'The coming of the Light' Artwork by: Franklin Wye, 2005

The Coming of the Light

LIGHT CAME,

LIGHT CONTINUES TO COME,

AND THE LIGHT WILL CONTINUE TO SHINE. 

The Reverend Canon Victor Joseph, Principal Wontulp-Bi-Buya College

1 July marks the anniversary of The Coming of the Light to the Torres Strait Islands.

In 1871, The London Missionary Society with Melanesian leaders landed on the shores of Erub (Darnley Island) and introduced the Bible to the people who lived there.

This event is referred to as The Coming of the Light.  The annual celebration brings joy to Torres Strait Islander peoples.  It is an integral part of their cultural identity.

History and background:

150 years in 2021, history and worship resources - Anglican Board of Mission 

Anglican Diocese of Perth 2022 ‘news’:

Read:

To gain a better understanding of The Coming of the Light and the Anglican Church in the Torres Strait, see ABM’s five-part video series, “God was on Both Sides of the Beach”, presented by ABM’s the Rev’d Canon Steve Daughtry.

God was on Both Sides of the Beach

Watch - YouTube:

Celebrating 'Coming of the Light' in the Torres Strait - NITV

Celebrating 'Coming of the Light' in the Torres Strait