The Catholic Church of the Solomon Islands is preparing to mark a historic moment with the opening of a new parish in East Central Guadalcanal on 7th September 2025.
This remote and isolated area will soon receive the spiritual presence of the Church, as the Archdiocese of Honiara expands to 15 parishes, bringing Christ closer to the faithful in every corner of the islands.
Currently, the Archdiocese has 14 parishes, and this new parish is strategically located at the border of Ruavatu and Avu Avu parishes.
For the Catholics of the surrounding Kolobora communities, this parish will be a spiritual home where they can grow in faith, receive the sacraments, and participate fully in the life of the Church.
As this parish opens in the Jubilee Year, it is fittingly named: Our Lady of HOPE Parish.
Rev. Fr. Paterson, who has been faithfully serving the community, will be appointed as the first parish priest.
Under his pastoral care, the faithful will have regular Holy Mass, confessions, catechesis, and other sacraments, strengthening their relationship with Christ and the Church.
Church leaders see this as a clear sign of the growing faith of Catholics in the Solomon Islands, especially in areas that were previously hard to reach.
Archbishop Christopher Cardone OP highlighted the significance of this step, noting that the establishment of the parish reflects the Archdiocese’s commitment to bringing Christ to every corner of the islands, ensuring that even isolated communities are embraced as part of the Catholic family.
“We have chosen the name Our Lady of HOPE because Mary always leads us to her Son, Jesus, who is our true hope,” said Archbishop Cardone.
“In this Jubilee Year, this parish will be a beacon of hope for the people of East Central Guadalcanal, reminding us that no community is ever forgotten in the heart of God.”
The opening of this parish is more than an administrative step; it is a celebration of faith, unity, and the Church’s commitment to shepherding her people, ensuring that every Catholic, no matter how far from the town center, has access to the grace and sacraments of Christ.
– Catholic Communications
