1 PacificPacific TheologicalTheological CollegeCollege NewsletterNewsletter

Issue 62 March 2010

Vulnerability, Faith and Hope A good beginning A comprehensive review We have made a promising start. A team of three highly qualified The orientation week was a success. external consultants, Suliana Familiarity with the academic and Siwatibau, Ivan Williams, and John community life at PTC as well as Lee, carried out a thorough and the city of helped to settle the professional review of all aspects of newcomers. The ecumenical and PTC. Their report is entitled The devotional spirit of the College was Journey—Why, How and Where To? revived through its liturgical and A review of the work and life of the social activities—genuine bonding Pacific Theological College with exercises. Sharing of information suggestions for its future. Given its Our Principal writes… helped to create a real sense of importance for future developments Welcome to this edition of the comradeship amongst members of of the College, the executive College newsletter. the community. New students and summary is reproduced on page 16. faculty members were officially The Council welcomed the findings, Our community braced itself for the welcomed during a feast that which highlighted numerous issues arrival of cyclone Tomas, predicted marked the end of the orientation to be addressed in order for the to be the most destructive to visit week. since 1972. It was the second time College to continue with a our academic year was disrupted Constitution revised meaningful future. Some require since we started on 1 February. We further deliberations. The Council PTC stands on the threshold of an were evacuated courtesy of a Executive committee has been exciting and challenging future. It is tsunami warning after the earth- mandated to initiate and monitor a result of two important quake in Chile. Those of you who ongoing discussions. A welcome developments which the College have visited the College know how move is the determination of the Council endorsed last November: vulnerable PTC is to any tsunami. Council to establish timeframes to the adoption of a revised And cyclones are a constant threat ensure that various proposals are constitution; and the tabling of the between December and April. The translated into concrete actions. first-ever Review Report of the most recent hit us last December. College since its establishment in Some issues identified by the News of impending cyclones brings 1966. Resolutions associated with Review Report are now being anxiety and an air of foreboding. these crucial documents have addressed by the Faculty: Past experience reminds us of the mapped out future developments · Discussions are underway for cuts to electricity and water, causing and activities. It is imperative that creating adjunct faculty members. all kinds of discomforts. But the you should be aware of these. Suitable church scholars within the same experience also teaches us The revised constitution replaces the region and a few in New Zealand about the grace of God. Our lives 2000 edition. It builds on two and Australia have been identified. are spared; and our discomforts pale previous attempts to address Exchange of academic personnel into insignificance when we learn of outdated clauses and insert new will enhance PTC’s academic life the many whose homes and sources ones to safeguard developments and improve our links with local of livelihood are destroyed, not to over the last five years. The major theological colleges and seminaries. mention the loss of loved ones. It is changes are to Council membership a stark reminder that fickleness is an · The first stage of an extensive and Faculty appointments (see page essential part of the context in which review of the curriculum for all 17). we live out our faith. academic programmes has just been

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 2

(continued from p.1) completed. This task should be completed by the end of this year. The Women’s Fellowship Development Programme has been re-invented to focus more on academic development. One course will be offered each term for those interested. For 2010, courses in Counselling, Leadership and Management will be offered, commencing in Term 2. The forthcoming Executive will begin to address the Report’s emphasis on establishing a commercial/business arm for PTC. Such a change is very challenging! Wisdom and a genuine spirit of Faculty 2010 (L to R): Dr Kafoa Solomone, Rev Dr Cliff Bird, Dr Holger Szesnat, discernment will be needed to Rev Dr Afereti Uili, Rev Dr Fele Nokise, David Lloyd, Rev Rosalyn Nokise, Deidre ascertain the most practical solutions Madden, Selai Tuidrokadroka and Dr Manfred Ernst (Absent: Viane Tagiilima) in order to realise the future envisaged in the Review Report. Promotion Thank you Mr Sereki Naitasi, one of the longest We applaud recent initiatives by the Changes serving members of the Etaretia Porotetani Maohi. They Three Faculty members left us at Maintenance team, has been provided an animator for PCC, and the end of 2009: promoted to be its new Supervisor. they have offered PTC two Faculty Development candidates, one of The Rev Dr Tevita Havea (New whom they will finance. Other Testament) was recalled by his New arrivals member churches could explore home church, The Free Wesleyan Dr Holger Szesnat has returned to similarly creative ways to stand in Church of , to be its new join the Faculty as our specialist in solidarity with PTC. General Secretary in August. New Testament Studies. He comes to us from England. Felicity will join I also want to express my The Rev Dr Michael Press left to him later in the year. appreciation to all our member join his wife in Singapore where she churches, overseas partners and has accepted an appointment as The long search for a qualified mission boards and friends of the parish minister for the German Librarian has finally come to an end. College. Without your prayers, expatriate community there. Mr David Lloyd has joined the Faculty from Melbourne, Australia. monetary assistance, personnel and The Rev Dr Marama Tauira was students PTC could not function, let recalled by his home church, the A new church historian (Dr Press’s alone survive. Thank you for your Etaretia Porotetani Maohi, to take replacement) specializing in commitment, your empowering and up a new appointment in Tahiti. Medieval, Reformation and the enabling spirit and your willingness Enlightenment is scheduled to join to share your meagre resources. We us later in the year from the are strengthened by your spirit of Evangelical Lutheran Church of being partners in mission. Bavaria. May God’s grace continue to bless We are still searching for a full-time you all in your ministry. lecturer in Ministry, preferably in the areas of Crisis Counselling and Christian Education.

