The Indian Division of the Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma has reported a decrease in congregation numbers during their annual meeting, which has raised concerns among church leaders. Lautoka Wesley Church Minister, Reverend Abel Nand, highlighted mass migration as a significant factor behind this decline, noting that this issue affects all divisions of the church, not just the Indian Division.
Despite the challenges, Reverend Nand pointed to a positive development within the Lautoka Wesley Circuit, where 29 new members have recently joined. He emphasized that the decline in numbers does not deter the work of church ministers. Additionally, he reinforced the church’s commitment to improving ministerial conduct by implementing a zero tolerance policy regarding smoking and excessive kava consumption, a decision rooted in directives from the previous year’s annual conference.
Reverend Nand stated, “While we respect the Fijian iTaukei culture, we draw the line with grog consumption in our church circles.” As the national conference of the Methodist Church approaches, issues and recommendations raised at the divisional meeting will be submitted for further discussion and resolution at the national level.
This situation mirrors previous observations made by Reverend Semisi Turagavou, the President of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, who has recently addressed similar concerns regarding leadership behavior and its impact on church membership. Turagavou has urged ministers to limit yaqona consumption and smoking, linking such behaviors to the departure of members from the church. He emphasized the importance of restoring confidence among congregants and improving church leadership to better reflect the values of the faith.
With these ongoing discussions and the potential for reforms, there is hope that the church can reinvigorate its community and strengthen its presence in the lives of its members.
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