The Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM), the Most Reverend Leonard Dawea, has called on young people across the Province to take their faith seriously, follow the example of Jesus Christ and play a greater role in shaping the future of the Church and their communities.
Delivering his Charge at the 2026 ACOM Provincial Youth Conference held at Kohimarama, Archbishop Dawea reminded the young people that following Jesus is not simply about attending church or taking part in Christian activities. It is about allowing Christ to shape their lives, guide their decisions and influence how they relate to others.
His message centred on the conference theme, “Come, Follow Jesus, and I Will Make You Fishers of Men” (Matthew 4:19), which he described as a personal call to discipleship, transformation and service.
In his address, the Archbishop reminded the young people that Jesus does not wait for people to become perfect before calling them. Instead, He calls them as they are and leads them through a lifelong journey of learning, growth and transformation.
He encouraged them not to be discouraged by their weaknesses or past mistakes, but to trust in God’s grace and remain committed to following Christ each day.
The Archbishop’s message was a reminder that Christian discipleship is not about status, recognition or personal achievement. It is about obedience to God, learning from Jesus and bringing others closer to Him through the way we live.
ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGES FACING YOUNG PEOPLE
Archbishop Dawea also spoke openly about the challenges facing young people in Solomon Islands, particularly unemployment, limited opportunities, social pressures and the growing concerns surrounding substance abuse, violence, crime and other antisocial behaviours.
He acknowledged that young people are often spoken about in negative terms because of the social problems affecting some communities. However, he stressed that these challenges should not overshadow the many positive contributions young people make to the Church, their families and the nation.
The Archbishop said that Churches values its young people and recognizes their importance in its mission. He called for a stronger commitment to youth ministry, with more regular engagement and support at every level, from local congregations and districts to diocesan and provincial structures.
He also drew attention to the ACOM Youth Policy, noting that its objectives need to be revisited and translated into practical action. This includes strengthening youth ministry structures, providing adequate resources, developing leadership and creating opportunities for young people to participate in education, training, entrepreneurship and community development.
Beyond the Church, Archbishop Dawea encouraged young people to take a more active interest in issues affecting the country and the wider region. He specifically mentioned climate change, environmental protection, logging and mining policies, and the need for young people to contribute their voices to national discussions and decision-making.
He challenged them not to remain on the sidelines but to become responsible citizens who are prepared to stand for what is right and contribute positively to society.
In his concluding statements, Archbishop Dawea reminded the conference that young people are loved by God, valued by the Church and needed in their families, communities and nation.
Drawing on Paul’s words to Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:12, he encouraged the young people not to allow their age to become a reason for others to overlook their abilities or potential. Rather, they should set an example through their speech, conduct, love, faith and purity.
He urged them to be careful about the choices they make, resist destructive influences and remain grounded in their Christian faith.
The Archbishop also reminded the young people of their responsibility towards their families, particularly the importance of respecting their parents, preserving their cultural heritage and representing their families well in their communities.
He said communities need young people who are willing to contribute to peace, unity, social development and the wellbeing of others. The same responsibility applies to the Church and the nation, where young people have an important part to play in building a better future.
One of the strongest messages in his Charge was that young people must see themselves as builders of bridges, not walls. They should be people who bring others together, promote understanding and help maintain peace and harmony wherever they live and serve.
The Archbishop’s address was both a word of encouragement and a challenge to the younger generation of the Anglican Church of Melanesia: to recognise their worth, take responsibility for their faith and use their gifts and abilities in the service of God and others.
The conference, being held from 31 October to 6 November 2026, has brought together youth representatives and leaders from across the ten dioceses of the Anglican Church of Melanesia. It provides an opportunity for young people to come together in faith, share their experiences and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing youth ministry throughout the Province.