The Inspiring Journey of Pr. Jeddis and Madam Ruth Hivae in the Solomon Islands
In the quiet village of Tombe in Viru, Western Province, lives a truly remarkable couple: Pr. Jeddis and Madam Ruth Hivae. Both 78 years old, they are retired but still radiate a contagious joy and vitality. Their humble home, nestled amid the beauty of the Solomon Islands, has become a place of inspiration, storytelling, and faith for the generations they have touched. Through decades of devoted service to God, this dynamic couple has changed lives across the Solomon Islands, transforming each student and each disciple they encounter.
Madam Ruth began her journey as a primary school teacher. Early on, she showed a passion for nurturing young minds, a calling that would soon take her far from her village. In the 1970s, she was sent to Fiji to study Home Economics—a path that would ultimately make her one of the first Adventist Home Economics teachers in the Solomon Islands. Her pioneering spirit led her back home to serve as a teacher at Kukudu Vocational School, where her lessons extended beyond cooking and sewing; she was known for her warmth, care, and faith that left an indelible mark on her students. Ruth went on to teach at high schools like Betikama and Kukudu, where her influence continues to echo in the lives of those she mentored.
Pr. Jeddis, meanwhile, embarked on his own journey of service, becoming a pioneer in Adventist ministry. His studies took him to Sonoma Adventist College in Papua New Guinea, and later to Fulton and Pacific Adventist College, where he deepened his understanding of God’s Word. Alongside Ruth, he worked as a teacher, imparting his knowledge of Social Science, Bible, and English to countless high school students. Yet his passion extended beyond academics; he had a particular love for agriculture, a gift he used to enrich both the minds and hearts of those he served. Pr. Jeddis became known for his unwavering faith and his commitment to mentoring future leaders of the church, inspiring them to embrace their spiritual journey with dedication.
Together, Pr. Jeddis and Madam Ruth have transformed lives across their homeland, instilling knowledge, instilling hope, and, most importantly, sharing the love of Christ. They have always led by example, demonstrating what it means to live a life of service. Pr. Jeddis is often heard sharing this timeless piece of wisdom: “You never lose in the service of God because His blessings overflow. Be faithful, and He will provide.” Their story is a testament to that truth, as they continue to embody a faith that has blessed not only their own lives but countless others.
Now retired, Pr. Jeddis and Madam Ruth still hold a special place in their community. With smiles on their faces, they recount the experiences and challenges of their work with warmth and gratitude. Their home has become a sanctuary of sorts, where visitors are welcomed with open arms and hearts full of love. They are a living testament to the impact of a life dedicated to faith, where each moment is an opportunity to guide one more student, one more disciple, toward a life rooted in Christ.
If you find yourself in Viru, don’t miss the chance to visit Pr. Jeddis and Madam Ruth Hivae. They remain an inspiration, a reminder of the profound difference that two people, filled with faith, can make in the lives of others—one student and one disciple at a time.