Afega Congregational Christian Church of Samoa begins 50th anniversary celebration

By Adel Fruean 28 December 2018, 12:00AM

The Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (C.C.C.S.) in Afega is celebrating a unique milestone this week.

The celebration of the Church’s 50th anniversary started with a traditional ava ceremony at the church hall yesterday. 

Reverend Luapene Nepo told the Samoa Observer the celebration was an opportunity to reflect on the church’s journey so far in the village and to give thanks to God for his goodness and love.

He said the ava ceremony yesterday was not only to start the 50th anniversary celebrations, it was also a chance for Afega villagers from abroad and Samoa to come together to fellowship. 

 “In the history of Afega, the C.C.C.S. church was the fourth church to be established within the village in 1968 hence our 50 years celebrations which is taking place today,” he said. 

“But the significance of this gathering is the discussion in relation to the importance of views on the history of the church, further developments with regards to the church hall and a memorial monument.” 

Yesterday’s commemoration started with a thanksgiving service at 10am followed by lunch, entertainment and traditional presentations.

“Together with the anniversary will be the official launch of the completion of the renovation of the church which started around 2016. The budget is roughly around $300,000.”

Rev. Luapene added that they started preparing for the occasion in 2015.

“The overall purpose is to unite the people of Afega, whether they are from overseas or in Samoa, we intended to bring everyone together as a family to bond.”

Rev. Luapene has been the Minister at the Church for 20 years, with its membership currently around 300 people. 

He added that church records show that five other Pastors have served at the church since its establishment.

The celebration continues today.

By Adel Fruean 28 December 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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