LEADERS of the Methodist Church have called on the authorities to crack down on the opening hours of nightclubs around the country.
The church's stand follows the decrease in the number of members, particularly youths, attending Sunday services.
Newly-appointed general secretary Reverend Tevita Nawadra said the issue was a growing concern and showed they had failed in their duties as leaders.
"We are concerned because we need to maintain our numbers when we celebrate our 50th Golden Jubilee in 2014," Mr Nawadra said.
He said a group of youths from the Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF) was out early on Fridays and Saturdays to provide coffee and sandwiches to youths coming out of nightclubs.
He said this was first step in trying to carry the message across to young people on the importance of being at the right place at the right time.
"Maybe later on we will be motivating young people in the streets spiritually but first we need to show them that we care for them and we want to help them reach home safely," Mr Nawadra said.
He said they would approach the police and other authorities to ensure club owners maintained their opening hours as provided for in their licences.