Fiji’s Roman Catholic Church leader has issued a poignant reminder that faith and culture should serve to uplift individuals, rather than contribute to their exhaustion. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong’s comments come at a time when many families are experiencing burnout due to the financial pressures associated with religious and cultural responsibilities.
Chong highlighted the dual nature of cultural and church obligations. On one hand, they can enrich lives and provide guidance through challenges, while on the other, they can become sources of undue stress if misconstrued. He emphasized the role of culture, tradition, and spirituality in imparting essential values that help individuals cope with life’s difficulties and transitions.
However, he cautioned that a dangerous trend emerges when the essence of the church becomes overly focused on monetary contributions. “How does one understand church?” he asked, emphasizing that religious practices such as prayer, community sharing, and meditation should facilitate coping with life’s challenges, not exacerbate them through financial burdens.
Archbishop Chong reiterated that both the Church and culture are meant to enhance human dignity and support personal development. He noted that some churches’ strong focus on tithing and donations can distort the fundamental message of faith, which should prioritize the dissemination of God’s values.
The archbishop pointed out that the issue of financial obligation within religious practice is particularly pressing in Pacific communities that depend heavily on foreign remittances. He also raised concerns over the growing influence of the prosperity gospel, which suggests that financial donations to the church will lead to greater earthly rewards. This mindset, he warned, risks redirecting faith from its core principles of service and compassion towards a culture of pressure and expectation.
In light of these observations, Archbishop Chong advocates for a return to the foundational values of the Church that emphasize support and community rather than financial gain. By fostering a healthier understanding of faith and culture, individuals can find strength and resilience rather than burden.