IT was 80 years ago when the message of the Seventh Day Adventist Church reached the shores and heart of the Lau Lagoon of North Malaita.
Up to this day, the Church itself and the power and influence of the three angel messages have reached far and wide within the lagoon and other parts of Malaita.
Commonly known for its many artificial islands, the people of Funafou Island in the Lau Lagoon this year celebrated 80 years of the advent message brought in by pioneer missionary and Ranogga born Pr Simi Pukekera in 1929.
Historical recollections stated that after trying to share the gospel in East Kwaio but was chased by the people there and had his wife and housemaid killed, Pr Simi then fled to North Malaita still with the faith, belief and vision of establishing the mission there.
Though faced with stiff oppositions by the majority of the seven tribes of Fakaloloma, now Funafou island not to minister there, it was through one of the village chiefs James Oeta that had the vision for education that requested for Pr Simi to help teach the people there.
In a very colorful and historical weeklong program, the anniversary involved a variety of both spiritual and social programs attended by various top officials of the National and Provincial governments, Churches, leaders of other villages within the Lau Lagoon and most importantly the families of the late pioneer Pr Simi himself.
“To the pioneers and missionaries from the Western, Choiseul, other parts of the Solomons and overseas, many of whom that have been called to rest, we remove our hats and salute you for only eternity will you see the fruits of your labour,” says James Bouro,” Chairman of the Fakaloloma 80th Anniversary Committee.
“We have indeed come this far by faith,” Mr Bouro added.
Guest speaker and Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare in his remarks commended the church and the leaders of Funafou Islands for organising the historic event.
“At the outset I am duty bound on behalf of the Government and people of Solomon Islands to acknowledge the contribution of the SDA Church in the development of our country in the areas of health, education, infrastructure development and spiritual growth.
“Our coming to this island is to reflect on the way God has been so good to us.
“I am sure the pioneers who brought the gospel to these islands and have given so much in fulfilling their calling would love to see this day – the seeds they sowed have germinated,” Mr Sogavare said.
Activities organised during the week-long anniversary celebration included sporting competitions between the seven tribes, parades, re-enactment of how the gospel reached the shores of Funafou, nightly spiritual fellowships, and feasting.
The anniversary was wrapped up with the dedication of the Fakaloloma Simi Memorial Church and baptism.
By JEREMY INIFIRI
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