Haʻapai is hosting the 101st Free Wesleyan Church conference, with King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipauʻu in attendance.
The week‑long event, running from 22 to 30 June, has attracted thousands of church members to Pangai, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the “Mystery Cross” at Pangai FWC Church.
Rev. Dr Tevita Havea, church president since 2021, leads the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga, the nation’s largest denomination. During the conference, Lulutai Airlines has boosted service, increasing flights to Haʻapai from nine to 11 weekly.
Digicel Tonga has also reinforced mobile communications in Haʻapai, adding 2,100 MHz of equipment to boost network capacity by about 40 per cent. CEO Daniel Horan said the enhancement would support over 2,000 delegates, with on‑site SIM and MyCash mobile‑wallet services.
In marking the church’s centenary and landmark anniversary of the Mystery Cross (also called the Miracle Cross), the government has approved a public holiday on 26 October 2025 to commemorate the event.
The conference promises a full programme of worship, keynote sermons and royal addresses through to 30 June.
