The Methodist Church in Fiji wishes the Muslim community “Eid Mubarak,” on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast marking the end of Ramadan.

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, an essential part of the Christian life, means living in mutual respect of each other.

Opportunities such as Eid, Diwali and Christmas allow us to look at the positive elements of faith communities, which are for the most clouded by the negative actions of small, but loud groups such as religious fundamentalists and those who manipulate religious scripture to suit their political or personal agenda.

While there remain 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 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.

I congratulate our Muslim brothers and sisters for their spiritual discipline during Ramadan. We are all encouraged, by their commitment to their faith, to be committed in our own walk with God. As fellow citizens of Fiji and as God’s children we wish our Muslim brothers and sisters a joyful time of celebrations for Eid. May God bless us all.

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