Two church leaders in Fiji have publicly denounced Pastor Jo Lauvanua for remarks he made during a recent evangelistic crusade in Ba, which have sparked controversy on social media. During the event at Sasa Village, Pastor Lauvanua asserted that children born out of wedlock were not considered gifts from God, a statement that has drawn significant backlash online.
The general secretary of the Fiji Evangelical Fellowship, Reverend Simione Tugi, and senior pastor of the Christian Mission Fellowship, Reverend Manasa Kolivuso, both expressed their disapproval of Lauvanua’s comments. Reverend Tugi labeled his message as “worrying and inconsistent with Christian teachings,” emphasizing that every child has a divine purpose. “It is unbelievable that a preacher would say such things. God has a plan for every child,” he stated, arguing that Lauvanua misinterpreted Scripture.
Reverend Kolivuso reinforced this sentiment by emphasizing that the Bible regards all children as gifts from God, regardless of their circumstances of birth. He cited Psalms 127:3, which asserts that “Children are a gift from God; the fruit of the womb is a reward.” He reminded the community that being born out of wedlock should not diminish a child’s worth or the love they receive from God.
Kolivuso also shared the biblical story of King Solomon, who was born from a controversial relationship, illustrating that one’s origins do not define their value or purpose in God’s plan. He remarked that although the church advocates for marriage before having children, it does not exclude or discriminate against those born outside of wedlock.
Both leaders urged preachers to exercise caution in their biblical interpretations, with Reverend Tugi noting that misleading statements can be harmful, especially when spread to a broad audience. Attempts to reach Pastor Lauvanua and the New Way International Fellowship Ba for comment have not received a response.
The Fiji Evangelical Fellowship is a Protestant organization, part of the World Evangelical Alliance, while the Fiji Council of Churches serves as the ecumenical body for Fiji, and the Pacific Conference of Churches represents the regional ecumenical group.
In a world where individuals often face judgment based on their circumstances, this clarification from the church leaders serves as a reminder of the fundamental Christian belief in the unconditional love and value of every child. It reinforces the idea that all individuals, regardless of their origins, have a place in the divine plan, fostering a sense of inclusivity and hope within the community.
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