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, noted that the existing agreement was made before the UMC allowed LGBTQ clergy and permitted same-sex marriage ceremonies.
Qarase-Borman stated that her church disaffiliated from the UMC in May due to the decisions reached at their general conference. “We have separated from the UMC and are now functioning independently under our newly registered name, Santa Rosa Methodist Church,” she commented.
During their conference, the topic of LGBTQ inclusion was addressed, and the church highlighted the importance of the government maintaining its resistance to LGBTQ inclusivity in Fiji. Qarase-Borman pointed out that the bilateral agreement with the UMC of California/Nevada had been a barrier for congregations that left the UMC from joining the Methodist Church in Fiji.
She expressed that the church should take a definitive stance on the issue and address the bilateral agreement, noting that many iTaukei members of the church within the UMC are looking for a response. Recent discussions, she said, indicated a lack of support for LGBTQ inclusivity within the conference.
“I believe the bilateral agreement will be terminated, and the Methodist Church in Fiji will begin the legal process to do so. We appreciate the Methodist Church in Fiji for making their position clear on this matter,” Qarase-Borman added. Although she expressed care for her friends in the LGBTQ community, she emphasized the need for clear boundaries regarding the issue.