Record Baptism Ceremony at Kauma Adventist High School Draws Community Together

ABEMAMA, KIRIBATI — A historic baptismal service held at Kauma Adventist High School this Sabbath saw a total of 75 people baptised, 71 of them are students and four adults, marking a significant milestone for the school and the local community.​

The day began at 8 a.m. with candidates affirming their baptismal vows, followed by the immersion ceremony in the serene waters of the Kauma lagoon. Mission President Pastor Taabua Rokeatau, along with Pastors Taraitoi Uriam, Temaiu Itaia, and School Chaplain Bakarereua, officiated the rites.​

The ceremony was a profound display of unity, with hundreds of students, staff, and local church members from Abemama gathering in support of the candidates. The baptismal service extended throughout the Sabbath School period, reflecting the deep spiritual commitment of the participants.​

Following the baptisms, Mission President Pastor Rokeatau delivered a special message inside the Ken Wright Chapel, inspiring attendees with words of faith and encouragement. The day concluded with a combined reception lunch at the school maneaba, fostering fellowship and community bonding.​

This event not only underscored the spiritual vitality of Kauma Adventist High School but also highlighted the strong support of the Abemama Church community in nurturing the faith of its youth.

Students and Church community congratulating those baptised

Kauma Week of Prayer Culminating in Special Communion Service.

ABEMAMA, KIRIBATI — The one-week revival prayer event at Kauma Adventist High School came to a profound and spiritual close Friday evening, as more than 300 students participated in a powerful communion service led by Pastor Taabua Rokeatau, President of the Kiribati Seventh-day Adventist Mission.

The week-long prayer gathering, focused on spiritual revival and unity, saw significant changes in the seating arrangements in the school's Chapel to accommodate the large student body. This symbolic shift highlighted the collective spirit of renewal that marked the week’s events. The culmination of the revival came with a special footwashing ceremony, a longstanding tradition of humility and service, followed by the Lord’s Supper.

In a display of unity and spiritual dedication, the boys participated in the footwashing at the school’s Maneba, while the girls gathered in the dining hall for their portion of the ceremony. This division ensured a respectful and meaningful setting for all participants.

One of the most poignant moments of the evening was the act of humility displayed by the school’s principal, Master Tekemau, an eighty-year-old leader who, despite his old age and slower movements, washed the feet of a student. His actions spoke volumes, demonstrating that humility is not bound by age, but rather a matter of the heart. The principal’s participation added a personal touch to the event, reinforcing the message of selfless service and spiritual growth.

Pastor Rokeatau has expressed his joy over the transformation witnessed throughout the week. “This week was about more than prayer,” he said. “It was about allowing our students to reconnect with Jesus and each other, and to walk in humility before the Lord.”

The revival week at Kauma Adventist High School served not only as a spiritual renewal but also as an opportunity for students to strengthen their bonds with one another and reflect on the importance of faith in their daily lives. The event stands as a testament to the school’s ongoing commitment to fostering both academic excellence and spiritual growth. Several students, moved by the experience, gave their hearts to the Lord and decided to be baptized.

Kauma Adventist High School Holds Week of Prayer Led by Pastor Taabua Rokeatau

March 20, 2025 | Kauma, Abemama Kiribati –

This week, Kauma Adventist High School has been hosting a spiritually enriching Week of Prayer, led by Pastor Taabua Rokeatau, President of the Kiribati Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Mission. The event, drawing hundreds of students, staff, and members of the nearby Taribo Local Church, has focused on the powerful spiritual messages found in the letters to the seven churches written by the Apostle and prophet John.

Pastor Rokeatau’s messages have delved into the dual significance of these letters, which were initially addressed to the early Christian churches in Asia Minor. He has emphasized how these messages remain deeply relevant today, offering lessons not only about the early churches but also about the ongoing spiritual journey of God’s church, from the apostolic period to the present day, and toward the second coming of Christ.

One key aspect of Pastor Rokeatau’s messages has been his recent firsthand experience of the Bible lands, which added a special layer of authenticity to his teachings. Just before the Week of Prayer, Pastor Rokeatau returned from a Bible land tour that took him to the actual ruins of the seven churches. His visit to these sacred sites has given him a unique and personal perspective, further enriching the message he shared with the school and church community. The connection between his visit to these ancient locations and the teachings of Revelation has provided a powerful and tangible context for understanding the messages of the seven churches.

Throughout the week, Pastor Rokeatau has reminded attendees of the importance of reflection and spiritual growth, encouraging them to apply the lessons from the letters to their own lives. The theme of “Growing in Faith and Knowledge” has resonated throughout the sessions, as students and church members alike are challenged to examine their personal faith journeys, deepen their understanding of God’s word, and remain steadfast in their commitment to Him.

The revival week will conclude this coming Sabbath, marking the culmination of a spiritually enriching experience that has impacted the hearts of all who participated. Pastor Rokeatau’s authentic and insightful teachings, backed by his recent experience in the Bible lands, have left a lasting impression on the Kauma Adventist High School community. As the Week of Prayer concludes, the attendees look forward to carrying the spiritual lessons learned into their daily lives, united in their commitment to grow in faith and knowledge as they anticipate the second coming of the Lord.