Shaping Priest for a Pacific Church by Simione Tukidia

USP Library Cataloguing-in-Publication Data Shaping priests for a Pacific church : Pacific Regional Seminary of St. Peter Chanel commemorating 40 years in the Pacific, 23-25 August,

Joyful Celebration Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Message from the PRS Rector

Address by the President of the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific (CEPAC)

Jubilee Song to Commemorate the 40th Anniversary of PRS

Editorial: Priests, Shepherds and Teachers

Journey Through Time: Reflections by Archbishop Emeritus Petero Mataca

Humble Beginning : Celebrating 40 Years of the PRS

A Historical Journey

Rectors of the Pacific Regional Seminary

PRS Seminarians 2013

A Call to Prayer, Pacific Island Style

Heeding their Call: A Collage of Reflections by PRS Seminarians

Walking in His Footsteps: A Look Back on his Fiji Visit by His Holiness, Pope John Paul II

Layout, Design & Cover: Simione Tukidia

Of Knowledge and Memories: The Library at the Pacific Regional Seminary

Printed by Quality Print

Shaping a Pacific Priesthood

August 2013

Lumen Gentium (LG): The Dogmatic Constitution on the Church

Dei Verbum

Towards the Golden Jubilee

2013, Suva, Fiji Islands / compiled and edited by Debbie Singh. – Suva, [Fiji] : Pacific Regional Seminary of St. Peter Chanel, 2013.

36 p. ; 25 cm.

ISBN 978-982-342-003-5

1. Pacific Regional Seminary (Suva, Fiji)—History. 2. Catholic theological seminaries—Fiji--Suva—History. I. Singh, Debbie.

BX920.S8S53 2013

230.07329611

Sales & Advertising: Mareta Tovata

Contents

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

PRAYER OF CONSECRATION AT THE ORDINATION OF A PRIEST You shared among the sons of Aaron the fullness of their father’s power, to provide worthy priests in sufficient number for the increasing rites of sacrifice and worship. With the same loving care you gave companions to your Son’s apostles to help in teaching the faith; they preached the Gospel to the whole world. Lord, grant also to us such fellow workers, for we are weak and our need is greater. Almighty Father, grant to this servant of yours the dignity of the priesthood. Renew within him the Spirit of holiness. As a co-worker with the order of Bishop may he be faithful to the ministry, that he receives from you, Lord God, and be to others a model of right conduct. May he be faithful in working with the order of bishops, so that the words of Gospel may reach the ends of the earth, and the family of nations, made one in Christ, may become God’s one, holy people. Amen.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Joyful Celebration Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific Programme of Events: 23-25 August, 2013 OVERVIEW: A Celebration which recalls Vatican II and celebrates its 50 years, reviews how Vatican II has touched the Pacific in these years and above all gives thanks for PRS – whose beginning flows from Vatican II and whose graduates have been charged with its implementation. WEEKEND PROGRAM: All interspersed with songs and stories!

Friday 23rd August: A Day for former students and current students of PRS 9.00am: Welcome Sevesevu 9.45am: Key note: Fr Richard O’Sullivan SSC: “The life and Ministry of the Priest Today” 11.00-11.30am: Morning Tea 11.30-12.45pm: Discussions in groups (National Groups) 1.00-1.45pm: Lunch 2.30pm-4.00pm: Feedback from the groups 4.30pm: Eucharist Presider: Current Rector 6.00-6.45pm: Evening meal 7.30pm: National Groups present entertainment

Saturday 24th August: A Day for present day & former seminarians 9.00am: 11.00-11.30am: 11.30-12.45pm: 1.00-1.45pm pm: 2.30pm-4.00pm: 4.30 pm: 6.00-6.45pm: 7.30pm:

Opening Prayer Key note: Rev. Fr Peter Jeffrey: “Priestly Formation in the Pacific Life” Questions Morning Tea Discussions on the paper presented (Groups TBA) Lunch Talanoa session - Led off by Archbishop Petero Mataca, Archbishop Emeritus. Sharings from the pioneers. Stories from the past.. Eucharist Presider: Most Reverend Petero Mataca, Archbishop Emeritus of Suva Evening Meal Singing Competition: Each class presents its rendition of the Jubilee Song composed by Fr Mika Paunga sm (or its own composition).

Sunday 25th August: A Day for the Laity in the Area 9.00-10.30am: Keynote Talks: Rev. Mika Paunga SM: “Liturgy and impact of Vatican II” 10.30-11.00am: Morning Tea 11.00-12.45pm Sr. Keiti Ann Kanongata SOLN: “Laity in the Church” 1.00-1.45pm Lunch 2.30pm to 3.45pm Open Forum: Discussion and questions 4.15pm: Closing Eucharist: Presider Archbishop Peter Chong, Archbishop of Suva 6.00-6.45pm Evening Meal 7.45pm Evening: Farewell evening – spontaneous. 4

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Message from the PRS Rector Fr. Michael O’Connor SM

am very happy to welcome you to the 40th Jubilee of Pacific Regional Seminary, which will be celebrated mainly in the weekend of the 23-25 August, 2013. Almost 1,100 names appear on our list of enrolments, but we expect only a small proportion of these to be able to attend our jubilee celebrations. Many former students and most former staff have joined with us in prayer and in a spirit of thanksgiving to make this jubilee weekend an important and happy one for us all. The current students and a number of other former students, ordained and not ordained, will come together to enjoy one another’s company and to tell stories of the earlier days of the seminary. I wish to welcome all those who are present at the jubilee and those who wish they could be present to celebrate with thanksgiving all the blessings of these years. There is so much to be grateful for over these years. The Bishops of CEPAC deserve our special thanks for their commitment and dedication to keeping the seminary going, and supporting the staff through the ups and downs that all institutions go through. They have provided students and they have also provided staff that are the indispensable parts of the story of PRS. All the religious congregations deserve a warm vinaka vakelevu also for their help – they have often had to fill in the gaps that appeared in the staff and they have been generous in seeking staff outside the Pacific, when necessary. The students over the 40 years have all made a contribution – some in tangible signs and improvements around the compound; others less tangibly with the gifts of music or dance or organisation or gardening or generosity or service which have helped improve the quality of life within the seminary. We have had numerous helpers over those 40 years. Many women have worked in the kitchen and have spent long hours cooking in a hot environment, caring for the students whom they love and look after as though they were their own family. Similarly, those who, with great love, care for

the clothes – doing the washing, ironing and the mending. Our maintenance staff have kept making repairs when things have fallen apart and have often worked long hours in emergencies. Those who supply us with the many different goods and services which help us to keep going – these too deserve a special word of thanks. Other people have served in special committees and none is more important and yet less visible than the finance committee of the seminary. To them, and to our auditors we offer our sincere thanks. Lastly, of course we need to note our many benefactors, both local and overseas. There are many generous people around Fiji in particular, who make small, regular donations to assist in the formation of the seminarians. Some offer assistance to help the students from the poorer dioceses. There are a number of benefactors overseas who make generous contributions to the maintenance and development of PRS. The Society of St. Peter the Apostle gives regular contributions to assist the dioceses in paying the fees of their students and these funds come from Lenten appeals in many parts of the world. Missio Austria also offer grants for students and for some newly ordained. Some dioceses in Australia (e.g. Canberra and Goulburn) and New Zealand (especially Hamilton) make regular gifts – and the Marist Mission Centre in Australia has also made significant gifts for special purposes, often when most needed. Most of all, we need to express thanks to the organising committee of the jubilee, led by Frs. Chris Hifo and Donal McIlraith who have steadfastly continued to press forward in the preparations for this weekend. Any shortcoming will not be the fault of their lack of effort and hard work. To the various members of these committees, we convey our special thanks. Michael O’Connor sm Rector

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Address by the President of the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific (CEPAC) Bishop Soane Patita Paini Mafi

n behalf of the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific (CEPAC), I congratulate and convey my sincere gratitude to the Pacific Regional Seminary, for what it has achieved over the last 40 years of service to the local churches in the Pacific. As President of CEPAC, I acknowledge with great at respect, the pioneers who envisioned this significant project which began with a humble start at the Old Bishop’s Court just above the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Suva, on 6th March, 1972. The scene then was a handful number of students with only few clerics on board as the initial staff members at the time. The following year, in June 1973, the shift to the seminary’s present site took place and here the PRS re-established itself and re-opened with the name – the Pacific Regional Seminary of St. Peter Channel. This year, 2013, we join the Rector of PRS, Fr. Michael O’Connor SM, with his staff and students, in commemorating the completion of 40 years since that restart of PRS at its present location. Glancing over the years, one can obviously witness the significant difference that PRS has been making in the Pacific region. A considerable number of priests have graduated and have been sent out on priestly missions all over the Pacific and beyond. Likewise, the considerable and consistent growth in the number of young students entering the seminary each year continues to be seen. How wonderful then, to come together this weekend in August 2013, to celebrate in thanksgiving to God the fruits of such a great gift and blessing to the local churches in our region. PRS has experienced and made some significant achievements over the years and surely not without struggle and sacrifice. There have been some remarkable developments in facilities and reasonable and solid expansions within its academic and formational programs over these past 40 years. And now, everyone has come here from different corners of the Pacific, in a spirit of gratefulness to God and to one another, to thank God especially for the dedication and commitments of all those who have contributed to the life and growth of the PRS these past four decades. Without the collaboration, wisdom, skills and gifts of local bishops, former rectors, administrators, lay and religious staff, generous sponsors, affiliated religious communities, other 6

stakeholders and not the least – its seminarians, the PRS would certainly not have survived along its journey and would not have reached the present moment. Thus, let us give God and God alone the highest glory and praise! I am a former staff member and formator of the PRS for some years and currently I am a member of its Senate. I have come to grow in my conviction and deep appreciation of the unique and significant relationship a seminary such as the PRS has to the very heart and meaning of the Church in her mission in the world. From my own limited past experience in the life and mission of the seminary, and considering my being the current President of CEPAC to which the PRS belongs, I have come to see, and would like to suggest therefore, the following basic areas as perhaps vital pillars in maintaining a solid foundation for the seminary, as it now continues its journey towards its Golden Jubilee and beyond: i. Maintaining ‘quality’ and ‘efficiency’ in both resources and staffing, ii. Regular provision of trained formators and an improvement in the training of future formators, iii. Improvement in the education and maturity of students entering the seminary, iv. Maintaining close collaboration and mutual support with each local diocese, v. That the end products which emerge from the PRS are of ‘quality’ and ‘maturity’ in all four areas of priestly formation, vi. That the on-going formation of priests become an integral part of their personal and ministerial growth and development. I thank the Rector of PRS and his organising Committee for the planning and the organising of this joyful weekend. Our celebration also recalls Vatican II Council and its 50th Year Anniversary and how it has touched the churches of Oceania. The PRS was founded as a fruit that flowed from this very important Council. God bless you all. +Bishop Soane Patita Paini Mafi President of CEPAC

