On Saturday August 25, we flew to the island of Tanna for the AG General Conference. The conference opened on Sunday with a parade of delegates and a brass band marching through the town of Lenakel. The week of services was held by the soccer field in the center of town. Different groups set up food stalls and served meals all day long for the attendees.
The President of Vanuatu, His Excellency Iolu Johnson Abbil, flew to Tanna to be at the Sunday opening service and presented Medals of General Service to senior pastors and lay church leaders who have faithfully served the Assemblies of God since its early years in Vanuatu. It was very moving to see so many old friends cross the platform to receive their medal.
Those honored:
Chief Lava Niplaui
Rev. Tari Masanga
Rev. Tom Ierongen
Rev. Willie Naias
Rev. J. Kamanalagi
Rev. Nausien Iakopien
Rev. Bob Koapa
Rev. Am Tuprik
Rev. Raymond Clay
Rev. Hopkins Keith Sawon
Rev. Situ Meiri
Rev. David Willie Saul
Rev. Rene Meltetamath
Rev. Dick Joel Peter
Rev. Youen Atnelo
There were some potentially divisive issues expected at this conference and many of you had been praying. Our prayers were answered as the conference was a wonderful time of healing and encouragement. The guest speaker from Fiji, Rev. Moses Cakau, had a timely word from the Lord each morning and evening. The altars filled with people seeking more of God.
(left) The Conference women met together on Monday and Tuesday. Lori spoke at both meetings. (right) AG Vanuatu Supt. Rev. Youen Atnelo and guest speaker, Rev. Moses Cakau, from Fiji.
(left) Prayer time at altar. (right) Missionary Bryan Webb interpreting for speaker Rev. Moses Cakau.
Thursday morning Gary spoke on “Discipleship” to an attentive group of pastors and delegates.
(left) A shed served as the JBI booth at the conference. We sold Bibles, books and handed out applications to potential students. (right) JBI 2008 graduate, Pastor Alick Keith was ordained during conference and several JBI grads received credentials. Alick pastors on the island of Epi and ministers to secondary school students.
Flying home to Port Vila!
Vision for Vanuatu 