24 July 2009
Christians urged to pray as Church leaders arrested in Fiji
The British Methodist Church is calling on Christians to pray
for the Methodist Church in Fiji following the arrests of seven
Church leaders by Fiji's military government.
Earlier this week the church leaders, including the general
secretary and two former presidents, were arrested and held for
questioning in relation to the Church's annual Conference,
scheduled in August. The government has banned the Conference from
taking place, concerned that the Church's discussions will be
politically focused. Those arrested include the General Secretary
of the Church, Revd Tuikilakila Waqairatu, the Church's Finance
Secretary, Viliame Gonelevu and two former Presidents of the
Church, Revd Manasa Lasaro and Revd Tomasi Kanailagi. Revd Tomasi
was a senator in the previous government.
Christine Elliott, Secretary for External Relationships for the
Methodist Church in Britain, said; "It is clear that Colonel Frank
Bainimarama is making a strong statement about who is in power. The
Methodist Church is the largest faith group in Fiji, holds a
significant amount of power amongst the people and has considerable
influence over voters. The leadership of the Church is determined
to stand against the government and has lobbied the UN regarding
religious freedom and human rights.
"It is important that we hold our brothers and sisters in Fiji,
their government and all in the islands in our prayers during these
challenging times."
The government's action effectively ensures that the Conference
will not go ahead even if the Church excludes the two former
presidents and agrees to refrain from any political discussions.
The Methodist Church is the largest faith group in Fiji and Church
leaders have insisted that the Conference will take place
regardless of the ban. The ministers were treated well, have now
all been released on conditional bail and are required to surrender
their travel documents.
Prayer for Fiji
God of power and strength,
You make foolish the wisdom of this world.
You call upon us to find your strength in our weakness.
You offer us your guidance when all is in confusion.
We ask your protection and guidance for Church leaders in
Fiji,
Your wisdom for the Fijian Government,
Your peace and stability for the people of Fiji.
Amen