“A MISSIONARY TRIP TO EAST KWAIO” PART 1

The sea lay calm as we departed Auki Wharf, heading northward toward the eastern shores of Malaita. It was around 10:35 a.m. when we set off, the October sun beating down on our backs as we bid farewell to Auki. The distant tips of the island loomed ahead, a reminder of the vast expanse we had to navigate to reach our destination. As we glided past the northwest tip of Malaita, specifically Bitaama, our first five-gallon fuel container ran dry. With practiced efficiency, we quickly swapped it out, ensuring the outboard motor continued its steady hum, propelling us forward. Ahead, an island emerged, marking our entry into the Basakana Passage. We navigated past Maluu, excitement bubbling within us as we neared the entrance to the breathtaking Lau Lagoon.

I could envision the distance ahead, drawing our destination ever closer in my mind. Our journey took on new energy as we picked up two facilitators at Kwailabesi and Hatodea, their presence adding to the anticipation of what lay ahead. With renewed purpose, we set our course straight for East Fataleka and Kwaraae, eager to explore the beauty that awaited us. With a new skipper at the helm, he expertly navigated the reefs of the renowned Lau Lagoon. His extensive sea experience and deep familiarity with these waters reassured us that we were in safe hands. Although I had spent five years pastoring in the Northeast District, this was my first journey through the Kwairada Passage, rather than the well-known Makwanu passage typically used to enter and exit the famous lagoon. Our skipper, Mr. Reeves Tagini, informed us that only fishermen and those intimately familiar with the passage typically navigated this route.

We glided past the enchanting Leli Island just after 3 PM, welcomed by the gentle mid-afternoon showers that danced across the water. Truly, God is good; we had traveled more than halfway through our journey without any serious storms to slow us down. It was clear that this was His journey for His purposes, not ours. As we navigated beyond Atoifi, Iuru harbor, and past Sinaragu habour, the anticipation grew—we were nearing the entrance to Oloburi. The little islands marking the passage came into view, their silhouettes framed against the vibrant sky. The sea remained calm and crystal clear as we slipped into the stunning Oloburi harbor, where the lush greenery of the mountains cradled Foulofo and Kingston Villages. I learned that Kingston Village was named after a Jamaican doctor, adding a touch of history to this picturesque landscape. As I watched the evening smoke from the village kitchens rise into the sky, vivid memories of my childhood flooded back. I was transported to evenings spent beside crackling fires, savoring the aroma of boiled cabbage and sweet kumara prepared by my mother. By 4 PM sharp, we made our way up the river toward Balafai Village, eager for the district meetings that promised new conversations, connections, and the cherished fellowship of our East Kwaio churches. Upon arriving at the shores of Balafai, we were greeted with a surprising, warrior-like welcome from a group of young men clad in traditional attire. Their presence signaled to the villagers and fellow visitors that our arrival had been noted and that the meetings would commence shortly.

It was a blessed week, brimming with prayer, fellowship, Bible study, and inspiring reports from local churches, accompanied by the beautiful, melodious singing of our East Kwaio and Areare singing groups. What inspired me most during this one-week visit was the unwavering faithfulness of the church members, who persevered despite challenges such as financial constraints, transportation issues, and the mountainous terrain that made travel to the campsite difficult. Yet, it was uplifting to witness these devoted individuals bravely journeying across land and sea, seizing the rare opportunity to gather for fellowship with mission leadership.

I was particularly motivated by the reports of the dedicated field workers and the steadfast church members reaching out to the unreached. This year's theme, “I Will Go to My Workplace in Preparation for the Final Crisis,” resonated deeply as I observed the local churches emphasizing outreach, guided by the rhythms of the farming cycle as they connected with their communities. New members were added to the church, and new congregations were established, a testament to the “I Will Go to My Workplace” initiative launched by the East Kwaio and Areare Districts.

We concluded the meetings on Sabbath, October 26, 2024, with the joyful baptism of 18 new candidates welcomed into the church of God. Additionally, we had the honor of officiating the signing of marriage certificates for 13 couples. Truly, God is great, and His wonders are worth proclaiming! Maranatha!

Source: Solomon Island Mission FB Page.