Archbishop Emeritus Petero Mataca persevered even when there was political instability in the country.
These are the comments by Archbishop Peter Loy Chong today reflecting on the life of Mataca at the resurrection mass at the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
Chong said the late Mataca was criticised for accepting the invitation to be the co-chair of the National Council for Building a Better Fiji after the 2006 coup.
Mataca said then, if your house is burning you cannot sit passively on the sideline.
Chong added Mataca was bold after the 2006 political upheavals.
Chong also said that Mataca was vocal about a common roll since 1987.
Archbishop Chong said before Mataca died he said that he always prayed for him and the church.
He added that Mataca’s legacy will live on as he was farewelled in a moving service today witnessed by thousands of people.
He said Mataca intended to go back to his village in Vuaki, Yasawa and enjoyed fishing.
He also wanted to write a book about his ministry but unfortunately he was living with cancer.
Archbishop Mataca was ordained as a priest in 1959.
He had the church embedded in his heart and soul and initially requested that he be buried next to his parents in Yasawa.
A week later he had reflected that he be buried in the Bishop’s tomb in Cawaci or at the old Suva Cemetery.
During a meeting to make funeral plans, the church unanimously decided to entomb Archbishop Mataca in the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, Marama Na Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa, Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, government ministers, church leaders and members of the diplomatic corps were present at the Resurrection Mass today.
Short Clip of funeral service:
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