BY JOY OFASIA
Honourable Cathy Nori, Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, has called on young Pathfinders to be bold leaders and faithful “trailblazers for Christ”.
In her keynote speech to hundreds of young Pathfinders during the official opening of the 2025 Central Region and Honiara Mini Pathfinder Camporee at the Solomon Islands Mission campsite in Betikama, East Honiara, Minister Nori challenged the youth to stay rooted in their faith and keep close to church life.
“Stay Close to God’s Work”
“Pathfinders must be the trailblazers for Christ,” Minister Nori told the gathering. “Be involved in the Lord’s activities, in the Lord’s church. Don’t walk away from church programs, because that’s where you will find blessings and a long life.”
She reminded the youth that staying connected to church and spiritual growth helps them avoid many of the social problems that affect young people in the Solomon Islands today.
Warning Against Drugs and Negative Influences
Minister Nori expressed concern about the growing number of young people turning to harmful substances.
“Many of our youth who stay away from church are the ones facing social problems—alcohol, smoking, marijuana, and now this new, dangerous drug called Copen and even methamphetamine,” she said. “These are dangerous drugs which will destroy your body, and your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.”
Quoting the Bible, she reminded the Pathfinders of the importance of living a righteous life.
“A true Master Pathfinder, a true Trailblazer, is Jesus Christ himself. Like the Psalmist David said: ‘He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.’”
Encouragement and Hope
Minister Nori encouraged the Pathfinders to enjoy their time in nature and take full advantage of the activities planned during the week-long camporee.
“This is your chance to enjoy the peace of the environment, meet new friends, learn new skills, and most importantly, grow spiritually,” she said.
She added that the camporee is a unique opportunity that many young people in the Solomon Islands do not get to experience.
“You are so privileged to be here. Make use of this opportunity to learn as much as you can. Focus on your spiritual growth, build your leadership, and gain the personal skills that will help you become a useful leader in the future of this country,” Minister Nori said.
The 2025 Central Region and Honiara Mini Pathfinder Camporee is being held from 22–29 June and includes participants from across the Central Region and Honiara, as well as Pathfinders from other parts of the Pacific region.
With a strong focus on leadership, faith, friendship, and community service, the event aims to shape the next generation of leaders in both the church and the nation.
Minister Nori left the Pathfinders with a key message:
“Be genuine. Be faithful. Be trailblazers for Christ. This country needs you.”
