The Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma plans to end its bilateral agreement with the United Methodist Church (UMC) in the United States. Talei Qarase-Borman, president of the Santa Rosa Methodist Church board, stated that the agreement was formed prior to the UMC’s recent decision to allow LGBTQ clergy and to permit ministers to conduct same-sex weddings.
Qarase-Borman noted that her church disaffiliated from the UMC in May due to the decisions made at the church’s general conference. She mentioned, “We have separated from the UMC and are now operating independently under our newly-registered name, Santa Rosa Methodist Church.”
At their conference, the issue of LGBTQ rights was discussed, and Qarase-Borman stressed the importance of the Fijian government continuing to resist LGBTQ inclusivity. She explained that the bilateral agreement with the UMC of California/Nevada has restricted congregations that left the UMC from joining the Methodist Church in Fiji.
“I urged the church to take a stance on this matter and address the bilateral agreement, as many iTaukei church members within the UMC are awaiting a response,” she added. Recent discussions indicated that the conference did not support LGBTQ inclusivity, and Qarase-Borman expressed understanding that the agreement would be terminated with the Methodist Church in Fiji moving forward with the legal process.
While she acknowledged having friends in the LGBTQ community whom she cares for, she emphasized the need for a clear boundary regarding these issues.