THE Fiji Council of Churches has called for Christian teaching in schools to be conducted responsibly, following public concern over a recent religious session held at a school.
In a statement, FCC General Secretary Reverend Sepiuta Hala’api’api said schools were places of learning, safety and inclusion. Any religious activity must respect the wellbeing, dignity and rights of all students of all faith backgrounds, she said.
The council said Christian ministry in schools must follow established approval and accountability processes.
“Schools are places of learning, safety, and inclusion, and any religious activity must uphold the wellbeing, dignity, and rights of every student while respecting the diversity of beliefs and family backgrounds represented in our classrooms,” the statement said.
The FCC noted that Fiji had existing long-established programmes for Christian Fellowship, school devotions and Religious Education delivered by trained and authorised organisations, including Scripture Union and other recognised church partners.
“These ministries have served schools for many years by providing age-appropriate, respectful, and accountable Christian engagement in partnership with school leadership and the Ministry of Education,” the council said.
While affirming that proclaiming the Gospel is central to the Church’s mission, the FCC stressed that the way it is proclaimed is equally important.
“The example of Jesus Christ calls Christians to share the Good News with humility, compassion, wisdom, and respect,” Hala’api’api said.
He said ministry among children and young people requires pastoral sensitivity, safeguarding awareness and an understanding of the cultural, social and educational context in which they live.
“Evangelistic approaches that disregard these responsibilities risk undermining both the message of the Gospel and the trust placed in Christian ministry within schools,” he said.
The FCC also reminded the public that Fiji is a secular state and that the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and protects all people from discrimination on religious grounds.
“These constitutional principles provide the framework for people of all faiths to live together in mutual respect while allowing faith communities to make positive contributions to society,” the statement said.
The council welcomed the Ministry of Education’s review of the matter and said it supports a transparent process to clarify approval procedures, safeguarding expectations and accountability.
Hala’api’api said the FCC remained committed to working with the Ministry, member churches and recognised Christian organisations to ensure that ministry in schools is conducted “responsibly, respectfully, and in a manner that reflects the love and character of Jesus Christ.”
