Church leaders and government officials recently gathered for a two-day workshop focused on improving responses to drug abuse and addiction in local communities. Organized by the Fiji Council of Churches in partnership with the Ministry of Policing and the Pacific Conference of Churches, the event aimed to address the pressing issue of drug-related challenges faced by society.
Utilizing a well-recognized Christian approach known as the pastoral circle, the workshop sought to empower faith organizations in tackling social challenges effectively. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, leader of the Catholic Church in Fiji, outlined four key components of this method.
The initial step involves gaining a thorough understanding of the realities surrounding drug abuse within local communities. Next, participants examine the root causes of addiction. The third component encourages reflection on faith-based teachings, while the final step is dedicated to formulating actionable plans to combat drug-related issues.
Archbishop Loy Chong underscored the significance of acknowledging the current reality of drug addiction and fostering open discussions about its impact on individuals and communities. He stressed that addressing the underlying causes is essential for crafting effective solutions, as responses that overlook these factors risk failing to create lasting change.
The workshop’s primary objective is to equip church leaders with a robust understanding of the drug crisis, providing them with practical tools that meld faith with scientific insights to address addiction effectively. This initiative represents a hopeful commitment to fostering collaboration in tackling a critical societal issue, with the ambition of creating a positive impact in communities throughout Fiji. Such efforts signal a determination to work together to build resilience against the challenges posed by drug abuse, promising a brighter future for those affected.