Q1 Newsletter 2024

UNCHANGING WORD God'sWord-LifeforAll

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I Send me!” Isaiah 6:8

WelcomeBacktoOurJourneyTogether

The United Bible Societies, esteemed leaders of the churches across the South Pacific, valued ministry partners and to our new readers joining us for the first time, greetings in the love and light of our Lord!

After a pause since 2021, it is with great joy and a sense of renewed purpose that we present to you the first

issue of our newsletter for the year 2024. This hiatus has been a time of reflection, growth, and planning, allowing us to embark on this year with vigor and a clear vision for the future

The past months have been a testament to the unwavering spirit of collaboration and faith that distinguishes our community We've seen the Jesus All About Life (JAAL) brand make its debut in Vanuatu, marking a significant milestone not only for the nation but for the broader South Pacific region. This expansion is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of God's word in uniting and uplifting communities.

Our journey through the quarter has been marked by national collaboration meetings, laying the groundwork for future endeavors and strengthening the ties that bind our mission. A notable highlight was the translation consultant's visit to Samoa, a step forward in our continuous effort to make the Scriptures accessible to all. Furthermore, our team's participation in the United Bible Societies - Translation Project Management Workshop in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, has equipped us with invaluable insights and strategies to enhance our translation projects' effectiveness and reach

Thank you, dear readers, for your steadfast support and active engagement Your dedication drives our mission and amplifies our collective impact. We're thrilled about the recent JAAL event in Vanuatu and eagerly anticipate the JAAL Fiji event (17th, 18th & 19th April), along with Bible Month 2024 activities. These opportunities allow us to engage deeper with the Jesus All About Life initiatives and translation efforts that enrich our spiritual paths.

We invite you to further interact with our work your feedback, participation, and insights are crucial to our journey. As we progress, let's embrace the transformative power of God's word, united in a shared story of faith, hope, and love that transcends boundaries.

Warm blessings to each of you

EmbracingVision:Bible Society'sJourneyatthe2024

VisionDay

WelcomingNewFacestothe BibleSocietyFamily

A delegation of 13 from the Bible Society of the South Pacific embarked on an enriching journey to the 2024 Vision Day, hosted by the Bible Society Australia. Comprising members from Fiji, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and Tonga, the team actively participated in the week-long event, including planning meetings in Sydney, as part of the Oceania Alliance initiative

The Vision Day commenced with a moving praise and worship session, setting the tone for departmental presentations outlining the 2024 vision for Bible Society Australia and the Oceania Alliance. This collaborative effort aimed to align strategies and objectives for advancing the mission of spreading God's word across the region.

For many staff members, the trip served as a valuable learning experience, providing insights into the intricacies of their roles within the Bible Society It opened their eyes to the day-to-day operations and inspired them to embrace new perspectives and approaches in fulfilling their mission.

The 2024 Vision Day proved to be not only a platform for strategic planning but also a catalyst for personal and professional growth, reinforcing the commitment of the Bible Society to its transformative work in Oceania.

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In recent years, the Bible Society of the South Pacific has been fortunate to welcome several new staff members, each bringing unique talents and experiences to our organization.

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Meet Mrs Renata Netaf from Vanuatu, our dedicated project manager for the Domestic Abuse project. Renata's passion and commitment to this important initiative are already making a significant impact in Vanuatu.

Next, we have Ms Luisa Whippy from Fiji, who has joined our Fiji Mission as the Administration Officer. With her wealth of experience, we are confident that Luisa will contribute greatly to the success of our mission in Fiji.

Joining our team in Fiji is Mr. Peni Turaganivalu, our new Warehouse Officer. Peni's attention to detail and strong work ethic will ensure the smooth operation of our warehouse facilities

Pastor Daniel Boe joins our team in Vanuatu as the Mission & Translation Coordinator, bringing invaluable insight and leadership to our mission endeavors.

Mrs RenataNetaf Ms LuisaWhippy

Mr PeniTuraganivalu

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Ms.EsiveroRatubalavu

Ms.ElizabethPita

Ms. Esivero Ratubalavu, another addition from Fiji, takes on the role of Bookshop Attendant, enriching our customer service and engagement.