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Jubilee Song to Commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS) (KEY G MAJOR 4/4 TIME In 1966, Pope Paul the VI Decreed the raising, of Oceania Churches From status of, Apostolic Vicariates To the status, of Dioceses In line with the mind, of Vatican II Pacific Bishop Conference, was inaugurated The first Plenary Assembly, in 1968 (68) Gave it the name, the CEPAC Bishops Chorus: We praise and thank our God always For the 40 years of our existence now (HERE) We’ve been blessed with many priests To serve the people of God, in all our island nations The third Plenary Assembly1, they studied carefully, The possibility, of a regional seminary For the formation, of local clergy, Imbued with truth and holiness That same assembly, passed the motion To acquire the land, for the seminary The Archbishop of Suva, George Pearce Was mandated, to find a land in Suva (Chorus) The fourth Plenary Assembly, in 1971(71) Passed the motion, to start the seminary They started in Suva, in 1972 (72)

1970

STYLE – BALLAD ANALOG) They moved to this site, in 1973 (73) The original Idea, of PRS Was to form, good local priests In their cultures, in their contexts In their Land, and in their Ocean (Chorus) INSTRUMENTAL (Modulate (to A)) In article I, of its constitution, It gave a name, to the Institution It is to be known, Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS) Under the patronage, St. Peter Chanel A name that indicates, the particular character And the spirit, of the place It seeks to incorporate, Pacific traits, Pacific values, of all particular local Churches2 (Chorus) FINALE – PRS, PRS, PRS We love you

St Peter Chanel, pray for us

Words and Music by Fr. Dr. Mikaele Paunga SM Easter Sunday, 2013

2 Ecclesia Particularis – is a term from Vatican II, for the local churches

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Editorial

Priests, Shepherds and Teachers “That they may know how to represent Christ to people, Christ who did not come to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.”

arm Pacific Island greetings to you all!

As the Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS) celebrates its 40 Jubilee this year, we take this time to look back on our achievements of the past 40 years and, as well, to look ahead to our 50th anniversary and Golden Jubilee in 2022. As this is the Year of Faith and the 50th anniversary of the Vatican Council, we are attempting to include all these into our jubilee celebrations. As well as these events, we also honour our sixth former student to become Bishop in the ordination of Archbishop Peter Chong, as Archbishop of Suva in June 2013. th

Our 40th jubilee celebrations are being held mainly over the three days, from 23-25 August, 2013. We will joyfully join together with our brothers and sisters from the other Pacific Islands in prayer and worship, in lectures and discussions, and in culture and songs, during this time, as we look back on the journey that has been, and look ahead to our Golden Jubilee year in 2022. Indeed, the PRS journey has been a fulfilling one. Much has been accomplished along the way from our humble beginnings at the Bishop’s Court above St. Anne’s Primary School in Hercules Street in Suva. This souvenir publication, “Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church” commemorates the last 40 years of the PRS and attempts to provide a glimpse of our future path towards our half-century anniversary. For it is to the service of the church, the People of God, that all priests are called and for which they are ordained. The entire Church, called and assembled by God in the Holy Spirit, is sent into the world to proclaim to people and nations the Gospel of Christ. The ordained Ministry exists only to serve the life and mission of that Church. And so, to shape Priests, is to prepare them to accomplish truthfully, generously and under the inspiration of the Spirit of Christ, the ministry which will be entrusted to them. That is why it is necessary that the meaning of priestly ministry be clearly understood, with all that it implies for those who will be ordained into it. 8

The formation of her priests has always been a serious concern for the Church. The Fathers of Vatican II realised that the renewal of the church depended in large part, on a priestly ministry “animated by the spirit of Christ” and they solemnly affirmed “the critical importance of priestly training.” (Optatam Totius, Introduction). The Council gave only “regulations of a general nature”, giving charge to the various Bishops’ Conferences to draw up their own Programme of Priestly training. With the development of the Pacific Regional Seminary soon after the Council, the Bishops of CEPAC were able to take what was traditional about formation and to adapt it in various ways to the needs of the Pacific Island churches. In this way, they tried to ensure proper implementation of the directives while taking into consideration the diversity of people and countries as well as cultures in the Pacific Islands. The full statement of these guidelines, known as the Ratio Institutionis was finally approved in 1990, and while standing in need of some revision, still gives substantially the direction for formation at PRS in 2013. Major seminaries are necessary for priestly training. The whole training of the students for the priesthood has as its object, to make them true shepherds of souls after the example of our Lord Jesus Christ, teacher, priest and shepherd. Hence, they are to be trained for the ministry of the Word so that they may gain an ever-increasing understanding of the revealed Word of God, making it their own by meditation and giving it expression in their speech and in their lives. (OT 4, Decree of Vatican II on Priestly Formation). They are to be trained also for the ministry of worship and sanctification so that, by prayer and the celebration of the sacred liturgical functions, they may carry on the work of salvation through the Eucharistic sacrifice and the sacraments. They are to be shaped to undertake the ministry of the shepherd, that they may know how to represent Christ to people, Christ who did not “come to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

their teaching and their celebrations. It is important for the words of the priests to translate the experience of the encounter with God into the socio-cultural realities of modern life in the Pacific. The Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS) seeks to be attentive in this area in order to develop realism and openness to different viewpoints in the students, as well as other qualities such as interior freedom, a capacity to adapt and to renew, and to acquire skills in relating to others. 10:45; cf. John 13:12-17), and that, they may understand how to win over many by becoming servants of all. (cf. 1 Cor. 9:19). Hence, all the elements of their training, spiritual, academic and human formation should be coordinated with this pastoral aim in view. All superiors and teachers are urged zealously carry out this program in loyal obedience to the authority of the Bishops. The people of the Pacific need their priests to be truly human, warm and compassionate, faithful to their culture without sectarianism, sincere with themselves and with others, taking part in the development of their people, willing to listen and to give back what they have heard though

All these different elements come into play in the discernment of the vocation to the priesthood. Discernment is a complex process which takes time, prayer and consultation to come to its proper conclusion. The formation team assesses the candidates against the criteria expected and the candidate himself discerns his own freedom, willingness and ability to live the life of service in the priesthood, As the PRS looks towards its Golden Jubilee in 2022, we give thanks for the past 40 years. We pray that more Pacific Island men will be called to the priesthood in the Church. We pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to guide the seminary staff and the Bishops of CEPAC, through the intercession of our patron St. Peter Chanel, as PRS charts its course for the future.

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Journey Through Time

Reflections on the Past 40 Years of PRS By Archbishop Emeritus, Petero Mataca, DD, MOF

et us begin at the beginning. The Bishops of the Pacific Islands were inspired by Vatican Council II when, in 1969, they decided to establish CEPAC, the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific and the Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS) of St Peter Chanel for the training and formation of priests in the Pacific Island region. The Pacific Regional Seminary opened its doors in 1972 at the Bishop’s Court located above St Anne’s Primary School in Suva. The seminary belonged to the CEPAC Bishops but it would train and form diocesan seminarians and also seminarians from priests’ communities working in the Pacific. The first PRS seminarians were those recalled from studying in overseas seminaries. There were 18 of them. They were sent overseas by Apia, Tonga, Fiji and Marist. They were diocesans and Marists. For the first few years, all diocesan and religious seminarians lived together as a community. The first PRS Rector was Rev. Father Laurence Ross, SM. who invited me to be Spiritual Director. In accepting the invitation, I committed myself to spending four hours every Wednesday and Friday evening at the seminary giving talks, counselling and hearing confessions. I did and enjoyed it. The Church of St Pius X, Raiwaqa was blessed and opened on Easter Monday 1972 by Archbishop George Pearce, SM. I was granted three months leave after this grace-filled event. On my return, I was invited by the CEPAC Bishops to replace Father Laurence Ross, SM as Rector in 1973. By this time, some buildings at the new site in Suva Point were completed. These were the two students’ residences-cumsmall recreation hall and the Rector’s and Vice Rector’s quarters, plus the office block, the dining hall, kitchen and the classrooms upstairs. So, my first task as Rector was to move the Pacific Regional Seminary to its present site at Suva Point. With the help of many friends we did the move in one day.

The new site was beautiful. The buildings were located on a brow of a low hill with a flat land in front that tapered into the sea. The buildings were in concrete and the designs were unique. Indeed, the buildings were dominating, giving the seminary a high profile. This had its advantages and its disadvantages. Years later, as local bishop on the PRS Senate, I kept my eyes on future developments to see that we built functional houses and not grandiose monuments. The Catholic Church is a servant; it is where the people are. It is a sacrament in the world. New seminarians into PRS were accepted in 1973. I remembered Callixto Tanimo. He hailed from Tanna in Vanuatu. He spoke French when he came but picked up English very quickly and well. He was an original thinker who was interested in philosophy, history, liturgy, cultures and the cargo cult. Callixto lamented the loss of his local culture. Bishop Amando Samo of the Carolines is a friend. I remember welcoming him with his companion Augustine Giltmag into PRS as Rector. They were sent by Bishop Martin Neylon, SJ of Carolines and Marshall Islands. Both joined Year 1. After a week of lectures, Amando came to see me in my office one evening. He shared with me that he had attended the Jesuit Formation Institute in Guam for two years and he had heard all the lectures he was getting now. Hence I asked: ‘What is the problem?’ He said: ‘I should be in Year 2’. So, I crossed his name out in Year 1 and entered it in Year 2. He went to his room happy. Years later, after his ordination as a Bishop he reminded me of our meeting in PRS in 1974. He said: ‘If you did not put me up into Year 2 that evening I was returning home the next day.’ Decision! Decision! Decision! Pray always for good decisions. I was ordained auxiliary bishop to Archbishop George Pearce in December 1974. In the Pacific Conference, bishops are members of CEPAC and may attend the assembly of

