Reverend Simione Tugi has called for assistance following the successful crusade held by the Australian gospel band Planetshakers, which drew thousands of young attendees last weekend at Churchill Park in Lautoka. As the general secretary of the Fiji Council of Churches (FCC), Rev. Tugi expressed his astonishment at witnessing such a significant turnout for a crusade.
This event marked the first collaboration between the FCC and Planetshakers for a crusade in Fiji. Rev. Tugi noted that many of the young participants came from diverse denominations and ethnic backgrounds, igniting a profound sense of hope and inspiration. He highlighted that thousands chose to turn away from nightlife to embrace the spiritual event over three nights.
Rev. Tugi raised concerns about the Church’s ability to make a meaningful impact on the youth, emphasizing the need for assistance from evangelistic teams like Planetshakers to tackle pressing issues such as drug dependence, HIV, sexual abuse, and suicide among young people.
Among the attendees was Mereoni Tinaitukana from Goulding Developments in Nadi, who described her experience at the crusade as overwhelming, praising the powerful message of God. She urged the youth of Fiji to revive past traditions like praise festivals and church crusades to foster a closer connection with God and combat drug addiction.
The next Planetshakers crusade is scheduled to take place at Albert Park in Suva on August 25, starting at 3 PM.