A celebration of Christianity on Nanumea Island (Tuvalu)

On January 14^th Tuvaluan Prime Minister, Hon. Kausea Natano, led a government delegation to Nanumea Island to mark the 150^th anniversary of Christianity. Historically, it is understood that Christianity was introduced to Nanumea via missionaries, deacons and Christian – converted Nanumeans who worked for the London Missionary Society (LMS) in Samoa. This eventually led the community of Nanumea to allow for a Pastor to be posted permanently on the Island.  

Celebrated on 8^th January each year, Te Po Tefolaha, marks the official recognition of the widespread acceptance of the good news of Jesus Christ on Nanumea. This year the celebration was moved to January 14^th so as to coincide with the island’s 100th anniversary celebrations.

Image: PM Natano and Pastor Iosefa Mautinoa during the three-day celebration (Source: Tuvalu Department of Tourism)