Guard your flock, Rev Lal urges ministers

Reverend Mohammed Lal of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma's Indian Division has called on churches across the country to return to their foundational mission of pas­toral care.

He warned that the lack of sup­port for vulnerable families and young people was contributing to Fiji's growing social issues.

Speaking during the church conference in Suva yesterday, Reverend Lal called for the need for Christian denominations, not just the Methodist Church, to re­evaluate their approach to minis­try; particularly in reaching out to families and youth grappling with challenges such as illicit drugs abuse.

"We should go back to our family base,'' Reverend Lal said.

"Our pastoral care is very im­portant. In every church, in every circuit, in every division of the church, we must reflect on where we have failed and what more we can do."

He admitted that the church had sometimes fallen short in support­ing communities facing complex social issues.

"Many times we have failed in that place of pastoral care. We must return to our role as pastors to strengthen our presence and fully serve the families who are suffering,'' he said.

Reverend Lal said many families within the Methodist Church and beyond were dealing with broken homes and deteriorating social environments.

He urged clergy and congregations alike to come together in prayer, active service, and support to combat these grow­ing issues.

"These social issues are not new, but they are escalating every day. If the church continues to pray to­gether and carries out its respon­sibilities properly; I believe these problems can be resolved - with­in us, within our boundaries, and within our circuits."

When asked if his message ap­plied solely to the Methodist Church, Reverend Lal was clear.

"No, it's not only Methodist. Though we are the biggest denomi­nation, this responsibility falls on every Christian denomination. We all must play our part."

Reverend Lal voiced support for national leadership initiatives en­couraging healthier lifestyles. He backed recent calls by the church president urging citizens to quit alcohol and tobacco.

"That is one of my calls too. I've always advised my fellow minis­ters not to smoke."