The Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma has decided not to use kava barrels as a fundraising method. This decision was communicated by Manasa Vatanitawake, the secretary of the church’s communication department, during a recent weeklong conference where the topic of fundraising was discussed.
Vatanitawake stated, “It was raised in the meeting whether we should be using kava barrels for fundraising for the church,” and confirmed that the conference concluded it was not an appropriate method. Alternative fundraising ideas were encouraged, such as choir competitions, Sunday soli, or community bazaars.
This decision aligns with the President, Rev. Dr. Semisi Turagavou’s call for ministers to restrict kava consumption and cigarette use. Vatanitawake noted that the leadership has been advocating against excessive kava drinking and smoking, with the aim of promoting healthier practices among both ministers and the congregation. He emphasized that fundraising methods associated with drinking excessive kava and late-night gatherings are viewed as unhealthy, which influenced the elders’ perspective on the matter.