06 December 2006
Statement on the coup in Fiji
Michael King, Team Leader for World Church Relationships:
'Although there have been political tensions in Fiji for several
weeks, it still came as a surprise to many that the military felt
that they needed to take control on December 5th. We are thankful
that the country so far remains calm and hope for a peaceful
resolution of the crisis. The Methodist Church of Britain has many
connections with the Methodist Church in Fiji, including a Mission
Partner in Suva at the moment, the Revd Dr David Upp.
'So we pray for and with all our friends in Fiji, in the various
walks of life that they find themselves during the crisis,
including the President of the Methodist Church, the Revd. Laisasa
Ratabacaca. Our prayer is for God's peace, justice and
reconciliation throughout the islands of Fiji, and for wise
leadership during these uncertain days and into the future. Our
prayers are also for Fijians elsewhere in the world, and there are
many in the British Armed Forces, who will be anxious for loved
ones in Fiji at this time.'