A historic thanksgiving and reconciliation service will be held for the descendants of Girmitiyas on Sunday May 14th at the Vodafone Arena where the Methodist Church of Fiji will also ask for forgiveness from the Indo Fijian community for the hurt that has been caused over the years.
President of the Methodist Church of Fiji, Reverend Ili Vunisuwai says the church’s standing committee had decided that they should lead a process as part of the Girmit celebrations to thank the Indo Fijian community for their contributions, and also work on rebuilding the country, and creating a positive impact towards race relations.
He says they welcome the Girmit holiday and celebration as Girmitiyas have played a major role in the development of our country.
Reverend Vunisuwai also says the coups starting from 1987 hurt many people a lot.
Reverend Vunisuwai says the curse of those coups overshadow the country, and true reconciliation is needed.
He says they have committed wrong acts against members of the community which are totally wrong in the eyes of the Lord.
The first Girmitiyas landed in Fiji on May 14th 1879 and the first coup was staged by Sitiveni Rabuka on May 14th 1987.
Reverend Vunisuwai says Prime Minister Rabuka has welcomed the special service on May 14th and preparations are underway.
The thanksgiving and reconciliation service will be held at the Vodafone Arena from 2pm Sunday May 14th.
