A pioneer of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in New Caledonia has been laid to rest.
Pastor Jerome Waheo was the first New Caledonian Melanesian to become an Adventist. He was baptised on April 8, 1961 after attending an evangelistic campaign in Noumea. In dedicating his life to Christ, he went on to become the country’s first Melanesian pastor.
For 20 years Pastor Waheo faithfully served the Church. He played a major role in establishing Adventism in New Caledonia. While he didn’t have theological training, he had a gift for sharing the Bible and was a powerful preacher.
Pastor Waheo was challenged by significant health issues that saw him spend months in hospital, but he remained committed to serving God. Despite having to take early retirement, he spent the next 18 years continuing to preach and encourage church members. He is remembered for his patience and perseverance.
“We have pioneers in the Adventist Church who have opened cities and villages to the knowledge of the Lord, despite the difficulties they encountered, committing themselves fully to their tasks,” said New Caledonia Mission president Pastor Felix Wadrobert.
“They are now waiting for the crown that the Lord has promised. Jerome is one of them.”
Pastor Waheo is survived by his wife Rosine and their three children, Gisele, Gerst and Ginette.
