Cultural Connections: Father Frank Hoare’s Journey in Fiji

Father Frank Hoare, a Columban priest, continues his enriching journey in Fiji, marking his second year in Naleba. In his latest experiences, he reflects on the cultural intricacies he encounters while serving the Indo-Fijian Catholic community.

As he strives to incorporate baptism by immersion into his pastoral work, Fr. Hoare faces the challenge of cultural sensitivities around modesty and ritual cleanliness. A baptismal font has been constructed with permission to facilitate this practice, but unease remains among some congregation members about gender and water usage during the rite. Thankfully, support from local elders has helped alleviate fears, leading to a compromise that included flowing water and conducting baptisms for men before women. Fr. Hoare has aptly addressed concerns over modesty by ensuring that any lady emerging from the font is immediately wrapped in a white sheet, symbolizing new life in Christ.

Fr. Hoare’s comfort with the Hindi language has grown over the past year, allowing him to connect with his community more intimately. He recently introduced ideas from transactional psychology during his sermons, emphasizing that everyone possesses a “child,” “adult,” and “parent” within them, representing different facets of personality. His lighthearted approach to this complex topic fostered engagement from his congregation, especially when he humorously pointed out the playful “child” in individuals present.

Additionally, his visit to a local Hindu couple showcased deep cultural values of communication and marital dedication. With a simple exchange about serving meals, Fr. Hoare witnessed how cultural teachings can transcend conflict, highlighting a pathway towards reconciliation.

These stories illustrate not only the adaptability required in Fr. Hoare’s ministry but also the potential for unity amid diverse beliefs and practices. His experiences in Naleba serve as a testament to the richness of cultural exchange, promoting understanding and compassion among the different communities in Fiji. Readers will look forward to more insights into Fr. Hoare’s journey, which encourages hope in nurturing connections across diverse cultures.