Viane Tagiilima, Director of Finance Rev Dr Feleterika Nokise, Principal

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 3 New Testament Lecturer We Welcome Two New Faculty Bula! I am very happy to send warm greetings, having recently left cold England after just over eight years. It is with a sense of great joy that I write from PTC, where I spent three memorable years before: it is good to join the community again, on a much improved campus with all sorts of new facilities. I was born in Germany, and began to study theology there to become a minister. After three years, I took a year out with a ‘missionary-diaconal’ programme of our church, and worked with church organisations in Dr Holger Szesnat, NT Lecturer Mr David Lloyd, Librarian South Africa. This eventually turned into eleven years in South Africa Librarian (1987–1998), during which I I came to PTC in June 2009 for 6 I have been a librarian in various continued my studies, completing a weeks as a volunteer, and enjoyed academic and ‘special’ libraries, but PhD in New Testament Studies; was myself so much that I decided to for the last 18 years have been the involved in human rights work; and come back full-time. I had done two librarian at Bendigo Health in taught New Testament at a number previous volunteer trips to a medical Victoria, Australia. This is a medical of universities for several years as library in Honiara, Solomon Islands, library in a teaching hospital. The well. During this time I also got and thoroughly enjoyed the Pacific library users ranged from 2nd year married to a South African, Felicity, people and their lifestyle, and medical students up to crusty old a human rights activist and lawyer. thought it would be great to do medical consultants, and also nurses, A three-year spell at PTC followed, something different with my life. My physiotherapists, occupational teaching New Testament and 3 children have all left home and are therapists, etc. It is wonderfully working with PTCEE. In 2001 we working and living independently in rewarding to work in the health left for England to be closer to Melbourne. There seems no sector: they are such motivated and family and to allow Felicity to further prospect of grandchildren, and so for caring people. One thing you learn is her studies. (She is now in her final the first time for many years I have not to look in any of the books. If year for a PhD in International no responsibilities and can do what I you do you start thinking you have Human Rights Law). I taught like! I have a very supportive wife, all sorts of diseases! Biblical Studies and directed the who actively encourages me in all electronic learning resources of a my dreams and endeavours. Continued on pg 8... minister’s training course based in Cambridge for eight years. I was also Director of Studies (Dean) for two years. I learned a great deal more about teaching in England, but I am very happy to be back at PTC now to teach New Testament and various other subjects. It is great to be back amongst good people, and I enjoy the fact that I can wear a pocket sulu again. I’ll be even happier once Felicity completes her studies in England and joins me here in Fiji sometime later this year!

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 4 Carving a Unique Identity Student Body Association In any academic institution, the Student Body Association (SBA) is the catalyst for a dynamic and cohesive community, especially in a unique academic environment like PTC. Diverse cultures and denominations make it truly an ecumenical community, where everything is done in the spirit of ecumenism and the Pacific way. The SBA is an integral part of the PTC community that serves both the academic and social interests of the students and Faculty. According to the President, “The SBA is an avenue for SBA Exec 2010 President: Oueni Simote (Wesleyan, Tonga); Vice Pres: Rev Leslie promoting unity in diversity. We do Vedoko (United, Solomons); Secretary: Rev Ellison Quity (Anglican, Solomons); this by organizing social gatherings Treasurer: Poulea Tonise (Methodist, Samoa); Executive and Council Rep: Olive such as school feasts, sports days, Samuelu (Congregational, Samoa) working bees, combined sports, can voice their concerns during hours from 9:30 pm to 11:30 pm, to worship and dinner with PRS (the meetings with the Principal or cater to the study patterns and needs Catholic Seminary) etc. that involve members of the Faculty. So the SBA of students. the entire PTC community. We serves as an intermediary body.” hope that these activities will “We see the Faculty’s willingness facilitate among students and SBA representation on various and cooperation in this matter as Faculty, a sense of belonging committees aims to provide an very encouraging and we hope that together as one spiritual family in environment conducive to study, we can build on this relationship. I Christ, with ownership and pride for cohesion and spiritual development. have the privilege of working with a good team because we are very what we have here. A working bee and sports day have close to each other and know each been organized already this year. “But first and foremost, it is there to other well, but there is a lot more to The SBA plans to have two working liaise with the Faculty on behalf of be done”, says Oueni. the students on matters of academic bees each term. An achievement for concern and vice versa. It is easy the SBA so far has been the “We hope that with this cooperation, for students to complain, but not all extension of the library’s opening we can eliminate any barriers that prevent the students from openly sharing their concerns with the Faculty. I think a way forward would be a proposal for the SBA to have a representative to the Faculty. It would be a means of keeping the Faculty adequately informed on issues students face, and the students informed on decisions that have direct bearings on their academic studies and life at PTC. It is an essential part of promoting Sports Masters: Sam Amosa ecumenism and a steady foundation (Congregational, Samoa—above centre), assisted by Jonas Tetaronia upon which our community can (Etaretia Porotetani Maohi) continue to grow stronger.”

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 5 Women’s Fellowship

Faculty PhD Second Yr MTh

GPP Advisory Committee rep—Peni Cabenalevu (Methodist, Fiji & Rotuma)

2010 Executive (L to R): Sapi Amosa (Sports),PTCEE Jessie Quity BTh (Vice-president), First Yr MTh Maria Samuelu (President), Samata Uili (Staff Adviser), Sefo Tigarea (Treasurer). Absent: Herenui Tetaronia (Secretary)—see below

Talofa! The Women’s Fellowship Some women are studying theology began 2010 well. Orientation Week (BD, BTh and Diploma). They are allowed us to get to know each well and truly into their studies for other, and we participated in a this year. We wish them well! working bee and sports day. These Others await the commencement of Choir Masters: Poulea Tonise activities enhanced a spirit of our women’s academic programme (Methodist, Samoa), assisted by Sapi togetherness and friendship amongst in Term 2. Amosa (Congregational,Biblical Studies Samoa) the women ofTheology our community. Studies With Some of Ministryus are gearing Studies up for our a proposed Sports Day for Women first Ecumenical Worship for 2010, to start soon, under the leadership of and no doubt have prepared well for Sapi Amosa, this year promises to be this spiritual gathering. We are also full of fun! preparing for the Induction Service It is always rewarding and and feast for new Faculty members. fascinating to work together with our Earlier this year, the Women’s sisters and mothers from around the Fellowship commemorated World Pacific. We lookPTCEE after our College PTCEE Day of PrayerGPP with Staff a colourful and Chapel. Some of us have already emotional service, highlighting the Student Housing rep—Vahineri’i taken part in leading daily devotions, lives, the struggles and the welfare Hatitio (Etaretia Porotetani Maohi) another important part of our of the women of Cameroon, Africa. For Oueni and his committee, the community life at PTC. challenge is to try and emulate the examples of many great ecumenical leaders before them who have led Library Staff by example, upholdingFinance the Staff principles IRSA Staff Etina Havea of ecumenism firmly rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Many have passed on, and many more continue to carry the banner of ecumenism in the Pacific. But the seeds were cultured and nurtured by Above: Chapel Keepers Tina Maibuca the unique setting that PTC is able to (Ekalesia Kelisiano Tuvalu) and offer through media such as the Litiana Dau (Methodist, Fiji). Student BodyMaintenance Association. Staff IT Staff Left: HerenuiLibrary cleaning Staff the chapel

