Reverend Asinate Mataitoga, a newly-ordained minister of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, expressed her joy in serving, stating, “There’s nothing better than doing God’s work.” Hailing from Nukuni, Ono-i-Lau, she was one of twelve ministers and two deaconesses ordained by the Church’s President, Reverend Semisi Turagavou.
Mataitoga shared that her journey has felt like a rollercoaster of faith. “Being a church minister is not for the weak, but for the brave to endure the toughest roads in spreading the word of God around the nation,” she remarked. She reflected on the ups and downs she has experienced, emphasizing that despite the challenges, the journey has been worthwhile.
She acknowledged the many obstacles she has faced, stating, “It builds my faith and the work that I am called for. Those challenges help me in my three years of studies and three years of doing fieldwork.” Expressing her gratitude, she noted, “I’m pleased to hear God’s call. God is my strength and pillar, especially because of what we are facing today. I made the best decision of my life to be under God’s leadership.”
As a female minister, Mataitoga also highlighted the discrimination she encounters from her male counterparts.