THE people of Funafou and Niuleni islands in the Lau Lagoon of North Malaita this year welcomed 2010 with the dedication of their new SDA Church.
This came 15 years after construction of the church building begun.
The Simi Memorial Church, Fakaloloma, was officially opened and dedicated before hundreds that gathered from across the Solomon Islands and Malaita Province.
Speaking at the church dedication, chairman of the Church Building Committee, Toata Molea said it took them 15 years to finally complete and dedicate the church.
The Adventist message reached Fakaloloma, now Funafou, in 1929, more than 80 years ago. It was brought in by pioneer missioner Pr Simi Pukekera, a man from Ranogga.
The first Church was built on the artificial island in 1934 and the first school erected in 1946. The first coral boulders as heaped in 1960 for a permanent church to be built and the first permanent materials for a permanent church building was installed in 1964.
Mr Molea recalled that full time construction on the Church began in 1994.
“Though many have criticised us saying that this Church should have been dedicated a long time ago, I believe God has his own ideas,” Mr Toata said.
“He built this Church at his own pace, his own time and completed it right on time,” Mr Molea added.
Mr Molea said that through the entire 15 years, they have encountered many struggles and hurdles which proved to be setbacks and a hindrance in slowing down the progress of the Church.
“It was only through God’s leading and blessing that we’ve overcame all these – some of which included finance which is a major drawback and customary land/sea issue.
“Let’s not forget that this is the Lord’s House. He built his Church and we were just vehicles and instruments that He used to finish His work.
“Lest we forget that we were just co-workers in the work entrusted on our shoulders. God did not need our effort and money. He just needs our time and commitment in building for him,” Mr Molea said.
Guest of Honor and the son of Pioneer Pr Simi Pukekera, Pr Brian Simi congratulated the people of Funa’afou and Niuleni for their untiring efforts in making the occasion a memorable event not only for the family but everyone that attended.
“This Church the ‘Simi Memorial Church is a fitting symbol to the work of God in this part of the island of Malaita.
“It stands as a living testimony to the power of God that alone can change the lives of men and women to become sons and daughters of God.
“I commend and congratulate all our Church members for your fine workmanship in erecting this building for the Name of God.
“Eternity alone will measure and value how much you have contributed to save the lost,” Pr Brian Simi said.
“We give our heartfelt tribute to Pr Simi Pukekera, the first pioneer missionary who landed on the shores of Funa’afou.
“I am sure he would’ve been proud to celebrate this special and historic event with us,” Pr Simi said.
By JEREMY INIFIRI
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