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 6 Health Project: A raining nightmare for PTC

Storm water covering the drain and flooding the porches of student flats

Anyone who’s been to Fiji may “We don’t sleep in the bedroom pump well, cartage cost to the site exaggerate that there is hardly a day now. We sleep in the living room so and hire of heavy duty crane. The without rain in Suva. But there is that if the water comes in we can cost also included excavating the some truth to that. Suva records the move our electrical appliances from hole, installing backfill, reinstating the highest rainfall on the island with an the floor and put them onto the surrounding area, and installing a average of 252 to 1146 millimeters tables or high places,” says Herenui. manhole for the reflux chamber. The of rain per month. total cost for phase 1 of the project Because their block of flats is was $39,491 FJD. A high rainfall is certainly a blessing located on the lowest part of the to thousands of families who are PTC grounds, storm water fills up We would welcome contributions affected by Suva’s intermittent the drains and floods the area from friends and partners to water supply crisis. adjacent to their block and spills complete this project. So far the school has received donations of But for Herenui Tetaronia’s over into their veranda and into the $641.77 FJD from a number of household and five other families house. The leaky septic tanks also individuals. A former lecturer here at PTC, it is a nightmare. get flooded and discharge sewage into the bathrooms and the flooded donated $2000 from her BTh “When there is heavy rain, water area in front of their flats. course-writing honorarium. But we comes onto our veranda and into our still require about $100,000 to It is not just a health risk for these house. Attempts were made to block complete the project. off the flood from coming onto our six families. They are exposed to Two pumps will be required, at a veranda but the rain comes in and more risk when they venture out at current cost of $15,000 each. When fills it up anyway. We had to cut a night in the rain to go searching for the pumps are installed and hole through the small water barrier the key to use the school bathrooms. connected to power, then all the in order for the water to drain out of When the rain stops and the flooded houses will have to be connected to our veranda. areas drain away naturally, the residual sewage is deposited on the the pump station and from there to “The septic tank also fills up and ground, posing further health risks the main sewer along Vuya Road. water containing sewage spills onto for the entire community. Help provide these students and the bathroom floor and shower stall their families with a healthy and when we try to use the toilet and On its own initiative, the College safe environment. It would be a shower. We can’t use our bathroom raised $40,000 FJD for the health great relief for the Tetaronias if they when it rains. If we need to use the project last year through a bazaar. could use the bathroom like bathroom in the middle of the night, This money was used to build a wet everyone else, in the comfort of their we have to go out into the heavy well to collect all the waste from the own home. rain and ask the foreman Sereki or lower section of the school grounds. the guard at the main gate for the They purchased a 3.8m x 1.8m keys to unlock the school bathroom manhole riser for the pump station, a so that we can use it.” PWD standard manhole lid for the

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 7

Fr Edward Kolohai, PhD student

First year MTh students

Academic News

At the beginning of 2010 we have one after work, because the BTh students student in the PhD programme and 12 are mostly from off-campus. new students for the MTh programme. For the first time, applicants had to sit Curriculum review Second year MTh students receive help the new PTC Proficiency English Test with the thesis template This year it was agreed that a full as part of our admission requirements review of the academic programmes was for the Masters programme. due. Part of the process was to use our Some of the students who did not Faculty in-training day. The teaching complete the MTh programme last year Faculty usually have an in-training day have also come back hoping to each term to help in the updating of complete the programme this year. their professional skills. This year the BD programme enters its On 12th March we invited an expert in second year of the 3-year cycle. Of the curriculum development, Ivan Williams, five members who enrolled in the to guide us. We spent the morning on programme last year, one dropped out the basic issues and framework of this year and another came in, so the curriculum development. It was a very number remains the same. fruitful exercise and everybody profited from Ivan’s expertise. We hope to BTh students attend some BD courses. continue this learning process in our Some classes are scheduled in the next in-training day. evening to allow students to attend Academic Advisory Comm. rep—Paneta Maibuca (Ekalesia Kelisiano Tuvalu)

Rev Dr Cliff Bird with BD & BTh students Second year Masters students

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 8 George Knight Library There have been two major For example, a search on the topic developments for the Library over ‘prophets’ will retrieve all the books the past year: on that subject. The challenge now for Library staff is to bring the rest - The implementation of the Liberty3 of the catalogue up to the standard library management system; of the new records. - The purchase of the Religion and The Serials module in Liberty3 can Philosophy full-text database. track orders, payments and the Easier to find books arrival of journal issues; the (L to R) Lorin Pai, David Lloyd and Acquisitions module is used to track Nalini Premadish Before we had this computerized new book orders. Library users are Subscriptions to theological journals system, the Library staff had to becoming familiar with the on-line are very expensive. We used to catalogue each book themselves. catalogue, and are able to see which subscribe to about 30 journals. They skimmed it to determine the books they have on loan and the Fourteen that we used to get in print appropriate subject headings, and date they are due to be returned. at a cost of US $2758 are now laboriously recorded the description. provided through the Religion and Using Liberty3, the Library staff can Easier to find articles Philosophy database, which costs quickly and easily download The Religion and Philosophy full-text US $2493 per year. And we have bibliographic records directly from database is a collection of over 300 the additional benefit of all the other the Library of Congress or British full-text journals, mostly in pdf 276 journals in the database! We Library. These records are all of format. These journals are linked to save money and also storage space. good standard, with a complete list the American Theological Library of relevant subject headings. This Association (ATLA) database, enables users to find all the relevant This year’s projects which is an index to the research material in our Library for any topic. - To bring the catalogue up to literature of religion and theology. standard; ATLA has a ‘local holdings’ facility, so we can include a comment on - To train all the students in the best whether a particular journal is use of the on-line catalogue available in our collection. This (OPAC) and the ATLA database; makes the database much more - To catalogue the Oceania material useful. Library users can either which is kept in the Strong room access articles directly from their and various filing cabinets. computer, or quickly identify which journal articles are easily accessible. Library Committee rep—Wesele Taotua (Methodist, Samoa )

