Pasifika Updates: Br Angel Diego Visits Solomon Islands and Other News

From Br Angel Diego’s impactful visit to the beautiful Solomon Islands, where child rights and solidarity took center stage, to the strategic Finance Team meeting in Fiji focused on strengthening our ministries, and the heartfelt celebration of Vanuatu’s 45th Independence Day in Madang, the Province has been alive with vibrant activity. These moments reflect our ongoing commitment to faith, community, and service across the Pacific. Read on to discover how these events are shaping our journey and deepening our connections throughout the region.

Welcome to the Solomons, Br Angel!

Br Angel Diego, from the Secretariat of Solidarity in Rome, is currently visiting the Solomon Islands. This visit is part of our Marist Foundation for International Solidarity (FMSI) commitment to assist countries in their periodic reporting on the Rights of the Child - a review the Solomon Islands will soon undertake.

Br Angel receives a warm Pasifika welcome, complete with the famous coconut juice, at the Brothers’ house in Laumanasa.

At St Joseph’s Secondary School, Tenaru - the largest Catholic secondary school in the country, managed by the Marist Brothers for over 40 years - Br Angel spoke to a group of Year 8 students about Child Rights, encouraging them to see themselves as active advocates for their peers.

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Happy Vanuatu Day from Madang!

The Marist Family in Madang, Papua New Guinea, gathered at Divine Word University for its monthly prayer meeting and to belatedly celebrate Vanuatu’s 45th anniversary of independence, which had officially passed the previous Wednesday. Led by Br Fereole, the occasion was marked with gratitude and fellowship, and concluded with a feast of traditional PNG Mumu dishes.

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Fiji Marist Brothers Trust Board Meet

Members of the Fiji Marist Brothers Trust Board met in Vatuwaqa for their regular Trust Board and Country meetings. Such gatherings are vital for discussing the Brothers’ lives, ministries, and mission, as well as encouraging open dialogue for greater effectiveness.

After the meeting, the Carew Street community travelled to Lomeri for an overnight period of silent recollection. On Sunday, they joined the Lomeri community for Sunday lunch.

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Happy Birthday, Abraham Hihiru!

On 2 August 2025, friends, family, and the Marist community of Solomon Islands gathered at Pagoda, Henderson, to celebrate Abraham Hihiru’s 50th birthday - a moment to honour his journey, values, and many contributions over five decades.

Alfea Hou, daughter of the longest-serving teacher, Theresa Hou, shared heartfelt memories of growing up in the close-knit Tenaru community, where Abraham and his wife embodied the true Marist family spirit. She expressed deep gratitude for Abraham’s role as a godparent to many, including herself and her husband, Henry, who were supported by Abraham during their marriage. Jimmy Hoasihita recalled his first appointment to St Joseph’s Tenaru as a privilege, noting the lessons in simplicity that Abraham consistently lived out.

Known affectionately as “Aba,” Abraham lit up the evening with his trademark humour.

In his reflections, 'Aba' emphasised the deeper meaning of life’s milestones, "Birthdays shouldn’t be overly celebrated. Whether it’s 50, 60, or 70, each day of life is just as important as the next. The first day we’re born is as significant as any milestone birthday. Life is a journey, and every moment of that journey - from the first breath to the last - is a gift.”

He concluded by thanking all who have supported him along the way, especially the Marist Brothers for their role in his spiritual formation.