Lt Governor attends opening church service for the Pacific Church Leaders Meeting

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The 2025 Pacific Church Leaders Meeting, organized by the Pacific Conference of Churches, is taking place at Kanana Fou Theological College from March 25th to 31st, bringing together religious leaders from across the Pacific to discuss key church initiatives.

The opening church service was held on Tuesday evening, March 25, at the Kanana Fou "Ua Taunu’u" Church.

Reverend Nafatali Faleali’i, General Secretary of the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa (CCCAS), welcomed the honored guests, including esteemed religious leaders from the Pacific Conference of Churches, Lt. Gov. Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr., Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruen, Speaker of the House Savali Talavou Ale, and church members attending this prestigious gathering.

Pulumataala delivered a heartfelt welcome address on behalf of American Samoa, warmly greeting the distinguished church leaders from across the Pacific.

“I commend you for your courage in answering the Lord's calling. I believe that God has called me to a different path, one of leadership rooted in hope, compassion, and love — not only for the people of American Samoa but also for our Oceania family.”

He expressed gratitude to the World and Pacific Council of Churches for selecting American Samoa as the host for this conference for the first time.

Pulumataala also acknowledged the Pacific Conference of Churches for its strong advocacy and support in American Samoa’s efforts to secure membership in the Pacific Islands Forum, a pivotal initiative introduced by the previous administration.

Reflecting on shared challenges among Pacific nations, the Lieutenant Governor stated, “I believe we all share the same thoughts, problems, challenges, and dreams for our children. American Samoa and the Pacific face common issues within our communities. In addressing these challenges, we must embrace the theme of this gathering: ‘Do Kamo – Christ, Transform Us Into Your Authentic Humanity.”

In conclusion Pulumataala encouraged unity and faith, saying, “Let us look within ourselves and apply our unconditional love for one another, just as Jesus Christ sees the pure love in the hearts of children. Let His love shine in the darkness, guided by the wisdom of our ancestors. Let us embrace the understanding that everything is connected, just as we, the people of the Pacific, are connected. God bless you all, and I hope you take time to enjoy American Samoa.”

Rev. James Bhagwan, General Secretary of the Pacific Conference of Churches, expressed his sincere gratitude to the leaders and people of American Samoa for hosting this significant event.

He emphasized that the diverse island nations gathered in American Samoa were divinely chosen for this meeting. As people of faith, he expressed confidence that the discussions and deliberations throughout the conference would be guided by the Holy Spirit, leading to meaningful and transformative outcomes.

Rev. Elder Fa’aeteete Saifoloi, Moderator of the CCCAS Church Officers, delivered an inspirational message from the Holy Bible, reminding attendees that those who dedicate themselves to God’s work will inevitably face opposition. However, he reassured them that unwavering faith would lead to salvation.

He urged church leaders to remain steadfast in their faith and uphold their spiritual mission, despite any challenges they may encounter.

As a gesture of appreciation, the Pacific Conference of Churches presented gifts to the territory’s leaders.

In return, Pulumataala presented a donation on behalf of  Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula and the people of American Samoa to the conference.

Following the opening church service, an ‘ava ceremony was held to formally and culturally welcome the church leaders to the island.

The Pacific Conference of Churches comprises member nations from across the region, including New Zealand, Australia, the Cook Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, New Caledonia, the Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Papua New Guinea, West Papua, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

With faith at the core of Pacific cultures, this gathering of religious leaders serves as a platform to strengthen church initiatives, promote regional unity, and reaffirm the role of faith in shaping the future of Pacific communities.