(David’s story continued from pg 3) was too soft to be a good business- I am interested in all sorts of music, The main thing I learnt was the man: you need to be fairly ruthless, especially Franz Schubert, sport importance of keeping a healthy and I just couldn’t be like that. (part of the reason I came back was lifestyle. Prevention is much easier the tennis court), reading, and I had lots of different jobs while I than cure, and most causes of early meeting people. I am hoping that the was going through university, and so mortality and morbidity are lifestyle- Melbourne Football club can win an met many different people. I was related. I always say, “Don’t get AFL premiership before I die, but I very wild and rebellious when I was sick and don’t go to hospital—they am starting to wonder if it will ever young. I had really long hair and a are dangerous places”. happen. big bushy beard, and rode big I haven’t always been a librarian: motorbikes: only one serious I am struggling to complete a my first degree was in Economics accident, a broken leg. I was soon Masters in Population Health on the and Politics, and I have had previous back on the bike with the plaster still admissions to the Bendigo careers in business, managing and on my leg. Naturally I was the Benevolent Asylum 1861–1910; I directing various companies. But I despair of my parents! hope to finish that this year.

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 9 A record year The year 2009 was a record year for PTC’s extension students. Ninety-five students committed themselves to learning. At the end of the year one student graduated with the Diploma in Theological Studies, nine received the Certificate and the others made progress toward these goals. We congratulate them all!

The Director of PTCEE spent a PTCEE Advisory Committee (L to R): Sagaga Safega (SBA rep), Rokosiga month in the Solomon Islands. She Morrison (USP), Deidre Madden (Director), Dr Holger Szesnat (Chair, Faculty visited students in Honiara and rural rep), Dr Kafoa Solomone (Academic Dean), Ivan Williams (College of Higher centres, ran tutorials and talked with Education Services). Absent: Rusiate Tuidrakulu (Association of Theol Schools) individuals about their studies. It was very helpful to meet students and appreciate their situations. The The Markers Cannot Keep Up! students were glad to talk face to The markers cannot keep up! The face, rather than writing to an certain learning objectives. It will be year has started well, with many unknown person thousands of miles a wonderful learning experience. students submitting assignments. At away. “Now we feel we belong!” Interactive learning opportunities are this rate, we expect many extension rare and therefore valued by our Bachelor of Theology students in students to graduate this year. Some students! Most PTCEE students Suva took the opportunity to join a have been engaged in lay ministry live in places where postal services number of BD classes, rather than for many years and bring a wealth are poor, libraries are non-existent studying alone, by correspondence. of experience to their studies. Having a teacher to explain things and educational opportunities are Ten PTCEE students are living on and other students to share with limited. Their churches struggle to campus this year. They are studying makes a big difference to their train the clergy, and do not have the diligently and joining in PTC learning! And they are blessed by capacity to train their lay leaders, community life. Others who live in being able to use the PTC Library. even though lay people are heavily Suva are able to join us for weekly involved in preaching, pastoral care, Sponsorship from various partners tutorials. They are a lively group—a leading Bible studies, and so on. last year enabled PTCEE to provide mixture of ages—from different PTCEE exists to support Pacific free courses to students who really countries and church traditions. want to learn but could not pay their churches by offering a way for their Some students will be able to attend fees. This was an important factor in members to develop their the Social Analysis workshop being increasing the amount of student understanding, deepen their faith and run in May. PTCEE students will activity. They didn’t have to wait gain the skills they need to minister contribute from their own between courses, but could go on more effectively in their local perspectives and no doubt gain straight away. Many people in rural communities. We pray that more enormously from others. They will areas have little opportunity for paid Pacific Christians will take up the share in group discussions and employment, and the global opportunity to study theology in their report back. An assignment will economic crisis affected everyone. own context, at their own speed, and demonstrate that they have met at times that suit them.

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 10 Ni sa Moce Bryce College. Above all we praise God by the Anglican Bishop of Polynesia, for guidance and courage which who was Chairman of the College he has given us as we have taken Council at that time. counsel together. In 1975, Bryce was consecrated the “From the discussions that took first indigenous Diocesan Bishop of place in Samoa and from the more Polynesia and began his direct detailed investigations that have involvement with PTC: been made here in Suva, it is plain It was at this time that I was asked that many Christians in the Pacific by the of the South look to a Central Theological Pacific Anglican Council to be College in expectation that it will their representative at the Council fulfil the hope for an ordained and Executive Committee of the ministry which will be far more Pacific Theological College. In adequately trained. 1976 as the new Chairman of the Guest speaker, Graduation 2005 “The hope is that this College will Pacific Conference of Churches not only provide careful and exact elected at the Assembly in Papua Archbishop Jabez Bryce, Bishop of training in Biblical and New Guinea, I inherited the the Anglican , Theological Studies, but that the responsibility of caring for the died in Feb. He had been involved training will be such as to make Pacific Theological College and with PTC since its inception. these studies deeply relevant to lobbying for the full support of He was a deacon in Fiji in 1961 the changing social conditions of member churches of the Pacific when the Conference of Churches the Pacific world. Conference of Churches. It was in my capacity as Chairman of the and Mission (at Malua) and the “It is further hoped that as staff Pacific Conference of Churches Suva Consultation of the and students from various church that I was requested by the Pacific Theological Education Fund of the backgrounds share the gifts that Theological College Executive International Missionary Council (in God has given to each, the Committee to approach the Free Suva) discussed establishing a churches of the Pacific may be led Wesleyan Church of Tonga to Central Theological College. He to a deeper gratitude for the release Dr Amanaki Havea to did not attend these meetings, but richness of God’s grace and to a become first had contact with the participants and readier obedience to His will. says he was extremely interested in Principal of the Pacific this ecumenical venture. “Finally, we hope that as in this Theological College… and other ways we realise our My direct involvement with the In his address at our graduation in oneness in Christ, we may also be Pacific Theological College 2005 he reminded us of the initial able to make available to the spanned a period of twelve years, vision for PTC: world those distinctive theological from 1975 to 1987. The Theological Consultation at insights, which God has surely the end of its meeting addressed a given his people in the Pacific.” Is there a need statement to the participating (Theological Consultation in the Is there a need churches…which in its preamble Pacific, May 7–13, 1961) for PTC to continue? reads: Bryce was in Tonga in 1964, when In response to this question, Bishop “The members of this Consultation PTC began classes at Suva Point. Bryce was very clear: are grateful to the Conference of He was in St Andrews Seminary in I believe that the College still has Churches and Missions in the the Philippines when the College a role to play in the region… Pacific for the clear moved to its present site. On 3rd Firstly, if the Christian churches recommendation which it sent to March 1965 the Archbishop of are serious about ecumenism—the the churches and to this Canterbury laid the foundation stone Pacific Theological College is Consultation on Theological of the first PTC building, when he where ecumenical relationship is Education for the establishment, visited the Diocese. On 9th June being lived out. The daily within the Pacific area, of a 1966 the new buildings were opened encounters of people from Central Federated Theological by the Governor of Fiji and blessed

