Govt. welcomes New Year with prayer

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 03 January 2018, 12:00AM

On the first day of the New Year, Samoa committed everything to God in prayer.

At the first prayer service of the year, the Head of State, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II and the Masiofo, Her Highness Fa’amausili Leinafo, were among officials who attended.

Samoa was one of the first countries to welcome the New Year and like everything in Samoa, 2018 was welcomed with a prayer. 

The annual service was held at the Matafele Methodist Church and was led by Reverend Ioane Tolai. Also present at the church service were Prime Minister Tuilaepa Dr. Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, Cabinet Ministers and government employees. 

Thanksgiving prayer was conducted by Si’ufaga Catholic Catechist, Mafutaga Iosefo, forgiveness segment was prayed by Father Henry Bryce and Reverend Toeaina Fiti Aloalii of the Congregational Church of Jesus in Samoa (C.C.J.S.). 

During the sermon, Reverend Tolai says the theme of this year’s service is “Wake up Call”. 

He spoke about one of Samoa’s heartbreaking days, 29 September, 2009, when a Tsunami struck and took numerous lives. 

“Many lives were taken; this led the government to host awareness programs for the public on what to do when a disaster strikes."

 “When alarm bell rings throughout all of Samoa, it’s an indication that you need to move to high grounds." 

 “This is one of the bells that you cannot ignore, if you want to live.” 

Reverend Tolai reminded the government officials the importance of heeding God’s commands and living by it. 

 “If you don’t obey and do what you’re told, it will not end well, you’ll encounter predicaments,” said Reverend Tolai. 

He reminded that God’s call is very important, quoting the Bible verse: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son and whosoever believeth in him shall not perish but have everlasting life." 

 “The love of God is not just words, but he acted upon it and it was evident at the cross where he called out that it has been done,” said Reverend Tolai. 

According to Reverend Tolai, the first week of the New Year will not be easy; however nothing is impossible with God. 

 “There will be tribulations and trials on our pathway, however listen on for God’s calling and let him lead the way,” he said.

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 03 January 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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