Rev Peter Taylor with Rev Peni Tikoinaka and Rev Alipate Livani. by Supplied

Methodist Conference Fiji

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In August Rev Peter Taylor, President MCNZ, attended the Methodist Conference in Fiji. He reports on the event.

Arriving early on Sunday morning, I was taken to the Conference Service in the majestic Centenary Methodist Church. where I was given a brief opportunity to address those present. I shared Psalm 20.7 encouraging them to trust in God.

Conference began on Monday in a huge tent where I sat at the front with other overseas guests. Most proceedings were not in English, and we were given headsets for translations which unfortunately were either mostly missing or simply vague commentaries; mostly this did not matter as we could sense the prevailing mood. Food was eaten in another huge tent nearby and as a special guest I had a seat by the tables which were groaning with all manner of things to eat. It was exciting to explore the varied tastes.

One major difference with our Conference was voting. In Fiji - and in the United Kingdom - much of the decisions were reached by a majority voting with a secret ballot, unlike the way we have done things for many years. I guess the good thing was that everyone was able to take part.

One interesting aspect was when candidates for ministerial training stood before Conference to account for themselves and be questioned in front of everyone. This must have been quite terrifying and it reminded me of when I had to stand before the Sheffield District in UK for the same reason. Another group of 14 ministers and 4 deaconesses also came forward and were similarly questioned; later that evening they were ordained, in the Centenary Methodist Church. It was a grand occasion, with some great singing. Singing was a daily highlight throughout Conference.

Interestingly some ministers who had been suspended over refusing government-mandated vaccination were also brought in and questioned. Those who still refused to be vaccinated were sent away continuing in suspension.

On the Wednesday morning I had the opportunity to address Conference and told them about what we are doing in NZ especially in relation to Wasewase. It was wonderful to have Revs Peni Tikoinaka and Alipate Livani contributing to our collective speech, which went down well.

I had never been to Fiji before and found it very different from here in NZ which showed me that I have a lot to learn about the culture of our Pasifika sisters and brothers. Next year celebrates 60 years as a separate Conference, and I believe there will be a week of special services and celebrations before Conference itself, so it should be a great occasion.