We have lost a servant leader, a unifier, a man of humility and grace but his legacy lives on in the values embodied, unity, compassion, dignity, and faithful service.
This has been shared by the Head of the Catholic Church in Fiji, Archbishop Peter Loy Chong while delivering his homily at the late former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau's funeral.
He is calling on the people to honour him, not only with our words but with our lives, choose kindness over division, service over self, and faithfulness in whatever calling God has entrusted to us.
Archbishop Chong says Ratu Epeli had a very rare gift, the ability to connect with people in ways that were natural, disarming, and deeply human.
He says in moments when there could have been distance or tension, he created a space of encounter, for laughter and relationship.
Archbishop Chong says he reminded us that before titles and positions, we are people called to meet one another with warmth, respect, and openness.
He says he regularly met Ratu Epeli at the Metro Gym and among those on the margins of life, as he did not place himself above others.
The Head of the Catholic Church says Ratu Epeli's life was not defined by power, but by character, not by status, but by service and faithfulness, even in this life, bears fruit.
He says it brings peace, joy, and growth, not only to the one who lives it, but to all whose lives are touched by that faithfulness, and yet there is an even higher calling, the call to service.
Archbishop Chong says Jesus in the gospel said that whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant.
He says Ratu Epeli followed that path where he served this nation in many roles - in the military, in diplomacy, in government, as Speaker of Parliament, and as President, Head of State.
Archbishop Chong says that in every role he remained, first and foremost, a servant.
He also highlighted that in October 2004, he chaired the first conference of Pacific parliamentarians in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
He says at a time marked by fear and stigma, he stepped forward and did not distance himself from the issue.
Archbishop Chong says he embraced it and stood with the vulnerable, helping break silence to dispel fear and to restore human dignity.
The Archbishop stresses this is true leadership and Christ-like service.
He says such service is never easy as it requires strength of character, courage to face criticism, and humility in the midst of horror.
Archbishop Chong further says that Ratu Epeli’s legacy now rests in the hands of all Fijians, to carry forward the values he lived by in their daily lives.
He is urging the people of Fiji to reflect on their own calling and to serve others with sincerity, humility, and compassion.
He says while the nation mourns the loss of a great leader, it must also celebrate a life that was lived with purpose, integrity, and unwavering faith.
Archbishop Chong adds that Ratu Epeli’s journey on earth may have ended, but his spirit of service and unity will continue to inspire generations to come.
He says as the country bids farewell, it must remain united in love and hope, holding on to the lessons he has left behind.
The Head of the Catholic Church says Ratu Epeli’s life stands as a powerful reminder that true greatness is found not in authority, but in serving others with a faithful and humble heart.
He adds that Fiji has not only lost a former President, but a true servant of the people whose impact will never be forgotten.
Ratu Epeli will be laid to rest at the sacred burial grounds in Bau this afternoon.