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

First year students of PRS - 1972

CEPAC. The Assembly in 1975 was scheduled to be held in Noumea, New Caledonia. I attended the Assembly as a member and as Rector of PRS to give a report on the seminary. I was elected to the PRS Senate during that Assembly. It was the beginning of my long relationship/ association with the Senate and with PRS. This duty fell on me as diocesan bishop. It was not a burden but an honour. The relationship made me grow with PRS and with the local Churches in the Pacific. Indeed, I was made to see that God was implementing his work of salvation among us. PRS at the beginning was one community. The members were diocesan, religious seminarians and the staff. They all stayed at PRS. They prayed in the same chapel. They ate in the same dining room. They lectured and studied in the same classrooms. This model changed when different priest communities established themselves in their formation centres but come together each day at PRS for academic studies. Now only diocesan seminarians live at PRS. The SM students are in Marist College. The SSC candidates are at their Formation House, Nasese. The CM seminarians are in their Formation House, Wailoku. The MSC students are in their Formation House, Wailoku. The St. Don Bosco seminarians are in their Formation House, Nasinu. Change means growth. I have been the chairperson of the Senate for many years. The Senate is the link between the CEPAC and the PRS. The Rector is the administrator of PRS. He is a member of the PRS community and he leads the community by word

and example. The Senate consists of three bishops, elected by the three regions of CEPAC and approved by CEPAC, a bishop elected by CEPAC as chairperson, the Rector, one representative of religious elected by Religious Congregations and one representative of Societies of Apostolic Life elected by them. The Senate meets twice a year. It meets always at PRS, Suva Point. This is excellent so that the members of the Senate for a week or so become members of the PRS community. My involvement in the Senate challenged me as a diocesan bishop that I ought to promote and nurture vocation to the priesthood, religious life, consecrated life and marriage/family life. I believe that the diocesan bishop must pray for vocation everyday and motivate his whole Church to do the same. Jesus said to his disciples and to us: ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest” (Mt 9: 37-38). I did and I am still doing it. The Church needs good and holy priests. As a member of the Senate my dream was to have good and holy priests in our Churches. The diocesan priest living in a one priest parish in the midst of a Pacifican isolated community was always in my mind. I often asked myself: ‘What kind of a person must this priest be? What kind of a priest must he be? What daily programme must he follow and what is the role of the community?’ I took heart when Bishop Denis Browne of the Cook Islands now of Hamilton, New Zealand joined the Senate. I took comfort in the fact that two members of the Senate had full diocesan seminary formation. Bishop Browne and I were past students of the same seminary. Also both of us have worked in Pacifican parishes and experienced ministering to people living close to each other in a community and to creation and therefore to the Creator. A community is the school to learn respect for other people and to learn cultures. A good and holy priest ministering in this school is ‘a pearl of great price.’ When PRS first opened its doors in 1972, the seminary Chapel was a small wooden building near the road. When the community moved to Suva Point the chapel was in a classroom.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

The Lord was housed in a tent. Father Larry Hannan, SM was Rector when finally the PRS community planned to build a house for the Lord, a proper seminary Chapel. The Chapel was the result of the whole PRS community working together. I was invited to a number of meetings where the chapel was discussed. At the end, the community agreed to use the most simple and symbolic local materials – open right around, exposed wooden posts, magimagi, mats, and so on. The Consecration Mass for the PRS chapel was concelebrated by the CEPAC bishops led by Bishop Lambert. The chapel is an edifice of its kind. Prayerful liturgies are celebrated here. As a member of the PRS Senate, I was overjoyed when the news arrived that Pope John Paul II had agreed to sleep at PRS during his one night stop-over on his visit to Fiji. This was a blessing as the Pope was not in the habit of spending nights in seminaries! The news of the Pope’s visit made me, as local diocesan bishop, humble and grateful. The year before, while in Rome attending a Synod of Bishops with the agreement

of the Fiji Prime Minister, Ratu Sir Kamasese Mara, I had invited Pope John Paul II to come to Fiji. The Holy Father, on this pastoral tour in December 1986, agreed to visit Bangladesh, Singapore, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia and the Seychelles. As I said then: ‘We are happy with the wee blessings!’ In fact, the visit was historical and Fiji became known throughout the world: ‘Fiji as the world should be.’ Praise, be our Lord and God! I treasured my time in the PRS Senate because there I met and worked with many first class bishops and priests. These men of wisdom had the responsibility to see the growth of the PRS community. PRS community is now 40 years old in its present site. The community has grown from 18 to over 100 students per year. The face of the staff has changed from overseas to Pacifican and past students. Many are well qualified in their field. So, congratulations to the Senate and the Churches in the Pacific! It is my deep desire and prayer that PRS will continue to grow from strength to strength in the next 40 years serving faithfully the Churches of the Pacific. God bless.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Humble Beginnings

A Historical Journey

Celebrating 40 Years of the PRS

By a complicated set of circumstances, the Holy See entrusted Eastern Oceania to the apostolic care of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, popularly known as the “Picpus Fathers”. In 1827, Father Bachelot and his companions arrived in Hawaii to begin their work. They were soon expelled from the area, but, under Bishop Rouchouze, a more successful start was made in the Gambiers and later in Tahiti. By a still more complicated set of circumstances, Western Oceania was entrusted to the then tiny Society of Mary. Their first missionaries, under the direction of Bishop Pompallier, appeared in that vast area in 1837. The original Vicariates were successively carved up as the work progressed in spite of massacre, disease, disaster and the human limitations of the best of men. It was only after the Second Vatican Council, in 1966 that the local hierarchy was established in the islands of the Pacific.

By Debbie Singh

n the picturesque drive along Queen Elizabeth Drive in Suva, up a pebbled driveway, set amidst greenery, manicured lawns, in the shade of tall palm trees and brightly coloured Pacific flora sit the buildings of the Pacific Regional Seminary of St Peter Chanel or PRS. The PRS first opened its doors on 6th March 1972, at the Bishop’s Court, above the Sacred Heart Cathedral in downtown Suva. In that first year, there were only three permanent staff: the Rector: Fr. Larry Ross SM and two lecturers, Frs. Pitt Robichaud SM and Fr Bourke CM and the seminary’s first 18 students. A year later, in June 1973, the seminary shifted to its present site at Suva Point and this year proudly celebrates its 40th year at this site. The weekend of 23-25 August, 2013 has been set aside as the major time of celebration to commemorate this 40 year milestone in the history of the seminary. As this year is the Year

of Faith and because it also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Vatican Council, the PRS has decided to combine all of these events to its August celebration. Messages and invitations have been extended to former students and staff via dioceses, congregations and the very reliable Pacific system of the ‘coconut wireless. Archbishop Emeritus Petero Mataca recalls those early days of the PRS saying: “On my return (from leave), I was invited by the CEPAC Bishops to replace Father Laurence Ross, SM as Rector in 1973. By this time, some buildings at the new site in Suva Point were completed. These were the two students’ residences-cum-small recreation hall and the Rector’s and Vice Rector’s quarters, plus the office block, the dining hall, kitchen and the classrooms upstairs. So, my first task as Rector was to move the Pacific Regional Seminary to its present site at Suva Point. With the help of many friends we did the move in one day.

PRS office & library

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

On the return of Archbishop Pierre Martin of Noumea from the Synod in 1967, invitations were sent out to the Bishops of the Pacific to attend a meeting in Suva the following year. There, on 26th March 1968, the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific - Conferentia Episcopalis Pacifici, (CEPAC) - was formally inaugurated. Archbishop George Pearce of Suva was voted President with Archbishop Martin as Vice-President; the members designated were the Metropolitan Archbishops of Papeete, Noumea and Suva, and the Bishops of the Dioceses of Taiohae, Wallis et Futuna, Port Vila, Apia, Tarawa and Tonga. Bishops Coadjutor and Assistant Bishops were also named as members by right. Since then, some of the dioceses have changed their names and the metropolitan Archbishop of Agana, Guam, and the Bishops of the Dioceses of the Caroline Islands, Chalan Kanoa, Samoa Pagopago, Rarotonga and the Prefecture Apostolic of the Marshall Islands, together with the Missions sui juris of Funafuti and Tokelau, have joined the Conference. Under the leadership of Archbishop Pearce, and then, in turn, of Archbishop Martin, Archbishop Mataca, Bishop Finau, Bishop Lambert, Archbishop Calvet, Archbishop Apuron of Agana, and now of Bishop Soane Patita Mafi (Bishop of Tonga) CEPAC has undertaken vigorous action in many fields, particularly in the important fields of priestly recruitment and formation. One hundred and twenty years of sporadic effort and meagre results had already passed when Bishop Rodgers of Tonga, through his representative, Father White, asked the first meeting of CEPAC to give thought to the establishment of “a seminary and religious houses of formation in Fiji”. The Conference urged interested dioceses and the Society of Mary to explore the matter and make recommendations. They did so and in 1970, CEPAC decided to establish its own seminary in Fiji. Thus, came into existence the Pacific Regional Seminary of St. Peter Chanel.

“The new site was beautiful. The buildings were located on a brow of a low hill with a flat land in front that tapered into the sea. The buildings were in concrete and the designs were unique. Indeed, the buildings were dominating giving the seminary a high profile. This had its advantages and its disadvantages,” Archbishop Mataca said. “Years later, as local bishop on the PRS Senate, I kept my eyes on future developments to see that we built functional houses and not grandiose monuments. The Catholic Church is a servant; it is where the people are. It is a sacrament in the world.” The PRS offers training for candidates for the priesthood from the various dioceses of CEPAC and for religious congregations with houses affiliated to the seminary. It offers a Diploma in Theology and a Bachelor of Divinity which are accredited by the South Pacific Association of Theological Schools (SPATS). In addition, because of its affiliation to the Urbaniana University in Rome, PRS students who complete the requirements can also obtain a Bachelor of Theology degree. Over the past four decades, over 1080 students have entered the PRS and about 375 have been ordained into the priesthood. Most of the priests ordained from the PRS, now work in dioceses in the Pacific Islands. There are also a number working in Papua New Guinea, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, South America, the United States, Jamaica, Africa and Europe which has also enabled the PRS to serve the wider Church in the Pacific and in the world. Of those ordained into the priesthood at the PRS, six have become bishops. The latest ordination took place this

year on 8 June, following the Episcopal ordination of His Grace, Archbishop Peter Chong, himself a former PRS scholar and teacher. The seminary has also had support and assistance from the wider church over its past 40 years. About 170 staff members from every continent and from various congregations and dioceses have served on the faculty of the PRS over the years. Of these, at least 33 are now deceased, among them three former rectors: Fr Larry Ross SM (1972-73), Fr Vitori Buatava SM (1994-95) and Bishop Michel Visi (1996). The longest serving staff members are Fr Donal McIlraith who has spent 24 years at the PRS and Richard O’Sullivan who has been with the seminary for 19 years. Of the local staff, Fr Mikaele Paunga has been a teacher at the PRS for 13 years. This year, the PRS has a total of 130 students. Of these, 69 are diocesan students, 58 in affiliated colleges and three sisters. Faculty members number 23 and of these 18 are from the Pacific Island region.

