National Council of Churches celebrates 50 years

By Pai Mulitalo Ale 13 May 2016, 12:00AM

The National Council of Churches celebrated its 50th birthday yesterday at the Tofamamao Centre, Leauva’a.

There, the Council members were joined by the Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and the Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi to mark the special occasion.

The Chairman, Deacon Leaupepe Kasiano, led the celebration, acknowledging everyone who has played a role in the development of the Council since its inception in 1966.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa delivered the keynote, highlighting the Council’s role in the development of Samoa over the years.

Speaking about the church in general, Tuilaepa said the government and the church are working hand in hand to development programmes to build people physically, spiritually and mentally.

The Council’s Executive Secretary, Reverend Mauga Motu said there are five founding members of the N.C.C. They are the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa, Catholic, Methodist, Seven Day Adventist Church and the Church of Latter Day Saints. 

“What the churches leaders in past years wanted was for all the churches to work together,” he said.

Five other churches have since joined the N.C.C. These include the Anglican Church, Congregational Church of Jesus in Samoa [E.F.I.S], Protestant Church, Pentecostal and Nazareth Church.

Rev. Mauga said the door remains open for other churches to join.

During the ceremony yesterday, Rev. Mauga acknowledged Prime Minister Tuilaepa, his wife Gillian and their children for their support in paying the lease at the office where they have been operating from at Mulinuu.

His Highness Tui Atua was given the honor to cut the cake and wish the National Council of Churches a happy birthday.

By Pai Mulitalo Ale 13 May 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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