FROM CICIA TO NACIRI – A JOURNEY OF FAITH

Two weeks ago, during the baptism service held at Naciri Settlement, Matamaivere Village, in the Tikina o Namara, the congregation witnessed something truly special.

As candidates stood ready for baptism, many were surprised to see Pastor Setareki Wainiqolo standing beside an elderly gentleman. When introducing him, Pastor Setareki shared that the man had traveled all the way from Cicia Island in Lau to be baptized in Naciri.

His name is **Mr. Viliame Wainiqolo**, a well-known yam (uvi) farmer from Lomaji, Cicia.

But the story began several weeks earlier.

Talatala Samu Koro was conducting an evangelistic campaign on Cicia Island. During the meetings, Mr. Viliame felt the Holy Spirit working on his heart. Although he had never regularly attended church and had often declined invitations from family members living in Suva to attend religious meetings, this time was different. Deep inside, he knew God was calling him.

That week, however, he became very ill. Despite his condition, he was determined to be baptized. On Baptism Sabbath, he made the journey to the baptism site where Talatala Samu Koro and Pastor Kenivale were conducting the service. Sadly, he arrived too late and missed the baptism.

For many, that might have been the end of the story.

But God had other plans.

Mr. Viliame returned with Talatala Samu Koro and connected with family members in Viti Levu, including his brother, Mr. Apolosi Toga, who resides in Wailekutu and worships at the Samoa Seventh-day Adventist Church.

When Talatala Samu Koro learned of the upcoming baptism at Naciri Settlement, he and several family members arranged for Mr. Viliame to attend.

And there, in front of the congregation, after a journey that began in Lau and continued across the sea to Viti Levu, Mr. Viliame Wainiqolo finally surrendered his life to Jesus Christ through baptism, officiated by Pastor Setareki Wainiqolo.

Today we praise God for His leading.

And the story continues.

This weekend, members of Mr. Viliame’s family who reside along Khalsa Road in Newtown will begin Bible studies with Talatala Samu Koro.

What a testimony of God’s persistent love! No distance is too far, no age is too old, and no heart is beyond the reach of God’s grace.

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 1:6

**Praise the Lord! Amen.**