Lastly, we welcome Ms. Elizapeth Pita from Samoa as our Translation Coordinator, contributing her expertise to our efforts in making God's word accessible to all

As we embrace these new additions, we look forward to their contributions in advancing our shared vision of spreading the light of the Gospel throughout the South Pacific.

CelebratingFaithThroughArt:ARecapofthe"ArtofFaith" Concert

In collaboration with the Fringe F Bible Society of the South Pacific orchestrated a wonderful event to celebrate gospel music and art in Fiji Hosted at the Japan ICT Theatre, University of the South Pacific - Laucala Campus, the "Art of Faith" concert was a testament to the power of creativity in spreading the message of faith.

Despite logistical challenges, the team curated an eclectic lineup of artists, reaching out to performers via email and phone calls. The concert opened with a mesmerizing performance by the Grace Symphony, setting the tone for an evening of moving music

From the harmonious melodies of the Raiwai Male Voice and Matanakilagi Methodist Church Acapella group to the uplifting worship led by the Lacanivalu Transformation Revival Sounds,

at sense of unity and spiritual connection

The Baleirotuma family's bhajan numbers served as a bridge between communities, demonstrates the transformative power of music in spreading the Word of God. The Centenary Church Choir's heartfelt renditions added to the atmosphere of reverence and joy.

As the concert drew to a close, worshippers were led into a powerful time of worship by Dee Uluirewa from Hillsong Australia, ending in a touching moment of reflection and gratitude.

The "Art of Faith" concert was not just a celebration of music and art but a testament to the enduring impact of faith in uniting communities and inspiring hearts.

Strengthening Partnerships:BibleSociety's FijiMission2024

Led by Mr. Geoffrey Miller, General Secretary of the Bible Society of the South Pacific, the Fiji Mission embarked on a series of courtesy visits at the beginning of the year At the Methodist Church in Fiji headquarters, they were warmly welcomed by the new president, Rev Dr Semisi Turagavou Similarly, at the Assemblies of God in Fiji headquarters, the team received a gracious reception from General Superintendent Rev. Dr. Mosese Cakau.

During these visits, the team shared insights into the Bible Society's work and discussed upcoming events for 2024 in Fiji. Highlighting the theme of "Eradicating Bible Poverty," the Fiji National Bible Forum aims to gather translation agencies and engagement ministries to address this critical issue

Additionally, discussions centered on Jesus All About Life events, seeking church partnerships to maximize the campaign's impact. The aim is to engage volunteers for the Easter Production and equip church members through training sessions.

Looking ahead, the Fiji Mission is committed to extending its reach to the Lau Group of islands with training sessions on Trauma Healing, Hermeneutics, and Sunday School Teacher Training Moreover, preparations for Bible Month 2024 are already underway, reflecting the Bible Society's dedication to serving communities and fostering spiritual growth across Fiji.

Pray for: TranslationprojectinVanuatu.

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NavigatingTranslation Projects:Insightsfromthe Workshop

BibleSocietyoftheSouthPacificNewsletter:2024Issue

The Translation Project Management Workshop, organized by the United Bible Societies, took place from March 11th to 16th, 2024, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Representing the Bible Society of the South Pacific, Mrs. Ledua Turaganivalu, Project Manager, and Mr. Viliame Mavoa, Finance Manager, participated in this significant event. Mrs. Turaganivalu praised the workshop for its informative and enlightening content, highlighting its crucial role in project planning

An important takeaway for her was understanding the essential role and job description of a translation project manager. The workshop underscored the necessity for project managers to possess a diverse skill set, including expertise in Bible knowledge, paratext, and coordination skills. It highlighted the importance of meticulous planning, aligning with translators' experiences to ensure project success.

The event served as an encouragement, affirming the demand for skilled project personnel in the translation field Mrs Turaganivalu's reflections echoed the sentiment that effective project management is integral to the success of translation endeavors. As participants departed with newfound insights and strategies, they were better equipped to navigate the complexities of translation projects with confidence and proficiency.

