Rising social issues to top Methodist Church annual conference discussions

The Methodist Church of Fiji is placing rising social challenges at the forefront of its 2025 annual conference, warning that a weakening of family unity is driving a surge in societal problems across the country.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Secretary of Social Services Reverend Sitiveni Kua highlighted an alarming increase in issues affecting children, including HIV and other welfare concerns.

“We are witnessing a steady increase in social problems, and at the heart of many is the breakdown of family structures,” Rev Kua said.

“These challenges are deeply interconnected and hit the most vulnerable members of our society, especially children.”

The church, a key pillar in Fiji’s social and spiritual fabric, plans to address these concerns head-on during the conference. Leaders are expected to debate strategies for supporting families, restoring unity, and reinforcing moral foundations.

“This year, our focus is on finding practical, compassionate approaches to confront these issues directly,” Rev Kua added.

“We are committed to being part of the solution, working with communities to strengthen family bonds and nurture the next generation.”

The conference, which gathers clergy and lay representatives from across Fiji, will open with a church service at the Vodafone arena in Suva this Sunday.