The Methodist Church has reiterated that it does not condone the desecration of temples and is urging those responsible to stop. Church general secretary Reverend Dr Jolami Lasawa told attendees at the church conference that respect for other religions and faith-based organisations has long been a cornerstone of church teaching and practice. He said the church has discussed the issue in depth and reminded ministers that sacrilege is not acceptable, describing the destruction of religious temples and property as a sad development that the church cannot support or tolerate.
Dr Lasawa emphasized the church’s commitment to ecumenism and to working closely with other faith communities. Acknowledging Fiji’s broader social challenges, he urged the church to engage stakeholders and collaborate in addressing these ills. He noted that the church president has encouraged a higher standard of service and ministry, which has culminated in the publication of a book containing the church’s teachings and doctrines to keep members grounded and less susceptible to other teachings. The book, launched this week, will be distributed to members, with Dr Lasawa stressing its importance for members to know and affirm their faith in Christ.
This stance aligns with a wider pattern seen in the church’s ongoing efforts to foster interfaith harmony and community wellbeing. The Methodist Church of Fiji has historically been involved in ecumenical dialogues and grassroots outreach, and it sits within broader ecumenical networks through bodies such as the Fiji Council of Churches and the Pacific Council of Churches. There is also talk of formalising closer collaboration with national authorities to tackle social issues, including possible partnerships with the Fiji Police Force to strengthen community safety and outreach.
Editor’s notes:
– The new doctrinal book could serve as a key resource for members navigating religious education and countering alternative teachings.
– Expect further updates on interfaith initiatives and potential formal partnerships with law enforcement or civil society groups as the church expands its grassroots programs.
– Given Fiji’s diverse religious landscape, this move may bolster community trust and contribute to social stability if communicated with transparency and inclusivity.
Summary: The Methodist Church of Fiji is reinforcing its rejection of temple sacrilege, underscoring interfaith respect, and launching a doctrinal book to strengthen members’ faith amid broader efforts to engage with other faith groups and address social issues in the country.
Commentary: This approach positions the church as a proactive moral partner in Fiji’s multi-faith society, potentially helping to bridge communities and reduce social tensions through education, dialogue, and collaborative action.
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