Students of 2013 Rugby team

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Rectors of the Pacific Regional Seminary The Rector is appointed by the Sacred Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples, following presentation on the part of the Episcopal Conference. The Rector is ultimately responsible for all aspects of the administration and formation programmes in the Seminary. Rectors 1972-2013

Rev Laurence Ross SM (USA) 1972-1973 Deceased

Most Rev Petero Mataca (Fiji) 1973-1974

Most Rev Soane Foliaki SM (Tonga) 1975-1980

Rev Etuale Lealofi (Samoa) 1981-1983

Rev Lawrence Hannan SM (Ireland) 1984-1989

Rev Peter Jeffrey (Australia) 1990-1993

Rev Vitori Buatava, SM (Fiji) 1994-1995 Deceased

Most Rev Michel Vis (Vanuatu) 1996 Deceased

Rev Line Folaumoeloa (Tonga) 1997-1999

Rev Douglas Akehurst CM , (Australia) 2000- 2002

Rev Veremo Dovarua (Fiji) 2003-2008

Rev. Michael Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor, SM, (New Zealand) 2009-Present

PRS Seminarians 2013 The Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS) has been offering training for those wishing to enter the Roman Catholic priesthood since 1972. This training is available for the various dioceses in the Pacific Island region and for religious congregations with houses affiliated to the Seminary. 2013 Students DIOCESAN COLLEGE

Vegetable garden

Archdiocese of Suva 16 Archdiocese of Noumea 1 Archdiocese of Samoa (Apia) 14 Diocese of Tonga 14 Diocese of Port Vila 9 Diocese of Wallis and Futuna 1 Diocese of Tarawa and Nauru 10 Diocese of Caroline Islands 4 TOTAL: 69

FIVE AFFILIATED COLLEGES Marist College (Society of Mary) 24 Missionaries of Sacred Heart 16 Columban Formation House 3 Salesians: Don Bosco House 4 Vincentian Formation House 12 TOTAL: 59 Religious and Lay Students Four sisters are studying in 2013: Sisters of Our Lady of Nazareth 1 Marist Sisters 2 SMSM Sisters 1

A Call to Prayer, Pacific Island Style Embracing the Mana and the Heritage of our Pacific By Debbie Singh

estled amidst nature, encircled by tropical foliage and complete with a view of the Pacific Ocean, sits the octagonal shaped Chapel of the Pacific Regional Seminary at Suva Point. Constructed from Fijian timber in 1985, the Chapel is a tribute to Pacific Island culture and tradition and wonderfully embraces the mana and heritage that is our Pacific. The design of the Chapel is the result of 18 months of consultation amongst the Bishops of the Pacific, the community at the seminary and various interested individuals, culminating in an architectural competition which was won by a local contractor, the late Sri Lankan architect Jaimi Samarawere, of Jaimi and Associates. In the peacefulness of the Chapel, one cool, crisp afternoon in July, Fr. Larry Hannan SM explained: “We wanted to find a design that would provide a suitable space for public worship and private prayer for the seminary community.” “Use was to be made of natural materials, allowing for maximum air circulation and the building would need to fully conform to contemporary liturgical standards. Jaimi (Samarawere) had a lot to do with the design. He was an artist, you see….a humble fellow; not a technocrat. “Jaimi had wonderful ideas. Even though he was Buddhist at the time, he was particularly interested in work that was relevant to culture. Everything in the Chapel represents some island in the Pacific,” Fr. Hannan said. Fr. Hannan was Rector of the PRS from 1984-1989, his term overlapping with the construction of the Chapel in 1984 and its dedication on October 27th, 1985. Writing about his experience in being chosen to design the Chapel, the late Jaimi Samarawera recalled: “Having been shortlisted for the competition and having received my comprehensive brief, my first task was to learn about the Catholic faith and the liturgical celebration. Being a Buddhist, my knowledge of Christianity was minimal. This I did by discussing with friends, who in turn, arranged some useful meetings with Catholic priests. I also had to learn about traditional aspects of the island cultures by reading and visiting the Fiji Museum. 16

“The brief was accompanied by very useful comments by some priests and seminarians – fragments of the PRS Chapel which were dormant within them. I found these thoughts to be of great use and feel that I was the person who played with a jigsaw puzzle long enough to arrive at the final picture. “The more I studied the brief and the more discussions I had with people, I was convinced that a Chapel with a difference was called for. To quote from the seminarians ideas about the Chapel, (it needed to) provide a prayerful atmosphere and a feeling of togetherness, create a family spirit….in Pacifican style without unnecessary extravagance,” said the late Mr Samarawera. Design and Architecture The design of the Chapel is almost like a Buddhist temple. It is not too sophisticated and uses Pacific materials to portray Pacific themes. Incorporating a skylight over the sanctuary, the Chapel’s trellised doors provide natural ventilation and are hung in such a way that when opened, enables

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

the Chapel to be fully open in a semi Inside the Chapel at the seminary circular manner. This allows the con“The Chapel needed to tuary Lamp hails from Tahiti while gregation to be seated in a semi-circle provide a prayerful atmosphere the 14 Stations of the Cross were facing the sanctuary, providing a feeland a feeling of togetherness, gifted from the Marquesas Islands. ing of togetherness and allowing for create a family spirit…. Each of the 14 carvings took 100 complete participation in the liturgiin Pacifican style without hours each to produce and were 14 cal celebration. unnecessary extravagance.” months in the making. The marble-floored sanctuary is the The Statue of St. Peter Chanel, padominant area of the Chapel, with tron Saint of the Pacific Regional Seminary, the skylight allowing natural light to illumiwas especially carved for the Chapel by Fr. nate the altar. Much of the Chapel’s internal Pelenato Fotofili of Wallis and Futuna. walling is panelled with woven matting – gifts During his historical visit to Fiji in Novemfrom different countries in the Pacific Island ber 1986, His Holiness Pope John Paul II region, including Kiribati, Tokelau, the Cook gifted the picture of the Black Madonna to Islands and Samoa. the PRS and it hangs in the main Chapel, A particular feature of the 200-seater Chapclose to the sacristy. The brass diyaa lamps el is its main structural column, just behind on the internal columns embrace the Indian the altar, which is covered in metres of plaitcultural element in Fiji and the Pacific; while ed coconut fibre or magimagi. A plantarium the intricately carved designs on the back forms a backdrop to the sanctuary. rests of the Chapel benches are representaMost of the liturgical furnishings in the tive of the Pacific Islands and were adopted from designs Chapel are hand crafted gifts from various dioceses in the Pacific Islands. The Altar, a gift from Fiji, is in the shape of found on tapa (bark cloth), mats and other artifacts. a Kava bowl and is carved from the trunk of a Kauri tree. A set of “Tam tam” drums from Vanuatu stand in a vertical The carved motif around its top edge is a combination of shelter near the Chapel and are used as a call to prayer. carvings from different island groups in Fiji and provides a The low roof line and width of the peripheral walkway create an intimate, reflective atmosphere and provides prosense of identity and belonging. The Lectern was a gift from Fiji, while the Presiding Chair tection from the sun and rain and acts as a buffer during was a gift from the Diocese of Tonga, hewn from the trunk hurricanes. of a large Raintree and engraved with Tongan designs. The Perhaps it would be fitting to end with the words of the large Cross, a gift from the Diocese of the Caroline and late Mr Samarawera: “That the PRS belongs to the region Marshall Islands, is positioned close to the presiding chair is acknowledged; a deliberate attempt was made to make and is sometimes draped in traditional yellow masi (masi re- the Chapel representative of the different cultures (of the rega) which is used for the installation of high chiefs. Here, Pacific) without turning it into a handicraft centre. It was it is used to symbolise the resurrection and exultation of attempted to use various identifiable elements of the cultures as unobtrusively as possible. Christ. The Tabernacle, a gift from New Caledonia, is fashioned “If I were offered the opportunity to design another Chapel from a hardwood tree in the shape of a Case (pronounced at the same location – it would most likely be the same.” “Kaas”) or traditional Kanak house. The Conch shell SancShaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

An inside view of the seminary chapel

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Heeding their Call A Collage of Reflections by PRS Seminarians Edward Vakatora My name is Edward Vakatora and I hail from the village of Naivilaca, in the district of Noco which belongs to the province of Rewa. My people are traditional fishermen and have self styled themselves as the “first Apostles”. My family live Samabula in Suva. I have spent about 10 years working in many parts of the Nadroga and Navosa areas. I have been at the PRS for three years now as a Diocesan student of the Archdiocese of Suva. These have been fulfilling years in terms of the many new things I am learning and the many experiences as a seminarian. This has been a time of forming me in terms of spirituality, theology, work and community living. I always wanted to be a priest ever since I was in primary school. At the end of high school I considered becoming a religious but I felt that I needed more time to discern . In about my fifth year of teaching that these thoughts came back to me and I wrote to the Archbishop expressing my wish to become a priest. When the reply came with suggestions that I could do to discern this feeling, I began to slowly pursue them before being overtaken by the call to formally enter the seminary. After many times of discernment that continues today, I feel that I am called to serve God and his people as a priest. At the moment I try to focus on study and prayer with the help of my spiritual director to see how I am progressing and how the call itself is growing. My idea of the seminary life was quite different to what I am now experiencing and I feel that I am learning something new everyday. I have now been able to fit in and feel a sense of peace as it was God who had led me here. I suppose the preconceived idea of the seminary that I had was that of spending time in prayer and trying to appear as holy as possible. Now I realise that I must be who I am and to live this out in a holy and loving way. Some of the challenges I have faced so far is ‘breaking the ice’ with the many diverse and interesting people I meet here at the seminary. But I have discovered that over time and due to our various work groups, sub-groups and national

