
FROM: The Most Reverend Leonard Dawea, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia, Council of Bishops, the General Secretary, and the ACoM family here in Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.
TO: Lady Helen Lapli, children, grandchildren, family members, and relatives of the late Rev. Sir John Ini Lapli.
Dear Lady Helen Lapli and Family,
It is with profound sadness and deep sympathy that we, the Archbishop, Council of Bishops, General Secretary, and the entire Anglican Church of Melanesia, extend our heartfelt condolences to you on the passing of your beloved husband, father, grandfather, and leader, the late Rev. Sir John Ini Lapli, GCMG.
We learned with great sorrow of Sir John’s passing into eternal rest in the early hours of Saturday, January 18, 2025. Sir John was not only a devoted family man but also a remarkable leader who served this nation with humility and integrity. As the fourth Governor-General of the Solomon Islands (1999–2004), he made history as the first clergyman to serve in Government House, seamlessly blending his roles as a statesman and a faithful servant of God.
Born in Temotu Province, Rev. Sir John’s life was a testimony of God’s grace and guidance. Before taking up the mantle of national leadership, he faithfully served the Anglican Church of Melanesia as a priest. His ministry was marked by solid faith, dedication to the Gospel, and a deep commitment to the spiritual and social wellbeing of his people.
In this time of mourning, we draw comfort from God’s Word, which assures us of His eternal promises. As Jesus said in John 11:25-26:
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”
Rev. Sir John lived a life that reflected his firm belief in the resurrection and the hope of eternal life. We believe that he is now resting in the loving embrace of our Lord, where there is no more pain or sorrow but everlasting peace and joy.
To Lady Helen, your children, grandchildren, and extended family, we stand with you in this time of grief and uphold you in prayer. May God’s comforting presence surround you and grant you strength.
As the Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 4:7-8:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
Rest eternal grant unto him. O Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon him. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
In Christ’s love and peace,
The Most Reverend Leonard Dawea
Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia
On behalf of the Council of Bishops, the General Secretary, and all members of the Anglican Church of Melanesia.