Rest In Peace Father James Ross – a humble servant, faithful missionary, and father to many lives.

On 5th March, 1934, Father James Augustine Ross was born to Henry Ross and Anne McDonald in the heart of Dublin, Ireland.

Father Ross was a child destined to walk a path far from home, carrying the light of faith that would one day brighten countless lives in Fiji and other Pacific Island Countries.

He was baptized, a few days after he was born, at Saint Joseph’s Church in Dublin, and grew up amidst the simple rhythms of Irish life.

Father Ross worked in several roles before discerning his call to priesthood – each one of the roles grounding him in a discipline and humility that would define his character.

He served as a Time and Motion Studies Clerk at Clondalkin Paper Mills from 1950 to 1951, then worked in both the advertising and accounts departments at the Irish Independent Newspaper from 1951 to 1955, and finally to the Production Office at Bailey Son & Gibson Printing Works from 1955 to 1959.

A greater calling awaited for Father Ross – a deeper vocation that led him to join the Society of Mary (Marists) and pursue the priesthood. On 26th March 1966, he was ordained as a priest at Clontarf College in Dublin – a title that would carry the weight of compassion, purpose, and relentless service.

A mission to Fiji, the beginning of a journey for life

In December 1966, Father Ross set sail for Fiji – a nation of vibrant traditions and cultures with warm hearts, which became his home for the rest of his life:

• The first-ever appointment was when he began his ministry in Levuka, the old Capital of Fiji, in 1966.

• After his service in Levuka, he served in Savusavu from 1967 to 1973 then he moved to serve in the remote mountains of Namosi from 1973 from 1980 – where he offered more than just liturgies; he fostered friendships and networks.

• As Regional Superior from 1980 to 1985, he mentored and guided Marist priests across the country, nurturing vocations as he led with humility and sincerity.

• Father Ross later served as priest of Laucala Bay Parish from 1986 to 1987, then as priest of Mount Saint Mary’s Parish in Nadi from 1990 to 1995, and 2001 to 2009, and also as priest of Lami Parish from 1999 to 2001, among other appointments in his vocation.

A brief mission to New Zealand and the United States of America could not keep him away from the Isles of Smiles (Fiji).

A heart for the people

Father Ross’s story of his life and legacy is about both where and how he served. As one of the last Irish Marist priests in Fiji, he embodied the Marist ethos of simplicity, presence, and perseverance.

His involvement in the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association (PTAA), from the age of 16, spoke volume about his lifelong commitment to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the wellbeing of others. Earlier, before Father Ross wore the robe of a priest, he was already practicing quiet acts of sacrifice in service for others – laying the groundwork for a lifetime of service.

In villages and towns across Fiji, he educated children, supported families, and empowered communities – never seeking any acclamation, but always building a lot of connection.

Father Ross believed in the potential of encountered individuals and communities, and through projects aimed at education empowerment and community development – he helped build not just churches, but the foundation of hope for generations.

A legacy that lives on

Father Ross spent the last years of his life at the Marist Regional House in Suva from 2010 to 2025, and his spirit never waned even in his aging body.

At the age of 91, although time may have dimmed his memory, it could not erase the impression he left on the hearts of people.

Father Ross was a father to a lot of people; a spiritual anchor to his fellow clergy and a loyal friend to the faithful whose wisdom and knowledge shaped a lot of lives.

The Catholic Church in Fiji stands on the pillars strengthened by men like Father James Ross – a man who gave all he had, for love of God and people.

Father Ross’s passing leaves a silence filled with memories of his vocation in the faith.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable servant of God, we carry forward his mission – to be present, serve and uplift the lives of others in the Church.

May Your Soul Rest In Peace, Father James Augustine Ross S.M – your legacy is engraved in our hearts, and your footprints are etched across the Fiji Islands and other Pacific Island Countries.

END 

For more information or for interviews, contact the Archdiocese of Suva Communications Office on email – aosfijicomms@gmail.com.