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 11 (Continued...) the engagements of well- Bishop Bryce’s involvement with different church traditions, established Theological Colleges PTC did not end in 1987. As Dr different ethnic groups and a in other parts of the world with Manfred Ernst said at the reguregu: recognized accredited variety of staff from theological Archbishop Bryce was always Universities. The trend today is backgrounds all help to mould very supportive to the mission of that a lot of lay people want to persons for a broader kind of PTC. For many years he was a upgrade their understanding of leadership in our region. The member of the College Council. the Bible, Theology, Church Pacific Theological College can He also served as Chairman, History, Ethics and Worship. This offer a greater variety of which exemplifies his commitment will benefit our churches when theological perspectives than the to ecumenism and the need to students go back home… denominational colleges. nurture future church leaders. Fourthly, I have always Secondly, Fiji has two other world He was the longest serving church questioned the way in which the religions that dominate life in this leader of the 20 member churches Pacific Theological College feels country. Islam and Hinduism have that own PTC. Words cannot it has only to serve the needs of a vast following. They are adequately convey how much the the churches. acknowledged by the Government College benefited from his wisdom of Fiji by declaring public I have always held the view that and leadership. His presence in holidays for Prophet Mohammed’s the Pacific Theological College decision making meetings of the birthday and Diwali… If should not only meet the needs of College was always a stabilizing Comparative Religion or Inter- the churches, but should also factor, because he personified Faith is pursued, the Pacific offer topics that are relevant to what it means to promote unity in Theological College would be the the social issues of today. diversity… ideal place for this to be studied alongside Christian Theology. To support this fourth point, Bishop We still remember with gratitude Bryce referred to three courses when the Archbishop agreed to Thirdly, the possibility of some offered at the University of bless and open our Jovili Meo relationship with the University of Auckland by two former students of Mission Centre in September the South Pacific and the Pacific PTC. Church leadership (Moana 2004. The plaque at the entrance Regional Seminary would give an leadership), Theology of Vanua to the Centre, which added dimension. To have (Place) and Environment (Theology commemorates the occasion, will theological students interact with and Social Ecology) all aim to be always remind us and visitors. academics and students in secular prophetic and to articulate issues The last time we remember his institutions as well as other which are relevant to the rapidly presence at PTC was in a public religious groups and disciplines is changing situations in the Pacific. valuable as has been proved with forum that was organised by PTC, ECREA and St John’s College on ‘The Crisis of Ecumenism’. It was encouraging for everyone to see (Roman Catholic) Archbishop Mataca and (Anglican) Archbishop Bryce sitting side by side and to listen to their words of encouragement as they both emphasised the need for the churches to work together for the common good. We express our condolences to Tilisi, a former, much-loved member of the PTC community, and to Jonathan and Fitaloa. A faithful and long-serving Pacific church leader has crossed the river. If we agree with his vision and his values, those of us who are left must Bishop Bryce, 2004, opening the Jovili Meo Mission Centre continue to uphold them.

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 12 God’s Pacific People GPP is a mission programme mandated to facilitate the sharing of expertise and personnel resources for capacity building in mission among the churches of the region. This vision is implemented through the following programmes: Personnel Exchange Programme (PEP) Sharing Resources for Mission AIM: To facilitate the exchange of personnel between churches and between churches and civil society (NGOs) in the South Pacific Region for capacity building to meet the challenges in areas of development, social justice concerns, management, peace, conflict resolution and environmental issues. This programme provides airfares, medical and life insurances and a living allowance for Church-to-Church Expert Sending: Mr Verea Tupou from participants who take up learning attachments or who are Tuvalu teaching net-making skills in Viwa, Fiji sent as resource personnel. Church-to-Church Learning Inspirational Stories – Attachments: John Gema Making a Difference (RCPNG) and “Mission in the Context of Conflict: Stories from the Alison Painatala Solomon Islands” Ed. by Charles Brown Beu & (UCSI), interns at Rosalyn Nokise. Available at $25 FJD +PP through GPP PCC Office or PTC Bookshop. Published November 09.

Face to Face Programme A 7-week cross-cultural exposure in mission programme run on behalf of CWM, the Council for World Mission. Below is the 2009 group.

Internships: Bresin Ruadi from the Christian Care Centre in Solomon Islands, with Koila Olsson from the Pacific Centre for Peacebuilding. CCC is a ministry of the Anglican Church of Melanesia addressing domestic violence.

