The President of the Methodist Church of Fiji, Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou, emphasized the need for the Church to enhance its role as the moral compass of the state and as responsible citizens of Fiji. Speaking at the annual conference in Suva, which lasts for a week, he highlighted the pressing social issues that affect the Church and expressed hope that the event would facilitate important discussions among members and delegates.
Rev. Turagavou posed several critical questions regarding the declining church membership, the vocal criticism of poor leadership and ethical concerns among modern church members, and the reasons behind the departure of affiliated members from the Methodist Group. He also raised concerns about the Church’s struggles with excessive kava consumption and smoking among its members, as well as the need to measure attitudes toward immoral behavior and misconduct among leaders. He questioned whether the Church has the vision to elevate its standing and what is necessary to restore its lost reputation.
He noted that Fiji is facing various challenges, including an increase in drug-related incidents, crime, violence, human trafficking, and issues related to street children and homelessness. Rev. Turagavou also addressed how the Church responds to matters such as same-sex marriage, interfaith relations, and political and traditional debates.
“The Church is being challenged in its prophetic role as a supporter for the state and the nation,” he stated. He called for collaboration with the community and the government to address the underlying causes of these societal issues in search of effective solutions.
The conference continues today.