The Wesley Mission Connexion Church marked a historic milestone on Monday with the ordination of its first Fijian pastor by a Global Methodist Church bishop at Wesley Mission Hall in Burebasaga Village, Rewa.
Newly ordained Reverend Kaliova Naisorotabua described the occasion as a significant moment for the denomination, which has spent more than three decades establishing its presence in Fiji.
“It was hard trying to enlighten people with the truth after the split from 1993,” Mr Naisorotabua said, referring to the church’s separation from the Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma.
The Wesley Mission Connexion Church was established in Fiji following the split and has since grown to include 14 churches nationwide despite facing strong resistance in its early years.
Bishop Carolyn Moore officiated the ordination after Mr Naisorotabua fulfilled all requirements under the Global Methodist Church.
During the ceremony, Bishop Moore reflected on the denomination’s growth and mission, referencing the words of Methodism founders Charles and John Wesley, who warned not of Methodism disappearing, but of it continuing “as a dead sect”.
She said the church remained grounded in evangelical holiness theology, focusing on evangelism, spiritual renewal, and healing within communities.
Bishop Moore also expressed hope that the ordination would inspire a renewed movement of faith across Fiji.
“My hope is not just migration between groups but evangelism leading to new churches in Fiji,” she said.
She called for “a fresh wind and fire” that would deepen understanding of the Methodist theology and spiritual life among Fijians.