BibleEngagementministriesinVanuatu TranslationCenterpropertydevelopment inSantoIsland

EnhancingSamoan

From March 18–22, 2024, Apia witnessed a pivotal event in the realm of translation as the Samoan Contemporary Old Testament (SCOT) project unfolded Led by Rev Nu’u and Elizabeth Pita, with the observation of Geoffrey Miller, this workshop marked a significant step in refining the Samoan scripture.

Gathering bilingual speakers fluent in English, the workshop seamlessly combined community and consultant checks, addressing readability, style, and accuracy. Zechariah and Jonah were meticulously reviewed, with invaluable contributions from local Samoans enhancing the translation process.

Encountering challenges such as nuanced translations and stylistic nuances, the team navigated through various texts with diligence and creativity. Leveraging tools like Google Translate for efficiency, they strived to maintain fidelity to the original text while ensuring clarity and resonance in Samoan expression

Moving forward, attention turns to finalizing Paratext checks and ensuring consistency in divine names and typographic accuracy. With meticulous attention to detail, the team remains committed to delivering a faithful and accessible rendition of the Old Testament scriptures in Samoan

As the journey continues, the workshop's outcomes pave the way for the next stages of proofing and publication, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing pursuit of linguistic and spiritual enrichment through translation

EmpoweringChurch Leaders:Healingthe WoundsofTraumaTraining

From February 26th to 29th, 2024, Church leaders gathered in KorVan Port Vila for a transformative 4-Day training on Healing the Wounds of Trauma. The session was a resounding success, equipping participants with invaluable insights and tools to address trauma within their communities

Among the attendees, five were awarded an Apprentice Certificate, while the remainder received a Trauma Healing certificate, signifying their commitment to fostering healing and resilience in those affected by trauma.

Looking ahead, plans are underway to conduct Domestic Abuse trainings in the Port Vila and Efate areas in the coming months, furthering the mission of supporting individuals and families in overcoming adversity

As we reflect on the impact of this training, we are reminded of the words, "To God be the Glory great things He has done!" Indeed, through the dedication and compassion of Church leaders, lives will be transformed, and communities strengthened in the journey toward healing and restoration

SpreadingJoy:Easter InitiativeinRewaProvince

The Easter Initiative in Rewa Province commenced with careful planning and collaboration, emphasizes a commitment to spreading joy and hope throughout the community. Extensive efforts were invested in securing approvals from the Rewa Provincial Council and the Department of Social Services, alongside strategic partnerships with organizations like Bible Society Australia under the Jesus All About Life Campaign

The initiative's execution spanned over five days, during which a dedicated team embarked on a journey to 37 villages across Rewa Province and visited 7 Homes in the Nausori-Lami Corridor. This widespread reach ensured that the essence of Easter was shared with as many individuals as possible.

A total of 1,990 Easter Storybooks, portraying the essence of "Who? What? Why? How?" of Easter, were distributed alongside 100 copies of "Mary and the Gardener" and 35 copies of "Jesus All About Life " These resources, carefully chosen to resonate with diverse audiences, aimed not only to disseminate the message of Easter but also to uplift spirits and foster a sense of community and joy amidst challenging times.

HealingHearts,EmpoweringFutures:NationalYouth TraumaWorkshopinSamabula

In a profound effort to address the emotional wounds of youth across Fiji, the National Youth Trauma Healing Workshop took place at Calvary Temple in Samabula, Fiji. From March 18th to 22nd, participants from various denominations and organizations including the Methodist Church of Fiji Youth, All Nations Christian Fellowship Youth, Christian Mission Fellowship International Youth, Assemblies of God Youth, RFMF Chaplaincy, and Davuilevu Theological College gathered for evening sessions from 6 pm to 9 pm.

Amidst the sessions aimed at healing and resilience-building, 17 copies of the Good News Bible (GNB) Youth Edition were distributed,

symbolizing the journey towards spiritual restoration.

Among the attendees, the workshop's impact was felt by a 15-year-old participant from Raiwai Methodist Church Encouraged by his mother, he attended the workshop to find solace after the recent loss of his father This touching example emphasizes the workshop's significance as a beacon of hope and support for those navigating the complexities of grief and trauma. Through shared experiences and dedicated guidance, the National Youth Trauma Healing Workshop in Samabula strives to nurture healing and empowerment among Fiji's youth.

