Tafitoala Christian Church Welcome New Minister

By Lagi Keresoma

APIA, SAMOA – 06 MAY 2022: The Congregational Christian Church of Tafitoala welcomed their new church minister, Reverend Tanuri Pesaleli and Sanaima Setu yesterday in a ceremony led by Reverend Elder Kereta Fuafiva.

The ceremony was attended by members of the church and representatives from various parishes of the sub-district – Pulega.

Reverend Tanuri and Sanaima entered Malua Theological College in 2008 and graduated in 2011.

They served time at the Congregational Christian Church at Aufaga for 2 years then moved to Alafua.

Reverend Tanuri is the 4^th child of 9 siblings and his parents are Pesaleli Poloa Alii Setu and Laovale Pesaleli. He is from Lalomanu Aleipata and Aufaga Lepa.

Sanaima is the daughter of Reverend Elder Tavita Anisone and Lupe Anisone of Safaatoa Lefaga, Vailoa Tai and Alafua.

The Secretary of the Church Pulega or Sub District of Siumu and Safata, Reverend Tuia Peseta reminded the congregation to look after the new minister and family not only spiritually but physically.

He also reminded Reverend Tanuri and wife that their duties as church minister is to lead the flock with the focus on developing the Sunday school and youth and not to fall into material temptation.

It is almost a year in June that Tafitoala has been without a church minister and the village’s paramount chief Vaatausili Feata represented Tafitoala village and acknowledged Reverend Tanuri and Sanaima for accepting their call to be their new church minister.

Reverend Tanuri then acknowledged everyone especially the Tafitoala congregation for electing them as their Faifeau.

“We have been preparing for this day for 10 years and we will serve God and the congregation well,” he said.