Upcoming Events • Joint GPP-PCC Regional Mission Conference at Viwa Island, April 10–18, 2010, to stimulate reflection, identify skills and resources, and develop mission plans. • Training intensive in Conflict Analysis, Resolution and Trauma Counselling in conjunction with the Pacific GPP staff: Arieta Tirikula, Coordinator Rev Rosalyn Nokise Centre for Peacebuilding. and Lynne Lala

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 13 Etina Havea Children’s Centre The Etina Havea Children’s Centre Islanders, Fijians, Samoans, Tongans, (EHCC) is a memorial to the late Rotumans, Indians, ni-Vanuatu, Etina Havea, wife of a former PTC Papua New Guineans, Tahitians and Principal, the Rev Dr Sione i-Kiribati. The Centre provides ’Amanaki Havea. It was officially various activities and excursions for opened in 1980 to cater for PTC the children’s development. children so their mothers could The Parents and Teachers participate in the Women’s Association plays an active role in Programme. It soon began accepting facilitating the needs of the children, children from outside. The Centre through fundraising, working bees was registered as a Kindergarten by and moral support. the Ministry of Education in Fiji on 5th February, 1985. Feedback from parents and primary school teachers shows that PTC The original purpose for establishing kindergarten children adapt easily to EHCC was: the classroom environment and are - To provide kindergarten and willing to learn. The parents are nursery care and enable students’ thankful for the personal attention, wives to take courses in the PTC motherly care and religious Women’s Programme and foundation that the centre offers. theological studies; - To involve itself in the training and nurturing of children, and also students who are training as early childhood teachers. Mission and vision Its mission is to educate children to become self-directed life-long learners who can create a positive future for themselves and the community. The early childhood education experiences holistic approach aims (Above left) Teacher Tokasa Mawi and to promote the total development of Head Teacher Niru Raj. the child: the social, emotional, physical, spiritual and cognitive skills, thus ensuring the child’s all- round development. The kindergarten is located within the PTC compound at Nasese. The structure of the building facilitates free and creative learning experiences. The safe, healthy learning environment provides top quality first education for children of PTC and from the wider community around the Suva area. The children range from three to five years old. They include Solomon

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 14 Resourcing the Churches Prize winners, 2009 The Institute for Research and and various models of change. They Social Analysis was established in will be challenged to reflect critically April 2008. Its purpose is to on specific economic, social, political undertake and facilitate the research and cultural contexts of their needs of the Pacific churches and ministry and to design strategies for communities, as well as PTC. Its pastoral social action in a given goal? To contribute to a well formed, social context.” dynamic Christian presence in the A workshop on Leadership and Pacific Islands. Management is planned for 2011. The IRSA Director, Dr Manfred Ernst, is assisted by Raijieli Cooperation with PCC Rachel ‘Uhila (Wesleyan, Tonga) and Uluinaceva. A Strategic Think Tank The IRSA Director has produced a Amelia Malietulua (below, Congrega- helps to keep the focus sharp and management training module. This tional, Samoa) were jointly awarded relevant; it comprises 5 Fiji-based is part of a capacity-building the Fiona McAdam Prize for Outstand- members from a variety of initiative of the Pacific Conference ing Contribution to PTC Community. denominations, institutions and of Churches (PCC). There are three professional backgrounds. other modules on Biblical foundations, leadership and good governance. Dr Ernst will introduce the management module to trainers during a PCC workshop to be held in Samoa, May 17 to June 11, 2010. The IRSA Director has been asked to co-facilitate the continuation of PCC’s “Theology of Hope” project. There will be a one-week workshop in Samoa, most likely in Audit of democracy September 2010. The Director will write a background paper on Support Staff Funds have been sought to carry out ecumenism in the Pacific Islands as research into democracy in Fiji. input for this. Capacity building Research papers A workshop on Social Analysis The first Occasional Research will be held 3–7 May 2010 at the Paper will contain three academic Jovili Meo Mission Centre. It is articles and seven sermons delivered designed for church ministers, by Dr Michael Press during his 7 deacons/deaconesses and lay people years at PTC. Dr Press was throughout the region who are formerly lecturer in Church history. involved in any social ministry or Sofa Niulevu, PTCEE interested in social issues. The BD students will also participate in the New book workshop as part of their During 2009 IRSA launched a new requirements. This is a new model book, The Pacific Islands at the of course delivery, Dr Ernst says: a Beginning of the 21st Century: combination of lectures and Religion, Culture, Society. workshop participation. The book provides information, “We will discuss why the Church orientation and insights regarding should deal with social problems. recent developments and trends in Participants will be introduced to the different societies. Available from the PTC Bookshop. methods for doing social analysis Kasa and Joana, Mission Centre

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 15 IT Department Bula vinaka! Warmest greetings. This year we plan to replace some aging equipment such as an old We have started 2010 with renewed heavy-duty printer in the student lab. vigour. We have a good IT team We are also working on a backup here with two skilled technicians and solution for the campus network to are making steady progress in our save people’s documents in case of mission of supporting the college. a system crash, and we hope to get Much of our time is taken up by internet access into the class rooms. routine maintenance. We maintain Purchasing equipment in Fiji is very the College network of more than 30 expensive, so we continue to be very computers, including faculty, grateful to churches and partners IT staff Eremasi Tamanisau and support staff, library, and student lab that help us with funding. Saimoni Katonivere with the SBA rep facilities. Individual student support to the IT Committee: Michael Kafonika Holger Szesnat is also part of our agenda. (Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma) (Chair, IT Committee)

Farewell, Dr Krüger

Our morning devotion on February was labelled a communist and a 15 was dedicated to the memory of traitor of the white race. Finally Rev Dr Wolfgang Krüger, a former he was deported. His doctoral lecturer at PTC 1992–1998. He died thesis and book titled ‘White as the result of a tragic accident Christians – Black Christians’ while on holidays with his wife Inge were an attempt to digest these in India. experiences. Dr Krueger’s son Jens, his wife Dr Wolfgang was always interested in Kati and their youngest son Leo other people, their cultures and were present with us. Jens works at languages. After serving as a very fitting that the PTC computer SOPAC and Kati is a lecturer at the parish pastor back in Germany lab is named after him. USP. Here is part of Dr Manfred for the next 12 years, he and his Wolfgang was always curious, Ernst’s address. family moved to Papua New with a keen interest in, for Guinea. Wolfgang managed a Wolfgang Krueger was born in example, the relationship of mission station, then he taught 1936 in West Prussia. The family science and theology. He was Systematic Theology at Martin became refugees during World gifted with the ability to learn Luther Seminary. War II and had to rebuild their languages—Afrikaans, English, lives in the traumatic period after The family moved to Fiji in 1992. French, Portuguese, Russian, the war. Wolfgang regarded PTC as the Spanish, Old Greek and Latin. He happiest and most fulfilling time Wolfgang wanted to become a was also practical, with many of his ministry. As a senior medical doctor but he could not talents such as repairing and lecturer in the Theology secure a place, so he studied fixing things. Department and chair of the theology. After several years in He enjoyed life. He traveled all SPATS accreditation committee, he charge of a parish, he became over the world, but he had special contributed a lot to the pastor of a German congregation relationship with the Pacific and development of PTC and in Namibia—a very difficult was fascinated by Melanesian ecumenism. He helped to run ministry. The congregation culture and myths. He was always summer schools in Micronesia supported the South African cheerful and sensible, with a deep during term breaks. He secured apartheid regime. Wolfgang tried respect and tolerance for different grants to buy computers—so it is to break down barriers, but he views.

