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The E.F.K.S. Congregation ordination and review of annual reports regarding positions within the church and the annual get-together at Malua.
The light of the bible was first introduced to the island of Samoa in the year 1830 by a well-known missionary named John Williams on a boat called 'Messenger of Peace', before any other religions were introduced to the country. From then on, the Congregational Church kept that fire burning in the hearts of the new generations to this very day.
One of the popular talking points throughout the history of this congregation is their annual get-together at the village of Malua.
It falls during the month of May and the ceremony is hosted at the
Church's headquarters.
The ministers from Savaii and Upolu combine for this special event,
voicing their opinions and evaluating the operation of the church's
past, present and future performance.
The highlight of the day was the graduation and ordination of couples regarding
their knowledge of the word of the bible. Knowing how to preach, following
the rules and regulations associated with the position, understand the
relationship between the position and the congregation, and the impotence
of spreading the good news are some of the qualities that they need to
fulfil before reaching the next stage. A step that is most venerated,
but yet to be fulfilled.
The graduation was witnessed by many families, friends and extended
family, who came to see their loved-ones being acknowledged and praised
for their hard work and unbreakable efforts to reach new horizons. Some
of members in this church are serving in Australia and New Zealand, as
the majority of Samoans are living aboard. The power of this church is
not lost in those countries, as the Samoan foundation remains solid.
Graduates are serving in different congregations spread far and wide
throughout the world, reaching out and illuminating darkness with the
light of the bible.
It is not only the sharing of ideas that takes place in this
get-together, but also the analysis of reports from different parishes,
which provide an overview of the church, helping to identify its
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and the greatest
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threats that might demolish its foundation.
After the business side of things are completed, a little entertainment
helps to provide a respite from the fatigue of a long day's activities.
Food is always the top priority in any matters regarding Samoan traditions. In this sense, every village in Samoa is familiar with the concept of fafaga for their Pastor. Fafaga means to feed or to give in terms of a small contribution, with either money or food in particular. The two weeks spent together will also be a time of prayers and meditation for those who have status in the church.
After
the annual get together, each parish packs their belongings once more,
and one by one departs. A cherished moment for all; exquisite, touching
and moving. It is always in the month of May that people look forward
to this get-together, not only for the changes that will occur within
the church, but also to modify and revolutionize the power of the church
to ensure that the light set by John Williams will glow forever.
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