Strengthening Families in Melanesia: Positive Parenting Training Empowers New Community Leaders

Encouraging news from Honiara, where a seven‑day Positive Parenting Training of Trainers recently concluded at the All Saints Mothers’ Union Hall. The programme, run by the Provincial Mothers’ Union of the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACoM), brought together a dedicated group of participants who are now equipped to support families and strengthen communities across the region.

The closing ceremony was attended by church leaders, facilitators, and representatives from the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs. The Solomon Islands’ Government Director of Family Affairs, Mr Jackson Tasa, delivered a powerful message, reminding those present that the family unit is the bedrock of society.

“If the unit of the home is not well addressed, you can imagine what will happen to our communities, our society and our nation,” Mr Tasa said, urging the newly trained facilitators to serve as agents of positive change.

He warmly commended ACoM and the Mothers’ Union for stepping into areas where government resources are limited, especially in supporting parents and strengthening family life.

The programme was facilitated by Lady Mary Vunagi, whose long‑standing commitment to family ministry within the Church is widely appreciated. She emphasised that many social issues facing communities today begin in the home, and that churches, communities, and government must work together to address them. ACoM General Secretary Dr Abraham Hauriasi echoed this, thanking Lady Vunagi and the Provincial Mothers’ Union for leading such valuable training, and encouraging the introduction of similar programmes for young people preparing for parenthood.

Among the newly trained facilitators, Mr Selwyn Kole shared how the course helped him reconsider his own parenting:

“I thought I was already a good parent, but this training helped me understand that I can still do better,” he said, speaking on behalf of the group.

Participants have now completed the first stage of their training and will return to their dioceses and ministry groups to roll out Positive Parenting sessions in their own communities. Their work will support families to build stronger relationships, guide young people, and raise children to become responsible and resilient citizens.

This initiative reflects ACoM’s ongoing commitment to holistic mission, nurturing faith, supporting families, and transforming communities.

MMUK gives thanks for the Mothers’ Union in Melanesia and the dedicated team behind this important work. It is particularly encouraging to see such positive progress taking place in 2026 the 150th anniversary year of the Mothers’ Union, a reminder of the enduring strength and relevance of its mission.

Please continue to hold these new facilitators, their families, and the communities they will serve in your prayers, as together they work to strengthen the foundation of society: the family.