Walking Together for Justice, Faith, and Hope in Oceania

The 7th Oceania Anglican Fono, hosted by the Anglican Church of Melanesia in Vanuatu together with the Diocese of Vanuatu and New Caledonia, gathered Anglican leaders from across the Pacific in Port Vila for a meaningful time of prayer, dialogue, and shared mission.

Representing the Anglican Diocese of Polynesia were our Archbishop Sione and his wife Taina, together with Vicar General Feiloakitau. Their presence reflected our shared commitment to strengthening the voice of the Church across Oceania and walking together in faith and service.

“Fono,” a Polynesian word meaning meeting or council, brought together Archbishops and General Secretaries from across the region to discuss urgent issues affecting Pacific people and communities. Key conversations focused on climate justice, labour mobility, and theological education.

A powerful highlight of the gathering was the address by Vanuatu’s Minister for Climate Change, Hon. Ralph Regenvanu, who called for global climate justice. He reminded leaders that Pacific nations contribute the least to global emissions, yet suffer the greatest consequences. His words were clear and urgent: climate change is not only an environmental issue—it is about survival, dignity, and the future of island nations.

The Fono also reflected deeply on labour mobility schemes across the Pacific. While seasonal work creates valuable income for families, leaders acknowledged the growing social cost—children left behind, pressure on elderly caregivers, and family breakdowns caused by long separations. The Church was encouraged to strengthen pastoral care for workers and families, ensuring that economic opportunity does not come at the expense of human wellbeing.

Delegates also visited the Malvatumauri Chiefs Nakamal, learning from traditional Ni-Vanuatu governance and the relationship between custom and Christian faith.

The Fono concluded with Holy Eucharist at Tagabe Parish, reminding all that the Church’s mission is rooted in Christ—called to serve with justice, compassion, and hope for all creation.