groups the ice-breaking has taken place and to teach me the importance of being sensitive in my interaction with others. I see the problem facing the Church today is that the materialistic and globalising world around us makes it appear strongly that the faith is not necessary. We as a community of faith in the various islands of the Pacific need to stress the family and community life we had enjoyed from our ancestors. It is thus the responsibility of each diocese, parish and family to look at what evangelisation meant for the early Christians and how we in today’s world can present and live the Gospel message by reflecting how it applies to our very own times. At the parish level , the parish priest , religious, catechists and catholic teachers must be the first group that reflects on what the church of Vatican II teaches and to have on-going workshops and talks around the parish where this message will be taken down to the grassroots of the faithful . My memorable moments in PRS are when the various Bishops of the Pacific visit ,taking part in liturgies and the social life of the seminary. It is a privilege to be with these successors to the Apostles and to share with them. It is a reminder to me of the unity and oneness of the Church and the large responsibility these have in guarding and leading the faith. Thus, it is a remainder for me to pray for them and for all their priests and us their seminarians to be faithful and obedient to the teaching of the Holy Church in the world today. Finally, I thank PRS and all those who have been involved in my formation for all their generous support and prayers so far and ask that this be continued. Moreover, to these, be rest assured that you are in my/our prayers. Rev. TUATA’A Jean-Yves, Sialetagi Diocese of Wallis & Futuna One day a friend of mine asked me this question: “Jean, when did you decide to become a priest while you have had the more opportunities among us?” I said always with a smile, “When I got up this morning…” Priesthood begins by answering the call: Not only

the call to enter the seminary or formation but to keep answering that call every day of one’s life. While priesthood calls us to reveal God’s presence to others, we know that God always stands before and behind and beside us. A priest is never acting alone, never relying entirely on his own attributes, for God’s continuing miracle is to fill the world with grace by working through human hands. And this is where my story begins… My name is Jean-Yves Tuata’a Sialetagi and this is my final year at the Pacific Regional Seminary. I was ordained a Deacon at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Suva, Fiji, on 14 April, 2013 and I am now waiting for my ordination to the priesthood at the end of this year. I am the second last in a Christian family of eight adorable siblings. I share two wonderful cultures: French Polynesia (or Tahiti Nui) from my humble father TUATA’A Mong Yen Alexis and Wallis/Futuna from my loving mother TUIPOLOTA’ANE dit Saliga Seletute. I was the most “terrible” and joyful child in the family who had always enjoyed life to the full without fear, paddling joyfully my canoe or surfing the waves on the vast Moana (Ocean) where I have always found quiet and gentle peace in my heart. With the excitement of ordination quickly approaching and time in seminary coming to an end, it is valuable to reflect on the fundamental reasons of why I am at this point and, mainly, why I chose to say yes to this wonderful and unique vocation. In some ways, it is hard to express exactly why I think this is the way of life to which God is calling me. I think this might be comparable to a question posed to a man as to why he loves his wife; although there are several wonderful things about her he can say, there is bound to be an inexpressible element that can be explained only by his saying, “I just do.” A vocation does not come out of nowhere. I am blessed to have been born into a loving and prayerful family that appreciated its Catholic faith and let it influence every area of life. This is the reason that makes me very strong in my vocation. As we are celebrating this year 2013, the 40th Anniversary of our Pacific Regional Seminary, my six beloved fellow brothers Diocesan year VII are now coming towards the end of our formation of priesthood in this unforgettable and wonderful place which encompasses a truly multicultural group of awesome, strong and generous men from Fiji, Kiribati, Caroline Islands, and Wallis & Futuna. Having been showered with so many blessings and chal-

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

lenges throughout all these seven years, we have come together to acknowledge our enjoyment and thanksgiving to God for being trained at PRS as Pacific priests of tomorrow. Our past seven years of formation here at the Pacific Regional Seminary is comparable to that allegory “all the runners at the stadium” taken from the First Corinthians 9:24-25 who go into strict training in order to win and to get the prize: the Crown of Glory of our priesthood life. Hence, we all are reminded to run in the same way in order to get that prize despite obstacles and challenges of life. Prayer and work should not be diminished or belittled. On the contrary, they are the two major and sacred ways of helping us to transform into these human virtues of priesthood life: spiritually, intellectually, humanly and physically, and to being “men of communion” for all and to all in being truthful, responsible and loving. “Do small things but with great love and leave the rest to God.” This simple phrase has been my motto for the seven past years at PRS. Then, three simple questions came to my mind which help me to be constantly attentive of my call in order to deal with all contemporary concerns of the Church today: What have I left on the PRS ground? What has the ground of PRS left for me? What does PRS teach me? I will answer simply: To have the strength to bear faithfully the Cross of Christ in my priesthood life.

Patrick Visanti Columban Born and baptised as a Methodist, I was the eldest in a family of three - two boys and a girl. Most of my childhood and teenage years were spent on the Island of Rotuma, with my first five years spent in Suva as my father was working as a telecom technician at that time. I only became a Catholic at the age of 11 when my mother decided to convert and follow my father in his faith. After my high school years in Rotuma, I moved to Suva and continued at Marist Brothers High School for another two years before I joined the work force. As a child, I continuously had a fascination about planes and wanted to join the flying school but it was too expensive for my parents. I got a sales and marketing job in Suva before joining the Colonial National Bank, now BSP, where I worked for about two years before joining the Pacific Regional Seminary in 2009. The idea of priestly vocation was something that I had never imagined until one evening in September 2008. I remember being at work that evening, when all of a sudden, I just felt that I was in the wrong place and was not happy despite having a

good job with a noble salary. The idea of resigning came to mind but I thought to myself, then what will I do after resigning? It makes no sense to just quit a job and stay home doing nothing. On the spur of the moment, my World Youth Day experience in Sydney came to mind and that’s when my journey into the seminary began with a few phone calls that evening. Nevertheless, I believe that my joining the seminary would not have been made possible if it wasn’t for my experience working with the Cluny sisters and the inspiration drawn from the life of their mother founder. They have been a great inspiration in my vocation and I am very appreciative for their support and guidance over the years. Why this calling? Certainly, this is an unavoidable question for anyone who has joined religious life. Over the years as a student, I have come to understand the richness and the beauty of this calling. For me, there is nothing greater in life than to totally give one’s life for the service of the people of God whole heartedly, and to be willing to share that gift of self to the world is indeed a gracious and humble feeling. Truly, it has never been an easy journey but I am proud to say that this vocation has truly helped me to express Gods greatness in me, bringing out the talents in me and how he works in our individual lives. Being a Columban student, I have spent a total of five years as a seminarian, four years of which

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I spent in the Pacific Regional Seminary and one year in the Philippines. These years have been some of the most memorable years of my life and I must acknowledge that the seminary has moulded me to who I am today. It has helped me to listen to the truths and values at the heart of my own identity and made me appreciate that my life is a total gift of myself for service. The rich cultural diversity at PRS has to be admired and has made it a unique and special seminary. Without a doubt, it is a blessing to be part of PRS and I am truly indebted for her spiritual nourishment and inspiration in helping me to rediscover the person of Jesus in me. Absolutely, this is one of the greatest lessons the seminary has taught me and perhaps a challenge too for all Catholics to try and rediscover the person of Jesus in them. Sikeli Tuilevuka I am 30 years old and originally from Vanua Levu. My mother is a retired school teacher and my late father was a semi-domestic farmer. I was brought up in Nawaido village, which belongs to the Immaculate Conception Parish in Solevu, in the province of Bua. I have two elder siblings; I came to live in Suva for education and employment from 2000 to 2008. This is my second year at the Pacific Regional Seminary. .It was only in 2010, that I knew for certain of God’s calling in my life. I acknowledged that this is God call for me, so he will provide. He would never give us anything that we cannot handle, he will give us what is appropriate for us. I did not really quite fathom what this calling would entail, but I knew that it would involve sacrifices. So I agreed to come to PRS with an open mind and heart, allowing God to guide me along my journey. My first impression of PRS was that, it would be tough, but I affirmed myself that having God on my side, who/ what else should I fear. On this journey I have encountered a few challenges, both on a personal and spiritual level. First, was adapting back into a classroom environment, after 12 years. In addition, bringing knowledge learnt in the classroom from mind level to heart level. However, I have been able to deal with my challenges through the support and guidance of my formators, my spiritual director and God working through us. On a broader scale, one of the challenges I think the global Church is facing now is what this secular world upholds. I feel that people are misguided and as a result, they assume the wrong choices, this including not attending Mass. I believe it is in

their lack of awareness, that they do such things. Therefore, catechism should be given to our brothers and sisters, so that they may grasp the deeper meanings of our faith. This can be solved through catechism classes at every level. Moreover, imitating Jesus teachings in our lives may lead others to learn and recognise the beauty and richness in our Catholic faith. While studying here at PRS, the spiritual term at the Ashram, I would say has been the most memorable moment for me. It is really an eye opener, and it has helped me realise and deepen my faith in journeying with Jesus. Tavita Lefai, SDB My name is Tevita Lefai. I am 32 years old and I am originally from Tonga. I belonged to the Salesians of Don Bosco, SDB. I come from a poor family of four children; three sisters and myself. My sisters are all married and my parents have both passed away. My Father died in 2007 while I was in Samoa for my Pre-novitiate. Sadly, I missed his funeral. In 2009, on 30 September, my Mother died in the Tsunami which severely hit Samoa as well as my island Niuatoputapu, in Tonga. Again, I missed her funeral as well. This year, 2013 is the ninth year of my discernment. In 2005, I joined the “Come and See” program of the Diocese of Tonga. In 2006, I entered the seminary for my first year as a Diocesan Seminarian. At the end of this year, I somehow had interest on the mission and work of this Order (SDB), which is mainly focused on youth especially those marginalised, neglected in society, orphaned, street kids and so forth. So, before the last term finished, I had already received the approvals from the congregation (SDB) and my Bishop at the time, Bishop Soane Foliaki. In 2007, I went to Samoa for my Pre-novitiate program. I came back to Fiji in 2008 for my NovitiatI before going back to the seminary in 2009/2010 to complete my Diploma in Philosophy. In 2011, I went for a year of pastoral training at Corpus Christi Teachers College, to get my Teaching qualification and after this, in 2012, I went back to Samoa and taught in one of our schools. Traditionally, we have two years of Pastoral and now I am back to the seminary to do my theology, beginning at year four level. When I was a young boy I had a strong desire to one day become a priest. Along the journey, there were many things that I had in mind for my future and my family as well, but this personal desire of mine kept popping up in my mind.