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 16 PTC Review Report: Summary The Review’s terms of reference officials and laity was obvious from decades with insufficient attempt sought a comprehensive coverage of respondents’ comments. made to help key decision makers in the life and services of the Pacific Council, and top management to PTC is considered the premier Theological College, requiring wide understand the financial implications theological college in the Pacific ranging consultations through inter- of decisions they make. It is sug- which sets the benchmark for all. The views, questionnaires, and perusal of gested that continued heavy reliance general view of present and past staff key documents. Sources of the data on overseas donor partners for and student members is that PTC has collected are listed in the appendices. funding should be replaced by a more an infrastructure conducive to high Analyses of these data are reported at business-like and entrepreneurial standards of programme delivery. length in this report with the review approach that resolves to lead the However some elements need urgent team’s recommendations for action PTC to financial sustainability. The upgrading as noted in the report. highlighted for easy reference within review makes several recommenda- the text and listed separately below. PTC’s strength is to a significant tions and is of the view that this is extent reliant on its cooperation with possible with recruitment of appropri- The majority of respondents other regional and ecumenical bodies ate staff, and change either in the acknowledge the strength of PTC in such as the Pacific Conference of status or the perception of PTC its life and promotion of ecumenism Churches, the South Pacific Associa- members. associated with multi-cultural under- tion of Theological Colleges and the standing and acceptance on the one PTC has to become much more like a Pacific Regional Seminary. Levels of hand, and its leadership in the search corporate organization with ears close interaction with these bodies are for a Pacific contextual theology on to the ground to keep its pulse on the noted and ways in which they can be the other. The review notes the need changes and needs of its market. It strengthened are suggested. for PTC to unravel the various has to be more efficient at planning, understandings of these two concepts The Review finds the system and monitoring and evaluating its per- and to clarify its vision based on conduct of governance of PTC formance at all levels, learning lessons them. satisfactory in the main but with that inform its future actions and some obvious weaknesses that should adaptations. It will need to seek Respondents praise the PTC for be addressed urgently. For example, assistance of short term and long fulfilling its objective of “assisting in the College does not receive the term expertise from outside its faculty providing” a highly trained indigenous commitment it requires from its for some of these functions. It will ministry and leadership for its mem- Council most of whose members pay also need to aggressively market its ber churches. Sustained production low priority to it both in caliber of services globally. To be an efficient of well qualified church leaders is representation in attendance, and in corporate entity PTC has to re- assured through the ‘children col- payment of membership dues. examine its organizational structure leges’ of PTC. Their growing and systems including its committee strength testifies to the latter’s Management issues receive consider- structures. success while at the same time posing able attention in the report. Weak- threats to PTC. The plight of less nesses are noted in communications PTC’s community life is a strong well-endowed churches is noted. The at all levels, in management control, attraction for students seeking cross- challenge for PTC is to find a new effective delegation of responsibilities, cultural interaction at some depth and raison d’être, a new niche, in a and participatory implementation of ecumenical learning in the Pacific context that has changed radically. A necessary activities. Committee context. The review team received much broader potential market for its structures set up to encourage some extreme views of PTC’s future, services should be sought. participation and delegation of author- but the overwhelming feeling towards ity may be too demanding on aca- the College throughout its region is The review lauds PTC’s diversifica- demic staff now over worked and one of great affection, gratitude, and tion and expansion of its services underpaid with little opportunity for admiration. That PTC has achieved through its PTCEE and GPP pro- professional development. Lack of the purpose for which it was founded grammes and through its Institute of articulation of comprehensive proce- is acknowledged by all. The challenge Research and Social Analysis. The dures and policies and the inaccessi- for it now is to decipher its role for Women’s Programme is relevant and bility of those already in place create the future and not be afraid to make needs to be re-activated. Significant dissatisfaction and potential conflict. the hard decisions to adapt itself as demand for these services to meet the necessary. training needs for both church The report notes that PTC’s financial management has been weak for

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 17 Maintenance, Finance and Canteen

Sereki Naitasi, Maintenance Supervisor Semi Vatu, Cleaner Vika Solomone, Canteen Keeper

Mosese & Suren, Handymen Kini & Peni, Groundsmen Rosheen & Lily, Accounts Officers

Changes to the Constitution onus is now on the member churches. Only three (out of eight) The Council shall include the Council Membership faculty members have retained their following non-voting members: The Council shall comprise, with due positions, with the Principal the only (i) Director of Finance and consideration to gender balance, the voting member. This is a major shift Administration following voting members: aimed at reminding the owners (ii) General Secretary of the South (i) One representative from each (member churches) to be more pro- Pacific Association of of the participating member active in fulfilling their constitutional Theological Schools churches (clause 8c) and financial responsibilities. (iii) Faculty Representative (ii) Chairperson of the Council, Leader of one of the member (iv) Student Representative Faculty appointments churches The above membership means the These are now for four years (iii) Deputy chairperson, a resident Council is smaller in numbers. The instead of three. of Fiji, from one of the member churches (iv) Secretary of the Council (v) General Secretary of the Pacific Conference of Churches (vi) Financial Consultant (vii) The Principal (ii, iii, iv & vi are elected officers of the Council—clause 12)

