Fiji Churches Unite for Cross-Denominational Family Care

Methodist Church Leader Urges Cross-Denominational Pastoral Care to Tackle Fiji’s Social Challenges

The Methodist Church Divisional Superintendent for the Indian Division, Reverend Lal Mohammed, is calling on all Christian denominations to strengthen pastoral care as Fiji confronts rising social issues such as drug abuse and family breakdown. He urged a return to the fundamentals of family-centered ministry, stressing that leaders should engage more closely within their circuits, congregations, and family networks.

Mohammed emphasized that these social struggles aren’t new but are intensifying. He believes that if families pray together and churches carry out their mission effectively, many problems can be addressed from within the community rather than solely through external interventions. He also noted that the responsibility extends beyond the Methodist Church, saying, “It’s not only Methodist Church. Though we are the biggest denomination, it goes back to everyone and every denomination to play their role on that.”

Support came from Reverend Sanaila Rakulawai Bici, a lecturer at the Methodist Lay Training Centre, who highlighted parental responsibility as the first line of defense. He urged parents to model positive behavior for their children before the church steps in.

Context and outlook
This call to action mirrors a broader pattern within Fiji’s faith communities, where church leaders have repeatedly stressed the need for proactive engagement with youth and for addressing the root causes of social problems. By reinforcing family bonds and spiritual practices, proponents argue that communities can build resilience against drug abuse, crime, and related social ills.

Value and implications
If denominational leaders collaborate across circuits and networks, churches could coordinate more effective outreach programs, counseling services, and youth engagement initiatives. Strengthening par­ental involvement and family prayer could foster safer, more supportive environments for children and young people.

Summary
A prominent church official is urging inter-denominational collaboration to bolster pastoral care as Fiji faces growing social challenges. The emphasis on family-centered ministry and parental responsibility aims to empower communities to address issues like drug abuse and family breakdown from within, with the hope of fostering lasting positive change.

Additional notes for publication
– This piece ties into ongoing discussions within Fiji’s Christian communities about the church’s role in social reform and youth outreach.
– A constructive angle to consider in follow-up coverage: how different denominations plan to implement cross-denominational pastoral care, what resources are needed, and what partnerships with government or NGOs might look like.

Overall tone: hopeful and action-oriented, focusing on practical steps to strengthen community resilience through faith-based initiatives.