Learning about Ministry Among Micronesians
Martha Mensendiek serves with Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan.
Dear Friends,
This past year I spent on sabbatical from Doshisha University as a Visiting Scholar at my alma mater, the University of Hawai’i School of Social Work and Public Health. I was primarily involved in a qualitative research project on social work and community engagement with the Micronesian community in Hawai’i. However, an additional interest of mine as a Global Ministries mission co-worker was to learn about the Micronesian church’s role in supporting their community in Hawai’i. The United Church of Christ has a rich history of mission in Micronesia, so this was a wonderful opportunity for me to learn and get acquainted with the diverse cultures of Micronesia and the churches in Hawai’i, and also to be a part of the Church of the Crossroads, my home church.
One of the special events I attended the Honolulu Marshallese United Church of Christ’s “Gospel Sunday,” a big celebration of the Good News arriving in Ebon, Marshall Islands, 167 years ago. During the worship service, there were 7 infant baptisms and amazing singing of hymns by the choir and congregation. After the worship, there were performances of music and dance. It was especially touching to see the children so central to the celebration, and I was struck by this community’s strong faith and the central role the church has in the community.
I was also delighted to attend the Festival of the Pacific in June of 2024, which was an amazing event showcasing the rich diversity of the island nations and their cultures. It was humbling to realize how little I knew about this area of the world and about each of the rich cultures, languages, and peoples. I was surprised to see that the native tribal groups of Taiwan were among the nations represented in this festival and learned that there is scientific research suggesting that the migration of Pacific Islanders, specifically the Austronesian peoples, originated in Taiwan. Other gatherings I enjoyed were the annual “Celebrate Micronesia” event and the “Micronesian Youth Summit.” Both events are ways for the Micronesian children and youth in Hawai’i to connect with their cultural roots and to feel a sense of pride in their heritage.
Many Micronesians are living in the United States under the unique immigration arrangement called the Compacts of Free Association (COFA). During the 1940s and 50s, the United States conducted nuclear testing in this region, which left the atolls contaminated and caused various health problems, including cancer, chronic diseases and death. Under the COFA agreement, citizens from the three Micronesian nations referred to as the Freely Associated States (FAS) – the Republic of Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia – can travel to the U.S. without restriction, as well as have the right to live, work, and access health care. However, Micronesians are among the most marginalized groups in Hawai’i and face many challenges, including racism, low socioeconomic status, and various health issues.
Through my research, I learned about the work of various social services and community centers providing support to the Micronesian community. I was especially impressed with the way they engage the youth in cultural activities, cultivating a connection with their cultural roots, which has a positive effect on their success in school as well.
Returning to Japan, I hope to share my experiences in Hawai’i in my social work classes and with the churches. I also hope to make use of the insights I gained in our work of supporting and empowering marginalized immigrant communities in Japan.
With thanks for your continued prayers and support of the global church.
Martha Mensendiek
Martha’s appointment is made possible by your gifts to Disciples Mission Fund, Our Church’s Wider Mission, and your special gifts.