When I finished school I worked in the MBf Bank in Tonga for just over three years. Throughout this time, I continued to feel that I needed to make a decision. On the 24th of April, 2004 I resigned from my job. I had few things that motivated me to join the priesthood but the main motivation at that time was, I looked at myself with my own lifestyle and attitudes and said: “I cannot be good husband. I would rather utilise my talents in priestly life.” This was my own and personal experience and understanding about myself at that time. I had often heard that (seminary) life “is a hard life, it is not an easy journey.” Now, I have experienced and seen part of the reality of this journey. After these eight years of discernment, I have enjoyed it despite the challenges. Since I joined the seminary, my most challenging moments are when I received sad news from home. The first time, I could not cope with it, like when I heard about the death of my parents. But I had to make a promise to myself that if I wanted to achieve my goal, I had to make a personal principal to help me to deal with such a situation. To follow my principle, I decided to miss both of my parent’s funerals. It was not due to any reason, it was just my own decision. I then took sad news as a normal experience in my journey. The first thing that impressed in my first year at PRS in 2006 was that there were many Pacific Island lecturers. I was kind of admiring and enjoying my studies because I could feel at home in the classroom and I had self-confidence to ask questions and seek help. This does not mean that the foreign lecturers are very difficult to deal with - no. It was just my own opinion when I first entered the seminary. It is also a motivation for me, like thinking and looking at them, simultaneously, I dream and wish to be like in the future. My views of the challenges facing us as Catholics today are that several people who are pure Catholics, do not have a clear understanding about the foundation of our faith or our catechism and cannot defend our faith. This sometimes results in people ending up joining other denominations. Obviously some problems with Catholic priests nowadays are probably another reason why some people leave the Church. To deal with this, I feel that the Church can make an attempt to do a special mission and work with Catholic youth everywhere to deepen their knowledge of our Catholic faith, mainly because they are the future of the Church. I think that they will be able to defend and maintain their Catholic faith if they have a better idea and understanding of what our Catholic faith is all about.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Willy Melteras, SM My name is Willy Melteras and I am originally from Vanuatu. I come from a family of nine -eight boys and a girl. With a farming background, I grew up cutting copra in our family coconut plantation to earn money for school fees and to meet other daily financial needs. I was raised on a small island called Vao, in North East Malekula, which is a firmly Catholic because of the strong influence of the early French Marist missionaries. My father, Etienne was a helper to those early Marist priests who founded the mission and were stationed at our place. My mother, Elphina is a hardworking lady. My parents are still alive and sowed a good and strong Catholic faith within us, their children. In my early days I never had in mind that one day I would join the Seminary. Becoming a priest was the last thing I would have thought to do. My aim was to have a good job and a good life one day and I was going for that. During my secondary and the beginning of my tertiary studies, I drifted away from my faith. I hardly went to Mass and no longer prayed the daily rosaries that we had at our family home when I was a kid. However, I was struck by a mysterious sickness during the beginning of my tertiary studies. That forced me to quit my studies totally for two years. Mysteriously, I managed to recover from that illness and that was my turning point. I said to myself that if God gives me this second chance to live, I re-embrace my Catholic faith and search for what God wants me to do for Him. I then decided to leave everything behind and join the seminary in pursuit of the priesthood. I entered the Pacific Regional Seminary in 2004 as a Marist student together with my younger brother, now Fr Donald Melteras (Diocesan-Vanuatu). I graduated in 2011 and was ordained a deacon on 13th July 2013 in Sydney, Australia. I now serve under the Marist Fathers and Brothers Province of Australia and look forward to my ordination to the priesthood probably at the end of this year. I am grateful to God that I was able to study in an institution like PRS that nourishes my faith and sustains it. Some of the memorable moments for me of PRS are the friendly staffs of the seminary and the environment of different Pacific Island cultures. It is a special unity in diversity under the patronage of our Pacific Saint, St Peter Chanel.

In PRS, I have learnt a lot about the Catholic faith and I regard it as the true faith that begins from Jesus Christ himself. I am prepared to defend it and serve it for the rest of my life. I believe that the Sacraments are very important because they speak of the actions of the Invisible Reality who is God. I think that today many Catholics take the Sacraments in our Mother Church for granted. They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realise that the Sacraments are like treasures. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find them outside the Church or in other de-

nominations. For example, the confessionals are getting empty as people hardly come to Confession now in many places. We see this affecting our Pacific Island nations slowly too. A big difference here in Australia is that Churches are filled mainly with old people while in the Pacific Island countries youths are a powerful force in the life of parishes. However, our Pacific Island nations will soon be affected by that same challenge. We need new ways of approach to get our young people back into the Church.

Walking in His Footsteps A Look Back on the Visit to Fiji of His Holiness, Pope John Paul II By Mareta Tovata

s the Church awaits the canonisation of ‘our’ Pontiff, Blessed John Paul II, we recall the messages he shared with his brother Bishops of the Pacific during his Pastoral Visit to Fiji in November 1986. On this Holy Father’s Pastoral Visit, Voyage no. 32, His Holiness Pope John II visited Bangladesh, Singapore, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia and the Seychelles. He visited Fiji from 21-22 November, 1986. The Holy Father and the Papal party were accommodated at the Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS), during their stay in Fiji. On the evening of 21st November at 8pm, during his 24hr stop over, he addressed his brother Bishops of the Pacific in the seminary Chapel. After greeting and welcoming them, naming all the archdiocese and diocese of this immense area of Micronesia, Polynesia and Melanesia, celebrating the unity and universality of the Church, he thanked the Bishops for their loyalty to the successor of Peter. The Holy Father, in honour of his predecessor Pope Paul VI’s pastoral visit to Western Samoa in 1970 and the continued relevance of his exhortations, encouraged his brother Bishops to zealously continue their work of evangelisation, quoting Pope Paul VI in Samoa, stating: “Missionary work, in the name of which I am among you, began on the day of Pentecost and is still being carried on in our own day. It is always necessary and always urgent”. Pope John Paul II reminded them of the question that Nathanael asked Philip, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ and of Philip’s reply: ‘Come and see’ It wasn’t too long afterward that Nathanael would see the incredible good that would come out of Nazareth. The Bishop of Rome reminded his brother bishops, that each of the local churches in which they served in Christ’s name, represented in its own particular way, the mystery of Nazareth, for the Risen Saviour is living in the faithful people they serve. The Vicar of Christ shared that in a similar way, by com24

ing to Fiji, he rejoiced in the opportunity, to “come and see what incredible good can come from the Body of Christ in Oceania and to marvel at God’s work in this part of the world.” “I wish to congratulate you, as I have already done on other occasions, on the establishment of this Regional Seminary of the Pacific. It fills my heart with joy to hear that the number of vocations to the priesthood and religious life is growing year by year.” He praised the true spirit of collaboration of the Pacific Regional Seminary “to ensure a more effective programme of priestly formation for all your particular Churches” and that it was indeed a witness to the collegial nature of the Episcopal ministry. Bishops were exhorted to always maintain an interest in the seminary and to support the seminarians through personal contact and with fatherly concern. He also stressed that all aspects of seminary training should lead young men to a deeper knowledge and love for our Lord, Jesus Christ. He encouraged the Bishops of the Pacific to continue in the important work of promoting vocations to the priesthood and religious life. He said that the future of the Church depended on the evangelical witness and the generous service of priests and religious. The Pope said that it was truly fitting that the Pacific Regional Seminary be place under the patronage of St. Peter Chanel; that it was a perfect model of priesthood to be offered to the young men of Oceania. To his brother bishops, he said that evangelisation is the task of everyone in the church and that their role was to oversee and coordinate the broad range of activities. The Holy Father said that now, as the faith was firmly planted, the next stage was to consolidate and deepen that faith and to transmit it, especially to the young. In 1986, in the seminary Chapel, the Holy Father told the Bishops of the Oceania region: “The Church is by nature

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

John Paul presents the picture of the Black Madonna for the Chapel

John Paul II with Rector Fr Hannan

missionary. In every age, she feels herself urged on by the words of our Saviour: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” The Church in Oceania eloquently shows the fruit of this evangelising spirit.” What an affirmation for the young men who walk in the corridors of PRS, that, 27 years later, one of the legacies of the late Pontiff, World Youth Day 2013, should have as its theme those words of the Gospels - “Go and make disciples of all nations.” As he ended their session, the Holy Father said that he was aware that a lot more was on their minds and hearts, and he

left them with the words: “Between the successor of Peter and the successors of the other apostles, there is indeed a profound spiritual and pastoral bond; it is our collegialitas afectiva et effectiva. May we always find ways to support one another in our united efforts to build up the Church and to live out this communion in service and in faith. “At the altar each day and in my other prayers, I present you and your clergy, religious and laity to the Father in gratitude and in petition. The words of Saint Paul express well what is in my heart: “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you ... making my prayer with joy, thankful for your partnership in the Gospel.” Therefore, when Blessed John Paul II becomes a canonised saint of the Church, may it be a source of personal strength and a model of Holiness for our young men of Oceania. And when they walk the corridors of the PRS and when they pray in the Chapel, may they remember and seek guidance from a particular saint in Heaven who has been in exactly those very same spaces. Blessed John Paul II, pray for us.

(Adapted from: Pastoral Visit in the Fiji Islands, Address of John Paul II to the Bishops of the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific, Suva Fiji, 21 November 1986).

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Of Knowledge and Memories The Library at the Pacific Regional Seminary

he year was 1972 and the Pacific Regional Seminary’s first library was a classroom lined with bookshelves in an old building in Hercules Street, Suva. In June 1973, the seminary was transferred from its cramped Hercules Street location to its current picturesque venue along Queen Elizabeth Drive. Interestingly, the present library was also used as the seminary’s first chapel, making it quite special to the PRS. The move to the Queen Elizabeth Drive site enabled the library to gradually increase its collection, however, it was still in need of a full time librarian to organise and catalogue its materials. In 1982, Sr. Loyola, SM joined the seminary staff as its first ever fulltime librarian and she managed to create order out of chaos by organising the collection according to the DDC System. When Sr. Loyola left the library in 1986, Rev. Fr. Joseph Pusateri SM took over the reins and the library continued to improve and to grow under his supervision. The library has, since this time, always had the services of trained librarians who have continued to make improvements and whose success is visible almost as soon as one enters the library.

