By Peni Mudunavonu in Suva
The Fiji Council of Churches and the Ecumenical Centre of Research for Education and Advocacy brought together people from different Christian faiths for a combined Resurrection Easter Sunday event at Ratu Sukuna Park in Suva yesterday.
The theme of the event was “Rise with Christ: A Vision of Hope for the Future” and it was attended by church leaders of different Christian denominations including United Church Program co-ordinator for Pacific Reverend Dr Cliff Bird, Catholic Church Archbishop Peter Loy-Chong and Church of God Pastor Sikeli Vadei as well as many others.
In his address, general secretary for the Fiji Council of Churches Rev Simione Tugi, said Easter marked not only the death of Christ but most of all his Resurrection when he conquered death and rose to life.
“Easter is one of the most important events in the Christian calendar for it is the beginning of a new hope to every Christian that not even death can stop rising to new life with Christ,” Rev Tugi said.
“Tropical Cyclone Winston has taken and threatened many lives in Fiji and reports have highlighted that the many affected have taken their own initiatives and collectively rebuilt their lives.
“This act of hope and faith signifies their convictions and zeal in the Lord portrayed in their ability to rise.
“The Easter celebration of Christ’s victory over death is a significant reminder of hope as we rise together as brothers and sisters in Christ despite this trying time.
“Our rising together as one in Christ to build a new Fiji is the test of this moment,” he said.
