Parish Outreach

The Melanesian Brotherhood

Brothers outsite the chapel at Tabalia

The Melanesian Brotherhood is an Anglican religious order which has houses throughout the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Fiji. It was founded in 1925 on the feast day of St. Simon and St. Jude by Ini Kopuria of Guadalcanal, who was educated at the Anglican church schools of Pamua and Norfolk Island. His aim was "to declare the way of Jesus Christ among the heathen", but in a Melanesian way, to help them to become aware of Christ among them, rather than to impose foreign customs and forms, as so often happens in evangelistic missionary efforts.

The brothers travel from village to village in small groups, barefoot and with few possessions. They share the lives of the people, helping with the activities of daily life. They visit the sick and do healing, present religious dramas and teach children, negotiate peace between warring factions, collect and dispose of firearms. They have become much loved and respected by the people.

Novices train for three years before being selected for admission. Those admitted take initial temporary vows of three years, after which they may renew their vows or be released. Some return to their home villages to raise families, and many become companions of the order. To be known as an 'ex-brother' has very positive connotations. With 350-400 members, this is the largest Anglican religious order on the planet. Each year, there are far more young men wanting to become Brothers than can be accomodated for training.