Reverend Asinate Mataitoga, a newly-ordained minister of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, expresses her enthusiasm for what she calls “God’s work.” Hailing from Nukuni, Ono-i-Lau, she was one of 12 ministers and two deaconesses ordained by the Church’s President, Reverend Semisi Turagavou.
Reverend Mataitoga characterizes her journey as akin to a rollercoaster ride of faith, acknowledging that the role of a church minister is not suited for the faint-hearted. “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 stated. She added that despite the ups and downs experienced along the way, the journey has proven worthwhile.
She reflected on the numerous challenges she encountered throughout her path. “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 field work,” Reverend Mataitoga explained. She emphasized her commitment to following God’s call, stating, “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 church minister, she shared that she faces discrimination from her male counterparts.