FIJI"S Methodist Church took a major shift in ecumenism today, congratulating the Muslim community at the end of the annual Ramadan fasting period. In a message released early this morning (Friday, August 9, FST) Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma general Secretary Reverend Tevita Bainivalu called for greater religious and ethnic tolerance and respect. The Methodist Church is Fiji has long been accused of insular thinking and nationalistic tendencies from its political activities in 1987 and 2000. Today's statement signals a major shift in church thinking at management level. Here is the full text of the Methodist Church statement: THE Methodist Church in Fiji wishes to send its greetings to the Muslim community and say “Eid Mubarak,” on the occasion of Eid ul-Fitr, the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast marking the end of Ramadan. Methodist Church General Secretary, Rev. Tevita Nawadra Banivanua said that as Fiji is a country with diverse ethnic, cultural and religious communities, part of the Christian practice of loving one’s neighbour meant not only being in solidarity with them during times of difficulty but also celebrating special occasions. “Loving your neighbour means living in mutual respect of each,” said Rev. Banivanua. “While we recognise fundamental differences in faith on issues such as salvation, we acknowledge our inherent connection of the so-called Abrahamic faiths of Judaism and Islam with Chrisitanity. The deep spiritual significance of Ramadan as a month of prayer, fasting and alms-giving as part of spiritual renewal for the Muslim community echoes the Christian’s spiritual journey during Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Holy Week and Easter.” “As fellow citizens of Fiji and as God’s children we wish our Muslim brothers and sisters a joyful time of celebrations for Eid.”
Posted on: Thu, 08 Aug 2013 23:02:21 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015