The PRS lending library plays an important role in the formation of students’ academic life. While staff and students are the primary users of the library, the PRS welcomes students and staff of other institutions in Fiji. The library lends to registered borrowers, however, reference services and photocopying facilities are available to visitors. The library uses “Koha”, which is an open source library software system which enables all Catholic theological seminaries in developing countries to connect and share resources and expertise through a website called “Sharing the Word”. The PRS library was chosen to be the first theological library to be accessed via this website. The collection is made up of 19,360 titles, most of them in the English language. The library subscribes to 58 journals, which, like the books, support the courses of the academic program. Anyone can access the PRS library catalogue via the link which is found on the website: www.prsfiji.com.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

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Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Shaping a Pacific Priesthood The Academic Formatiom Program at the PRS

he academic program at the Pacific Regional Seminary covers quite a range of studies. In the first years, the main subject is Philosophy (a total of eight courses1) with supporting areas of English (four courses) and seven courses in the human sciences. All through the program the students will be studying scripture and there are a total of 12 courses in Biblical Studies. Further on, the program focus shifts to Systematic Theology (16 courses), Christian Ethics (seven courses) and Church History (six courses), which are supplemented by a few courses in each of the following areas: Liturgy, Pastoral Studies and Canon Law. There are two levels of qualifications awarded through the seminary program. After three years, the seminarians usually qualify for a Diploma in Theology (Dip.Th.), which is accredited by the South Pacific Association of Theological Schools (SPATS). At the end of the course, most students qualify for the three year Bachelor of Divinity degree (B.D.) from SPATS and most of these will also qualify for the award of the Bachelor of Sacred Theology (S.T.B.), based on the two years of philosophy and four years of theology they have followed. The S.T.B is granted by the Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome. The seminary program follows the usual activities associated with learning at a tertiary level. Lectures are commonly given, but class presentations are widely used. Modes of assessment vary 1

A course usually means 3 contact hours

per week for the ten weeks of each academic term.

Ordinations to Deaconate, Suva, 2013

widely depending on the outcomes sought from the course but again they are in line with the normal ways of assessment one finds in universities. Some courses cover similar content to those at the university and in certain circumstances cross crediting is granted. The regular reviews for accreditation provide a good climate for regular reviews of the program and for finding ways of adapting the course to meet the new needs of the people of the Pacific.

Human Formation That a solid human formation should be the basis of all priestly formation is a fact that has come to be seen and accepted as essential in all modern statements about formation. This human formation can be compared to the preparation of a field before seeds are sown in it. The preparation and tending are vital. Weeds are pulled out, stones and all that can hinder the growth of the seeds are removed, the soil is gently loosened, fertiliser is add-

ed and the ground is gently watered. It is then that the seeds entrusted to this piece of land take root and later yield a healthy harvest. It is also with such preparation that the seminarian gradually accepts and internalizes the values presented and offered to him during his formation journey. These internalised values then become the basis for an integrated life. The call to priesthood, while divine, “falls” on human ground; ground that is not without its “weeds” and “stones” and often vulnerable to many other intrinsic aspects of being human; the expressions of which are not always compatible with the call and thus make its nurturing a difficult and sometimes frustrating task. In seeking to prepare men to be bridges and not obstacles to the spread of the Gospel PRS tries to have a holistic formation programme. The seminarians are accompanied in the different areas of the formation programme to reflect on their experiences and what they are

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

continually finding out and learning about themselves. They are also encouraged and helped to integrate the various areas of their lives. Among the formative assistance and opportunities offered to the seminarians are spiritual direction, personal accompaniment with a moderator, and counseling. There are also formation weekends for the various year groups where an important topic is human sexuality. The weekly pastoral experience is another great opportunity for human formation and getting to know oneself. Manual work and sports are also part of life at PRS and both have an important place in the human formation of the young men. While human formation is the basis for all priestly formation, it is not a pillar that stands alone but is strongly supported by the Spiritual, Academic and Pastoral pillars and vice versa.

Pastoral Formation The purpose of priestly training is to produce priests who can continue pastoral work in the various dioceses and so it is no surprise to find that the documents insist that all formation “must have a fundamentally pastoral character.”2 From the second year onwards, students are involved in small pastoral exercises each term. In the early years, there is a lot of visitation of the elderly and the sick and those confined to bed as well as to reaching out to street boys and the wheelbarrow boys. The academic classes in psychology and development as well as the course on counseling and meeting with people provide the foundation for this visitation. Later in the program they begin learning to preach (homilies) and as well they have a course on the teaching 2

Pastores Dabo Vobis # 57

of the catechism. All of this prepares the students for their pastoral year. After completing four years of study, all students spend a year in their home diocese. The purpose is to allow students to see how they relate to people, to become aware of their pastoral strengths and weaknesses and to test themselves away from the structured life of the seminary. They do this under the guidance of a Pastoral Supervisor appointed by the Bishop to guide and direct the student during that year. For most, it is a challenging year but also a time of maturing and a real chance to see, at first hand, the life and tasks that lie ahead of them if they come to ordination. In their final years after pastoral year, the students continue with preaching and are also led to develop skills in giving seminars and doing adult education classes in some parishes around the Suva area. The key is that all they learn to have a pastoral character and that their lecturers should be challenging; that students apply what they learn to the pastoral situation they are meeting. In this way, they will come to be true shepherds.

“The program is designed not only to form the seminarians in the life of the Spirit, but to really move them to become Christ-like.”

Spiritual Formation Spiritual Formation is always an integral component of the formation program to the ministerial priesthood at the seminary. The program is rooted in the teachings of the Vatican Council II which are upheld by the Conference of

Episcopal of the Pacific (CEPAC). The PRS spiritual formation program is primarily a process that aims to form, not so much the mind, but the hearts of the seminarians. This process utilises the spiritual and the proper human means that form the hearts of the seminarians. This process of formation begins with the seminarians in their first year and continues throughout their seven years of formation at PRS. The spiritual foundation term, for first year students, is an integral element of the spiritual program at PRS. This program enables the seminarians to be grounded in prayer and formed spiritually. Much of this program takes place at the Ashram near Nadi, an isolated retreat center that is a very conducive place for prayer. Just as the Eucharist is at the center of the life of every Christian,3 the Eucharist is also at the heart of the PRS spiritual formation program. In communion with the Church, everyone in the PRS community opens the day with the liturgy of the hour, followed by a period of meditation prior to the celebration of the Eucharist. Meditation is an important aspect of the spiritual program at PRS since it allows the seminarians to have direct contact with the Lord in prayer and to allow them to grow strong in faith, hope, and charity. Other important elements in spiritual formation are visits to the Blessed Sacrament, retreats and recollections and spiritual formation weekends away from the PRS. Regular confession is also encouraged, as is monthly spiritual direction for all seminarians. The Rosary and other devotions to Mary are also encouraged and there are groups who follow the Divine Mercy devotion and Christian meditation groups. 3

Sacrsanctum Concilium, 48.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Lumen Gentium (LG) The Dogmatic Constitution on the Church Extract of a talk by Fr. Dr. Mikaele Paunga SM

his document is known as “Light of All Nations” from the first two words of the Latin text (Lumen Gentium). Christ is the light of the nations.1 This designation of Christ is biblical (cf. Lk. 2:32, Jn. 8::12) and therefore serves to set a biblical and Christological tone for the entire document.2 It is the second longest of the Conciliar statements, next in length after the Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World (Gaudium et Spes) – Hope and Joy. With unanimity it has been hailed as the most momentous achievement of the Council for two reasons: (1) its important content and (2) its central place among the Council documents. Among all the documents of Vatican II, probably none underwent more drastic revision between the first schema and the finally approved text. When comparing the different drafts, it strikingly reveals the tremendous development in the Churchs’ selfunderstanding. This resulted from the exceptional dialogue3 within the Council. The original schema prepared by the Theological Commission before the first session in 1962 looked a lot like theological manuals, centuries of anti-Protestant polemics (controversial 1 Cf. LG., n. 1. It is the very opening word of the council. 2 Footnote n. 2, of Lumen Gentium, in Walter M. Abbot version. 3 Dialogue was one of the hallmarks of Vatican II- dialogue with other Christian Religions (Ecumenism); Dialogue with the Modern World (Gaudium et Spes); Dialogue with World Religions, Nostra Aetate (Declaration on Religious Dialogue).

arguments against); with heavy emphasis on the hierarchical and juridical aspects of the Church, including the supremacy of the Pope. When the Council Fathers came together, they immediately saw the need of setting forth a radically different vision of the Church, more Biblical, Christological, Historical, and dynamic. An entirely new draft was tabled during the interval between the first and second sessions. The second schema was subjected once more to thorough revision in the light of the debates at the second session (1963). The debate was completed at the third session (1964) at the close of which the final vote on the text as amended was taken. On November 21st, 1964 it was accepted by a majority of 2,151 Fathers in favor and five opposed. So, after all the controversy and debates at the sessions, it won almost unanimous approval. All throughout the Constitution, the mystery of the Church is viewed in terms of the paradoxical union between the human and the divine. It is because of the realisation that the

“The greatest merit of the Constitution (Lumen Gentium) is that far from canonising the past, or even consecrating the present, it prepares for the future. The Constitution is a great document, being the fruit of the Holy Spirit working in imperfect human beings.”

Church is human. It exists in time and is subject to the forces of history. At the same time it is divine. It presses forward, full of optimism, toward a goal beyond history. The Church is sustained by the glorious vision of the final Kingdom of God in which God will be all in all. In this sense, the Church is a kind of Sacrament or sign of intimate union with God, and of the unity of all mankind. She is also an instrument for the achievement of such union and unity.4 The orientations and tones of Lumen Gentium are pastoral, Christo-centric, biblical historical and eschatological. The tone of the document is moreover strongly ecumenical. Every attempt is made to speak in language which will be understood by other Christians and by all people of good will using non-offensive language. Instead of starting with the structures and government of the Church – as was the tendency at Vatican I – Lumen Gentium starts with the notion of the Church as a new people to whom God communicates Himself in love. It gives an excellent foundation for a new and creative approach to the role of the laity in the Church. This is not done only in chapter IV, which is dedicated entirely to the laity, it is also in other sections especially in Chapters II and V. Here, the dignity of the lay Christians is presented in an inspiring manner. In other chapters, attention is given to the clergy (chapter III) and reli4

LG, n. # 2.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

gious (chapter V), but always within the general picture of the Churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total mission. Authority is therefore viewed in terms of service rather than domination. That is why in chapter III, the Council deals mainly with the episcopate. Lumen Gentium puts the accent clearly on the priestly role of the bishop and on his sacramental consecration rather than on the powers conferred by his appointment to a particular diocese. Those who have authority in the Church must carry on their work by the three functions of teaching, sanctifying and governing the people of God (based on the view of Christ as prophet, priest and king). The Church as a whole (including the laity) has a total task which may be suitably summarised under the three captions of witness, ministry, and fellowship. These last three terms are strongly biblical: they appear in the Greek New Testament as martyrion, diakonia and koinonia (witness, service and communion or fellowship). The inclusion of a final chapter on the Blessed Virgin in this Constitution calls for some explanation. Actually, a separate document on the Blessed Virgin was contemplated, and was presented in draft form by the Theological Commission at the first session in 1962. But the fathers saw a danger in treating Mary too much in isolation; they preferred to link her role more closely with the main theme of the Council, the Church (Christ). She cannot be understood outside Christ and the Church. The greatest merit of the Constitution (Lumen Gentium) is that far from canonising the past, or even consecrating the present, it prepares for the future. The Constitution is

a great document, being the fruit of the Holy Spirit working in imperfect human beings. It is a stepping stone and not a final accomplishment. The understanding of the Church, especially in Ecclesia ad Extra or outer dimension will be developed much further in Gaudium et Spes (Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the

Modern World.) But this Constitution, because of its central importance and its wealth of doctrine, probably deserves to be called the most imposing achievement of Vatican II.5

5 Cf., Avery Dulles, S.J. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Churchâ&#x20AC;?, Introduction to the Constitution Lumen Gentium, in Documents of Vatican II, pp. 9-13.

