Churches need to broaden their outreach to the community and move away from focusing solely on their congregations, according to Reverend Simione Tugi, the general secretary of the Fiji Council of Churches. He expressed concern that many churches are limiting their efforts to their own members, neglecting the importance of helping those in greater need.
“I’m really saddened by our current approach,” Tugi stated. He noted that some churches believe social issues should be addressed by the government, which he disagrees with, emphasizing that these issues directly affect both the community and church members.
Referencing the life of Jesus, Tugi pointed out that Jesus spent most of his ministry engaging with those outside the temple walls, such as the homeless and vulnerable groups. He highlighted a troubling trend within the church, where the focus is primarily internal, leading to a disregard for the people in need that they are meant to support.
Tugi urged churches to practice what they preach by actively engaging with those less fortunate and making a meaningful impact in society. “That’s my real concern with the church; I think the church is not doing the right thing,” he remarked.