Father Finn, who is commonly known as ‘The Great Finn’, was awarded the Honorary Companion of the Order of Fiji (CF), an award that is bestowed to one for eminent achievement and merit of the highest degree in service to Fiji or humanity at large.
President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere officiated the Special Investiture ceremony for Father Alan Joseph Finn, c.m, at the St. John the Apostle Parish in Natovi yesterday.
Katonivere says Father Finn as a Vincentian having resided in Fiji since 1964 devoted over six decades.
He says Fiji is indeed indebted to missionaries who left the comfort and safety of their families, homes and their country to come and serve in Fiji as educators, health workers, builders and importantly so to be ministers of life sharing the gospel with our people.
He further says Father Finn was also known to be a compassionate educator in addition to being a priest. He was instrumental in the establishment of Natovi Primary School which is now known as Saint Vincent de Paul Primary School and St. Vincent College.
He also thanked Father Finn for his service to Fiji and congratulated him for being conferred under the Order of Fiji.
