Prayer Request for Ambae & St Patrick’s College

The Anglican Church of Melanesia is asking for prayers for the people of Ambae Island, Vanuatu, following renewed volcanic activity from Manaro Voui, which has led to ashfall across parts of the island, including St Patrick’s Anglican College (SPAC). Recent reports indicate that the volcano has been producing ash emissions and remains at Alert Level 3, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation closely.

St Patrick’s College Principal Drummond Tabi has reported that ash began falling on the school during the night, leaving a layer of volcanic ash across the campus.

“Ashfall was observed at St. Patrick’s Anglican College (SPAC), Torgil and Tumsisiro. At SPAC, ash began falling at approximately 9:45 pm on Tuesday (25th August) night. By Wednesday morning, we found that ash had settled across the school compound and had contaminated the exposed water catchment areas.”

The college has acted quickly to protect its water supplies.

“As a precaution, we have covered the water tanks and other water collection areas to prevent further contamination. We are also closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to protect our drinking-water supply for students and staff.”

For many schools, churches and communities on Ambae, rainwater harvesting is essential for daily life. Volcanic ash can contaminate water supplies and create significant challenges, particularly for boarding schools caring for young people. Similar concerns have been raised more widely on Ambae, where ashfall and acidic rainfall have impacted crops and water sources in affected areas

Mr Drummond explained the immediate concern facing the college:

“At this stage, our main concern is ensuring that we have access to safe and clean drinking water, especially for our boarding students.”

St Patrick’s College is one of the Anglican Church of Melanesia’s important educational ministries, providing education and pastoral care for young people from across the region. While the school continues to operate, staff are monitoring conditions carefully and taking all necessary precautions to keep students safe.

Reports carried by international media have highlighted the scale of the recent eruption, with volcanic ash rising high into the atmosphere and authorities closely assessing potential impacts across the region.

As friends and supporters of the Church in Melanesia, please pray:

• For the people of Ambae as they face uncertainty caused by the volcanic activity.
• For the safety and wellbeing of students, staff and families at St Patrick’s Anglican College.
• For adequate supplies of safe drinking water for the school and surrounding communities.
• For farmers and families whose crops and livelihoods may be affected by ashfall.
• For wisdom for government officials, disaster response teams and church leaders as they monitor the situation and make decisions.
• For God’s protection over all those living on Ambae.

We will continue to share updates as they are received from the Anglican Church of Melanesia and St Patrick’s College. In the meantime, your prayers for the people of Ambae are greatly appreciated.