Visale parish in North West Guadalcanal over the weekend celebrated 110 years since the arrival of the Catholic Church in the area.
The celebration coincided with Saint day.
More than 2000 people attended the program including Member of Parliament for the area Hon Bodo Detke and his family, chiefs of the 13 tribe of Sahalu ward and visitors from other provinces.
Speaking during the celebration Visale parish priest Peter Houhou said the 110 years celebration was a reflection of how Christianity grow in the family, community parishes and country as whole.
He said Visale was a small station but after the arrival of the missionaries in 1889 a church was established which is now called the “Secret Heart of Jesus”.
“Soon after the arrival of the mission work church building, centres, schools and a community was set up in Visale.”
The parish priest acknowledged all those who have supported the church and continue to be strong in the church.
“Christians coming together to witness the anniversary shows a good example of spiritual foundation in Christian life.”
He said the secret Heart of Jesus is the patron saint of Visale parish and as Christian its a time to reflect and take responsibility serving the church with good heart.
North West Guadalcanal stringer John Toki said members of the Visale parish were excited to be part of the two days event.
Activities such as cultural dancing, speeches and feasting were staged.
In his short remarks a representative of chiefs in Sahalu ward Ramon Kapini applauded all visitors, community leaders, people in North West Guadalcanal that helped in the success of the celebration.
“It shows a good working partnership in the families and communities.”
By SOLOMON LOFANA
