Pastor Didier Taratua Taurua, a minister in the French Polynesia Mission, passed away on July 1 in Tahiti following health complications.
“He will be remembered as a man of faith, close to his members, and committed to sharing the gospel across the islands,” said New Zealand Pacific Union Conference president Dr Eddie Tupa’i. “Our heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with his family, loved ones and the church families he so faithfully cared for.”
Originally from the islands of Maupiti and Tautira-Tahiti, Pastor Taurua was baptised in 2006 and later studied theology at Fulton Adventist University College in Fiji from 2011 to 2015. He began his pastoral ministry in June 2016 and served communities in Tahiti, Taha’a and Moorea. In February 2024, he was ordained to the gospel ministry.
Pastor Taurua was also one of the speakers during the PNG for Christ 2024 evangelistic campaign.
A memorial service was held on the evening of July 2 at Pamatai Seventh-day Adventist Church in Tahiti, where family, friends and church members gathered to honour his life and ministry.
The service was streamed online, allowing those unable to attend in person to join virtually. Hundreds of tributes poured in through the comments section, reflecting the impact of Pastor Taurua’s ministry.
“Didier was my friend,” wrote Lora Teiva. “What I remember most is his simplicity, humility and unwavering faithfulness.”
Leon Teariki added, “He was a simple man, always attentive.”
