The Melanesian Brotherhood (MBH), one of the most respected religious communities within the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM), has successfully concluded its week-long centenary celebrations on Sunday, marking 100 years of ministry, faith, and mission across Melanesia and beyond.

Held under the theme “Celebrating Melanesian Brotherhood Centenary of Ministry, Faith and Mission,” the historic event brought together hundreds of Brothers, Companions, church leaders, and supporters from the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, North Queensland (Australia), as well as visitors from the Philippines and the United Kingdom.

Speaking to the paper, the Most Reverend Leonard Dawea, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia, described the milestone as a significant moment in the Brotherhood’s history.

“This is a huge milestone for the MBH, which was founded in 1925 to bring the Gospel to our people, many of whom were heathen at that time. 

“One hundred years later, nearly everyone now has the faith which is a clear impact of the Brotherhood’s ministry on the Church and society, not only in our country but also across Melanesia,” he said.

The celebrations began on Saturday, 17 October, with a colourful float parade from Honiara to Tabalia,the Brotherhood’s headquarters in Northwest Guadalcanal attracting thousands of people.

“We did not anticipate such a massive crowd. The turnout was overwhelming from the very first day, and the number of people kept increasing until the final day. It shows how important and impactful the MBH has been to our people,” Archbishop Dawea added.

Throughout the week, the program featured reflections on the Brotherhood’s century-long journey, addresses from prominent church leaders, thanksgiving services, and vibrant cultural performances highlighting Melanesia’s deep Christian heritage and traditions.

The week-long celebrations concluded on Sunday, 26 October, with an emotional ceremony marking the admission of Aspirants into Novices and Novices into the Brotherhood, a powerful symbol of renewal and the continuation of the Brotherhood’s mission.

Founded in 1925 by Ini Kopuria of Guadalcanal, the Melanesian Brotherhood, known locally as Ira Reta Tasiu, has stood for faith, humility, and service for a century.

Over the past 100 years, the Brotherhood has played a vital role in spreading the Gospel, promoting peace and reconciliation, and supporting communities across Melanesia. 

By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR 

Solomon Star, Honiara