In July, Charlotte, Sam and Noah went to Fiji with Year 13 for a month of mission. Together, their purpose was to encourage and support the local church, and to partner with them in sharing Jesus with those they met.

What is Year 13?

Year 13 makes the most of the crucial first year out of school; a time when young people have so much momentum for growth as they figure out what kind of adults they will be, and how Jesus will fit into that picture. At this time of major life transition, Year 13 helps young people grow and deepen their faith. What an incredible investment!

The Fiji Mission trip

I had the joy of joining them for two weeks, leading one of the local church missions. As I’ve reflected with these three in the aftermath of Fiji, it is clear that for all of us, our trust in God and our joy in the Lord has grown, as God has given us a greater awareness of his glory.

With fewer things to distract them from the good works God had prepared for them to do, and fewer resources to create an illusion that they were in control, it was wonderful to see the students embrace feelings of uncertainty and weakness. They took courageous steps out of their comfort zones, trusting God to give them what they needed for the work He had for them.

The differences between Fijian and Australian culture, and the contrast between how our two groups worship and serve Jesus in their respective contexts, meant that the mutual encouragement was incredible! This merge of cultures left everyone with a richer, fuller view of the gospel and God’s character, and what it means to worship Him.

Reflection and encouragement

Our reflections and the encouragement that we left with the church in Fiji was that, “People in Fiji are…

• Far better at having God’s praises on their lips all the time than Australians are;
• Far better at reminding each other of God’s goodness and power;
• And far better at expressing their gratitude for each other and the ways God has blessed them.

We’re excited for our churches to become more thankful, loving places because of our time with [the Fijians].”

One Fijian church member expressed his encouragement from our time together as follows:

“Your guys coming into to our church has brought about countless blessings. And we praise God for the boost, and reminding us of God’s blessings. We are touched by the words of sharing from you all. You guys have moved us. Your presence was already written. God had his purpose for your team, coming in and blending in with the community, and the churches you have visited. Your presence really boosted our moral support, mental relationship with God and within our community itself. Thanks for the fellowship. Thanks for the heart of caring. You all have moved us in every way and all ways we never had imagined.”

As the Psalmist writes, “How sweet it is when God’s people live together in unity” (Psalm 133:1). And isn’t it by God’s grace that across cultures, we’re able to have such profound commonality in Jesus?

Thank you for your support of Charlotte, Noah and Sam (and I), that enabled this mission. I hope and pray that Year 13 will continue to be instrumental in strengthening the faith of young people at St Michael’s in years to come!

Annika Jolliffe
Children’s Minister