UnitingFaithandSports:Vanuatu'sInauguralJesusAll AboutLifeEvent

The Seaside Market in Port Vila witnessed a historic occasion as Vanuatu hosted its first-ever Jesus All About Life event Originally planned to be led by a youth committee, the event faced challenges in organization. However, the Vanuatu Football Association (VFA), in collaboration with the Bible Society of the South Pacific, stepped in to host the event Churches joined in singing while VFA coaches creatively incorporated the Easter story into sports drills, uniting faith and athleticism.

Despite hurdles, such as Easter church commitments, the one-day program proved successful, engaging youths aged 12 to 18. Pastor Daniel Boe, the Vanuatu coordinator, highlighted the event's transformative impact, facilitated by the support of Miliana, the Jesus All About Life coordinator. Miliana's visits in January and March provided crucial organizational assistance, ensuring the event's realization.

The evening program further enriched the experience with mesmerizing fire dances, captivating the crowd and adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the event Through innovative collaboration and perseverance, Vanuatu's inaugural Jesus All About Life event exemplified the power of unity in spreading the message of faith and hope.

EmpoweringCreativity: SCRIPTTEAMBOOTCAMP

2024EnergizesYouthfor JesusAllAboutLifeFiji Production

On March 3rd, the Nausori Interdenominational Youths for Christ embarked on their SCRIPT TEAM BOOT CAMP, gearing up for the Day 3 production of Jesus All About Life Fiji. Tasked with managing Day 3 for the second consecutive year, this dedicated team of youths from various churches in the Nausori area, Fiji, including the Methodist church, Christian Mission Fellowship International, and Assemblies of God, convened to refine their script and fellowship

The boot camp provided an important opportunity for the team to come together, brainstorm ideas, and craft a compelling narrative that aligns with the overarching message of the Jesus All About Life production. Through collaborative efforts and creative exchanges, participants not only strengthened their bonds but also honed their storytelling skills, ensuring an impactful and memorable production.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming event, the SCRIPT TEAM BOOT CAMP stands as a testament to the power of unity and dedication in bringing the message of faith and hope to life.

EmpoweringMinistry: Highlightsfromthe NationalSundaySchool TeachersTraining

From March 4th to 8th, 2024, we hosted the Sunday School Teachers Training at the Nausori Methodist Church, a transformative five-day program aimed at equipping Sunday school teachers with essential knowledge and skills. Facilitated by Joe Aropio and Susana Aropio, the training attracted 35 participants representing various denominations and churches including Hope Chapel, Faith Harvest, Nadera Assemblies of God, Delaivalelevu, CMFI, Nauluvatu Methodist Circuit, Nausori Methodist Division, and Davuilevu Methodist Church.

The sessions, held from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm daily, diving into crucial topics such as understanding the role of the teacher, recognizing the needs of children, effective teaching methods, and strategies for reading, studying, and interpreting the Bible. Additionally, participants explored the significance of maintaining a consistent devotional life as Sunday school teachers.

Through interactive discussions, practical exercises, and shared experiences, attendees gained valuable insights and tools to enhance their ministry effectiveness. The training empowered them to make a meaningful impact on the spiritual growth and development of the children they serve

UnitingforChange:Fiji

NationalBibleForum

Tackles"EradicatingBible Poverty"

On March 25th, the Fiji National Bible Forum was hosted at the Nasinu Revival Center Assemblies of God, an important event aimed at addressing the pressing issue of "Eradicating Bible Poverty " The forum brought together 43 participants representing 16 diverse organizations, marking a significant step towards unity and collaboration in tackling this challenge.

