BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
UZAMBA United Church congregation in South Vella La Vella, Western Province, has turned newly acquired skills into practical action following a recent Finance and Church Leadership Management Workshop.
Putting theory into practice, the congregation has introduced a structured fundraising model to help meet its 2026 church budget. The initiative aims to strengthen financial sustainability while promoting unity and shared responsibility among members.
According to workshop facilitator and community member Joash Lawrence, the congregation has been divided into four zonal groups.
He explained that the arrangement helps with better organisation and simplifies food allocation during fundraising events.
Lawrence said each zone has been tasked to raise $3,000, bringing the total expected contribution to $12,000 if all groups reach their targets.
The church’s treasurer, Lika Linga, said the new fundraising approach reduces the workload on individual members while encouraging teamwork across the congregation.
“The responsibilities are shared equally among congregations adding that the first fundraising event held last week saw each group contribute different varieties of food for sale,” he said.
Pastor Castro Lawrence and his executive team expressed gratitude to individuals and families who supported the drive through donations, food contributions, and active participation.
He reminded the congregation that financial support is essential for the church to fulfil its mission, both within Uzamba and across neighbouring communities.
“By way of giving or contributing to this fundraising, you are contributing to God’s mission on earth,” Pastor Lawrence said.
Community elder Masden Hence welcomed the new fundraising model, stating it would play a key role in ensuring the church meets its financial needs for 2026.
He also encouraged Uzamba descendants living outside the community to support the initiative.
The fundraising strategy stems directly from the three-day capacity-building workshop attended by Uzamba church leaders last month.
The workshop, held at South Vella La Vella, aimed at enhancing financial literacy and leadership skills among United Church in Solomon Islands (UCSI) leaders within the Bilua Circuit.
The training brought together representatives from 13 congregations, stretching from Lajaka to Buleana. Participants included pastors, elders, congregation treasurers, and treasurers from affiliated groups such as the Men’s Fellowship, United Church Women’s Fellowship (UCWF), Youth Fellowship, and Sunday School ministries.
Facilitators George Ngimaika and Joash Lawrence from Tabaka Technical Institute delivered sessions under the institute’s community outreach programme. The workshop covered financial management, transparent record-keeping, stewardship based on biblical principles, effective leadership, team building, and conflict resolution in church settings.
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