A special milestone was celebrated by the Methodist church at Vailoa, Aleipata on Friday morning when they dedicated a multi-million project, after a sometimes testing two-year journey.

Hundreds of people assembled at Vailoa, Aleipata to witness the official opening of the church's new building, pastor's house, a new building for the congregation to host gatherings, a sports field for the children, and the new gate to shield the compound. 

Among the special guests were the Executive members of the Methodist Church in Samoa, leaders from other denominations in the country, Principal, teachers and students from Piula Theological College, the caretaker Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Dr. Sa'ilele Malielegaoi, and his caretaker Cabinet members, and members from the Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi [F.A.S.T.] party. 

The dedication service was officiated by the President of the Methodist Church in Samoa, Reverend Faulalo Leti who also spoke on behalf of the gathering to congratulate the Vailoa, Aleipata parish on the achievement. 

Reverend Faulalo said the completion of such a big milestone reflects the members' dedication, passion, and desire to do great things for God's work. 

"Well done to you all faithful servants of God, for completing this project," Reverend Faulalo said. 

Moreover, Reverend Faulalo said the Methodist church's bible reading theme on Friday was fitting for the auspicious occasion. 

"Our theme for today is: God is always with he who strives for the best. No doubt he has been there with you, throughout this journey."

Moreover, Reverend Faulalo commended the courage and patience of the resident minister looking after the Vailoa, Aleipata parish, Reverend Iose Semi. 

Said Reverend Faulalo, if it weren't for the minister's determination and willingness to do great things for God, they would not have completed such a big project. 

The wonderful work that was dedicated on Friday, was the fruit of the members' labor, said Reverend Faulalo. 

Addressing the gathering, Reverend Iose Semi said that developing the church was something they have always wanted to do as a church family. 

Therefore, in 2018, they started raising money to carry out their plans. They traveled to Sydney Australia to seek financial assistance from the community in Sydney and managed to collect ST$632,303.60. 

From Australia, they headed to New Zealand where they raised a total of $ST402,303.60. 

The construction works commenced in January of the year 2019, said Reverend Iose, with the demolishing of the old pastor's residence. 

The total cost of the construction works, materials and other services is $1,601,972.33 while the total cost of money spent on labour is $486,071. 

Therefore, the total cost of the project is $2,880,043.33.

Reverend Iose used the opportunity to thank the Leadership of the Methodist church for their prayers, support and assistance that went into the completion of their work. 

He also expressed his sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of such a huge project. 

He also paid tribute to their loved ones who were there with them at the beginning of the work, but had been called Home by God and were not there to witness the completion of the project. 

Moreover, Reverend Iose Semi thanked those who gathered to witness and celebrate such a special milestone. 

Lastly, he used the opportunity to thank all the sons and daughters of Vailoa, Aleipata from all four corners of the world who contributed and donated money for the church.