The family of Ilimatogafau ma Tupuola hosted a thanksgiving service on Monday.

The service was held at the village of Manunu where family members and village representatives were also invited.

Reverend Roma Enosa of the Congregational Christian Church Samoa at Manunu led the church service. 

It was followed by a traditional Ava ceremony, and later on a distribution of gifts for 200 children which also included family members and village members.

The event had a dedicated kid’s corner where children played on bouncy castles, outdoor games and rode miniature trains provided courtesy of Bruno’s Magic Circus. 

A representative from the family, Manu Maugatai told the Samoa Observer that the service is a way to acknowledge God for his protection upon the family.

“Some of our family members came up with the idea that we should host a thanksgiving service to God especially that this year has come to an end but there have been many tribulations,” he said.

He added that one of these challenges is the COVID-19 global pandemic which has impacted countries overseas and even locally.

“The good news is that none of our relatives has passed away from this disease [COVID-19] especially because we have families living abroad such as America, Australia, and New Zealand.

He also said the thanksgiving service will be held annually.  

“This is the first time we have done this and we also extended the invitation to members of the village and also to remember them in our prayers.

“We also distributed gifts for the children, the village and family members.”

Mr. Maugatai said the celebrations also included 

“It is the belief of the sa’o (family paramount chief) that if families are successful the village too will also succeed including the church.

“It took over three months to prepare for this event.

“The thanksgiving must be returned to God always, but we also acknowledge the support from Tupuola Margean Feesago.”

In addition, he said, "without the support from family and coming together as one, nothing can be done well."

“The feeling shared among us today, it is quite humbling to see an event such as this come to life which is why the spirit of gratitude is very much alive.

“This is a great opportunity for our family to unite with a feeling of happiness.”