The National Council of Churches has called on leaders from the three branches of Government to unite and hold a National Prayer Service day for the country, in response to the measles epidemic. 

“We are in the middle of a crisis, hence the need for everyone to kneel before God in prayer," said the Vice President of the National Council of Churches, Reverend Aisoli Iuli.

“The leaders need to set their differences aside and come together for the sake of the matter and pray,”. 

His comments were sought following the Government declaring a state-of-the emergency as the confirmed measles related death reached the toll of six, with increasing data of suspected measles cases.

He also called on members of the public to seek God’s healing amongst the sick. 

“When all fails, seek God in prayer. We are a Christian Country, act like it,” said Rev. Aisoli.

He referenced the Bible and the Book of Mark 5: 21-30 regarding a woman who was bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had. 

“When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought: ‘If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.’ Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering and that is the power of faith.” 

He noted that parents should seek God’s healing powers and that means one must act. 

“Take the sick children to the hospital and make sure your children are immunized, we were given the intellect to act when necessary, that is faith,” he said. 

In an interview at his residence in Falelauniu, Rev. Aisoli questioned the “purpose” of the Government’s annual prayer service. 

“The Government leaders should consider whether that service was conducted in an honest manner; were the leaders actually fasting and seeking God, or was it just an act,” he said. 

He further noted the Country should have some faith in the health sector; after all, they were chosen to be where they are right now. 

“And it is a two street, the public must have faith in them and they should work in accordance with the mandates of their daily duties and deviate from the purpose of their calling as leaders.” 

Rev. Aisoli said now is the time for the Country to tend to God’s house. 

“We are in a crisis and there is one house we should be spending time at, is God’s house and each one of you should ask, what role are you playing in this crisis. 

“The health workers, government leaders, church leaders, village councils, the media, each and every one of you has a critical role, now is the time to work together to battle this crisis in unison,” he concluded.