This article is written by Columban Fr Frank Hoare from the pages of a missionary's diary - 8th March 1975
Some priests have a talent for developing a site. Not me! Buildings are neither my interest nor my talent. However my first priestly appointment in November 1974 was to a settlement with about 20 cane-farming or laboring Catholic families. There was, on the compound, only a small wooden church with a priest’s bedroom at the back. At least, a place for people to hold meetings, shelter and socialize was needed.
Plans were made for a simple shed with two walls, concrete floor and galvanized iron roof. A carpenter and one paid helper were employed. The male members would supply voluntary labor. A day was agreed for the men to dig the foundations, which had already been measured out by the carpenter.
It was a hot day and it had been raining early in the morning. A few of the elders arrived and sat waiting for others to come. One of the influential leaders began complaining that everyone should be present at the agreed time but it looked as if the job would be left to the usual few. I could feel an atmosphere of despondency settle over the small group.
Then, without saying anything the Church President, who was one of the seniors there, stood up, laid aside his jacket and began to dig the foundation. Others soon joined him until all were on the job. It was finished by lunch time.
Columban Fr Frank Hoare lives and works in Fiji.
