7th Oceania Anglican Fono Convenes in Vanuatu

Port Vila, Vanuatu | 9–12 April 2026

Anglican leaders from across the Pacific gathered in Port Vila, Vanuatu, for the 7th Oceania Anglican Fono—an important regional meeting focused on prayer, dialogue, and shared mission. Hosted by the Anglican Church of Melanesia in partnership with the Diocese of Vanuatu and New Caledonia, the Fono brought together Archbishops, General Secretaries, and church representatives to reflect on the challenges and opportunities facing Oceania today.

The Anglican Diocese of Polynesia was represented by the Archbishop and his wife, along with Co-Vicar General and Climate Change Commissioner Mr. Fe’iloakitau Kaho Tevi, reflecting the Diocese’s strong commitment to walking in unity with the wider Anglican Communion across the Pacific.

A Gathering for the Pacific Church

The word Fono, meaning council or meeting, captures the spirit of the gathering—leaders coming together to listen, discern, and respond collectively. Throughout the Fono, participants engaged in meaningful conversations centred on three key areas:

• Climate justice
• Labour mobility
• Theological education

A Strong Call for Climate Justice

Climate change was a central focus of the gathering, with leaders highlighting the urgent reality faced by Pacific Island nations. Despite contributing very little to global emissions, these countries continue to experience some of the most severe impacts, including rising sea levels, extreme weather, and environmental degradation.

Participants supported Vanuatu’s advocacy for a global “polluter pays” principle, which seeks to ensure that countries responsible for high emissions take financial responsibility for the damage caused. This call is consistent with the 2025 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice, which affirms that the burden of climate change should not fall on vulnerable nations.

Church leaders also encouraged governments to honour their commitments under the Paris Agreement, including providing financial and technical support to developing countries for climate adaptation, resilience, and environmental protection.

Supporting Families in Labour Mobility

The Fono also reflected on the increasing reliance on labour mobility schemes across the Pacific. While these opportunities provide vital income for families, they can also place strain on relationships and communities.

Leaders acknowledged the challenges faced by families separated for long periods, including the impact on children and the added responsibilities placed on caregivers. The Church reaffirmed its role in strengthening pastoral care, ensuring that economic opportunity is balanced with the wellbeing of families and communities.

Strengthening Theological Education

Another key focus was the growth of theological education in Oceania. Leaders committed to deepening collaboration between Anglican institutions and strengthening networks that support contextual and culturally grounded theological formation across the region.

Learning from Culture and Tradition

During the Fono, delegates visited the Malvatumauri Chiefs Nakamal, where they learned about traditional Ni-Vanuatu leadership and governance. This engagement highlighted the important relationship between culture and Christian faith, and the value of integrating indigenous knowledge into the life and mission of the Church.

Commitments for the Future

The Fono concluded with several important commitments, including:

• Advocating across the Anglican Communion for climate justice and support for Pacific nations
• Reviewing Church investment practices to align with environmental responsibility
• Supporting climate resilience and disaster preparedness initiatives
• Continuing reflection on labour mobility and its social impact
• Strengthening theological education across Oceania

Leaders also agreed to convene a future Fono dedicated specifically to climate resilience and disaster preparedness.

Rooted in Worship and Mission

The gathering concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at Tagabe Parish, grounding the work of the Fono in the life of Christ.

As the Church in Oceania looks ahead, the Fono reaffirmed a shared calling: to serve with justice, compassion, and hope—standing alongside Pacific communities and safeguarding the future of creation.