The 108-year-old Nakasaleka Methodist Church has been handed over to the Method­ist Church of Fiji.

This happened after the four vil­lages of Nakoronawa, Nakaugas­ele, Lomanikoro and Nakaunakoro village in the district of Nakasale­ka in Kadavu agreed in solidarity to hand over the church property. It was done in a traditional iTaukei ceremony on Saturday to the Meth­odist Church of Fiji President, Rev­erend Ili Vunisuwai.

Ratu Vilimoni Soqeta of the chief­ly family in Nakoronawa Village said the villagers were excited for what the future holds.

“We, the children of the four vil­lages in Nakasaleka, Kadavu, have come together to say yes to give the church to the Methodist Church of Fiji. “The elders did not build the church in 1914 because they want­ed others to respect them, but they built the church because they felt the holy spirit.

Methodist Church President Reverend Ili Vunisuwai officiates at the traditional handing over ceremony of the 118 year old church at Nakoronawa Village in Nakasaleka, Kadavu on April 16, 2022. Photo: Wati Talebula-Nuku

“When it started to deteriorate, God encouraged the younger gen­eration to continue what our fore­fathers started.

“We have done our part and our children and grandchildren will be blessed. The opening of the church is something we were looking for­ward to. Despite the challenges we faced during the refurbishment, to­day was worth it.”

Reverend Vunisuwai thanked the villagers for their hard work.

“Thank you for giving your time and wealth for the work of God. Thank you for being the light in Kadavu,” Reverend Vunisuwai said.

“May God continue to bless the people of Nakasaleka as they open the door of their church to spread the word of God.

“May God continue to bless the people and future generations.”

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