Jesus and Sports: The Fijian Athletes’ Harmonious Worship at the Olympic Village
In a world often dominated by competition and individual prowess, a heartwarming and spiritually uplifting moment occurred at the Olympic Games in Paris. The Olympic Village, typically a place bustling with athletes, coaches, and staff from various countries, became the backdrop for an extraordinary display of unity and faith. This remarkable event was captured by Matilda Kearns, an Australian water polo player, who recorded the moment on her phone. The video featured athletes, coaches, and staff from Team Fiji singing a Fijian hymn called ‘Mo Ravi Vei Jisu’, which translates to ‘put your trust into the Lord and He will guide your way’. This act of worship through song is deeply ingrained in Fijian culture and serves as a testament to the power of music and faith in bringing people together.
The hymn ‘Mo Ravi Vei Jisu’ resonated throughout the Olympic Village, creating an atmosphere of peace and reverence that contrasted sharply with the competitive spirit typically associated with the Games. The singers’ harmonies and musicality were so exquisite that many who heard them were left in awe, comparing their voices to those of angels and likening the sound to the soothing rhythm of the ocean. This impromptu worship service took place during a Sunday service, a time traditionally reserved for rest and reflection, making it all the more poignant. The fact that such a moment of spiritual connection occurred in a setting not usually associated with worship highlights the universality of faith and the human need for connection and expression through music.
Worship through song is a regular practice in Fijian culture, and the athletes’ performance at the Olympic Village was no exception. The tradition of communal singing in Fiji dates back centuries and is deeply rooted in both indigenous practices and the Methodist church. Singing in four-part harmony is a skill taught from a young age, often during family devotions and church services. This cultural heritage was on full display as the Fijian athletes sang with a level of precision and emotional depth that suggested professional training. The beauty and power of their voices captivated many, and the full video of the hymn quickly went viral, garnering millions of views and widespread admiration on social media.
The impact of this moment extended beyond the confines of the Olympic Village. It sparked a broader conversation about the role of music and faith in sports and public life. Some people began to debate what other types of music could be performed at future Olympic Games, suggesting everything from iconic movie soundtracks to classical pieces performed by renowned orchestras. This discussion underscores the idea that music, like sports, has the power to transcend time, place, and expectation, creating moments of unity and shared humanity even in the most unexpected settings.
The Fijian athletes’ act of worship also brought attention to the spiritual needs of society, particularly in high-pressure environments like the Olympics. Many people praised the athletes for their bravery in openly displaying their faith, especially in a context where religious expression is often discouraged. Reports emerged that athletes were advised not to wear religious jewelry or speak about their faith during competition, making the Fijians’ public worship all the more significant. This act of defiance against such restrictions was seen by many as a bold and courageous stand for religious freedom and personal expression.
The controversy surrounding religious expression at the Olympics is not new. The opening ceremonies of the 2024 Olympics, for example, sparked outrage with a parody of ‘The Last Supper’ featuring Jesus, his apostles, and the Greek god Dionysus in a drag show. This performance drew widespread criticism from believers, who felt it mocked their faith. In contrast, the Fijian athletes’ worship was seen as a genuine and heartfelt expression of their beliefs, providing a stark counterpoint to the earlier controversy. This juxtaposition highlights the ongoing tension between secular and religious values in public spaces, particularly in global events like the Olympics.
The viral videos of the Fijian Olympic team singing ‘Mo Ravi Vei Jisu’ have garnered millions of views and likes on platforms like TikTok, further amplifying the impact of their message. The Fijian men’s rugby team, known for their impressive performances and previous gold and silver medal wins, has a history of viral singing videos. Their tradition of incorporating community singing into their daily lives, both in indigenous traditions and the Methodist church, is a source of cultural pride and identity. This cultural practice not only enriches their personal lives but also serves as a powerful tool for connecting with others and sharing their faith on a global stage.
The significance of singing in Fijian culture cannot be overstated. It is seen as a way to harmonize with nature, express a connection to the world, and communicate with God. The annual hymn-singing competition in Fiji draws thousands of participants and can sometimes even cause political tensions, highlighting the deep-rooted importance of this tradition. Methodist missionaries in the 19th century recognized the value of incorporating indigenous musical practices in spreading the gospel, and Fijian Christians have since adapted traditional chants to fit their religious practices. This blending of cultural and religious elements has created a unique and powerful form of worship that resonates deeply with Fijians and those who hear their songs.
The use of instruments in Fijian churches remains a topic of debate, with some arguing that it detracts from the purity of traditional singing practices. Western influences, particularly from contemporary Christian music groups like Hillsong, pose a challenge to preserving these traditions. However, the Fijian athletes’ performance at the Olympic Village serves as a reminder of the enduring power and beauty of their musical heritage. It also underscores the importance of maintaining cultural identity in the face of globalization and changing societal norms.
The imagery of the Fijian Olympic team’s singing in Paris represents more than just a beautiful moment; it symbolizes the spiritual needs of society and the power of faith to bring people together. In a world often divided by differences, moments like these remind us of our shared humanity and the universal language of music. The athletes’ act of worship transcended the boundaries of nationality, religion, and competition, creating a space for unity and mutual respect. It also highlighted the importance of religious freedom and the right to express one’s beliefs openly and without fear of reprisal.
The Fijian athletes’ harmonious worship at the Olympic Village serves as an inspiring example of how faith and sports can coexist and complement each other. It challenges the notion that religious expression should be kept separate from public life and demonstrates the positive impact that such expressions can have on individuals and communities. As the debate over religious freedom and expression continues, the Fijian athletes’ act of worship stands as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of faith and the unifying power of music.
In conclusion, the Fijian athletes’ singing of ‘Mo Ravi Vei Jisu’ at the Olympic Village in Paris was a moment of profound beauty and spiritual significance. It showcased the rich cultural heritage of Fiji, the power of music to transcend boundaries, and the importance of religious freedom. This act of worship not only brought joy and inspiration to those who heard it but also sparked important conversations about the role of faith in public life. As we reflect on this moment, let us remember the words of the hymn: ‘put your trust into the Lord and He will guide your way’. May this message continue to resonate in our hearts and inspire us to seek unity, harmony, and understanding in all aspects of our lives.