In 2023, after sharing my story on a podcast, I believed I was on the cusp of something great. Just months later, I graduated with a degree in theology, hopeful and eager to serve wherever God would send me.
My first application was to the Tonga Mission in response to a chaplaincy vacancy. When I received a positive reply through friends two weeks later, I packed with excitement and prayed with confidence, believing this was it—my first official missionary post. But just as quickly as the door opened, it closed. The Mission reconsidered its decision, and I was no longer needed.
I applied for mission positions at other Adventist organisations, but nothing worked out. I was discouraged. I felt invisible and forgotten. But then, a quiet word of wisdom changed everything.
One of my former lecturers looked me in the eyes and said, “Start your ministry in Fiji before stepping out into the world.” His words took root in my heart.
Not long after, I crossed paths with the ministerial secretary of the Fiji Mission. He encouraged me to send a formal request to the Mission office. With a humble heart, I submitted a simple resume, expressing a desire to serve among native Fijian speakers and work in the field of communication.
In late March 2024, God opened a door I hadn’t expected. I was assigned to oversee three churches in the city.
From day one, I faced steep challenges. The language barrier was a mountain I had to climb. I had to learn quickly how to preach, pray and minister fluently in my Indigenous language. One day, an elder’s wife quietly confessed, “Some of our members don’t like our new pastor because he preaches in English.” Others questioned why the Mission had sent someone so young. I was only 22.
Those words cut deep, but I didn’t let them define me. I stayed. I prayed. I persisted.
My schedule was intense. Sabbaths were a marathon: Sabbath school in one church, divine service in another and Adventist Youth in the third. Weekdays were filled with prayer meetings, youth programs and small group ministries. But something beautiful happened amid the busyness: I began to understand my people. Their language became my language. Their trust became my reward.
Then, in May, a new chapter unfolded. I was invited to host our church’s Coast to Coast Breakfast Show on Hope FM Fiji, while serving my local community. At first, I was terrible. I stumbled over words, fumbled with equipment and battled exhaustion from late-night ministry. Negative messages came through texts and emails. But I didn’t quit. I studied. I listened. I grew. Slowly, my voice became familiar, not just in Fiji, but also across the world.
On air, I shared testimonies, explored church principles, unpacked Scripture and encouraged listeners. Off air, I was fighting a personal storm.
With my little income, I carried the burden of helping those close to my heart. I supported my 16-year-old sister’s education and offered the same opportunity to my cousin, who had dropped out of school due to hardship. I promised to cover their fees for three terms, trusting God would provide. My head elder would give me lifts, sometimes slipping me a small gift. I’ve never forgotten his quiet generosity.
My one day off—Monday—wasn’t mine. I spent it volunteering at an elderly shelter, praying that God would teach me humility. And He did, through the wrinkled hands and wise eyes of those I served.
In late November 2024, with the help of many, I had the privilege of paying the school fees for both girls completely. A miracle, truly.
Today, I’m in Southeast Asia, far from home, yet exactly where God wants me. I teach English at an academy, mentoring students toward Christlike character in a place where declaring Jesus publicly isn’t welcome.
I struggle. I feel alone. There is no church in sight. Yet every day I’m reminded: this is your mission field. I cling to the truth that Jesus is my constant Companion, my best Friend.
I am honoured to be part of the I Will Go initiative:
I will go to my family: God answered my prayers and helped my mother.
I will go to my neighbour: I helped my cousin return to school.
I will go to my workplace: I offered my voice and time to serve through media and writing.
I will go to the ends of the earth: And now I serve in a land where I can’t speak His name freely, but I can live it out boldly.
This is my journey of faith, service and surrender. From Fiji to Southeast Asia—God has led me every step of the way, and I say that without a doubt.
The I Will Go initiative is a rallying cry for total member involvement. It’s a call for every church member to become actively involved in reaching the world for Jesus using their God-given spiritual gifts in witness and service. Explore the I Will Go plan and find your place in this global movement!
*Originally published by Adventist Mission
Jordan Weatherall was born in Fiji and is currently working as an English teacher missionary for Trans Pacific Union Mission in Southeast Asia.
