District of Pacific

On a beautiful tropical day, a large number of Champagnat Marists, family and friends gathered at the Lomeri noviciate in Fiji to witness the first profession of Brothers Steve Vaea and Petero Navuku.  Br David McDonald, District Leader of the Pacific accepted the vows on behalf of the Brother Superior General.

The newly professed brothers received their soutane and cord from Br Fergus Garrett and Br Sam Eathorne.  Br Kees van der Weert, the country coordinator in Fiji presented Steve and Petero with their Marist cross.

___________________

The Lomeri Pacific Novitiate was host on Saturday February 23rd to visitors from Suva and other parts of Fiji, as well as from Samoa and from New Zealand, brothers family and friends, who had gathered to witness the First Profession of Brothers Steve Vaea (Samoa) and Petero Navuku (Fiji). The mass of Profession was celebrated by Fr Arthur Leger, a Fiji born Jesuit Priest and the choir from the Lomeri Mission Compound lead the congregation in the singing of hymns from around the Pacific. The mass was followed by a lengthy photo shoot opportunity in the brilliant sunshine, before everyone was invited to witness the cultural welcome as well as enjoying the entertainment, well lubricated by copious quantities of yaqona. (Kava). No  gathering is complete without a meal and the cooks with their helpers excelled themselves with a feast befitting the occasion. 

Welcome to the Champagnat Marist Family, Brother Petero and Brother Steve.

 Brother Afaese with Br Steve and Steve's father, who had come over from Samoa.

Brs Steve and Petero with the Brothers present to mark the occasion.