The Central Honiara Constituency has donated a new three-tonne truck worth $388,000 to the Holy Cross Catholic Parish.
The handover took place on Sunday during the parish’s feast day celebrations, which brought together hundreds of parishioners in a spirit of unity and thanksgiving.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Central Honiara, Gordon Darcy Lilo, officially handed over the keys to Archbishop Christopher Cardone OP, Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Honiara.
Lilo said the donation followed a request made by Archbishop Chris on June 2, highlighting the parish’s important role at the heart of the capital.
“The Parish is situated in a strategic place—not only in Central Honiara but right in the centre of the nation’s capital. We should all be proud to be part of this Parish,” Lilo said.
He added that Central Honiara Constituency was committed to supporting institutions like the Holy Cross Parish because they serve people, especially youths, who are the future of the country.
“This is just the beginning. We will continue to support the work of the Parish in the years to come,” Lilo assured.
Reflecting on his personal ties, Lilo recalled his great-great-grandfather’s time as one of the first students at St Joseph School, Ruasura Island, East Central Guadalcanal, in the late 1800s.
He said his great great grandfather’s legacy in Western province was the gift of Vanga Rural Training Centre in Kolombangara and Longa in Gizo.
The MP further revealed plans to extend assistance to other churches, including the Anglican Church of Melanesia, United Church, and others across Central Honiara, through upcoming church grants.
“All of these assistances come from your resources. The constituency is only managing them on your behalf,” Lilo said.
Archbishop Chris thanked Lilo and his team, describing the donation as a “double blessing” since it coincided with the parish’s feast day. He assured the truck would be used to serve the needs of parishioners.
Archbishop Chris also noted he had known Lilo since his time as MP for Gizo Kolombangara.
Recently, the Central Honiara Constituency office has also supported South Seas Evangelical Church’s National Prayer Summit in Honiara with cash donation.
