A group of 40 people from Melbourne visited the Orthodox Orphanage in Fiji, discovering the beauty and warmth of the Pacific Islands.
Arrival in the “Island of Life”
At 5 a.m. on Tuesday, the group departed from Melbourne Airport and landed a few hours later in lush, green Nadi. At the airport, they were welcomed by Father Timotheos and children from the orphanage, who offered traditional flower garlands — a hallmark of Fijian hospitality. A light tropical rain greeted them on the way to their hotel, with temperatures near 30°C — a true island welcome.
Fijian hospitality and culture
In Fiji, one word defines the spirit of the people: Bula! It means more than “hello” — it means “life.” Saying Bula is to wish someone a good and healthy life. Another deep-rooted tradition is the Kava ceremony, a social ritual of respect and unity, where a drink made from the yaqona root is shared among guests and hosts.
The Orthodox presence in Nadi
Until recently, there was no Greek community in Nadi. Today, the only Orthodox Church, St Tabitha, stands beside an orphanage and the small Holy Trinity chapel. The community’s spiritual life is led by Father Timotheos, supported by local families like Yiannis and Stella Sofianopoulos.
The legend of the sleeping giant
The group explored one of Fiji’s most iconic landmarks — the “Sleeping Giant,” a mountain range that, from a distance, resembles a giant lying peacefully on his back. Legend says this giant, Tuvonunu, once terrorised nearby villages with his immense appetite until the gods tricked him into drinking too much Kava, putting him into an eternal sleep. His resting form became the mountains seen today. At the base lies the famous Garden of the Sleeping Giant, once owned by American actor Raymond Burr, featuring hundreds of rare orchids.
Adventures on the islands and rivers
Excursions included visits to Nadi’s markets, island trips to South Sea Island for swimming, Fijian feasts, and dancing. Participants joined the traditional Meke — a storytelling dance depicting myths and legends. Another highlight was the River Tubing Fiji adventure along the Navua River, surrounded by waterfalls, lush jungle, and local villages. After canoeing, the group enjoyed a riverside picnic with tropical fruits and Fijian dishes cooked on the spot — an unforgettable, nature-filled experience.
The heart of the mission: Baptisms at the orphanage
The mission’s spiritual core came during a baptism ceremony at the orphanage. Four women were baptised by Metropolitan Myron of New Zealand, who later spoke about the financial challenges facing Orthodox missions across the Pacific. Guests shared a traditional Lovo meal — lamb slow-cooked underground with hot stones and banana leaves, much like the Greek klefthiko. Children from the orphanage sang songs of joy, creating a moment of unity and warmth.
Farewell and reflection
As the trip ended, most participants returned home, but some stayed behind to explore ways to support the orphanage further.
In his reflections, journalist Nikos Lupos thanked 3XY Radio Hellas director Spyros Alatsas for the opportunity to broadcast stories of Hellenism from “the most beautiful corners of the earth,” and expressed gratitude to Yiannis and Stella Sofianopoulos for their hospitality.
“Bula — to life!” — from Nadi, Fiji.
