Fereimi Cama: The First Fijian Bishop of Polynesia
The history of the Anglican Church in the Pacific is marked by significant milestones in leadership and representation. Among these, the tenure of Fereimi Cama stands as a landmark achievement, as he became the first Fijian to serve as the Bishop of Polynesia.
Early Life and Spiritual Journey
Fereimi Cama was born on March 2, 1955, in the village of Nukuni, located in Ono-i-Lau, Fiji. While he was raised within the Methodist tradition, his spiritual path evolved over time, leading him to join the Anglican Church in 1987.
Following his conversion, Cama dedicated himself to ecclesiastical service. He began his journey as a lay reader—a trained member of the congregation who leads services and reads scripture—before pursuing the formal studies required for ordination into the priesthood.
Ecclesiastical Career and Leadership
Cama's commitment to the faith saw him rise through the ranks of the church hierarchy. He eventually served as the Dean of Holy Trinity Cathedral in Suva, a position of significant administrative and spiritual authority within the capital city.
His career culminated in his appointment as the Bishop of Polynesia. This appointment was historic, breaking a long-standing precedent by making him the first native Fijian to lead the diocese.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Fereimi Cama
- Birth Date: March 2, 1955
- Birthplace: Nukuni, Ono-i-Lau, Fiji
- Historic Achievement: First Fijian Bishop of Polynesia
- Previous Role: Dean of Holy Trinity Cathedral, Suva
- Date of Death: July 2, 2021
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 1955–2021 |
| Original Denomination | Methodist |
| Anglican Conversion | 1987 |
| Highest Office | Bishop of Polynesia |
| Place of Death | Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Suva |
Passing and Legacy
Bishop Fereimi Cama passed away on July 2, 2021, at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva. He is remembered for his pioneering leadership and his journey from a lay reader to the highest office in the diocese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Fereimi Cama?
Fereimi Cama was an Anglican bishop and the first Fijian to hold the position of Bishop of Polynesia.
Where was Fereimi Cama born?
He was born in the village of Nukuni, Ono-i-Lau, Fiji.
Was Fereimi Cama always Anglican?
No, he was raised as a Methodist and became an Anglican in 1987.
What role did he hold before becoming Bishop?
He served as a lay reader and later became the Dean of Holy Trinity Cathedral in Suva.
When and where did he die?
He died on July 2, 2021, at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva.