THE Most Reverend Leonard Dawea, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACoM)delivered an inspiring opening address at the 11th General Conference of the Community of the Sisters of Melanesia (CSM) held at Veranaso, the headquarters of the CSM, west of Guadalcanal this morning.
Representing ACoM and as the father of the CSM, the Archbishop emphasized the necessity of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ for effective mission and ministry.
Reflecting on the conference theme, “Empowering the Values of Mission of the CSM and Associates for the Prophetic Evangelists,” the Archbishop highlighted the importance of empowerment within the community. He noted that the retention of this theme from previous conferences signals a collective desire for growth and revitalization.
“Empowerment is crucial as it signifies a call for improvement,” he remarked, acknowledging challenges that the community may face. “We must work to ensure that our mission remains vibrant and impactful.”
Archbishop Dawea outlined key strategies for empowering the Sisters, beginning with the novices’ training. He stressed that this period should not only focus on physical and academic development but, crucially, on spiritual growth. “We must mold their hearts towards God, allowing them to know Jesus as their personal savior with in their three years training period,” he urged, advocating for a holistic approach to training.
Additionally, he emphasized the significance of adhering to the three promises (celibacy, poverty and obedience) during admissions, viewing this commitment as vital to their identity as Sisters.
The Archbishop also called for a serious dedication to equipping and empowering the commission, urging participants to recognize the true meaning and intention behind their training exercises. He identified the Sisters as the most valuable resource within the community, emphasizing the necessity of integrating the Bible and prayer into their daily lives as foundational tools for their mission.
In closing, Archbishop Dawea reminded the sisters of their calling as prophetic evangelists.
“The best empowerment in your life is to have Jesus in your life,” he affirmed, encouraging the Sisters to deepen their faith as they continue their important work in service to Christ and their communities.
As the conference progresses, the Sisters of Melanesia are asked to reflect on these insights as they continue to serve in their mission and ministry.
The 11th General conference of the CSM officially opened yesterday with a Holy Eucharist service, followed by conference proper for the sisters beginning this morning chaired by the Archbishop and election of their new leaders will take place tomorrow. The Associates will conference will begin on Wednesday and a closing Eucharist on Sunday.
CSM Associates from Vanuatu and around the dioceses in Solomon Islands are all in Veranaso for this conference.