Fijian Catholics and members of other Pacific Island communities living on the west coast of the United States recently participated in workshops on synodality and “Conversation in the Spirit.” The sessions were led by Fr. Asaeli Rass, SVD, together with Archbishop Peter Loy Chong of Suva, Fiji.

During their visits to several Catholic communities in California, they offered pastoral accompaniment, leadership formation, and spaces for spiritual renewal. The initiative responded to the desire of Fijian Catholics abroad to strengthen their faith, preserve their cultural identity, and face the challenges of living far from home.

Many Pacific Islanders were unable to take part in the consultations that preceded the Synod on Synodality. The workshops offered them an opportunity to join the Church’s synodal journey and reflect on their experiences as migrants and Catholics in the United States.

The gatherings also focused on servant leadership, community renewal, and attentive listening. Participants explored how to live their faith within both their communal Pacific traditions and the more individualistic culture of American society.

Through the practice of “Conversation in the Spirit,” participants were encouraged to listen deeply to one another, discern together, and seek God’s guidance for their communities.

The initiative strengthened the bonds among participants and renewed their confidence to live and share their faith as Pacific Island Catholics. By promoting dialogue, participation, and mutual listening, the workshops reflected the Church’s call to become faithful and creative disciples of the Light in a wounded world.

Source: Adapted from an article published on the Australia Province website, “Workshops Explore Synodal Listening for Fijian Catholics in US,” Friday, 29 May 2026.