This should encourage each of you to be steadfast in your faith, as it promotes love, unity, and respect, which are key foundations of a thriving community.

This was the message from His Excellency President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere while speaking to more than 200 people gathered on Kia Island, in Macuata on (27.11.23) to commemorate the arrival of missionaries to their shores on the 26th of November, 1809.

This group was led by Reverend John Davies of the London Mission Society and their arrival was dated 26 years before the Wesley Missionaries, David Cargill and William Cross, got to Tubou village, Lakeba in 1835.

This newfound fact was discovered by the General Secretary of the Methodist in Fiji Rev. Dr. Jolame Lasawa, who found the diary entries detailing their trip from Tahiti to Australia.

The entries reveal that the missionaries, who were also in search of sandalwood and beach-de-mer, were shipwrecked on a reef close to Kia, and on the 26th of November, they conducted the first-ever recorded church service in Fiji.

President Katonivere while officiating at the event highlighted that their faith has helped sustain their community over the years, urging them to be sincere in their faith, and to conduct themselves accordingly.

Kia Island natives, people from around Fiji and the globe who share link to the island, and senior members of the clergy in Macuata were present in a church service at Daku Village, where a plaque was also unveiled.