Marshall Islands - Kiribati Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

The Marshall Islands and Kiribati cultures are deeply rooted in their maritime heritage, with traditional navigation and canoe-building being prominent. Traditional cuisines include dishes like Poke and breadfruit. The region's music and dance, such as the Kiribati stick dance, play a crucial role in their cultural identity. Both societies value community and family, reflecting their historical origins and connection to the ocean.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region's topography includes numerous atolls and islands, such as Majuro in the Marshall Islands and Tarawa in Kiribati, characterized by low-lying coral reefs and lagoons.

CLIMATE

The climate is tropical with average temperatures ranging from 77°F (25°C) to 86°F (30°C) year-round, and the region experiences a wet season with high humidity and frequent rainfall.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken are Marshallese and Gilbertese.

RELIGIONS

The three largest religious denominations in the area are Christianity, particularly Protestantism, Catholicism, and Kiribati Protestant Church.

INDUSTRIES

Fishing: The fishing industry is significant, with companies like Majuro Fisheries excelling in tuna processing and export.

Coconut Processing: Coconut processing is vital, with firms such as Copra Mill leading in the production of copra and coconut oil.

Phosphate Mining: In Kiribati, phosphate mining has historically been a major industry, contributing to the economy.

LOCAL EVENTS

The Manit Day celebrates Marshallese culture with traditional dances and crafts. In Kiribati, Independence Day is marked with parades and festivities. The Fisheries Day is a significant event celebrating the importance of fishing to the local economy.

TOURISM

Popular tourist attractions include the Bikini Atoll, known for its diving sites; the Tarawa Atoll with its historical significance; and the Ralik Chain of islands, renowned for their natural beauty.

RECREATION

Favored recreational activities include snorkeling and scuba diving in the Aur Atoll, and exploring the marine biodiversity at Jaluit Atoll.

MISSION HISTORY

The Marshall Islands are a republic made up of two atoll chains in the South Pacific.

MAJURO Elders William Wardel and Steven Cooper arrived in Majuro 3 February 1977, and they baptized Misao Lokeijak, who had been introduced to the Church in Hawaii. By the end of 1977, there were 27 converts on the island. The Laura Branch (a small congregation) was created 11 May 1978, with Misao Lokeijak as president. By the end of 1979, there were 177 members. Church buildings for the Laura and Rita branches were started in September 1984 and dedicated 13-14 January 1986, respectively. By 1987, Majuro had a district with five branches, and by 1990, Majuro had 1,100 members.

In May 1992, Brigham Young University and the Republic of Marshall Islands agreed to have BYU provide special training for government administrators and teachers.

KWAJALEIN/EBEYE The Kwajalein Island Branch in the Marshall Islands was organized in 1978, made up entirely of United States citizens serving in the military or as civil service personnel. Missionaries opened the island of Ebeye on 16 May 1989, and Elders Kepiloni Foliaki and Michael Steele baptized Mary Kekuhuna on 11 June 1989.

ARNO AND MILI Arno and Mili, located at the eastern end of Micronesia, some 2,200 miles west of Hawaii, are part of the 28-island Marshall group. In 1994, the Church had four branches in the Marshall Islands and three Church-owned buildings.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!