Methodist Church members told to pay for legal fee

Several calls have been made by Methodist Church members from the different congregations around the country after they were advised to assist in the payment of the legal fees of the church executives charged in relation to the breach of the Public Emergency Regulation.

Some members have told Fijivillage News that the church executives allegedly breached the PER by deciding to take certain steps, and it has nothing to do with the members of the church.

The message to the Methodist congregations was sent around a few days ago as the total legal bill for the executives and church ministers standing trial amounts to about 100 thousand dollars.

The members are to contribute a total of 60 thousand dollars toward the case of the 27 church executives and pastors.

Church Assistant General Secretary, Reverend Tevita Nawadra confirmed that the members of the church have been told to give financial support towards the case.

Reverend Nawadra said everything is under control and the church has no other option but to ask the members to contribute towards the legal fees.

He said they cannot go to the government or anywhere else to borrow money to pay for the legal costs.

Reverend Nawadra said it is only the church members who can give the funds.

Meanwhile the 27 church executives and pastors are expected to appear in court on Wednesday.