WOMEN of the United Church in Solomon Islands (UCSI) are this week celebrating their 5th Solomon Islands Women’s Seminar at Saeragi, West Gizo, Western Province.
The week-long program, which began on Tuesday 23rd September, will conclude on Friday 26th September.
It is hosted by the Central West Region (CWR) through its annual program for UCSI women.
This is the second time the event has been held in Western Province, the first being in Lengana, Simbo.
The theme for the seminar is: ‘Go and bear much fruit, fruit that lasts.’
The opening day was marked with a colorful procession led by women in their official uniforms, marching from the field down to the church.
This was followed by a devotion led by the host group, with the gospel message delivered by Moderator Rev. Armstrong Pitakazi.
Among those present were bishops from other regions, youth directors, the seminar chaplain, the bishop of the host region, and the director of theology.
In his remarks, the Bishop of the host region welcomed all participants, acknowledging the bishops, clergy, and congregations who joined the program.
“For the first time this seminar comes to our region. CWR is the biggest region in UCSI in terms of circuits, with 13 circuits and a population of around 15,000 members, spread across the islands of Western Province,” he said.
He added that hosting such a large gathering in a small rural community was a challenge, but the region was pleased to welcome participants.
Reflecting on the theme, he encouraged women to recognize their important role as mothers and leaders within families and the church.
“As mothers of many thousands of families of UCSI, bearing fruit that lasts will impact not only your homes but also your congregations, circuits, and regions,” he said.
He further urged participants to take lessons from the presentations, studies, awareness talks, singing, and dancing throughout the week to strengthen their faith and roles.
Women members from around Western province are participating in the women’s gathering.
By AUGUSTINE PENEVOLOMO
Solomon Star, Gizo
