Nestled in the affluent area of Suva Point, just a few kilometers from the capital’s central business district, lies the charming St Lukes Anglican Church. This cross-shaped sanctuary, draped in lush green climber plants, was established in 1953 during the time when Fiji was under British colonial rule.
The church’s inception was spearheaded by Dr. George Ratcliff Hemming, a missionary doctor with a background in both medicine and Anglican priesthood, who leased the land for a yearly rental of one shilling. The construction of St Lukes was a significant community effort, with parishioners volunteering their spare time over the years to bring the vision to fruition.
Upon its completion on March 7, 1953, the church stood as a testament to the unity and self-sacrifice of its members. An article from the Pacific Islands Monthly in March 1953 highlighted the extensive voluntary work involved, including laying 900 blocks of native woods to create the sanctuary’s parquet floor, and paneling the east wall with donated yaka wood—an enduring feature of the church.
The construction was meticulously planned, featuring two stone walls—one inner and one outer—filled with concrete, with local craftspeople like Arthur Black contributing by shaping heavy stones for the structure. Charles Stinson, a notable businessman and member of the Legislative Council, played a significant role throughout this project, overseeing various aspects until its completion.
The foundation stone was laid on February 24, 1951, by Bishop Kempthorne, who had dedicated his life to the Anglican community in Fiji for decades. However, due to challenges like finances and resources from 1939 to 1950, the construction faced delays, pushing the services to be held in makeshift locations until the formal decision was reached to build a stone church instead of merely a hall.
As time progressed, additional features were added, such as a church hall completed in 1958, alongside the construction of a tower—a prominent element of the church today. One remarkable achievement was the beautiful stained glass window designed by Mr. Stinson, which he crafted at his home, symbolizing the spirit and artistry of the community.
Dr. Hemming conducted the inaugural service, marking St Lukes as a landmark representative of the collaborative spirit of resilience and community engagement. Each service and gathering within its walls strengthens the connection between past and present, enabling current and future church members and the broader Fijian public to engage with this beautiful structure.
This delightful landmark today remains more than just an architectural gem—it embodies the vibrant spirit of the Anglican community in Fiji, inviting both worshippers and visitors alike to enjoy its serene atmosphere.
As we look at St Lukes Anglican Church, it stands not just as a building, but as a beacon of hope, a symbol of community pride, and a reminder of the collective effort that brings a vision to life—a legacy that continues to flourish for generations to come.
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