Families of patients at St Giles Hospital participated in a significant religious observance yesterday to honor Good Friday. Attendees joined hospital staff in the Stations of the Cross, a Catholic tradition that narrates the Passion of Jesus Christ through 14 pivotal moments, culminating in his burial.
Father Frank Hoare, a Catholic priest serving in Fiji for over five decades, noted that spiritual care for St Giles patients has been insufficient, as the hospital had halted its weekly masses a few years ago. He expressed his happiness in being present to support staff and patients during special occasions such as Christmas and Easter.
Father Hoare emphasized the importance of Good Friday as a reflective moment, stating, “It’s sad to walk away from a closed tomb, but when we walk away knowing that the Lord is going to rise, that gives us hope.” He is currently in discussions with the archbishop to reinstate the weekly mass, indicating a commitment to enhancing spiritual support for patients at the hospital.
This initiative aligns with a broader sentiment observed in various Easter observances across Fiji, where church leaders are urging communities to reflect on faith and hope beyond the traditional rituals. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong has highlighted the Easter period as an opportunity for spiritual renewal and an invitation to embrace deeper meanings of love, forgiveness, and unity.
It is heartening to see faith and community merge during this challenging time, fostering a spirit of hope and resilience. Engaging in collective acts of worship during significant occasions strengthens community bonds and promotes a supportive atmosphere for those in need.
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