Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands Factbook

Recent conflict in the Solomon Islands has pushed the nation to the brink of anarchy. Yet the Lord has blessed the islands with a large number of believers.

The Solomon Islands are located in the south Pacific to the east of Papua New Guinea. The best known of the Solomons is Guadalcanal.

Approximately 500,000 people live on the Solomon Islands. Nearly 100 different ethnic groups are present on the islands speaking over 60 different languages.

Though blessed with natural resources, most of the people rely on subsistence agriculture and fishing to survive. Continued civil disorder has prevented economic improvement.

The UK established a protectorate over the islands in 1890. The islands were overrun by the Japanese during World War II. Bloody fighting was required to free them. The Solomon Islands were granted independence in 1978. A parliamentary democracy was established, but government corruption led to revolt and civil war. To this day, the islands verge on anarchy. The constitution provides for freedom of religion.

The Anglican Church is the largest group with over 35% of the population. There is also a large evangelical presence on the islands. One third of the people are classified as evangelical. Growth has been dramatic in the past but has leveled off in recent years.

Pray that peace and stability may be restored to the islands. Pray that Christians may have a large role in the reconciliation process and the establishment of a viable government.

Pray for training of native pastors. There is a shortage of good Bible schools to train men aspiring to the ministry. Pray as well that the churches would develop their vision for foreign missions.

The local religions have largely faded, but there are still pockets that have not been reached with the gospel. Pray for efforts to reach these groups.

Bible translation is still a real need. Local organizations have taken on this burden. Pray for the works currently underway. Pray for the ability to print and distribute Bibles throughout the islands.

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