Eid is a time of goodwill, fellowship and love for all our communities, says the General Secretary for the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma Rev Dr Epineri Vakadewavosa.

In a statement from the church, Rev Vakadewavosa wished the Muslim community well for the celebration of Eid, the festival of the breaking of the fast marking the end of Ramadan this weekend.

Rev Vakadewavosa said because Fiji was a multicultural 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,” he said.

Rev Vakadewavosa said this began with stepping out our boundaries and comfort zones and extending our hands of friendship.

“It ends with an embrace of unconditional love. 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 Christianity. The story and teachings of Jesus the Christ are even mentioned in the Holy Koran.”

The 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 God’s children and as fellow Fijians, we wish our Muslim brothers and sisters a joyful time of celebrations for Eid,” Rev Dr Vakadewavosa said.

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