Love in Action: Cleaning the City Even Under the Rain — Shincheonji Volunteer Group, Fiji Lautoka Branch

 Sometimes, love for a community shines brightest on the most unexpected days.

On the morning of January 24, despite sudden heavy rain, members of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Fiji Lautoka Branch gathered with one shared purpose — to protect and care for their city.

 From 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., more than 30 volunteers came together in the streets of Lautoka, choosing action over comfort.

Wearing rain-soaked clothes but warm smiles, the volunteers began their environmental clean-up at the SPD area, moving through Navutu, and continuing along the main rotary toward the Natabua intersection. 

Their focus was clear: roadside areas and drainage channels where waste often accumulates and silently harms the environment.

Even as rain poured down, the volunteers worked steadily, collecting plastic waste, cans, bottles, and paper trash. By the end of the activity, they had gathered an impressive 12 full bags of waste — a visible reminder of how small actions, when united, can create meaningful change.

This clean-up activity was carried out with the cooperation of the Lautoka City Council, which provided on-site support and assisted with waste disposal, ensuring the activity ran smoothly and safely.

A representative of the Fiji Lautoka Branch shared heartfelt thoughts on the day:

“This environmental clean-up was more than just cleaning the streets. It was a chance to reflect on the importance of civic responsibility and environmental protection. We wanted to improve the city’s appearance, reduce pollution, and most importantly, pass on the value of being responsible citizens to our children.”

One of the most touching moments of the day was the participation of young volunteers. Even under the rain, children worked alongside adults, picking up trash with determination and care. Their appearnce left a deep impression on local residents, quietly delivering a powerful message: the future of the community begins with the values we practice today.

The Fiji Lautoka Branch continues to carry out regular environmental clean-up activities to improve public health and hygiene. Moving forward, the group plans to expand its volunteer efforts, remaining committed to serving the local community through consistent and sincere acts of love.

Because true volunteering is not spoken —

it is lived, even in the rain.