Father Carlo joining his parishioners at the clean-up campaign. - Photo: Noa Mervyn Tuivunilagi
The morning of Saturday, September 27, 2025, dawned with a sense of purpose at Holy Family Parish, Labasa, as parishioners gathered for a day blending spiritual renewal with action: the "Tomitomi," or Clean-up Campaign. This was to be the second parish activity with the parish, as part of my Season of Creation Awareness in the North. This was I hope, more of a proactive means, to have a change of heart with action, rather than just a reactive cause; to be reflective of our faith and most of all practice.
It began with mass at 9 am. This liturgy held a special focus, blessing the Bibles of the Sacrament of Confirmation candidates. Accompanied by their sponsors and parents, the sight of these young people walking forward with their Bibles was a moving symbolic commitment—a reminder to live out the Gospel and walk in the footsteps of Jesus.
This spiritual foundation was then reinforced by Father Carlo's powerful sermon. He didn't shy away from the realities of modern life, reminding the congregation that we are called to live more simply and to limit the waste we generate. His message was clear: our current consumption habits are "simply unsustainable," a challenge that resonates directly with the Church's call for environmental stewardship.
Father Carlo ensured that the spiritual lessons translated immediately into practical commitment. He announced that the important post-Mass briefing for the candidates and their parents would only proceed after their participation in the "Tomitomi." And so, the community, dressed in their traditional sulu-iras for girls and sulus for boys, stepped out of the church and onto the streets of Labasa Town.
With gloves and garbage bags generously donated by the Labasa Town Council, the experience of "caring for God's creation" moved from a concept discussed in the church to a visceral, hands-on activity. Each parishioner approached the task with love and attention, doing what one does to care for their own home, extending that care to the shared environment. This simple, shared activity embodies the essence of ecological conversion: the profound realization that genuine action for the environment must start with a transformation of the heart. Through the grace of the Gospel, our hearts are transformed, guiding us to take concrete, loving action for the world around us.
I acknowledge the municipality of Labasa Town for granting the permit and for their support of the activity. Finally, I wish the Sacrament of Confirmation candidates all the very best. May you continue to keep Jesus at the centre of all your daily lives, letting your actions reflect the love and care for the world He created.
Noa Tuivunilagi
Justice Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Coordinator (Region of Oceania)
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