Under the overarching theme, representatives from various denominations and institutions including the Seventh Day Adventist, Methodist Church in Fiji, Assemblies of God, Christian Mission Fellowship International, Gospel/Brethren, Wycliffe, YWAM BELT, Know Your Bible, Davuilevu Theological College, South Pacific Bible College, Bible Society of the South Pacific, End Times Revival, Immanuel Christian Fellowship, Republic of Fiji Military Forces, and WEC Pasifika congregated to share insights, strategies, and experiences

The forum served as a platform for fruitful discussions, fostering alliance among stakeholders with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. By collectively addressing the issue of Bible poverty, these organizations demonstrated a shared commitment to ensuring that access to the Word of God reaches every Fijian individual and community, thereby fostering spiritual growth, empowerment, and transformation across the nation

VanuatuBibleForum: CollaborativeInspirations ontheHorizon

Pastor Daniel's recent meeting with the Vanuatu Bible Forum Committee has set the stage for an exhilarating event scheduled from April 13th to 21st. The update promises a gathering brimming with inspiring discussions, fruitful collaborations, and great insights. As anticipation builds, participants and observers are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare to engage in meaningful exchanges.

The upcoming Vanuatu Bible Forum signifies more than just a congregation of individuals; it embodies the spirit of collaboration in action.

Through this event, diverse perspectives will converge, fostering ideas and initiatives aimed at advancing the shared mission of spreading the message of faith and hope

Attendees can expect a dynamic program filled with thought-provoking dialogues, innovative projects, and opportunities to forge lasting connections The hashtag #VanuatuBibleForum reflects the excitement surrounding the event and serves as a rallying call for all those passionate about the transformative power of the Bible.

As the countdown begins, the Vanuatu Bible Forum stands as a beacon of unity and collaboration.

Introducingthe100Steps FamilyBible:AJourneyof

FaithforChildren

Excitement fills the air as the 100 Steps Family Bible makes its debut in Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa & Kiribati, marking a significant milestone in the journey of faith for families across the region. With a focus on fostering a culture of reading and understanding the Word of God within families, the Bible Society mission gears up to introduce this innovative resource

Tailored specifically for children aged around 8 years, the 100 Steps Family Bible offers a comprehensive framework for family-based Bible study Each step in the journey is carefully crafted to engage both children and parents alike, with components designed to facilitate meaningful interaction and reflection. From passages to read together to thoughtprovoking activities and questions for dialogue, every step offers an opportunity for learning. Illustrated visuals and background facts add depth and context, enriching the experience for young minds

Recognizing the diverse learning styles of children, the extra material included in the 100 Steps Family Bible ensures that each child can engage with the content in a way that resonates with them, fostering a deeper connection to the Word of God at their own pace.

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As the team prepares to roll out training on this transformative resource, anticipation builds for the positive impact it will have on families, strengthening bonds and nurturing spiritual growth in the home The arrival of the 100 Steps Family Bible heralds a new chapter in family ministry, offering a pathway for children and parents to embark on a journey of faith together.

HealingWounds, EmpoweringSouls:Recapof theTraumaHealing WorkshopinLabasa

The Trauma Healing Workshop took place at Evangel Temple, Labasa, from February 21st to February 25th The event attracted a diverse range of participants, with 175 attendees spanning various age groups: 39 individuals aged between 16 and 25, 42 participants aged 26 to 35, 62 attendees aged 36 to 50, and 32 individuals aged 51 and above

During the workshop, resources were distributed to aid in the healing process and provide support to the participants. Five Fijian New Version Bibles and five Good News Bibles were distributed, ensuring access to spiritual guidance

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Additionally, 100 copies each of “Digitaka na kemu i sa” and “Tuvatuva ni Wili Vola Tabu” were provided, offering further religious texts for reference and reflection. Alongside these, 100 Trauma Healing “How the Church Can Help” booklets were distributed to equip attendees with tools and knowledge to address and cope with trauma effectively.

The workshop not only served as a platform for healing but also garnered community support and resilience-building among the participants, offering an approach to addressing trauma within the local context.

Thank you for your continued support in our mission. Your contributions enables us to reach more people with the Word of God. As we strive to reach the South Pacific, we kindly ask for your ongoing support.

For donations or contributions, here are our bank details:

BankName: BankoftheSouthPacific

AccountName: BSSPSowerProject

Account

AccountNumber: 9042260

Note: Please write your name on the narration!

For inquiries or further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us:

Phone: +(679)7733988

Email: bibsoc@bible.org.fj

Your support makes a difference in our efforts, and we are deeply grateful for your generosity. Thank you for being a part of our community.