Ordained to Serve

The St. John the BaptistTheological College community gathered in joyful thanksgiving at Holy Trinity Cathedral, Suva, to celebrate two significant milestones in the life of the Church: the Ordination of Deacons Siteri Kauvadra and Sua Anare Kolui to the Sacred Order of Priests, and the celebration of the College's Patron Saint, St John the Baptist.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by The Most Reverend Sione Silongo Uluilakepa, Principal Celebrant, while the sermon was delivered by the College Principal, The Reverend Liliani Havili. The Cathedral was filled with clergy and parishioners from across the Suva and Ovalau Archdeaconries, together with families, friends, and the College community, all gathered to witness and celebrate this important milestone in the lives of the newly ordained priests and the wider Anglican Church.

The readings for the day beautifully reflected the theme of God's call to ministry. In Isaiah 6:1–8, the prophet encounters the holiness of God and responds with the words that continue to inspire generations of those called into ministry: "Here am I; send me." Isaiah reminds us that God's call is not based on human perfection but on hearts that are willing to be transformed and sent.

Psalm 139:1–11 reassures us that God knows each of us intimately. Before we speak, before we act, and before we answer His call, God already knows our hearts. This assurance encourages all who serve in ministry to walk with integrity, knowing they are always in God's loving presence.

In Acts 13:22–26, we are reminded that throughout history God has faithfully raised up men and women to fulfil His purposes. John the Baptist faithfully prepared the way for Christ, never seeking honour for himself but always pointing others to the One who was to come. His life remains a model of humility, courage, and faithful witness.

The Gospel reading, Luke 1:57–66, 80, tells the story of the birth of John the Baptist. From the very beginning, John's life was marked by God's purpose. He grew in wisdom and spirit, preparing the way for Jesus Christ. His example reminds the Church that authentic ministry is never about personal recognition, but about leading others to encounter Christ.

In her sermon, Rev. Liliani Havili encouraged both the ordinands and the congregation to embrace God's call with willing and faithful hearts. She reflected that the priesthood is not a position of privilege but a sacred vocation of service, requiring humility, responsibility, compassion, and unwavering faith. Like Isaiah, ministers are called to respond, "Here am I; send me." Like John the Baptist, they are called to point others to Christ rather than themselves.

She reminded the newly ordained priests that faithful ministry is expressed through servant leadership—walking with people in times of celebration and sorrow, proclaiming the Gospel with courage, administering the sacraments with reverence, and caring for God's people with love and humility. The Church seeks not perfect leaders, but faithful servants whose lives reflect the character of Christ.

Following their ordination, The Reverend Siteri Kauvadra has been appointed to serve as Assistant Priest at St Luke Parish, while The Reverend Sua Anare Kolui will continue his ministry as Assistant Priest at St John the Baptist Parish, Wailoku. Their appointments mark the beginning of a new chapter of priestly ministry as they continue serving God's people with dedication and faith.

The celebration of the College's Patron Saint, St John the Baptist, further reminded the community that theological education is not merely about academic formation but about shaping faithful disciples and servant leaders who embody humility, integrity, wisdom, and compassion. Like their patron saint, graduates are called to prepare the way for Christ by faithfully serving the communities entrusted to their care.

The service concluded with prayers of thanksgiving, blessings for the newly ordained priests, and fellowship shared among clergy, parishioners, families, and friends. It was a joyful occasion that reflected the unity of the Diocese and the continuing mission of the Church to raise up faithful servants for God's kingdom.

As the Church celebrates this significant milestone, we give thanks to God for the ministries of The Reverend Siteri Kauvadra and The Reverend Sua Anare Kolui, praying that they will continue to serve with humble hearts, faithful hands, and unwavering commitment to Christ and His Church. May the witness of St John the Baptist continue to inspire all who are called to proclaim the Gospel, serve with compassion, and lead others into the light of Christ.