The new president of the Methodist Church of Fiji, Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou, emphasized the need for a distinct boundary between the church and the vanua during his opening address at the 2024 conference. He reminded the attendees that the church is not owned by the vanua, stating, “The church does not belong to the vanua or is an intrinsic part of the vanua. It is a trinitarian community within the vanua. Both institutions belong to God.”
Dr. Turagavou pointed out that ministers have often been criticized for fostering a strained relationship between the church and the vanua. Instead of promoting the gospel of love and unity, they have sometimes become the “initiators” of discord and division among the people. He urged leaders to resolve their differences with traditional authorities to prevent negative repercussions for the future of the organization.
He also highlighted the essential responsibilities of ministers and dignitaries in the vanua, stating that their roles should be upheld. “The church was not conceived or created for us or on our behalf as ministers and dignitaries but for Jesus and the glorification of his name,” he said.
Dr. Turagavou reassured the church members that they are already protected by the church’s community, saying, “It is not my task as president of the Methodist Church in Fiji to protect you, my brothers and sisters, because you are already protected by the church.” He expressed hope that God’s spirit would rejuvenate the church and restore its true reflection of Christ.