Port Vila – 13 April 2026: The Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACoM), in partnership with the Diocese of Vanuatu and New Caledonia (DoVNC), hosted the Oceania Anglican Fono last week in Port Vila, bringing together senior Anglican leaders from across the region.
Held from Thursday to Sunday at the Ramada Hotel, the annual “Fono”—a Polynesian term meaning meeting or council—brings together Archbishops and General Secretaries from across Oceania. Participating provinces include Aotearoa New Zealand (Tikanga Māori, Tikanga Pākehā, and Tikanga Pasifika), Australia, Papua New Guinea, and the Anglican Church of Melanesia.
Throughout the meeting, Anglican leaders are discussing key issues affecting the Church and communities across Oceania. These include labour mobility schemes, the ongoing impacts of climate change, and the development of theological education within Anglican provinces. Guest speakers include the Minister responsible for Climate Change, Hon. Ralph Regenvanu, as well as representatives from the Government’s Labour Mobility Unit.
As part of the program, delegates visited the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs Nakamal, where they gained valuable insights into traditional Ni-Vanuatu governance systems and the strong connection between custom and Christian faith. The visit reinforced the shared understanding that both the Church and custom serve as important “safety nets” within society.
The Oceania Anglican Fono continues to provide an important platform for dialogue, fellowship, and collaboration. It highlights the role of the Church in promoting justice, peace, and active Christian discipleship across the region, while also encouraging the sharing of best practices in ministry.
The gathering concluded on Sunday with a Holy Eucharist service at Tagabe Parish, where Archbishop Leonard Dawea presided and Archbishop Mark Short delivered the sermon, marking a moment of unity and fellowship with the local community.
The Oceania Anglican Fono stands as a vibrant and meaningful gathering, strengthening the mission and impact of the Anglican Church across Oceania and beyond.