The Fiji Council of Churches (FCC) is calling for Christian ministry in schools to be conducted responsibly and in line with Ministry of Education policies following public concern over a recent religious session held at a secondary school.
In a statement, FCC General Secretary Reverend Sepiuta Hala’api’api said schools must remain places of learning, safety and inclusion, where any religious activity respects the wellbeing, dignity and rights of every student.
“The Fiji Council of Churches affirms that Christian ministry within schools must always be carried out in accordance with the policies and approval processes of the Ministry of Education,” Reverend Hala’api’api said.
He noted that Fiji has long-established programmes for Christian Fellowship, school devotions and Religious Education, delivered by trained and authorised organisations such as Scripture Union and recognised church partners.
“These ministries have served schools for many years by providing age-appropriate, respectful and accountable Christian engagement in partnership with school leadership and the Ministry of Education.”
While reaffirming that proclaiming the Gospel remains central to the Church’s mission, Reverend Hala’api’api stressed that how it is shared is equally important.
“The example of Jesus Christ calls Christians to share the Good News with humility, compassion, wisdom and respect. Ministry among children and young people requires pastoral sensitivity, safeguarding awareness, and an understanding of the cultural, social, and educational context in which they live.”
He warned that approaches which ignore these responsibilities could damage both the Christian message and public confidence in school-based ministry.
“Evangelistic approaches that disregard these responsibilities risk undermining both the message of the Gospel and the trust placed in Christian ministry within schools.”
The Council also highlighted Fiji’s constitutional protections on freedom of religion, saying they provide the framework for people of different faiths to coexist in mutual respect.
The FCC welcomed the Ministry of Education’s review into the incident and pledged to continue working with the Ministry, member churches and recognised Christian organisations to ensure Christian ministry in schools is conducted responsibly, respectfully and in a manner that reflects the love and character of Jesus Christ.
