The new president of the Methodist Church of Fiji, the Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou, emphasized the need for a clear distinction between the church and the vanua during his opening remarks at the 2024 conference. He stated that the church is not an integral part of the vanua but rather a trinitarian community existing within it.
Dr. Turagavou pointed out that both entities ultimately belong to God and criticized ministers for perpetuating unhealthy relationships between the spiritual institution and the vanua. He urged that instead of fostering love and unity, some have become sources of division and hatred among the community.
He called for a reconciliation of differences with traditional leaders to avoid negative consequences for future organizational efforts. Dr. Turagavou reminded ministers and dignitaries of their crucial roles and the importance of upholding them, stressing that the church was established not for their benefit but to glorify Jesus.
He concluded with a message of hope, expressing his belief that God’s spirit would revitalize the church and restore the true image of Christ.