Fiji Mission's Ministerial Retreat Equips Ministers in the Spirit and Power
Ministers from all over Fiji and Rotuma gathered for the annual Ministerial Retreat organized by the Fiji Mission Ministerial department from February 8th to 12th, 2023, at Fulton Adventist University College in Sabeto, Nadi. The retreat aimed to build and inspire the capacity of the ministers through guest speakers and informative highlights from the Mission departmental directors, as well as to foster communication and networking amongst the ministerial team through social programs and shared living space during the five-day program.
This year's retreat featured three guest speakers, including Pastor Pavel Goia, associate ministerial secretary of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and Pastor Usaia Baravi, the church minister of Campbelltown Fijian SDA church in Sydney. The theme of the retreat was 'In the Spirit and Power,' and the guest speakers' messages focused on this theme, inspiring and equipping the ministers with practical insights and tools to help them minister in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Throughout the retreat, the guest speakers challenged the ministers to deepen their spiritual walk, rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance, and step out in faith to share the gospel boldly. Their messages were well-received by the participants, who appreciated their humble and engaging approach.
"Messages were so simple and practical," said Pastor Sesoni Dali, district ministerial leader of Cakaudrove East in Vanualevu. "I am grateful for the insights I have received from both Pastor Goia and Pastor Baravi."
In addition to the guest speakers, the retreat also featured a health screening organized by Dr. Akuila Tabuavou, highlighting the need for health reformation amongst the ministers. The results of the screening were an eye-opener that will hopefully challenge the ministers to work on their physical as well as their spiritual health.
The Ministerial Retreat provided an opportunity for ministers, church planters, and laypeople serving as ministers in local churches to be equipped and refreshed for mission. The organizers expressed their gratitude to all who made the event a success and look forward to future gatherings that will further strengthen the ministerial team in Fiji and Rotuma.
Guest Speaker Pr Pavel Goia, with Fiji Mission Ministerial Secretary, Pr Aisake Tiko Kabu (left) and TPUM Ministerial Secretary, Pr Lintray Tutuo (right)