Polillo Island, Philippines, became the backdrop for a journey of faith, service and unity as seven South Pacific Division members answered the call to mission, joining hands with other AIIAS missionaries, the district pastor, local church elders and dedicated church members to reach unentered areas.
From March 7 to 16, 2025, the SPD team—Lolakatie Otuhouma and her daughter Amelia (Tonga), Pastor Norak Kebo Aukeke (Papua New Guinea), Pastor Jimmy Garae (Vanuatu), Jale Koroitubuna (Fiji), Koini Diri (Fiji) and Pastor Anasa Tabua (Fiji)—stepped out in faith, eager to spread the love of Christ while immersing themselves in the rich culture and resilience of the island’s people.
There is a large community of SPD students currently at the Adventist International Institute for Advanced Studies (Philippines), and the group have recently started a newsletter called Island Herald. Many are church employees who are pursuing further studies.
Guided by the Student Association Mission Trip Theme: “Empower to lead, Inspire to serve,” the missionaries embraced their roles as leaders in faith and servants in action, ensuring that their presence left a lasting impact.
“This mission was more than just an outreach—it was a profound encounter with selfless service, unwavering hospitality and the undeniable movement of God’s hand.” shared Pastor Tabua.
The seven SPD members were divided among seven groups alongside AIIAS missionaries, ensuring greater impact across multiple locations and communities.
Ms Otuhouma found the trip heartwarming and unforgettable, captivated by the genuine kindness and sacrificial faith of the locals. Their generosity was not just extended to the mission team but reflected in their deep desire to serve God and their community with joy.
For Mr Aukeke, the mission was about bold leadership, stepping forward to foster love and share Jesus among those yet to hear His message.
Pastor Garae saw the trip as a testament to God’s love, an opportunity to witness the universal reach of Christ, breaking cultural and social barriers to embrace all people.
Mr Koroitubuna, humbled by the experience, discovered the beauty of service in the small yet meaningful connections with students, where teaching and simple acts of kindness reinforced the power of spiritual growth through action.
Despite initial hesitation and uncertainties about joining due to classes and a test, Ms Diri felt God’s call to be part of the mission trip. Trusting in His plan, she saw God ensure her classes were managed, allowing her to share the gospel without conflict. This reaffirmed her belief in God’s perfect timing.
At the heart of the mission, Pastor Tabua reflected on the importance of teamwork, emphasising that lasting impact is created when people unite in faith to uplift communities. “The collaboration between SPD missionaries, AIIAS Missionaries, church elders and members allowed for greater outreach, ensuring that the mission’s influence extended far beyond their time in Polillo Island,” he said.
“As the team departed, their hearts remained filled—not just with memories, but with a renewed commitment to press forward boldly in faith and service. The mission trip was not just a moment, but a movement, reminding all involved that when God leads, no place remains untouched by His grace.”
On the final Sabbath, 31 individuals gave their lives to Jesus and were baptised. “It was a powerful testament to the transformative power of mission, proving that when the gospel is shared with love and dedication, hearts are moved toward Christ,” said Pastor Tabua. “With unentered areas still waiting, the call to serve continues—a challenge for others to step forward, embrace the mission, and be a light in places where hope is needed most.”
Join the Adventist Record WhatsApp channel for the latest news from the South Pacific.
