BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
BISHOP of Isabel Diocese, Rev. Chris Hope, calls on Anglican churches within the diocese to invest in income-generating activities to strengthen and sustain the church’s mission and vision.
Speaking during his first visit to Saint Luke Parish in Gizo, Bishop Hope said the Diocese of Isabel, being the largest diocese within the Church of Melanesia, must embrace innovation to support its long-term goals.
He said under his leadership, the diocese will explore ways to help churches become more self-reliant, acknowledging that support from the diocesan administration has often been slow.
“Our diocese will continue to work alongside you with your aspirations, but for the church and mission to continue, we must work extra hard at parish level.
“This is important so that we can achieve some of our vision in the long term,” Hope said.
He encourages parishes to venture into small-scale business activities to generate income that can support church programs and clergy work.
Hope said the diocese permits churches to engage in business ventures that sustain church operations.
“Invest in canteens, petrol depots, chicken farming and similar ventures. It will help us fund our church activities as well as support clergy with their work,” he said.
Hope said economic self-reliance is vital if churches are to continue delivering spiritual and community responsibilities effectively.
He also highlighted the diocese’s broader vision of strengthening mission work in the Western Solomons.
Hope said collaboration with sister churches, resource owners, traditional leaders and provincial governments will be key to achieving that vision.
“Today is our time, we will work together,” he said.
Hope’s message formed part of his maiden visit to Saint Luke Parish following his consecration as Bishop of Isabel Diocese.
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