TAVISTOCK played host to 27 Melanesian monks and nuns from the Solomon Islands last week. The brothers and sisters had a full programme of visiting schools and churches in the Plymouth and Tavistock area as part of their mission to Devon over a six-week period. They were accommodated in the homes of members of the congregation of Tavistock Parish Church who are also companions of the Melanesian Brotherhood. During their visit the brothers and sisters led a service at the parish church for the people of Tavistock and all the surrounding parishes and included their unique blend of singing and dancing and the playing of pan pipes. The congregation were also given an insight into their life and work in the Solomon Islands. Nine of the monks were staying with the Vicar of Tavistock John Rawlings and his wife Janette who said they were the ?most wonderful people? ?They were able to adapt to our way of life and our food and were very happy in their nature, always picking up their guitars and singing,? she said. ?They have a much more laid back way of life and are not governed by time like we are.? Janette said it was an amazing experience: ?I shall never forget it ? it was hard work looking after nine monks in our house which only has one bathroom but they were really lovely people. When you hear about the sort of things they have been through in their own country it is a very humbling experience.? In the Solomon Islands, the Melanesian Brothers have faced violent conflict in their nation and were awarded the United Nations Pacific Peace Prize for their role as peacemakers and reconcilers. It was this work that cost the lives of seven of their members. During their stay in Tavistock the brothers and sisters performed ?The Passion of the Lord? at St Andrew?s Church in Plymouth.
