WCC NEWS: Churches in Fiji express concern over increasing reports of missing children

The Fiji Council of Churches expressed deep pastoral concern over the increasing reports of missing children between the ages of 13–16 in Fiji. “As churches, we mourn with families living with fear, uncertainty, and heartbreak during these difficult moments,” reads a statement. “Our children are precious gifts from God, entrusted into our care, protection, and love.” Fiji Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Sepiuta Hala’api’api. Photo: Leila Parina/Pacific Conference of Churches 2 June 2026 The churches underscored the urgent need to strengthen homes, communities, and support systems so that young people may feel safe, heard, valued, and guided. “The Fiji Council of Churches calls upon parents, guardians, churches, schools, community leaders, and authorities to work together in protecting and nurturing our children,” reads the statement. “We encourage our communities to remain vigilant, supportive, and responsible, especially in the use of social media, ensuring that affected families and children are treated with dignity and care.” The Fiji Council of Churches asked for prayers for the safe return of every missing child, for comfort and strength for grieving families, and for God’s wisdom upon all those involved in the search and response efforts. “May we as a nation become a safer, more compassionate, and more attentive community where every child knows they are loved, protected, and never forgotten,” concludes the statement. Read the full statement See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 356 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland