The Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma has decided not to hold kava barrels as a fundraising method. This decision was confirmed by Manasa Vatanitawake, the secretary of the communication department, who noted that questions about the appropriateness of kava barrels were raised during the recent weeklong conference.
Vatanitawake explained that the conference participants questioned the suitability of kava barrels as a fundraising approach for the church. The consensus was that alternative fundraising activities should be pursued. Suggestions included organizing a choir competition, a Sunday soli, or holding a bazaar on Saturdays as more appropriate means to raise funds.
This decision is in line with a call from the church’s President, Rev. Dr. Semisi Turagavou, urging ministers to limit kava consumption and adhere to cigarette restrictions. Vatanitawake emphasized the leadership’s ongoing concerns about excessive kava drinking and smoking among both ministers and the wider congregation. The decision reflects a belief that using kava barrels for fundraising promotes unhealthy habits, which the church aims to discourage.