Introduction / History

Fiji is a nation of volcanic islands located in the South Pacific Ocean, approximately 1750 miles east of Australia. Known for its picturesque beauty, Fiji is a tourism destination like many of the islands in the South Pacific. Having functioned as a democratic republic for 30 years or so, recent events have converted the functioning governmental operation of the nation into a military dictatorship.
After being discovered and inhabited by various people of Melanesian, Polynesian, and Micronesian origins, Fiji was eventually settled by the British as a result of the activity of the shipping trade. Fiji gained independence in 1970 after nearly a century as a British colony. Democratic rule was interrupted by two military coups in 1987, caused by concern over perceived governmental domination by the Indian community (descendants of contract laborers brought to the islands by the British in the 19th century). The coups and a 1990 constitution that cemented native Melanesian control of Fiji led to heavy Indian emigration. The population loss resulted in economic difficulties and ensured that Melanesians became the majority. Some Fijians have migrated to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the U.S. for work.
A smaller number have migrated to Vanuatu or the Solomon Islands.

What Are Their Lives Like?

While facing challenges to healthy living, the Fijians average a life expectancy of 71 years. Most people are educated, and most families have an average of 2 children per household.

What Are Their Beliefs?

About two-thirds of Fijians in the Solomon Islands identify as Christian. They can be Roman Catholic or Protestant. They are well-suited to be Christ's ambassadors to the lost.

What Are Their Needs?

A helpful practice of Christian workers is to train the trainers, where local believers' knowledge and skills can be supplemented, better preparing them to reach out to their countrymen.
Bibles, teaching materials, and raw material supplies can be valuable gifts for people in remote areas since access to these supplies can be limited.

Prayer Items

Pray for the Lord to thrust out Fijian Christians in the Solomon Islands as his ambassadors to Hindus and Muslims.
Pray for Fijian churches to experience revival fire, leading them to love and good works.
Pray for safety and provision for all Fijians who labor for God's kingdom.

Scripture Prayers for the Fijian in Solomon Islands.

References

https://web.archive.org/web/20060912025004/http://www.immi.gov.au/media/publications/statistics/comm-summ/_pdf/fiji.pdf