In a report by the Fiji Times from May 1, 1996, Gospel High School students and teachers celebrated the conclusion of their term with a memorable gospel concert that highlighted a significant moment in Fiji’s history. A 10-member cast presented a dramatic reenactment centered around a village chief’s decision to abolish the ancient ritual of sacrificing female virgins to the gods of war following a victorious battle.
Historically, such rituals were prevalent during the early period of missionary activity in Fiji, as they were performed to express gratitude to deities for military success and to seek divine favor for future conflicts. The performance began with an impactful scene of the sacrifices, where a village caller demanded the villagers’ attention as the ritual unfolded.
In a pivotal moment, the wives of Christian missionaries, who were present in the village to share their gospel, intervened by stepping into the temple where the grim events were taking place. They witnessed two virgins already victimized by strangulation, with three more facing the same fate. The missionaries condemned the ritual as “evil” and preached from the Bible, which moved the village chief to declare the custom abolished in their community.
Arthur Craine, the principal of Gospel High School, noted that the drama illustrated the impact of Christianity’s arrival in Fiji and aligned with the concert’s overall theme, “Gospel Sounds the Trumpet.” He expressed pride in the students’ performances and appreciation for the teachers’ efforts in organizing the event. Mr. Craine hinted at the possibility of hosting an even larger concert in the following year, buoyed by the successful turnout. The proceeds from the concert were allocated to benefit the school’s student council, underscoring the event’s dual purpose of celebration and support for student initiatives.
This event not only showcased the talents of the students but also served as a reminder of the transformative effects of cultural and religious exchanges in Fiji’s history, leaving a hopeful outlook for future generations.