Students who participated in the flora and fauna trek. Photo: Ionae Nawaikula
The Season of Creation is upon us, running from September 1st to October 4th, a time dedicated to commemorating and celebrating God's creations on our planet. While many of our global colleagues have begun their activities, the Columban JPIC Ministry in Fiji has kicked off its Flora and Fauna Week, focusing on plants, animals, and waterfalls.
The rainy and windy conditions made it hesitant to take the young people trekking through the forest. However, the determined youths of St. Pius and CEASEY (Creating Environment Advocacy and Social Empowerment for Youths) were undeterred. Their enthusiasm was infectious as they declared, "Rain and wind are also God's creations. Let's appreciate them!".
Our trek began with a lively discussion on ecology, highlighting how the forest, with its trees, flora, and fauna, plays a crucial role in supporting human life. The conversation about how animals and birds find their habitat in the forest sparked keen interest and active participation among the participants, making it a truly engaging learning experience.
The walk, about a half-hour on the road, was carefully planned to avoid potential hazards from fallen branches due to the strong winds. Along the way, the cheerful chirping of birds, the swaying trees, and the rain almost as if laughing—refreshed the dry land. The wildflowers, shrubs, and other flora seemed to share in the excitement of the young people marvelling at their surroundings.
The youths also took time to collect garbage left behind by others, piling it on the side of the road for the foresters to retrieve during their patrols. Their commitment to preserving the environment was evident. Despite the rain turning the pools murky, it did not dampen their spirits. The group took a dip in the cascading waterfall and admired the pools, fully appreciating them as part of God's creation.
This experience was a powerful reminder of the beauty and importance of our natural world and the vital role we all play in caring for it.
Ioane Nawaikula is the JPIC Coordinator in Fiji.
Related links
- Read more from the current Columban eBulletin
