Reverend Simione Tugi has expressed a pressing need for assistance following a recent crusade led by the Australian gospel band Planetshakers, which attracted thousands of young attendees at Churchill Park in Lautoka. As the general secretary of the Fiji Council of Churches (FCC), Rev. Tugi noted that this was his first experience witnessing such a large crowd of young people at a religious event.
He highlighted that many young individuals, representing various denominations and ethnic backgrounds, dedicated their lives to God during the three-day event. “It is heartwarming to see their thirst for spiritual fulfillment,” said Rev. Tugi. He also pointed out that some participants had chosen to attend the crusade over nightlife activities, raising concerns about the church’s effectiveness in reaching today’s youth.
Rev. Tugi emphasized the need for collaboration among the church, government, and communities, calling for evangelistic teams like Planetshakers to address issues such as drug abuse, HIV, sexual violence, and suicide that affect young people in Fiji.
Among the attendees was Mereoni Tinaitukana from Goulding Developments, who described her two-day experience at the crusade as overwhelming, particularly due to the powerful messages shared. She urged her fellow Fijians to revive local church activities, including praise festivals and crusades, to help guide the younger generation back to spirituality and away from drug addiction.
The next Planetshakers crusade is scheduled to take place at Albert Park in Suva on August 25, starting at 3 PM.