By Rev Salesi Faupula
What began as a late request quickly became something far more meaningful.
As Pacific delegates arrived in Melbourne ahead of the upcoming Women Deliver Conference 2026, running from Monday through to Thursday, it was recognised that for many, gathering for worship beforehand was not simply a preference, but essential. And so, with limited time but a shared sense of purpose, preparations began.
There were, understandably, a few quiet questions along the way.
Would it come together?
Would people come?
Could the space be ready in time?
Yet what unfolded on the evening was something that could only be described as grace.
The office of the Synod was transformed, furniture shifted, space opened, and what is usually a place of meetings and administration became, for a time, a place of prayer and praise.
As guests arrived, it became clear that this moment was needed.
Around 60 people gathered, well beyond the 40 anticipated, representing Pacific communities, church leaders from different denominations, and friends who had come simply to stand in support. Among them were national and community leaders, all gathered not for formality, but for worship before the days ahead.
Scripture was read. Voices were lifted in song. Prayers were offered for the Pacific, for leaders, and for communities facing profound change, particularly the realities of climate change that are already shaping life across the region.
At the heart of the service was the story of Huldah, the prophet who spoke into a moment of uncertainty with clarity and faithfulness. It was a fitting reminder that in times of change, the call is not to rush ahead, but to listen, deeply, to God and to one another.
As delegates prepare to take part in the global conversations of the Women Deliver conference in the days ahead, this time of worship offered something grounding—an opportunity to pause, to reflect, and to be centred in faith before engaging in important discussions around women, leadership and justice.
What stood out most was not the last-minute nature of the arrangements, but the depth of connection in the room.
There was a sense of grounding, of being centred again in God. There was also a quiet strengthening of relationships across cultures, churches and nations.
What may have felt, at first, like something arranged in haste became something held with intention.
Not an accident.
But a gift.
A gift of worship.
A gift of connection.
A gift of being reminded that before all else, we belong to God, and to one another.