Many wiped the tears off their faces when Archbishop Emeritus Petero Mataca took the hand of the new Archbishop of Suva Peter Loy Chong and led him to the stone sit signifying that Archbishop Chong is now the official shepherd of the Arch-diocese of Suva.

More than 5,000 people packed the Sacred Heart Cathedral to witness the historical event.

In his sermon Archbishop Chong said they are currently going through tough times and he needs the support of the priest, other religious organisations and the Church.

Archbishop Chong will also look after the Archdiocese of Rarotonga and Kiribati.

Story by: Akuila Cama