Reverend Asinate Mataitoga, a newly-ordained minister of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, expressed the joy of serving in her calling. Hailing from Nukuni, Ono-i-Lau, she was among 12 ministers and two deaconesses who received ordination from the Church’s President, Reverend Semisi Turagavou.
Reverend Mataitoga referred to her journey as a “rollercoaster ride of faith,” emphasizing that the role of a church minister requires bravery to navigate the challenges of spreading God’s word across the nation. “It’s been a journey of ups and downs in faith that we’ve had to endure, but it’s worthwhile in the end,” she stated.
She acknowledged the numerous challenges she faced, which not only tested her resilience but also strengthened her commitment to her calling. “Those challenges have helped me during my three years of studies and three years of field work,” she shared. “I’m pleased to hear God’s call. God is my strength and pillar, especially with the issues we confront today. I made the best decision of my life to be under God’s leadership.”
As a female minister, she also addressed the discrimination she sometimes encounters from male colleagues.