Young people from across Samoa and Tokelau Mission (STM) gathered at the church headquarters in Lalovaea for a youth congress held from December 14 to 18.
Themed “Your true identity”, the event had a lineup of speakers who challenged attendees to find their true identity in God. Guest speakers included Fulton Adventist University College principal Dr Ronald Stone, Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM) youth director Pastor Uili Tinomeneta and TPUM president Pastor Maveni Kaufononga.
The event also featured workshops and lectures on relevant topics presented by the Ministry of Health and Samoa Family Health Association. Topics included physical and emotional health, finding a stable future, and friendship and relationship advice for young people.
“It is a blessing for me to be part of this youth congress, to know and understand my true identity in Christ,” said attendee Iosefina S Te’o.
One of the highlights of the event was the ordination service for Pastor Atileo Faalelei and Pastor Peniamin Ufi. According to STM secretary Pastor Neru Nuuialii, “It was very special for the STM youth to see two ministers who answered the call to ministry and were publicly recognised as ordained pastors.
“For them [the young people], experiencing such a sacred service reinforces the high calling from above to be faithful in the ministry of God.”
The event ended on a high note challenging those present to reflect and show the true identity of Christ through their lives in their communities.
