A Brilliant Book Launch and a Brand New Doctor in the House!

Wow. It was inspiring to attend the book launch hosted at PTC last Friday evening for some brand new Pacific theology publications, brought to birth through the creativity and hard graft of Revd Dr Upolu Lumā Vaai, pictured below.

Dr Upolu would be the first to credit others too: co-editors Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba [University of Guam] and Director Aisake Casimira [Institute of Mission and Research, PTC]. And at the launch were a number of other highly distinguished Pacific academics. I felt very privileged to be there and hear them speak.

From the left, Director Casi as mentioned above; Dr Melani Anae [University of Auckland], Professor Konai Helu Thaman [University of the South Pacific], Dr Upolu, Professor Bill Ashcroft [University of New South Wales], Prof Unaisi, and Rev Prof. Orm Rush [Australia Catholic University].

Themes of relationality, interconnectedness and decolonisation are woven through the two texts: required reading and essential preparation for anyone coming to serve in this region, I would say. And tied in with the book launching, a new network is born - the Pacific Itulagi Research Network

Some of the eminent Professors had been put to work earlier, conducting the oral defence exam for one of our PhD students. I had been present at this nerve-tingling occasion as a 'scribe' - just note-taking, not speaking. But again, what a privilege to be there and to witness at first hand the spot-on, stupendously articulate and quite stunning defense given by our man in the hot seat. And here he is! Heartfelt congratulations Dr Faafetai Aiava.

And here's the celebratory lunch. [The new Dr had a steak, but secretly admitted his preference would probably have been a sleep!] 

And now we're at the 10th of the 10th, and it's Fiji Independence Day. Hurrah! Here I am with Seru, my lovely neighbour, top chef and advisor on all things culinary in Fiji. Can't believe it's over three years since she patiently walked me around Suva's vast market, explaining what to do with wiggling crabs and fluffy, hairy seaweed. 

And, predictably of course, there have been phenomenal Showers of Blessing on such a great day. Praise the Lord! God Bless Fiji [and soggy Suva].