Dei Verbum By Rev. Dr Donal McIlraith, SSC

he Holy Spirit gathered Bishops of the Catholic Church together from 1962 to 1965 to attempt to renew the Church. This was Vatican II and part of its renewal program was a call to Catholics to love the Word of God and appreciate the Bible better. The call to Biblical renewal was presented in a document called Dei Verbum in Latin and it means the “Word of God.” This call to Biblical renewal is not surprising. Indeed, even the Fathers of the Church remind us that the Church venerated the Sacred Scriptures as she venerates the Body of the Lord. The Six Chapters of Dei Verbum: Behind this document stands the whole idea of Revelation. We need to understand what this is and how it is interpreted and transmitted to us in order to understand the Bible. Revelation: God has entered into a personal relationship with the human race and has an entire plan worked out of how to reveal himself to us. This began even with our first parents. Abraham was personally called and so was Moses. God revealed his plan to the prophets. This plan culminated in the incarnation when the Word himself became flesh and dwelt among us. Jesus is God’s final word to us and there is no new revelation after Jesus Revelation and its Transmission: Jesus chose the Apostles and entrusted himself and his revelation to them. The Bishops are their successors and help us access this revelation today. Revelation is contained in the scriptures, the Bible, but it is handed down to us through Tradition. Tradition is 32

the ongoing life of the Church over the centuries. It is the Tradition, for example, that decided on the 27 books of the NT and on the seven sacraments. The Magisterium is the teaching office of the Church exercised by the Bishops, acting with the Bishop of Rome, Peter’s successor. Bible, Tradition and Magisterium are a triangle that always work together to ensure that the purity of revelation is maintained. The Bible and its Interpretation and Inspiration: All the books of the OT and NT are sacred and canonical because they are inspired. God close various people to be their authors. The books of Scripture teach…..without error the truth that God wanted put into the sacred writings for our salvation. The interpreter must find the meaning the author had in mind, aware of the culture, of Tradition and the analogy of faith. The Church has the last word when it comes to interpreting the Bible. The Old Testament: We find the history of salvation in the books of the OT. They are all directed to Christ. They should be received by Christians. The content of the New Testament is hidden in the Old and the content of the Old Testament is manifested in the New. The New Testament: All the elements of the new Covenant are here; Incarnation, Death, Resurrection, Spirit (who proclaims). The Gospels are reliable: they bear witness to Jesus. The Gospels are of Apostolic origin, Tradition assures us. Exegetes are encouraged to study responsibly. The rest of the NT confirms the Gospels.

1. The Bible in the Life of the Church. Firstly, the Church is reminded that she has “always venerated the divine scriptures just as she venerates the body of the Lord. Scripture and Tradition are her supreme rule of faith.” This chapter is taken up separately because of its relevance to the everyday life of the Church. The Council made recommendations on the topics of preaching, making good translations, the study of scripture. We look a little more closely at these. All preaching must be nourished and ruled by sacred Scripture. Easy Access ll: The faithful are to have easy access to scripture. A Bible for everyone! Please make good translations from the original texts. This work can be ecumenical. Catholics can work with other Churches in making translations. Exegetes, theologians, Ministers of the Word: Exegetes and Theologians should work together to explain the Bible. All Christians, please frequently read the Scriptures, with prayer. Scripture – The Soul of Theology: The foundation of theology is scripture and tradition. Scripture rejuvenates theology. The sacred page, study of scripture is the soul of theology. The ministry of the word in preaching, catechetics and Christian education is nourished by scripture. All Christians, clergy and religious: All Christians, please frequently read the Scriptures prayerfully. Clergy and religious are especially are called to a diligent reading and careful study of the Bible.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

2. The Reception of Dei Verbum in Fiji It is now nearly 50 years since Dei verbum. How has it been received by the Archdiocese of Suva? Fiji has the Bible in Fijian, Hindi, Rotuman and Gilbertese. A new translation of the Fijian Bible has just been published. Shortly, it will be republished, complete with the Deutero-canonicals. The Catholic Church has had two

vernacular Lectionaries in Fijian, one under Archbishop Pearce and one under Archbishop Mataca. There is also a complete lectionary in Gilbertese, recently reprinted. This we get from Kiribati. PRS prepares its students as Ministers of the Word (13 courses), as does Navesi catechetical school to a lesser degree. There is no training center or courses for laity to train them as Ministers of the Word.

The Bible Years: 1986-1990 - Archbishop Mataca invited Fr Nicholas SJ (now Superiot General of the Jesuits) to Fiji. As a result of his visit, a diocesan Bible team was formed. 10,000 copies of the New Testament were distributed in the Archdiocese. Bro. Fergusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; commentaries on the four Gospels and Acts were studied throughout the Diocese. A further 10,000 copies of the Gospel of Matthew were distributed for the Year of Matthew. This culminated in the Synod of 1990s.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

Towards the Golden Jubilee By Fr Michael O’Connor SM, PRS Rector

he next big mile stone for the PRS will be its 50th anniversary – its Golden Jubilee – in 2022. As we look forward, what are the new things that may influence the development and continuation of PRS over these next few years? Of course, the first hope and prayer is that there will be a continuing flow of young men seeking to enter the seminary and become priests. In many places, seminary numbers have reduced dramatically but the Pacific has been blessed with a regular flow of those seeking to become priests. Any contemplation of the future starts with the prayer that this flow will continue and even grow in numbers. But, what sort of entry level will the students of the future have? When PRS began in 1972, the entry level was set at University Entrance – which was often interpreted broadly as a sixth form year, without reference to results. This was a high standard at that time, when Corpus Christi demanded School Certificate (fifth form) and Nasinu Teachers College asked for a fourth form level. However, in the last few years, the Lautoka Teachers College, Corpus Christi and the University of the South Pacific (USP) were all using a Form Seven pass as the entry requirement, while PRS was still on Form 6. Today, the entry level is five years secondary education, implying Form seven, but not necessarily a pass. The future should probably see the gradual lifting of entry levels to be much the same as those for Universities in 34

Fiji and in other Pacific Islands. PRS must have an academic level which is respected. Will the teaching change? Will there be more distance education? Education in the distance mode is well established in other institutions, but not yet at the PRS. In the next few years, distance education will be explored. It has uses for discussions with pastoral year students who are working in their own dioceses and for providing courses needed for bringing students up to the entry level required for PRS. Distance mode education would have great importance if PRS developed a focus on the theological education of the laity such as theology for secondary teachers or others with needs in higher education. But, the Bishops have always held strongly that the focus of PRS to be on the formation of future priests. There is a fear that diversifying will mean a weakening in the main focus area. Could one imagine a future where all seminary training would take place by distance education? It would seem unlikely since staff-student interaction and peer interaction are seen as an important dimension of formation. Human maturity seems not to be enhanced by distance learning and forming mature adult priests is a primary goal. The development and regulation of the Higher Education sector in Fiji will cause a number of changes for the seminary in the next few years. The PRS was registered with the Higher Education Commission on 28 March

2011, as a Theological School. The next step in the process will be accreditation of the Diploma program – something that is being undertaken this year. Our Diploma of Theology and Bachelor of Divinity degree are currently accredited by the South Pacific Association of Theological Schools and our programs will need to comply with their regulations. Our Bachelor of Sacred Theology (STB) is accredited by the Urbaniana Pontifical University in Rome and complies with the regulations of that University. Now for accreditation by the Higher Education Commission, our programs will need to satisfy the regulations of that Commission as well. In the next few years, there will be a great deal of work needing to be done to have completed fully all the documentation required for each of these accreditations bodies. Deans of Studies and Rectors will have many headaches as this is accomplished. In the next 10 years, PRS must address the lack of professional training of our staff in some key areas of formation. The academic dimension of PRS is reasonably well covered, at this time, with a suitable number of doctorates and with all teachers at the Bachelors level already possessing the Licentiate (Master’s Qualification). But there must be program of training of personnel – in the dioceses and in the religious congregations – so that the academic level of the staff can be maintained.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

I believe that by 2022, there should be at least five Pacific priests on the staff with doctoral degrees. For the sake of the dioceses and congregations, as well as for the future staffing of the seminary, at least two Pacific Island priests with licentiates should graduate each year through till 2022 from Catholic Universities outside of Fiji. The pastoral care of our better educated laity, the proper administrations of our dioceses and institutions and the provision of an adequate staff for the seminary demand an intensified effort to provide further education to the graduates of PRS. The above refers to the academic training, but there are other important dimensions of formation such as pastoral, human formation and spiritual formation for which we have few if any, staff with really professional training. We need to train a professional for the pastoral program who will have ex-

pertise in pastoral theology and more importantly, expertise in reflection techniques and processes which will enable real learning from the pastoral experiences. A staff member with a supervisory level of Clinical Pastoral Education would add a real depth to our pastoral formation. PRS needs some appointed spiritual directors who have both training and experience in spiritual direction and the spiritual life. Obviously, all priests have some training, but experienced, trained spiritual directors need to be part of our formation staff. Our human development programs have good resources with several trained counselors available; but the programs within the seminary need to be upgraded to ensure that the skills and knowledge of these personnel are put to the best use. Another aspect of seminary life that will change greatly in these next few

years is the way we will provide reference materials in the library. Within a short time, more and more journals will be only available on the internet. The seminary library will receive few journals in the way they are now received. E books are also taking off in a big way, though whether they will make a big impact on theological books remains to be seen. Internet access within the library and from outside the library will become more and more important for tertiary level education including seminaries. The future will invite us to develop further in our training. We can take courage from the good record of development we have over these last 40 years. We pray and trust that the Holy Spirit will continue to guide administrators, staff and Bishops as the new challenges are faced so that the quality of our graduates who become our priests will continue to improve and so better serve Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people.

Shaping Priests for a Pacific Church - Pacific Regional Seminary, Commemorating 40 Years in the Pacific

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