Anglican Churches in South Malaita Prepare for Major Diocesan Event

By Mary Idu Burumaea

Local Anglican churches in South Malaita are preparing for the first anniversary of the Diocese of Southern Malaita and Sikaiana (DSMS) and the official opening of the new diocesan headquarters, which will be located at Afio Sub-station.

The event is scheduled to take place on 23rd November 2025 and will be attended by the Archbishop, Mission Secretary, Liturgy Commission Worship Officer, and other senior staff from the Church Headquarters, along with representatives from other dioceses.

Speaking to SIBC News, Walter Lent Sinehanue, an executive member of the Diocese of Southern Malaita and Sikaiana’s Infrastructure and Development Committee, described the opening of the headquarters as a milestone achievement for the Diocese.

“Preparations for the opening are currently underway, involving the hosting parish and local communities in South Malaita. Residents in Honiara are also actively organizing fundraising activities to support the event,” said Mr. Sinehanue.

He further explained that the new headquarters will provide adequate office space and serve as a permanent base for diocesan staff who have been working from temporary offices in Honiara for an extended period.

“Starting January next year, all diocesan officers including the Diocesan Bishop, Mission Secretary, Diocesan Secretary, Treasurer, and administrative officers will relocate to our new headquarters in Afio, South Malaita,” he said.

The Diocese of Southern Malaita and Sikaiana is the 10th Diocese of the Anglican Church of Melanesia in the Solomon Islands.

Following the opening, the Diocese will hold its first Executive Council meeting, during which they will plan for the first Diocesan Synod, to be held in 2026.

Sinehanue calls on all parishioners within the Diocese of Southern Malaita and Sikaiana to collaborate and support the event, expressing hope for a successful and meaningful gathering.

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