New Solomon Islands Honiara Mission Reflects Continued Growth of the Church

A new chapter in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Solomon Islands has begun with the establishment of the Solomon Islands Honiara Mission.

The new mission, which was previously part of the Vanuatu Port Vila Mission, was announced earlier this year and officially commences on 1 July. Its formation reflects the growth of the Church in Solomon Islands and will provide greater support for full-time missionaries, local leaders and members. 

Leading the new mission is President Matthew Court and his wife, Sister Kimberli Court. 

Both President and Sister Court see the Lord's hand in preparing them for this assignment.

"We can already see how the Lord has been guiding our lives and preparing us for this experience for years," President Court said.

President Court's professional career in sales gave him opportunities to work with people from a wide variety of cultures, backgrounds and faith traditions. Those experiences taught him the value of building relationships and finding common ground. 

As an elementary school teacher, Sister Court developed patience, empathy and understanding as she helped young children learn and grow. 

"We feel that those skills, along with our church service, will help as we meet missionaries, members and friends of the church from various countries, backgrounds and life circumstances," Sister Court said.

Solomon Islands, a nation of more than 900 islands in the southwest Pacific, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, strong family values and deep Christian faith. Since gaining independence in 1978, the country has continued to build its future while maintaining traditions that emphasise community, service and spirituality.

The Church's history in Solomon Islands spans nearly four decades. The nation was dedicated for the preaching of the gospel in 1987, and the first full-time missionaries arrived in Honiara in 1995. A small group of faithful converts established the first branch the following year, laying the foundation for what has become a vibrant community of Latter-day Saints. 

Today, there are congregations in several islands, with local members providing faithful leadership and service in their communities. As the Church continues to grow throughout the country, the establishment of a mission will bring leadership and ecclesiastical support closer to the people it serves. 

For President and Sister Court, the mission's true purpose extends beyond administration and organisation.

"Our hope is that we will become a mission that is known for our Christlike attributes, and how we invite all to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored gospel," President Court said.