Brother Fergus Garrett, a respected educator and Marist Brother, bid farewell to colleagues, friends, and students during a gathering in Nasese, Suva. At the age of 90, he reflected on his remarkable journey that began when he arrived in Fiji in 1970. Over the five decades of his teaching career, he has made a significant impact on many lives across various Catholic institutions, particularly Marist Brothers High School and the Marist Champagnat Institute, which he founded.
In his parting message, Brother Fergus emphasized his teaching philosophy: serving as a friend and mentor to students rather than a strict authority figure. “It’s never been about demanding, ‘Do as I say,’ but rather asking, ‘How can I help you?’” he expressed, echoing his commitment to nurturing and inspiring students. He quoted Mother Teresa, highlighting that the divine does not require success but faithfulness and perseverance in one’s endeavors.
His tenure in Fiji has seen him educate numerous leaders, including prominent figures like former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama. As he reflected on his time in Fiji, Brother Fergus recalled witnessing the country’s independence celebrations at Albert Park, where he first began his teaching career.
The recent gathering not only celebrated his dedication but also the lasting legacy he leaves behind. Brother Fergus’s impact on education and the values he has instilled in generations of students can serve as a beacon of hope for future educators and learners alike.
In a world that often emphasizes success over service, Brother Fergus’s approach embodies the profound difference that dedication, compassion, and a genuine desire to uplift others can make.
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