Catholic Archbishop backs Methodist call to curb yaqona and smoking among church leaders
The head of Fiji’s Catholic Church, Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, has voiced support for a call from Reverend Doctor Semisi Turagavou, president of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, urging ministers to cut back on yaqona consumption and smoking. Archbishop Chong said excessive yaqona use can hinder spiritual leadership, but cautioned that abstinence alone does not make for effective Christian leadership. He stressed that theological and spiritual formation, contemplation, physical wellness, ongoing training, theological pedagogy, and regular reading are equally vital, and that leaders must demonstrate charity, justice, and theological reflection.
The stance has drawn reaction across Fiji’s religious communities. Gyaneshwari Rao, general secretary of TISI Sangam Fiji, said the organization does not have a policy specifically addressing excessive yaqona consumption. Reverend Viliame Fatiaki, senior minister for the Rotuma division of the Methodist Church, voiced strong support for the call, saying too much grog can impair leaders’ work. Reverend Lal Mohammed, divisional superintendent of the Indian division, revealed he quit yaqona in 2012 and called it the best decision, noting it has helped him work more closely with God. Reverend Sanaila Rakulawai, a lecturer at the Methodist Lay Training Centre, acknowledged that the issue can depend on context, as yaqona remains part of certain cultural programs.
Turagavou’s appeal to curb yaqona and smoking sits within broader concerns about church membership and public image. The Methodist leader has pointed to declines in membership and dissatisfaction voiced by congregants who say leadership inconsistencies and behaviors have distorted the church’s image of Christ, prompting some faithful followers to seek alternative denominations. He has urged leaders to balance tradition and seniority with performance and accountability to restore trust and unity within the church.
A hopeful note accompanies the call: if church leaders adopt healthier personal habits alongside strengthened formation and clearer accountability, communities could experience renewed trust, greater cohesion, and a more vibrant witness across Fiji’s religious landscape.
What this means for readers
– Cross-denominational support for reform highlights a shared concern for integrity and public image among Fiji’s religious leaders.
– The conversation extends beyond personal conduct to include leadership training, spiritual formation, and transparent accountability.
– Observers may look for concrete steps from church bodies, such as policy reviews, training programs, and public statements to demonstrate commitment to change.
Summary
Archbishop Peter Loy Chong’s backing of Reverend Turagavou’s call to curb yaqona use and smoking among ministers reflects a broader push within Fiji’s churches to address leadership conduct, public perception, and membership challenges. While responses vary, the emphasis remains on balancing cultural practices with spiritual discipline, ongoing education, and a renewed focus on character and accountability in church leadership.
Potential next steps
– Methodist and other church bodies could outline clear guidelines and support for leaders seeking to reform habits.
– Churches might expand theological and spiritual formation programs to equip leaders with tools for healthy living and governance.
– Community forums could be hosted to engage congregants in dialogue about leadership expectations and church integrity.
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