BY DESMOND RAHE
More than 30 young people from the Anglican Diocese of Central Melanesia (DOCM) gathered at Foxwood, Good Shepherd Cathedral in North East Guadalcanal for a one-day leadership training.
The youth leaders initiated the weekend with a welcoming evening of fellowship, worship, and testimonies in the cathedral, where they shared their stories and reflected on God’s word.
The training held on Saturday, 16 August, led by the diocesan youth office, focused on leadership skills, spiritual growth, and practical tools for strengthening youth ministry within their local parishes.
Fr. Jonathan S. Tiaro, Diocesan Youth Coordinator, welcomed the participants and encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity.
“This is a time for you to learn, grow, and support your parishes,” Fr. Tiaro told the youth. “Take what you learn here and use it to lead and serve well in your communities.”
The program combined leadership sessions with worship, prayer, and group discussions. Youth were given space to openly talk about the challenges and responsibilities of ministry work.
For many participants, especially those attending for the first time, the experience was both inspiring and eye-opening.
“I learned a lot from this training,” said a youth leader from St. Luke Youth Vestry. “I believe it will help me in my leadership roles as a youth leader.”
Youth Chairman Casper Tamani also shared his appreciation to everyone involved in organizing the event.
“I want to thank the youth coordinator, the Diocese of Guadalcanal, and all youth leaders for their time and support,” Tamani said. “What we’ve learned here will add great value to our parishes.”
He also extended gratitude to the host community and church for providing the space for the event.
The training ended on Saturday afternoon, but the impact is expected to last much longer, as the young leaders return home motivated and equipped to serve with fresh energy and renewed purpose.
“We are ready to go back and lead with vision,” one participant said. “This is just the beginning.”
