Blessings of New Vocations in the Community of the Sisters of the Church

The Community of the Sisters of the Church in Solomon Islands Pacific Province marked Candlemas this year with profound joy and thanksgiving, celebrating several significant moments in the life of the Community.

On 2 February 2026, during a special service at Tetete Ni Kolivuti (TNK), the Sisters gathered to witness and give thanks for the blessing of Sister Jessica as Assistant Provincial Sister. Sr Jessica was appointed to this role during the Provincial Chapter in 2025, and her three‑year term of service now begins in earnest. The Community asks for your continued prayers as she steps into this important leadership ministry, supporting the Provincial Sister and guiding the life and work of the Province.

Candlemas also brought the welcome of six new Novices into the Community. These women have now entered the next stage of their formation. Over the coming three years, they will continue their training, traditionally spending their first year at TNK before being posted to working Houses in their second year to gain practical experience of community life, ministry, and service. Their commitment is a sign of hope and renewal, and we give thanks for their courage in responding to God’s call.

In addition, during Matins on this feast day, the Community celebrated the admission of three new Postulants. Postulants spend a year in initial discernment and training, after which they return to their families to reflect on the next steps in their vocation. Their journey invites prayer for openness, wisdom, and God’s guiding hand. Two further candidates were unable to travel to TNK due to bad weather and transport difficulties, a reminder of the realities of island life, and will be formally admitted once they are able to return.

Speaking on behalf of the Community, Revd Sister Veronica expressed deep gratitude for the blessings of this Candlemas and the signs of growth and renewal within the Religious Life in Melanesia.

The Melanesian Mission UK joins the Community in celebrating these joyful milestones. We give thanks for Sr Jessica, the new Novices, and the Postulants, holding them all in prayer as they embark on their journeys of faith and service.