The Methodist Church in Fiji has raised concerns on the 50 cases of child abuse reported last month that was released by the Ministry of Social Welfare.
Church Secretary of Communications, Reverend James Bhagwan said the church is already working on a joint program through the Women’s and Men’s Fellowship and the Department of Christian Citizenship and Social Services to address the issue of violence and abuse.
Bhagwan said in their own analysis within the church, they noted that there is absence of parental commitment and a breakdown of family value systems for a number of reasons, including ignorance of family life, obligations and responsibilities.
He said this has resulted in an increase in child abuse, teenage pregnancies and domestic violence cases.
He said one of the church’s strategic Plan also focus on family and the church believes a strong church, vanua and state reflects a strong and healthy family.
