After returning from a holiday in Ireland and a year of study in India, Father Frank Hoare was assigned to evangelize Indo-Fijian Catholics in Fiji between 1980 and 1985. Based in Lautoka, he traveled extensively throughout the country, establishing Small Christian Communities (SCCs) inspired by the Vatican II Council. Father Hoare’s mission emphasized training leaders and facilitating the inculturation of mass, marriage, and funerals into local customs.
During his time, he set up the Khrist Jyoti Ashram as a training hub for lay leaders, offering three-week courses on the Old Testament, Jesus Christ, and sacraments, during which over 80 individuals graduated. This method engaged community members through faith-sharing and encouraged community action.
Furthermore, from 1981, Father Hoare promoted an annual Hindi religious convention, bringing together people from various backgrounds to strengthen faith and share ideas. These gatherings fostered a sense of belonging and anticipation within the community.
Significant developments in liturgical adaptation were also observed during this period, including the introduction of Hindi translations of religious texts and the celebration of masses in local languages. While some individuals embraced the culturally enriched Hindi Mass, others expressed concerns about its implications for their Catholic identity.
As Father Hoare navigated these complexities, he recognized the ongoing struggle between inculturation and maintaining the uniqueness of the Catholic faith. His reflections highlight the essentiality of incorporating local customs and symbols into religious practices while fostering understanding among diverse communities.
This journey sheds light on the potential for unity amidst diversity. Father Hoare’s dedication to cultural exchange and adaptation exemplifies the hope that with mutual respect and open dialogue, communities can build stronger, more interconnected bonds, celebrating the joy found at the intersection of different faiths and traditions.
Readers are encouraged to reflect on the richness of shared cultures and the diverse expressions of faith that enhance the vibrant tapestry of life in Fiji.
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