The Vanuatu Mission is mourning the death of Pastor Ernest Qwero (53), who died February 5 after a prolonged battle with illness while serving at the Eton Seventh-day Adventist Church on Efate, Vanuatu.
“His life of faith and service is a testament to his dedication and humility,” said Pastor Charlie Jimmy, Vanuatu Mission president. “With a total of 23 years of service to the mission field, Pastor Qwero was a tireless and humble worker who never turned down God’s calling, no matter where he was posted. His dedication to spreading the gospel and caring for the spiritual needs of his congregation and communities made him a beloved figure within the mission.”
Pastor Qwero began his journey in ministry in 2001 as a layman, eager to serve the church and share the love of Christ. His passion for the ministry led him to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Theology from Fulton Adventist University College, which he obtained in 2010. From there, he went on to serve in a variety of roles within the Vanuatu Mission, including as a local church pastor and District Ministry Leader in various districts.
In June 12, 2012, he was ordinated as a pastor during the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s 100 year celebrations at Saralana Park in Port Vila.
“Though Pastor Qwero faced several years of illness, his faith remained unshaken, and he continued to serve with love and passion until his final days,” said Pastor Jimmy. “His death leaves a deep void in the hearts of many who knew him, but his legacy of unwavering service to God will live on in the lives he touched throughout his ministry.
“[Pastor Qwero’s] life stands as a powerful testimony to the unwavering commitment to the gospel work in Vanuatu Mission. In many ways, his life echoes the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.“
Born on January 29, 1971, Pastor Qwero was later married to Naly Meta, and together they were blessed with five children, who are left to cherish his memory. His body was flown to his village Vandui for burial.
“The Vanuatu Mission extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of Pastor Qwero, as well as to the many communities that were blessed by his ministry,” said Pastor Jimmy. “May his example of humility, faith, and service continue to inspire all who knew him.”
Tribute to Pastor Qwero was also paid on the Vanuatu Mission Facebook page, saying “The church family in Vanuatu will dearly miss him. We all look forward to our blessed hope, the return of Jesus Christ when we will meet our loved ones again.”
