The Methodist Church in Fiji is turning to three years of prayer, fasting and spiritual action in its fight against the growing challenges of HIV and drug abuse, with its 59 divisions taking turns each week to lead the nationwide campaign.
The campaign, launched by Methodist Church president Reverend Dr Semisi Turagavou on March 1, reflects the church’s belief that the country’s battle against HIV and drugs cannot be addressed through physical and social interventions alone.
Reverend Lote Raboila, secretary for communications and missions, said the church viewed the issues as both a social crisis and a spiritual battle.
“The church understands that the issue of drugs and HIV is more than a physical or social battle – it’s a spiritual battle also,” he said.
While Government continues to lead the national response through health, law enforcement and other interventions, Mr Raboila said the Methodist Church was providing what it saw as an essential spiritual foundation.
“While the Government is taking the forefront in battling this socially and physically, the church is providing the spiritual base and spiritual support that is needed.”
The church believes the problems surrounding drugs and HIV are threatening more than individual health and wellbeing.
“The church understands that there are forces that are at work trying to dismantle the fabric of our economy, of our nation, and of our spiritual being.
“And this is where the church is coming from, providing that spiritual background, spiritual warfare in terms of fighting this battle.”
The three-year program will see the church’s 59 divisions participate in a rotating program of weekly fasting and prayer, bringing the issue into congregations and communities across the country.
Mr Raboila said the campaign was intended to demonstrate the church’s commitment to confronting serious social issues through both faith and practical community action.
A planned March of Witnesses could not be held during the March launch because of inclement weather.
The march was eventually held last Sunday, coinciding with the presence of ministers representing the church’s 59 divisions in Suva for their annual meeting.
