The Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma plans to terminate 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 agreement was created before the UMC’s decision to allow LGBTQ clergy and permit same-sex weddings.
Ms. Qarase-Borman highlighted that her church disaffiliated from the UMC in May due to the decisions made at 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.”
She expressed that during their conference, the issue of LGBTQ inclusivity was addressed, stressing the importance of the government continuing to resist such inclusivity in Fiji. Ms. Qarase-Borman pointed out that the bilateral agreement with the UMC of California/Nevada limited congregations that left the UMC from joining the Methodist Church in Fiji.
She urged the church to take a firm stance on this issue and respond to the bilateral agreement, noting that many iTaukei church members within the UMC are awaiting an answer. Recent discussions indicated a lack of support for LGBTQ inclusivity among the conference members.
Ms. Qarase-Borman indicated that the bilateral agreement will be terminated and that the Methodist Church in Fiji will begin the legal process for this action. She expressed gratitude to the Methodist Church in Fiji for clearly stating its position on this matter. While she mentioned caring for friends in the LGBTQ community, she emphasized the need for clear boundaries regarding this issue.