference. The Archbishop then travelled on In Exeter with Bishop Robert Atwell Bishop of Exeter Positive Parenting Programme The Diocese of Central Melanesia (DOCM) Archbishop David went on to say that the witnessed another group of Positive Parenting Positive Parenting Programme was one of the participants receiving certificates of achievement responses the Church of Melanesia has taken on at the completion of a twelve week course in board to respond to the many unwanted social October. behaviours that are currently affecting families, communities and the nation at large. A total of fifty participants from All Saints, St. Barnabas Cathedral, Vura and St. Peter Feraladoa The Positive Parenting Programme will continue and St. Francis, White River parishes came in 2015, with youths and young couples together at All Saints Hall to mark the closing encouraged to join the programme. of the training, which had been held in their MMUK financially supported this project ,and respective parishes and satellite churches. the Church has asked for an additional grant to “This ceremony signifies the growth of the continue the programme. If you would like to Mothers’ Union Positive Parenting Programme make a donation to this project, please contact in the diocese. I wish to commend all clergy the Charity. and prominent lay members of the church who ensured that the programme was carried out”, said Diocesan MU President, Mrs. Marylyn Chuchuni in Website Address her speech at the ceremony. In advance of further website updates planned for Archbishop David, who is also the Bishop of 2015, the MMUK website address is changing to the Diocese of Central Melanesia, told the http://mission.melanesia.anglican.org. graduates that the knowledge gained The recently launched ACoM website can be from the twelve week training was found at http://www.acom.org.sb and will also a valuable tool to be used in the soon be available at http://www.melanesia. family life. anglican.org.

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 14 Society of Saint Francis

This is to share our story of our two batteries stolen from one of our current challenges. our truck in the compound and were confused about how I remembered that in the past this happened. during Br. Giles’ times, there were lot of mute, deaf and The question I want to raise those with disabilities who here is, what shall we do to lived at the Patteson House, help these young men? There and were involved in small job are more and more of them opportunities such as packing and we may need to move soaps into boxes. Today we them, since we do not have still have Mr Mark Dedele who enough food to feed them. is working with the provincial press and living with Please pray for us as we try to find an answer. us. Br. Francis SSF However, now we have the prodigal brothers, well known in Honiara as Beligas, or stealers/ If you would like to make a donation towards robbers. They used to come in twos or threes in the work of the SSF Brothers, please contact the the friary just to have a shower and then leave the Charity. compound. This year we were surprised to have Good Communication ACoM’s Communications Officer attended a Additional training at Church House in London, training course in Birmingham, funded by the especially on Social Media, showed me the way Anglican Communion and MMUK. Aldrin Peloko forward in Melanesia. I see Facebook as a powerful writes: medium of communications within our Province and abroad. One of my plans is to create a This was my first visit to UK and I am enormously Facebook account for the Church of Melanesia. grateful for the warm welcome and smiles I’ve received everywhere I went. I enjoyed meeting Being part of the MMUK AGM and Festival at and learning from new friends in Birmingham, Chorley gave me much encouragement. The London and Chester. worship and the great joy and conviction shared together was very moving. I saw committed The Conference at Birmingham consisted of women and men putting their faith into action in presentations, interviews and practical sessions meeting the needs of so many in Melanesia. which has given me new insights into telling the stories in Melanesia. It was truly a wonderful With my trust and faith in God, I am confident opportunity to be at the conference listening to with moving our communications forward, with the Archbishop of Canterbury sharing his views all the knowledge and skills acquired from this trip on communications in UK. I was also delighted to to UK. learn and see how the Diocese of Chester shares Finally I wish to register my thanks to Mr. Jan information electronically – through email and on Butter, Director Communication at Anglican their website. Communion, Katie Drew of MMUK and all those Sharing of difficulties, challenges and strengths who have contributed to my very fruitful visit. with colleagues from other provinces of the May God continue to bless you in your Anglican Communion also shed some lights on respective duties. how I can address some of these issues. God Bless Aldrin

Melanesia News - Winter 2014/15 15 AGM 2015 Report

In September the Charity held its AGM and Church of the Good Shepherd in Heswall for three Festival Day at St Laurence’s Parish Church Chorley, years, following a curacy in Crewe, Cheshire. After in recognition of the great support Blackburn meeting Bishop Willie during a Clergy Conference Diocese has given to Vanuatu over the past 12 in 2010 and being introduced to all things months. Blackburn Diocese Board of Education Melanesian, Jacky followed up the opportunity has deployed its education specialists to advise to serve as a Chaplain at Selwyn College on the Vanuatu Anglican Education Department Guadalcanal in 2011. During this visit she also as its prepares to take back schools from the spent time with the Melanesian Brothers and the government. Blackburn’s Daphne Durham and Lisa Mothers’ Union. Jacky gives regular talks around Fenton have now made two visits to the region, Chester Diocese about these experiences. As a and at the Festival they were able to report on member of the Chester Melanesian Link Group, their work. Jacky was very involved in the planning for the Simply Living Mission 2013 and continues to work Aldrin Peloko ACoM’s Communications Officer was with the committee. able to talk about his time in the UK and Trustee Andrew Cartwright gave feedback on the historic Round Table Conference. There was also a video message from Archbishop David on the special To view the Charity’s accounts for 2013/14 visit relationship between UK and Melanesia. the Charity Commission website or contact the Charity. The Annual Report is available to view via During the AGM thanks were expressed to the Charity’s website or can be requested from the Jocelyn Squires who stepped down as one of the Charity. Archbishop’s appointed trustees, and a welcome given to Revd Jacky Wise, taking up this role. The next AGM and Festival Day will be on Saturday 19th September 2015. The venue will be Reverend Jacky Wise has been Minister at the announced in the new year. From the archives Of course the Melanesian Mission is not new to the with its historical links through Bishop Walter Baddeley, who was Bishop of Blackburn from 1954 to 1960, and was the seventh Anglican Bishop of Melanesia, serving from 1932 to 1947. The Parish Church of St Laurence along with neighbouring church of St Peter’s hosted the Simply Living team in 2013.

The Melanesian Mission is a Christian mission agency which supports the work of the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACoM) through Prayer, People and Giving. Registered Charity No 1104551 Many thanks to all those who have contributed articles and photographs for this edition of the magazine including; ACoM, Anglican Communion, Blackburn Diocese, Chester Diocese, Coventry Cathedral and Reconciliation Team, Coventry University, Exeter Diocese and the Mothers’ Union. Offi ce hours: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday. Katie Drew, Executive Offi cer, 21 The Burlands, Feniton, Honiton, Devon, EX14 3UN, UK Tel: 0845 608 1311 Email: [email protected] Web: http://mission.melanesia.anglican.org Twitter: @MelanesianM The office will be closed from Friday 19th December 2014 until Tuesday 13th January 2015

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