This award is given for eminent achievement and merit of the highest degree for service to Fiji and to humanity at large.

President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, as the chancellor of the Order of Fiji, yesterday bestowed the Order of Fiji award on 10 recipients at an investiture ceremony at Government House.

Mataca, who is retired after serving the Catholic Church and Fiji for 38 years as an archbishop and 55 years as a priest, said he was happy to be acknowledged for his work.

"I am so happy. It's good to be acknowledged from time to time."

Archbishop Mataca said his commitment and dedication to his role had paid off.

"I think I am the only leader who has survived and come across all the coups in Fiji."

Archbishop Mataca, has been a critic of some government policies, including amnesty for people convicted of political crimes.

Source

• Fiji Times
• Radio Australia
• FBC
• Image: FijiVillage

He says the accusation that they have remained silent, in the face of the abandonment by the interim government of the People's Charter principles, is untrue.

The writer says they did speak out in a 17 November 2011 letter to interim Fiji Prime Minster Bainimarama which has not previously been made public.

He says he believes the letter goes a long way towards redeeming the reputations of these two individuals who clearly held strongly enough to the principles of their Charter to protest in no uncertain terms, when the interim government refused to abide by the principles of the People's Charter they had themselves helped formulate and approve.

He says the recommendations made by Samy and Archbishop Mataca are still of relevance to the problems that Fiji faces today, and have greater weight coming from previous Regime supporters.

Source

• Fiji Today Open Blog
• Image: Fiji Times

The current English translation has been in use since 1973. "The translation we know well is changing to reflect the latest Latin edition which was published in 2002. The changes are words. There will be new words." says Archbishop Petero Mataca

"These new words are a closer translation of the Latin text, Also quotations and references to Biblical texts will be restored."

"We will hear and say new words but the way the Mass is celebrated remains the same."

" There are rules that cover the Bible readings during Mass (liturgy). The first two readings may be read by lay Reader (readers). But the gospel text is to be read only by a deacon or priest," Archbishop Mataca said.

"We are to participate in the new Mass humbly, fully and meaningfully. "If we participate in this spirit, we will grow in our respect for what is sacred, respect for God, respect for human beings, respect for life, especially human life, etc. We will grow in our relationship with God and with one another."

"The new Missal with the changes is historical in the life of the Church. It is a great moment for all Christ's faithful who are in the world struggling to have a spirituality that is relevant to their lives."

Source

• The Fiji Times Online
• Image: Around and About