The Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma has not reached a conclusion regarding its partnership with a sibling church that endorses LGBTQ clergy and same-sex marriage. A church community from Nevada, USA, has made an official appeal for the Methodist Church to terminate its relationship with the United Methodist Church (UMC).
Reverend Sekove Veisa, who was part of the delegation that visited Fiji this year, expressed optimism about achieving a different outcome next year. He noted that during a meeting in May, the UMC discussed same-sex marriage again and reiterated their stance on the matter. A significant number of members have left the UMC following this unanimous decision.
Reverend Veisa highlighted the desire to completely separate from the UMC and align with the Methodist Church in Fiji conference. One obstacle remains: the bilateral agreement established between the Methodist Church in Fiji and the UMC. He pointed out that this agreement was signed prior to the approval of same-sex marriage.
The church has raised the question of whether a review of the agreement is possible now that same-sex marriage has been sanctioned. Reverend Veisa mentioned feeling encouraged by the church president’s response when asked about the church’s position on this matter.
General Secretary of the MCIF, Jolame Lasawa, acknowledged the concerns raised by the American delegation but emphasized that careful consideration is necessary due to the existing agreement with the UMC. The church plans to further review the issue, with results expected next year.