from wSo when is the Methodist Conference? And is it still for one day only - perhaps one minute past midnight to one minute to midnight? Control of possible (or past) dissent seems to be the motive for the ban on having a two week conference with time to meet friends, make resolutions, pray, install leaders, and welcome new ministers as well as enjoy the bazaar and choir competition. It is most unfair when other religious bodies can have parades, fund-raising, gatherings and conferences.
Haven't heard anything new since April so what's up?
From NZ media:
Posted at 23:29 on 26 April, 2011 UTC
The deputy general secretary of Fiji’s Methodist Church says the interim government’s allowing its annual conference to proceed this year - but only for one day. Reverend Tevita Banivanua says for the past two years the the regime has prohibited the gathering under the Public Emergency Regulations imposed in April 2009. He says while the church is grateful for permission to meet this August, it usually takes up to a week and a half to get through conference business. “This is tabled for the 55 divisions and each of them has to give an account from their perspective and to cut it down to one, to one-day meeting, is just not possible.”
Reverend Tevita Banivanua says the Public Emergency Regulations are the only remaining obstacle to the church being able to operate freely.
Fiji’s Attorney General says they won’t be lifted until local considerations have been addressed.
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My understanding, Wendy, is that the Methodists will hold 3 days of meetings for the Conference, each day being 8 hours. This makes 24 hours in total. Of course, it is still very restrictive.
ReplyDeleteQuite worthwhile info, much thanks for the post.
ReplyDelete