Council members, Nov 2009

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 18

Alex outside Berlin Cathedral, 2010 Tevita Havea & Alex, 2004 Learning to weave, 2004 A Palagi With a Pacific Spirit “Come on, Alex, dance the understanding of life. (2) The culture It is my impatience. Lakalaka with us and try not to of reconciliation, the way the people It is my Unpacificness. move too much like a German!” deal with conflicts and the issue of Indeed, that’s it. Tevita Havea’s deep laughter fills guilt challenge Christian Ethics. I am a Palagi. the air on the PTC campus. The (3) How to live Christian faith in I eat Pacific food. students gather in the Fale to day-to-day life, how does it shape I cook Fish in Lolo and Fiji Purini. practice the traditional Tongan dance family life and society? The Pacific I scrape coconuts. (Lakalaka) for the festive opening answer makes it clear we need both: I help with the lovo. of the new Jovili Meo Mission the orthodoxy and the orthopraxy! I weave mats. Centre. I try my best but I think it These insights form my work and I say “vinaka vakalevu”. still looks too German. life as a minister at Berlin I wear sulus and bula-shirts. Cathedral. Six months at the PTC. One of my I learn the coconut theology. most intensive times in my life—not At the end of my stay I wrote a I read books like “Pacific Profiles”. only because of the dancing. poem about my experiences: I learn about Pacific myths, legends and traditions. My time at PTC really changed me I listen to the stories of island life. as a scholar, as a minister and yes, PALAGI I see the struggle, the tears, the joy, as a whole person. When I came I am a Palagi. and the gratefulness of the back to Germany my friends asked Is it the colour of my skin? Pacific people. me if I missionized the Pacific Is it the way I talk? I know the concept of Vanua. people. My answer: They Is it my rush? I dance the Lakalaka. missionized me! Or is it my money? Is it my clothing? I bind coconut leaves around posts. I learnt the “Coconut Theology”. Is it my camera? I sit around the tanoa. The expression sounds funny but it Or is it because of all my questions? I sing Pacific songs. stands for a very profound Is it because of my curious eyes? I hear the melody of the respective understanding of how the Pacific Is it my passport? languages. people have ‘inculturated’ the Or is it my Germanness? I try to understand the Pacific Christian religion. They have It is more. humour. integrated their old legends and I fall in love with the Pacific and its myths of how they understand life I am a Palagi. people. and death into their Christian faith It is the colour of my soul. I am still a Palagi. and have thereby enriched the It is the beating of my heart. I will always be. worldwide Christian story. To name It is the perspective of my eyes. I cannot escape my Westernness. three examples: (1) Christian faith in It is the direction of my thoughts. But I am a Palagi with a Pacific the Pacific is grounded—in its literal It is my understanding of time. Spirit. meaning, it is ‘earthly’. Vanua is the It is the way I believe in God. keyword. Preserving God’s creation It is my canon of readings. Alex was on exchange for 6 months is imbedded naturally in the It is my traditions. from the Northelbian Lutheran Church.

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 19 So Many Graduates! “This was the first time in more than a decade that we have had so many graduates in the Masters programme”, according to Academic Dean, Dr Kafoa Solomone. “We would like to see this every year!” Twelve students received the Master of Theology, two with Distinction: Lilian Takeli, Significant Achievement Malutafa Faalili and Leitualasa Malutafa Faalili, Academic Excellence Malieitulua, both from the Congregational Christian Church in Samoa. Two students received a post-graduate diploma, and ten received the Diploma or Certificate in Theological Studies. Three received a Certificate in Practical Arts, and 16 a Certificate of Participation in the Women’s Fellowship Development Programme.

Rose Ure, Leadership and Example Masters Theses Lei Malieitulua, Academic Excellence

Malutafa Faalili "The ideological function of the asylum legislation in Deuteronomy 19:1-13." BIB Congregational, Samoa Sustained with Distinction Vaitafã Heimoana "The conception of sãtãn in the Old Testament and of fa'ahikehe in the pre- BIB Wesleyan, Tonga Christian Tonga: A comparative study." Sustained with Merit Makalofi Kakala "Reading Psalm 80 from a Tongan perspective: An exercise in Reader BIB Wesleyan, Tonga Response Criticism." Sustained with Merit Edward Kolohai "Paul as a 'Prisoner': A socio-rhetorical analysis of Paul's Letter to Philemon." BIB Anglican, SI Sustained with Merit Toutai Laulaupea'alu "Children belong to the Kingdom of God in Luke 18:15-17: A socio-scientific BIB Wesleyan, Tonga interpretation." Sustained with Distinction 'Ulunga Sikaleti B"IB "Contradiction in Job 42:1-9: A rhetorical analysis. Sustained with Distinction Wesleyan, Tonga Tevita F. To'a Wesleyan, "Jesus Christ's crucifixion was on a chronos timing: A socio-historical analysis." BIB Tonga Sustained with Merit Leitualasa Malieitulua "A history of Samoan Congregational Christian Church migrant churches in Long HIST Congregational, Samoa Beach, California, 1965-2002." Sustained with Distinction Jone Cagi "Towards a pastoral counselling model for responding to the challenges Bulaveilecayaki MIN experienced by indigenous Fijian youth on the streets of Suva." Methodist, Fiji Sustained with Distinction Katalaine Mafi "Selection of ministers in the FWCT: The challenge for effective ministry." MIN Wesleyan, Tonga Sustained Semisi H. Fungalei "Worship and culture: Inculturation of worship in the Free Wesleyan Church of TH/E Wesleyan, Tonga Tonga." Sustained with Distinction Longinusi Tu'ipulotu "Towards a theology of stewardship: A reflection on the Free Wesleyan Church of TH/E Wesleyan, Tonga Tonga's uses of its resources." Sustained with Distinction

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter 20

Newsletter Team: Fele Nokise, Deidre Madden, Winston Tarere and Sofa Niulevu Thank you to all those who contributed to this issue! Postal Address: PTC, Private Mail Bag, Suva, Fiji Islands Phone: +(679) 331 1100 Fax: +(679) 330 1728 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ptc.ac.fj Copyright © 2010

2010 Pacific Theological College Newsletter