The President of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou is calling on ministers to address excessive yaqona consumption, saying it is becoming a burden on their ministry and public witness.

Reverend Dr. Turagavou highlighted that the concern is not yaqona itself, which he recognises as an important part of Fijian culture, but the lack of discipline when it is consumed in excess.

He added that excessive consumption is affecting pastoral visitation, sermon preparation, training and the ability of ministers to carry out evangelism and outreach.

“The issue before us is not Yaqona itself, but the absence of discipline. Whenever something begins to master us rather than us mastering it, it ceases to be a blessing and becomes a burden” Rev. Dr. Turagavou highlighted. 

The Methodist Church president said the impact can be seen in the way some ministers present themselves before their congregations and communities.

“Bloodshot eyes, weary appearances, dryness of skin, unsteady speech, and visible fatigue communicate the effect of excess. Whether we intend it or not, this thing undermines the gospel we proclaim” he said.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA