VILLAGERS of Viseisei are preparing for a historic three-day celebration from tomorrow to mark 200 years since Christianity first arrived to the vanua o Vuda on 26 September 1826.
The bicentenary will bring together descendants, church leaders, and visitors from across the globe to reflect on two centuries of faith, heritage, and unity at the original settlement site.
Pastors who served the village over the decades will return for the occasion and stay with local families throughout the festivities.
Taukei Nakelo Josaia Natakele highlighted the deep spiritual and cultural meaning of the milestone for the community.
“The vanua o Vuda is preparing to commemorate the arrival of Christianity to our land and Fiji,” he said.
“I am grateful that news has spread about our preparations and the significance of this occasion because it has brought harmony and goodness to us.”
While the community observes the arrival of Christianity annually on October 10 , this year’s milestone holds special generational weight.
“Some of our elders had commemorated the 100th anniversary, so now it’s our turn to mark 200 years.
“Many will come from all over Fiji and other parts of the world to mark this occasion and how much God has protected the vanua o Vuda.”
Although formal pastoral appointments began in 1865, historical accounts trace the faith’s initial arrival to 1826.
This year’s program begins with a commemorative service on Saturday, followed by a Sunday service where congregants will dress in white.
Celebrations conclude on Monday with a traditional solevu (traditional feast) honouring church ministers, alongside the ceremonial raising of three flagpoles symbolising the vanua, Christianity, and the State.
