Faith

Melanesian Mission comes to Devon

A group of 27 Melanesians from the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu in the South Pacific are in Devon visiting the Exeter Diocese.

The Melanesian Brotherhood belong to the Anglican Church and live a simple monastic life, undertaking pastoral, teaching and other work alongside local Christians.

Re-enacting the crucifixion

They have come to the UK with an exciting and powerful programme of drama, song, dance and their own unique bamboo band.

There are strong historic links between Exeter Diocese and Melanesia.

Bishop John Coleridge Patteson, the first apostle and martyr to Melanesia, started his ministry in the 1800's at Alfington near Ottery St Mary, and many parish links are already established in Devon with the Church in Melanesia.

In the Solomon Islands the Melanesian Brothers have faced violent conflict in their nation and were awarded the United Nations Pacific Peace Prize for their role as peacemakers and reconcilers.

It was work that cost the lives of seven of their members. Their vibrant faith and struggle for justice informs all that they do. Their performances are drawn directly from their own experiences of conflict is a moving and inspirational testimony of human hope and courage in the face of violence and death.

During their time in Devon they will be visiting many primary and secondary schools, as well as prisons and community and Church venues.

Solomon Islands conflict - the background

In 2000 a coup occurred in the Solomon Islands and an armed conflict developed between two of the island and tribal groups: Malaita and Guadalcanal. 

The Solomon Islands has no army and the police force had been discredited, many of them joining the militant armies.

The Melanesian Brothers took up the role of peacemakers, camping between enemy lines, liaising with the opposing forces and their headquarters became a place of sanctuary and safety for the hundreds fleeing from the violence.

The Melanesian Brothers and Sisters ferried the wounded to hospital, helped women and children to safety, searched for the lost and the bodies of those who had been killed.

The Brotherhood, alongside other religious organisations, led the two sides together in reconciliation and the signing of a peace agreement in Townsville, Australia.

The Brotherhood performing

After the conflict, the Brotherhood administered a campaign of disarmament and over the following months collected and destroyed hundreds of illegal weapons from former militants.

However, one militant refused to relinquish arms; his militia continued a campaign of violence and executions, including in 2003 taking hostage and murdering a Melanesian Brother who visited to begin peace negotiations. Six brothers went in search of their lost brother and were similarly tortured and killed.

In light of these events, in August 2003 the Australian government agreed to send an intervention force to restore peace.

The Melanesian Brotherhood was awarded the United Nations Pacific Peace Prize for their work, service to the nation and sacrifice beyond the call of duty.