BY DESMOND RAHE
The Diocese of Central Melanesia (DOCM) Youth Ministry, Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM) has wrapped up its 2025 Youth Rally, after five days of fellowship, learning, and worship at St. Nicholas Anglican College from July 2 to 6.
This year’s rally, themed “Jesus Christ Shaped Life” based on 2 Timothy 3:16, drew over 300 enthusiastic youths from more than 20 vestries across the DOCM’s seven parishes.
Fr. Jonathan S. Tiaro, the DOCM Youth Coordinator, described the event as a “vision and blessing” for the future of the church.
“It is a joy to organize and facilitate this rally. We are embracing and nurturing the gift of God in these young people—the future of the Anglican Church in Melanesia,” Fr. Tiaro shared.
Youths began arriving on July 1, and the rally officially opened the next morning with a colorful parade, speeches, and the exchange of gifts from each parish. Over the five days, participants engaged in morning-to-evening sessions that covered important topics such as prayer, worship, Anglican traditions, leadership, and discipleship.
“With the provincial youth convention postponed this year, we felt it was crucial to fill that gap,” said Fr. Tiaro. “Young people face many outside influences, so we wanted to bring them together in a holistic way—to focus on God’s word and spiritual growth.”
Each session featured local speakers sharing lessons and experiences aimed at deepening the youths’ understanding of their faith. Evening programs included powerful worship sessions, testimonies, and small-group Bible sharing.
For many of the young participants, the rally was more than just a church event—it was a spiritual awakening.
“I’ve never felt so close to God,” said Sarah, a youth from Vura Parish. “The fellowship and teachings helped me realize what it means to live a life shaped by Jesus.”
The event ended on Sunday, July 6, with a Holy Communion service led by Assistant Bishop Othnielson Gamutu. Afterward, the youth shared lunch and joined in cleaning up the college grounds—a final act of service to close the week.
DOCM Youth Chairman Tamani expressed his heartfelt appreciation:
“I sincerely thank my executive and all parish leaders. The time you’ve given was not wasted. Stay connected to God’s word,” he urged.
Despite a few challenges, organizers and participants alike agreed the rally was a resounding success.
“We’ve seen God move this week,” said Jane, a youth leader from St. Barnabas Parish. “Now it’s our turn to take what we’ve learned and share it with others.”
As the youths returned home, the message was clear: the future of the church is bright—and it is being shaped, one youth at a time, by Christ.
