The Methodist Church is reminding lay pastors that they are also expected to follow the Church’s existing discipline on smoking.

Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou said the standard should apply equally to ordained ministers and lay pastors because both are expected to provide a Christian example.

He added that the issue is not simply about following a Church regulation, but about how those serving the Church represent their faith.

“For this reason, I also affirm that the Church’s discipline regarding smoking remains unchanged. I now ask that not only every ordained minister but also every lay pastor should embrace this standard with equal seriousness” Reverend Dr. Turagavou

The President added that lay pastors stand alongside ordained ministers in serving communities and therefore should be held to the same standard of conduct.

“Therefore, the standard of discipline cannot be different. It is not a lesser discipline for a lesser office. It is the same discipline because it is the same sacred calling” he added.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA