BY NED GAGAHE
The 11th Diocesan Synod of the Diocese of Central Solomons (DoCS) has opened with a strong call for Christians to take active roles in God’s mission while remaining resilient amid modern-day challenges.
The synod is being held under the theme: “Empowering Christians to Recognise Themselves as Participants of God’s Mission in Order to be Resilient to the Challenges of Today”.
Delivering his remarks during the opening, the Rt Rev. Stephen Koete said the theme reflects the realities currently facing Christians in the Central Solomons, including changing social values, economic pressures and cultural shifts, a statement from Anglican Church of Melanesia on their Facebook page said.
Bishop Koete said the Church, government and customary leadership remain the three important pillars of island communities, adding that Christians must strengthen their faith while continuing to serve their communities in practical ways.
He said the Diocese must work towards building resilient Christian communities capable of responding to today’s social and spiritual challenges.
The keynote address of the synod by the Most Rev. Leonard Dawea, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia, was delivered on his behalf by ACoM Chief Operations Officer Peter Pitia.
In the address, Archbishop Dawea described the synod theme as more than just a ceremonial statement, saying it will serve as a guiding framework for the Diocese over the next three years.
“The Church exists for mission as fire exists by burning,” the Archbishop said.
He encouraged Christians to deepen their understanding of scripture and faith so they can recognise their baptismal calling and actively participate in God’s mission.
Both Church leaders stressed that resilience in faith is necessary for Christians to withstand modern-day pressures, including social change, religious pluralism and limited resources.
They also called on Christians to actively participate in mission work at parish, district and community levels while strengthening partnerships with government and education authorities to support families and young people.
The synod also highlighted the importance of reviving customary leadership structures to help communities address disputes, social change, alcohol abuse and family breakdown.
Archbishop Dawea said participation in God’s mission is not limited to clergy members but includes all baptised believers, who must take ownership of spreading the gospel.
Meanwhile, Bishop Koete outlined several priority areas that will guide the Diocese until the next synod.
These include building a Church that can withstand social and cultural pressures, encouraging Christians to become agents of peace, justice and hope, and strengthening collaboration with provincial authorities in areas such as education, land registration and youth development.
He added that both Church and customary institutions must continue to provide practical leadership and guidance to communities across Central Solomons.
The Archbishop encourages the Diocese to implement the synod theme through education programmes, workshops and mission activities that aim to empower clergy, laity, youth and church institutions.
He said these efforts will help strengthen the spiritual life of the Church and reinforce its role as a moral and community leader.
Bishop Koete concluded by thanking delegates, guests and the host community of Vuranimala for their preparations and commitment towards the synod gathering.
He reminded members that the life of the Church involves both challenges and peaceful moments, calling on the Diocese to remain united as it moves forward under the guidance of the synod theme.
A total of 67 synod members from 12 districts, two parishes, three institutions and staff from the Diocesan Headquarters are attending the meeting, which began on Sunday, May 31, and concludes today, June 5, 2026.
Photo credit: ACOM
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