The Melanesian Brotherhood is celebrating its centenary from 18 to 26 October with a series of events at its headquarters in Tabalia, west of Honiara, where more than 6,000 people have gathered to mark a century of faith, service, and brotherhood. Brothers and church leaders from across Melanesia, including Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and North Queensland, travelled to Honiara to take part in the historic occasion. Delegates from the Philippines and the United Kingdom have also been attending.

Founded in 1925 by Ini Kopuria of Guadalcanal, the Brotherhood, known locally as Ira Reta Tasiu, has for a century embodied a life of prayer, service and community, following vows of poverty, celibacy and obedience. The centenary celebrations, held under the theme ‘Celebrating Melanesian Brotherhood Centenary of Ministry, Faith and Mission’, mark a milestone in the Brotherhood’s continuing service.

The Most Revd Leonard Dawea, Archbishop of Melanesia, officially declared the week-long celebrations open at a colourful opening ceremony featured flag-raising, the cutting of the centenary cake and the unveiling of a new signboard. This was followed by an opening Holy Eucharist service, special addresses, reflections, thanksgiving activities and cultural performances. The programme will conclude on Sunday 26 October with the admission of new members, symbolising the continuation of the Brotherhood’s mission for future generations.

The Secretary General of the Anglican Communion, the Rt Revd Anthony Poggo has sent a message of goodwill conveying his greetings and prayers to the community. Earlier this year, the Secretary General made a Provincial visit to Melanesia in February 2025. During his trip, he spent time at the headquarters for the Melanesian Brotherhood and also visited the grave of the seven martyrs who were murdered by rebels in the Solomon Islands in 2003, while engaged in peacebuilding work during the Soloman Islands ethnic tensions.   

For 100 years, the Melanesian Brotherhood has played a vital role in spreading the Gospel, fostering peace and reconciliation, and strengthening communities across the region. Its members are widely remembered for their faithfulness during times of conflict, especially their courageous peacebuilding ministry in Solomon Islands.

As the Brotherhood gives thanks for a century of mission, it renews its commitment to live and proclaim the Gospel through simplicity, humility and service.

Read more about Bishop Anthony Poggo's visit to the grave of Melanesian Martyrs