The Congregational Christian Church Samoa (C.C.C.S.) marked a significant milestone on Tuesday with a groundbreaking ceremony for a new building dedicated to its Council of Women.

The event, held at Papauta where the Papauta Girls College is located, was a significant moment for the church and the wider community as they celebrated the beginning of a long-anticipated project.

The ceremony of breaking ground and laying the foundation stone was a tribute to the women and supporters who have championed the project.

The stone bears the names of key contributors and serves as a lasting memorial for future generations to remember their dedication.

Reverend Elder Tunumoso Soliola Iosia, Chairman of C.C.C.S., presided over the ceremony, urging the women’s fellowship to remain humble and grateful for divine guidance.

He emphasised the importance of keeping God at the centre of the project, reinforcing the belief that through faith, all things are possible.

Rev. Elder Iosia also spoke on behalf of the church’s General Assembly to wish the Women’s fellowship all the best for the project.

Taulogomai Paul Grey, Chair of the C.C.C.S. Women’s Fellowship, struggled to hold back tears as she expressed thanks to the General Assembly leaders for supporting their vision.

She emphasised that most of those who initiated the project had passed on which was why the service was emotional for them.

It was a dream come true for the women of the church as the groundbreaking ceremony marked the commencement of building a new hall for the C.C.C.S. Women’s Fellowship.

Fa’afetai Kereta Fuafiva, wife of a church minister, also shared her relief and joy at the project's progression, reflecting on the anticipation surrounding the new building.

“This day represents the realisation of a dream long in the making,” Fuafiva said. “Though some of the visionaries are no longer with us, their dream lives on as we begin this new chapter.”

The event marked the start of construction and symbolised a significant moment of unity and forward momentum for the church community.