Villagers and participants of the JPIC – Season of Creation Awareness - Photo: Noa Tuivunilagi
On the morning of Sunday, September 27th, at 6:30 am, we departed from the Holy Family Parish foyer, bound for the District of Dogotuki. This journey was part of my Season of Creation awareness and a chance to accompany Columban priest, Fr. Taaremon Matauea, on his bi-monthly outreach to these villages, which began with our visit to Vugalei.
While the primary purpose was to administer the Eucharist and celebrate mass, I was given the opportunity to conduct an outreach session with the villagers. This was a valuable chance to witness the vast distances the Columban fathers traverse to spread the gospel.
En route to Vugalei, we faced a river crossing. Our driver, Eferemo Caginivalu—whom I call “dreu,” - a term I would call someone from the provinces of Cakaudrove, Bua, or Macuata—jokingly warned that a crossing by “bilibili” (bamboo raft) might result in a pre-mass baptism. Fortunately, a fibre boat awaited us, a blessing that set a positive tone for the day.
As we prepared for the 10:00 am mass, the villagers had already prepared a wonderful breakfast spread, with each family contributing to the meal for the priest and his party. This generous custom was repeated for lunch.
My session immediately followed mass. To centre the discussion on creation and break through the post-mass fatigue, I picked a fragrant white frangipani flower blooming beside the church. I asked the attendees to pass it around, introduce themselves, and answer a simple question: "If you had to be an animal, what would that animal be and why?"
This was well-received, as the choice of animal is deeply personal. As the flower circulated, we reflected on the need to pass creation on to the next generation, underscoring the message that we are mere stewards of the creation, not its owners – so we must bless generations after us with the gift of creation, in the same way that we have enjoyed it. I also learned a cultural detail: the totem of the people of Vugalei is the “beka” or the endangered Fijian free-tailed bat or flying fox.
Given the village’s pride as a fishing community, part of my content focused on environmental care. We discussed limiting ghost gear (abandoned fishing equipment) and minimizing overall waste. This led to a productive discussion on traditional waste management, which included composting organic waste, recycling, and source reduction through limited plastic usage.
The day in Vugalei was a profound experience, deepening my understanding of faith, community, and stewardship. I extend my sincere thanks to the people of Vugalei for their generous hospitality, their participation in the session. This journey reaffirmed the vital role of the Columban fathers and the enduring spirit of this community as vigilant stewards of creation.
Noa Tuivunilagi
Justice Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Coordinator (Region of Oceania)
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