The Fiji Council of Churches gathered people of faith, community leaders, and civil society groups to celebrate the Season of Creation at Sukuna Park in Suva. This annual event, which ran from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, was filled with prayers, music, dance, and symbolic rituals focused on the importance of environmental care and promoting peace.
The Season of Creation, observed globally from September 1 to October 4, unites Christians in prayer and activism for the environment. This year’s theme, “Peace with Creation,” draws inspiration from the biblical passage Isaiah 32:14–18, emphasizing the restoration of harmony between humanity and the natural world.
Reverend Sepiuta Hala’api’api from the Fiji Council of Churches highlighted that the celebration transcends environmental stewardship, embracing Fiji’s diverse cultural, religious, gender, and generational fabric, which enriches the nation. The event brought together faith organizations, churches, government ministries, and NGOs, demonstrating solidarity in addressing environmental challenges and fostering national unity.
Reverend Hala’api’api expressed hope that the gathering would inspire continued efforts towards climate resilience and peace-building, especially as Fiji navigates social issues and the repercussions of climate change. The Fiji Council of Churches plans to continue commemorating the Season of Creation until October 4, St. Francis of Assisi’s feast day, the patron saint of ecology.
In connection with these themes, the event aligns with other religious and environmental initiatives in Fiji, such as the Ecumenical and Interreligious Season of Creation Prayer Service. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong has emphasized the necessity of collaboration among faith groups to protect the shared environment, urging collective action and resilience through faith in light of global environmental challenges.
These gatherings not only foster community solidarity but also highlight the vital role of faith in advocating for environmental stewardship, offering an optimistic view of collective efforts to preserve and protect the planet for future generations. Through ongoing events, Fiji continues to build a sense of shared responsibility and hope in addressing the pressing ecological challenges of today’s world.
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