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, indicated that this agreement was made before the UMC allowed LGBTQ clergy and permitted ministers to conduct same-sex weddings.
Qarase-Borman noted that her church disaffiliated from the UMC in May due to decisions made during their general conference. She stated, “We have separated from the UMC and are now operating independently under our newly-registered name, Santa Rosa Methodist Church.”
During a recent conference, the issue of LGBTQ was discussed, with a strong call for the government to continue opposing LGBTQ inclusivity in Fiji. She mentioned that the bilateral agreement with the UMC of California/Nevada created hurdles for congregations wishing to join the Methodist Church in Fiji after leaving the UMC.
Qarase-Borman expressed the urgency for the church to address the bilateral agreement, as many iTaukei church members within the UMC are looking for a clear response. She emphasized that recent discussions showed a lack of support for LGBTQ inclusivity during the conference.
She affirmed her understanding that the bilateral agreement would soon be terminated and that the Methodist Church in Fiji would begin the necessary legal processes. While she shares personal friendships with members of the LGBTQ community, she highlighted the importance of establishing clear boundaries on this topic.