Meet Our Pastor

Bula Vinaka,

My name is Sakiusa Rokovasa Vakadewatabua Jr, and I like to just go by Zac. Friends, I am honored to serve as the new pastor of Sharon Springs Methodist Church!

“The world is our parish.” First written by John Wesley in 1739, this statement serves as a powerful reminder that our mission as Christians is to share the Good News of Jesus Christ — whether we are in London, Fiji, or right here in Wallace County.

My story begins in Fiji, a country where the international date line cuts straight through, and also a country with a history of practicing cannibalism. Through the power of the Gospel, that dark practice was eventually put to an end. I am proud that my ancestors played a vital role in this change. Missionaries like Thomas Baker (who was martyred in Fiji), William Cross, and David Cargill brought the Gospel to our shores in 1835. My father and grandfather both served as pastors in Fiji, contributing to a rich heritage of faith.

I gave my life to Christ when I was five years old, and at age nine I received my first and only Christmas gift through Samaritan’s Purse: Operation Christmas Child. Receiving that shoebox gift was a profound moment for me — it helped me understand God's grace in a real and tangible way.

In 2013, I moved to the United States and joined the U.S. Army, serving as a Combat Engineer and Bradley Commander for seven years with two overseas deployments. While stationed at Fort Riley, I met my best friend, Shawna, who is now my wife. She is from South Dakota and has a deep love for children and for animals. Together, we are blessed with two beautiful children: Hadassah and Hezekiah.

When I first visited Sharon Springs Methodist Church, I was thrilled to learn that it serves as a drop-off location for Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts. To me, this was a sweet sign of God's providence — connecting our stories across time and distance. Grace brought me here, to a place and church family where Shawna and I truly feel at home. Now, I would love to hear your story. Whether you’ve lived here all your life or are just visiting, whether your faith is strong or you’re still exploring — please come join us for worship in-person or online. God is doing something special here in Wallace County, and I would be honored to walk alongside you in this next season.

Together, let’s discover how God is writing His story — through you, through me, and through His church.

Join us on Sunday mornings at Sharon Springs Methodist Church. I’d love to meet you.