Hundreds of women from throughout the Pacific gathered in Nuku'alofa this week to attend the South Pacific Seminar of the Methodist and Uniting Church Women's Federation.

The meeting held every five years brings together Methodist women from seven countries of Australia, New Zealand, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Tonga to deliberate on the theme "Women Making a Difference by Knowing Christ."

The six-days seminar was officially opened by Queen Halaevalu Mata'aho with a sermon on Sunday September 13 at the Free Wesleyan Church's Centenary Church.

Rev Dr Mele'ana Puloka, the Pacific Area President, said today the seminar is aimed at educating and encouraging Methodist women through their faith in God they can make a difference in other people's lives whether it is helping a person in need or just sharing their faith.

Participants also took time to reflect on 15-year-old Tae Kami who passed away last month from cancer. Her undying faith in God despite her painful struggle with cancer was drawn up as an inspiration for all because her faith touched the lives of others including the King of Tonga.

The Pacific Area Seminar is under the World Federation of Methodist and Uniting Church Women, which is a worldwide fellowship support group for women acting as a catalyst in their faith and actions in all areas of life, spiritual growth, equality, development and peace.