On the evening of Sunday, 1 June 2025, church leaders, government leaders, foreign dignitaries, and esteemed guests gathered to give thanks and praise to God for His continued guidance over Samoa’s journey as it marks 63 years of independence from colonial rule.
The Thanksgiving Service was led by the President of the Methodist Church in Samoa, Rev. Faulalo Leti, and was held at the Catholic Cathedral of Maria Imakulata in Mulivai.
The theme for this year’s service was “Tuli so ta ‘ai mo le Ali’i” (“Keep our focus on the Lord”).
Prayers of thanksgiving were offered by Deacon Etilasi Eti of the Catholic Church in Vailele, repentance was led by Rev. Ioane Tu’upō, Chair of the Methodist Church in East Upolu, and the prayers of petition were delivered by Rev. Dr. Taipisia Leilua, General Secretary of the Congregational Christian Church in Samoa (EFKS).
Scripture readings were given by Rev. Ma’auga Motu, Secretary of the National Council of Churches in Samoa.
Praise and worship were provided by the Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration, the Land Transport Authority (LTA), and the Methodist Church Office in Foga’a.
The sermon was prepared by the leader of the service, Rev. Faulalo Leti.
The spiritual message for the evening was drawn from Exodus 40:16-20 and John 17:20-26.
The Thanksgiving Service was an opportunity for the nation to collectively offer prayers to God, seeking His continued blessings as Samoa moves forward into the future.
The service was well-attended by members of the public, all united in prayer that Samoa’s journey would remain safe from harm.
This year’s Guests of Honour for the Independence celebrations included the Governor of American Samoa, Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula, and his wife Lois Pula, along with the Head of Tokelau, Esera Tuisano, and his wife Fa’amaisealofa Tuisano.
The National Council of Churches in Samoa led the Thanksgiving Service with support from the government.
On the morning of Monday, 2 June 2025, a special state ceremony will take place in front of the government building FMFM II in Ele’ele Fou, where the flag of Samoa will be raised to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of the country’s independence.
This article was originally published by Savali Newspaper on its FB page in Sāmoan and has been republished with permission.
