The Methodist Church of Fiji has initiated a call for a review of its Constitution. The newly appointed church president, Rev Dr Semisi Turagavou, urged all ministers and dignitaries to avoid smoking cigarettes and to exercise moderation with kava consumption.
“We should be advocates of good,” he stated. “This healthy and productive life should begin with us. We are ambassadors of Christ, and our bodies reflect the quality of mind and soul. We cannot organize others unless we organize ourselves. Church discipline must start with us.”
Rev Dr Turagavou made these remarks during the 2024 Methodist Conference held at the Centenary Church in Suva, where he presented one of ten proposals to support the church’s upcoming 60th anniversary. He emphasized that clerical appointments, particularly for conference departments, heads of schools, and chaplaincy roles, should be determined based on merit, with superintendent appointments also reflecting performance.
He highlighted the necessity for a roving minister within the church’s Department of Evangelism and Outreach, tasked with addressing disputes, controversial issues, and tensions in church communities.
Rev Dr Turagavou also underlined the importance of establishing a proactive and effective committee for evangelism and outreach, stating its critical role in fulfilling the church’s mission. He noted the need to train ministers and dignitaries to be visionary leaders, skilled counselors, effective mediators, practical theologians, ecumenically-minded, and reliable asset managers.