A mission project coordinated by Adventist Media (AM) has brought sustainable, long-term power to Tangibangara Seventh-day Adventist Church on Choiseul Island, Solomon Islands, easing a financial burden that has limited ministry in the remote community for years.
The mission team travelled from October 19 to 29 and included three AM employees and volunteers from Avondale University Church, including a nurse, a nursing educator, a theology student, a teacher and a solar technician.
AM adopted the project after video editor Gilmore Tanabose, who is originally from Tangibangara, shared that the church relied on a petrol generator costing around $A5 per litre. The generator had been the only available power source for lighting, fans and projectors, limiting worship and outreach activities and placing financial strain on the local church.
Staff contributed through ongoing internal fundraising programs—including market days, snack trolley proceeds, frozen lunches and organised fundraising lunches—raising $A20,000 for the purchase and shipment of a solar power system, battery, ceiling fans and block-out curtains. SPD Risk Management Services provided additional funding.
“The fundraising was done outside our normal roles, but people were so willing to help because the project resonated with them,” said Gayle Fehlberg, who coordinated the fundraising with colleagues. “Some gave above and beyond, and we were really moved by the generosity across the Wahroonga estate. It was gratifying to know that this effort would genuinely enable the Tangibangara church to do more for their community.”
The mission trip team faced challenges with key tools and medical supplies delayed in transit. “When we arrived in Honiara, we discovered that five of our bags—including all the essential tools for the solar installation—had been left behind in Brisbane,” said Mr Tanabose. “After a few phone calls we were able to borrow tools from another mission team in Honiara. The villagers also helped us make makeshift ones. With their support and a lot of prayer, we were able to finish the installation safely.”
While they were there, the team also provided IT and media training, assisted teachers and conducted children’s programs. Tangibangara is the largest Adventist church in the area and supports four nearby congregations; its primary school serves students from surrounding Adventist and non-Adventist villages.
Tangibangara Primary School principal Chris Abel expressed gratitude on behalf of the village. “Your generosity will help our children in their learning and inspire them to work harder for a better future,” he said. “Your visit has strengthened our faith and built a lasting friendship between our communities.”
The solar system is expected to save the church around $A6000 annually, enabling funds to be redirected toward ministry.
The project was supported by Adventist Media, SPD Risk Management Services, SPD HR and Mission Services and Support, SPD Mailroom, Avondale University Church and individual donors.
Future plans include the installation of a windmill to provide power during cloudy periods and a small solar system for the primary school, which currently has no electricity.
To learn more and support the cause, visit: https://adventistmedia.org.au/mission-project-2025/
