The Community of the Sisters of the Church (CSC) together with their Associates, family members, friends, and supporters of the community came together to witness the blessing of a newly built wing of a Retreat Center at Tetete Ni Kolivuti (TNK), east Guadalcanal yesterday morning.
The Right Rev. Benedict Loe, Bishop of the Diocese of Guadalcanal, who is also the Bishop Visitor of the CSC officiated the blessing of the building assisted by the retired Bishop Nathan Tome who is the spiritual director of the CSC.
The newly dedicated building includes a large dining area and a spacious kitchen downstairs, four showers (2 upstairs and 2 downstairs), eight toilets (4 upstairs and 4 downstairs), and nineteen bedrooms (13 upstairs and 6 downstairs). This marks a significant step in fulfilling the late Sr. Kathleen Kapei’s vision for the CSC to have a fully complete space for retreat.
Rev. Sr. Veronica, the Head of the Community of Sisters for Church (CSC), in her acknowledgment speech, expressed her gratitude to all those who attended the ceremony and highlighted the immense support received from those who provided financial assistance, making the new wing a reality.
“Our sincere acknowledgment to the Melanesian Mission Trust Board New Zealand, Anglican Church of Melanesia, CSC in UK, the family of the late Sr. Kathleen Kapei, Saint Andrew’s Church Ham UK, and the continuous support from the Associates, families, and friends without whom this project could not have been completed; Rev. Sr. Veronica said during her speech at the ceremony.
Rev. Sr. Veronica also thanked Associate Sam and his boys for their dedication and commitment to successfully complete the job in less than a year.
‘The completion of this project comes as a testament to the dedication and determination of the community and their associates to honor the late Sr. Kathleen’s memory and continue her legacy of service; Rev. Sr. Veronica added.
The center, nestled in the heart of TNK, serves as an ideal retreat center for individuals or groups seeking spiritual solace and a quiet environment for reflection and contemplation.
The addition of this new wing enhances the facilities available to visitors, ensuring their comfort and convenience during their stay.
Sr. Kathleen Kapei played an instrumental role in the development and growth of the Sisters Retreat Center when she led the community from 2014 to 2016.
Sadly, Sr. Kathleen passed away in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and a vision for the future.
The newly blessed wing stands as a testament to the continued impact Sr. Kathleen had on the lives of those around her. Through her vision, the retreat center has grown into a place of solace, healing, and spiritual growth for many individuals seeking respite from the chaos of everyday life.