A total of 38 students graduated from  Malua Theological College’s Bible study on Saturday after years of study.

The graduation awarded 19 Certificates in Theological Studies and 19 Diplomas in Theological Studies.

The graduates were made up of a variety of believers of the faith ranging from deacons, lay preachers, and Sunday school teachers amongst others, including five couples.

The group was met with proud and enthusiastic supporters outside, who showered them with candy necklaces and gift envelopes following the official ceremony held in the Jubilee Church. 

Lay preacher from the Lalomalava Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (C.C.C.S.), Laulu Unasa Soana’i delivered the official remarks on behalf of the graduating class during the ceremony.

Laulu graduated alongside his wife, Taiaopo Soanai Papalii with a Diploma in Theological Studies, Level V.

“We are all very ecstatic today as we have reached the pinnacle we had all aimed for, not only for the Certificate but we have also acquired our diploma and we feel very happy,” he told the Sunday Observer after the ceremony.

“And being chosen as the class representative this year, it is an honor; it isn’t something that everyone gets to do.”

Saipipi C.C.C.S. deacon, Vaiga Siaki Ualesi said after years of endurance, the Saturday experience was very “humbling”.

“It brings a different feeling and it changes the way we see our everyday life and everything in general,” said the 61-year-old.

“As you have seen with our families here to congratulate and show support, it’s quite the feeling, it’s very humbling.”

Vaiga graduated with a Diploma in Theological Studies – Level V.

“It was very challenging, especially being in Savaii, there were times when I would feel like giving up because where I live was a bit far from where the bible study classes were held.

“But discourage did not win, persistence and willingness won. The content learnt is useful in teaching our children, as your first preach should be to teach your children and then you eventually go out onto other people.”

Another deacon, 72-year-old Saunimaa Ma-Fulu-Aiolupotea Kolia from the Vailele C.C.C.S. said the school had shone an extensive light on her understanding with the bible.

Saunimaa, who is an academic at the National University of Samoa for the Faculty of Nursing, gave credit to God that she had completed her Certificate in Theological Studies – Level IV.

“Not only will this be useful when called to conduct spiritual fellowships at church, it will also serve well as a lecturer in N.U.S. in equipping and preparing our students for the nursing profession,” she said.

“As we all know, when someone if severely sick and not getting better, the nurses can share a few spiritual words or prayer to encourage the patients.”

She is from the villages of Papa Sataua, Sili, and Fusi Saoluafata.

Amongst the graduating class was also former Member of Parliament and general election candidate, Papali'i Li'o Ta'eu Masipa'u and Ministry of Works, Infrastructure and Transportation (M.W.T.I.) Chief Executive Officer, Magele Hoe Viali along with his wife, Faapaologa Fabie Viali.