Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou, President of the Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma, has conveyed the church’s desire to take an active role in addressing the escalating social issues in the country. During a conference yesterday, he emphasized the church’s commitment to participate in critical discussions surrounding the challenges of drug abuse, HIV/AIDS, and other societal problems.
“We want to engage directly with these issues,” he stated, highlighting the importance of being present in village, district, and provincial meetings to voice the church’s concerns. Turagavou noted that the church previously held a position in Parliament similar to that of Reverend Tomasi Kanailagi and expressed hope for a revival of such representation.
He believes that the church’s involvement in significant discussions would offer valuable spiritual guidance and encouragement. “By engaging in the core activities of the community, the church can make a substantial difference. Our voice must be heard in these matters,” he added.
In addition to its spiritual duties, the church intends to continue praying and fasting for divine guidance while seeking collaboration with other denominations. Turagavou stressed the necessity of a collaborative effort among the vanua, the church, and the government, warning that a lack of unity could negatively impact the community.
“As the largest denomination serving both urban and rural areas, we have a responsibility to set a positive example for other churches,” he said. He pointed out the church’s unique capability to reach rural and maritime areas more effectively than others, assuring that they would leverage their ministers to fill the gaps left by other denominations.