Christ is Present in Oceania
By the grace of God, the light of Orthodoxy continues to spread across the remote islands of the Pacific Ocean, warming people’s hearts and bringing the hope of the Resurrection. From distant New Zealand, we convey with great love and joy the latest news from the God-pleasing work being carried out in Fiji and Tonga, a living testimony to the love of our Lord.
The Joy of Baptism: New Souls in the Embrace of Christ
Our Church in Fiji celebrated a blessed event, as four children, Stefanos, Evangelia, Elisabeth, and Dimitrios, received Holy Baptism on November 11. With devout pilgrims from Melbourne serving as godparents, the newly enlightened children began their new spiritual life, sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit. Simultaneously, in Tonga, at the Holy Church of Saints Peter and Paul, the local community welcomed a new member, Elpidios. His name, a symbol of hope, reflects the expectation for the further growth of the Orthodox faith in the region.
Building the House of God
In Tonga, the Holy Church of the Chief Apostles Peter and Paul has been transformed into a true ecclesiastical jewel, thanks to the completion of its iconography. Archimandrite Father Meletios, with his artistic gifts, adorned the church, while the iconostasis and the sanctuary doors were installed and iconographed, creating a space that inspires and teaches. Concurrently, the construction of a perimeter wall at the Missionary Center was completed, ensuring and facilitating daily activities, where Father Bartholomew continuously performs the sacred services.
In Fiji, a significant infrastructure project reached its completion with the roofing of the missionary center in Sabeto. This project resolves the problems caused by frequent cyclones and makes two apartments available for housing priestly families and volunteers. Already, one apartment has been granted to the new priest, Father Timothy, and his family, ensuring the uninterrupted continuation of his pastoral work.
Love in Action: Social and Educational Work
The practical love of the Mission is also expressed through the care for the most vulnerable. At the Saweni orphanage, the installation of a new, professional stainless steel kitchen, a donation from an anonymous Christian from America, significantly improves the hygiene and living conditions of the children.
At the same time, the efforts of supplementary teaching bore fruit, as all the children of the orphanage showed significant progress in their school performance. This success proves that with appropriate support, these children can look to the future with optimism and confidence in their endeavors. Let us all pray for these children.
As we approach the great feast of the Nativity of our Lord, our hearts turn to these brothers and sisters in the Pacific. The work of the Mission is a beacon of hope that reminds us that Christ is present everywhere, in every corner of the earth.
I pray that the birth of Christ may take place in the warm and hospitable hearts of all of us.
† Myron, Metropolitan of New Zealand
