BY JOY OFASIA
Members of the Solomon Islands Seasonal Anglican Choir in Ayr, North Queensland, Australia gathered at All Saints Anglican Church for a special Melanesian service led by Priest Father Jeffery Akoai, bringing together worshippers in a celebration of faith, fellowship and cultural heritage.
Speaking online to SUNDAY ISLES, choir chairman Timothy Magusi said the theme for the service reflection was based on Matthew 9:35–10:8, which states: “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.”
Mr Magusi explained that the scripture highlights the moment when Jesus commissioned and sent out His twelve disciples to gather the harvest and minister to those in need.
“Jesus had compassion on the people because they were helpless, like sheep without a shepherd,” he said. “He instructed His disciples and sent them out to save the lost sheep of Israel.”
Drawing parallels to the work of Solomon Islands seasonal workers in Australia, Mr Magusi said the message remains relevant today.
“As PALM workers, we are called to gather the physical harvest through our work on farms across North Queensland and Australia. At the same time, the ministry we have established here in Ayr through monthly Melanesian Eucharistic worship, fellowship meals, gospel singing, traditional dancing, Bible studies and outreach programmes to Mackay and Proserpine has had a positive spiritual impact on many people,” he said.
Mr Magusi said these activities are part of the Christian calling to share faith, love and hope in Jesus Christ.
“We are the visible body of Christ on earth, and we must continue the good work that Jesus has begun in us,” Mr Magusi said.
Members of the All-Saints Anglican Church community welcomed the contribution of the Solomon Islands Seasonal Anglican Choir, describing the group as a blessing to the parish.
Church members said they were pleased to have the choir involved in church life, helping to strengthen worship, fellowship and spiritual growth among congregants while fostering cultural exchange and mutual support.
The Melanesian service continues to serve as an important platform for seasonal workers to maintain their faith, cultural identity and sense of community while living and working in Australia.
