A Heart for the Islands: SOMA Mission to the Solomon Islands 2025

By Rev. Melinda McMahon, National Director, SOMA Australia

In late September, a SOMA Australia team travelled to the Solomon Islands for a week of teaching, prayer, and partnership with the Anglican Church of Melanesia. Our group included clergy and lay leaders from across Australia, who joined with local church communities in Honiara to explore ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit.

From the moment we arrived, we were met with song, warmth, and overwhelming hospitality. Despite the tropical heat and occasional power outages, the joy and generosity of the Solomon Island people were constant reminders of God’s abundant grace.

The clergy conference at St Barnabas Cathedral became a space of deep conversation and learning. Together, we reflected on healing, deliverance, and Spirit-led discipleship within an Anglican framework. One moment that stayed with us all came when the Cathedral Dean asked, “How can we prevent what’s happening in Australia—declining congregations and ageing churches—from happening here?” It was a question that united us in shared hope for renewal across our regions.

Beyond the conference, we shared in village worship, a youth rally, and a baptism feast filled with singing and laughter. Our visit to the Christian Care Centre—a refuge for women and children escaping violence—was especially moving, reminding us of the power of compassion in action.

We returned home inspired, humbled, and grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ.

You can read the full mission report and watch the video presentation below: