On the island of Tanna in Vanuatu, in the South Pacific, there exists the worship of a cult figure called John Frum. John is depicted as an American G.I., and is regarded as the equivalent of God or Jesus by many of the islanders. The origin of the name is not known, though some people believe it may be derived from American soliders’ introductions as “John, from America”.
Followers ceremonially raise the American flag, and on John Frum Day in February 2007, the John Frum Movement celebrated its 50th anniversary. The island was recently featured in the fascinating BBC documentary series Around The World In 80 Faiths, presented by a laid-back Anglican priest.
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