Pastor Charlie Jimmy has been appointed president of the Trans-Pacific Union Mission (TPUM). The appointment was made on Tuesday, August 20, during the South Pacific Division (SPD) Executive Committee meetings at the Division headquarters in Wahroonga, Sydney.
Pastor Jimmy was serving as president of the Vanuatu Mission, a role he has held since 2021. He replaces Pastor Maveni Kaufononga, who was recently elected SPD vice president during the General Conference Session in St Louis, US.
Congratulating his successor, Pastor Kaufononga described Pastor Jimmy as “a humble and God-fearing leader” and expressed confidence that “he will lead TPUM to new heights with his unwavering faith and dedication”.
Reflecting on his appointment, Pastor Jimmy acknowledged the challenges of stepping into a wider leadership role. “It was not that easy in terms of actually stepping into the new role,” he said. “But I believe that when God calls, He equips you for that role. So I accept the call to transition from mission to union leadership.”
He outlined several immediate priorities, including preparations for TPUM for Christ in 2026, as well as upcoming union and mission sessions. “The number one priority is ensuring that TPUM for Christ is well-prepared in terms of planning, organisation and coordination across all territories,” he explained. “In terms of the bigger picture, we will continue what we have started in discipleship and total membership involvement. Our mission is our focus.”
Born and raised in Vanuatu, Pastor Jimmy has served the Seventh-day Adventist Church in a range of local and mission leadership roles since 2005. His ministry has included pastoral appointments in Port Vila and at the University of the South Pacific (Emalus Campus), as well as mission leadership as director of Youth, Volunteer Service, Sabbath School and General Secretary.
He also served at the TPUM office from 2019 to 2020 as director of Youth Ministries before returning to Vanuatu Mission as president.
He is married to Jeanie and they have four children.
