Christian Baby Box Ministry Gives Ten Children the Gift of Life

HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS, 14 October 2026 – The Baby Box Ministry, an apostolate of the Child Protection Office of the Catholic Archdiocese of Honiara, has accompanied ten mothers who were experiencing crisis pregnancies between 1 July and 13 October 2026. Through pastoral accompaniment and counselling, all ten mothers have given birth, and their children have been joyfully welcomed by their mothers and families.

According to Ms. Leotina Akwai, Child Protection Coordinator of the Archdiocese of Honiara, the Ministry offers confidential pastoral counselling, compassionate accompaniment, and spiritual and emotional support to mothers facing difficult circumstances. Counselling is provided at the Child Protection Office or at a location of the mother’s choosing, in order to safeguard her privacy, dignity, and wellbeing.

One mother, who wished to remain anonymous, shared: “Whether the father accepts my baby or not, I now know that I am not alone. I feel blessed to have found this place where I can seek help, be heard and find acceptance.”A Witness to the Gospel of Life.

The Baby Box Ministry is a concrete expression of the Catholic Church’s unwavering commitment to uphold the sacredness and dignity of human life from conception to natural death. It bears witness to the truth that every human person is created in the image and likeness of God and that no mother should have to walk alone in a moment of vulnerability.

The Ministry affirms that the Baby Box is never to be considered as the first or primary response to a crisis pregnancy. The Church encourages families to foster open communication, mutual understanding, and support, and to seek pastoral assistance at an early stage. Fathers, parents, extended families, and the wider Christian community share in the collective responsibility to accompany young mothers and fathers with charity and understanding.

For young couples who choose to raise their child together, the Church offers pastoral guidance towards responsible parenthood and, where appropriate, preparation for the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Marriage preparation assists couples to understand the sacred, lifelong commitment of marriage and family life. However, a mother should never be coerced into marriage by reason of pregnancy; the pastoral priority remains the safety, dignity, and integral wellbeing of both mother and child.

Ms. Akwai reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for accompaniment. While promoting family unity and reconciliation, the Ministry recognizes that some mothers may require support beyond their immediate family.

The Baby Box Ministry, located at the Daughters of Mary Immaculate (DMI) Sisters’ House at Holy Cross, Honiara, remains open to all mothers in need of counselling, pastoral guidance, and assistance. Mothers are encouraged to seek help early, with the assurance that their privacy and dignity will be upheld with utmost respect.

For pastoral support, please contact:

Ms. Leotina Akwai: 7441920

Sr. Jenny Seny: 7870507

Through the Child Protection Office, the Baby Box Ministry continues to promote a culture of life, compassion, mercy, and responsibility, reminding the faithful that children must never bear the consequences of difficult circumstances. Every child deserves protection, every mother deserves accompaniment, and every family deserves the opportunity to encounter the mercy and love of Christ.