Smiles, hugs and tears of joy was the order of the day at the Piula Theological College on Saturday as 19 graduates walked down the aisle of the Lupetaumafa Piula hall to close that chapter of their journey.

Out of the 19 graduates, 11 of them successfully graduated with a Diploma in Theology, three graduated with a Bachelor of Divinity and two with Masters in Theology. 

The ceremony also marked the first ever graduation since the inception of the school to now have theology students graduate with a Master of Theology. 

The graduation ceremony was lead by the President of the Methodist Church in Samoa, Reverend Faulalo Ieti Paaga who reminded the graduating class that offering one's life for God's ministry is not an easy path. 

He also understands that there will be more challenges ahead for those who have graduated, however, he believes that once you dedicate your life to serve God and his ministry he will carry you through. 

The Principal of Piula Theological College, Reverend Professor Mosese Mailo spoke on behalf of the teachers and students attending the college and gave a report on the challenges and milestones the college faced during this academic year (August 2021-June 2022). 

Reverend Professor Mosese said the love of God had been upon them throughout one of the most challenging years in Piula. 

One of the many challenges faced throughout this year, according to Rev. Professor Mosese was the impact of the spread of COVID-19 and the multiple lockdowns the country went through this year. 

Fortunately, the students were able to overcome a lot of these hurdles through the use of technology, which included their switch to online learning platform Moodle and the zoom conference facility. Virtual services become the norm for the college during the country's multiple lockdowns. 

Rev. Professor Mosese said approximately 90 percent of the students in Piula including their wives and children were infected with the COVID-19. Despite the challenges, Rev. Professor also listed a couple of milestones achieved by the college this year. 

This include the accreditation of courses offered at Piula Theological College such as diploma in theology, bachelor of divinity and bachelor of divinity with honors by the Samoa Qualifications Authority in December last year. 

Nevertheless, the Masters of Theology programme which started last year is yet to be accredited by the S.Q.A.

Tipa Fa'alafi Lale was named the dux for this year's graduating class. 

One of the graduates, Malua Galovale from Camira in Queensland, Australia was emotional after yesterday's ceremony. 

Having to travel to Samoa to study at Piula for four years wasn't an easy choice, especially being away from his parents and family during COVID-19 restrictions and international borders closures. 

The 27-year-old was overwhelmed by the occasion on Saturday and immediately credited God for his guidance and blessings upon them. 

"I feel so blessed honestly it has been four years; it hasn't been easy but we are very grateful and humbled," Mr. Galovale told this newspaper. 

"Being away from home for the longest time has been a big challenge but it's so good to finally see my family and my parents back here in Samoa for this great celebration and we owe it all to God. 

"If it wasn't for him we wouldn't be here today."

In saying that, Mr. Galovale said his journey in Piula can be described as a "blessing in disguise". 

Aside from the spiritual learning and studying theology, he said that the highlight of his journey is leaning more about Samoan culture and way of life. 

"Being born and raised in Australia, learning about our culture and the simple Samoan lifestyle has been a journey to remember. It has been a blessing and I am grateful for what I have learned during my time in the college. 

Malua is from the villages of Safa'ato'a Lefaga, Aleipata and Saleaumua. 

Ratu Keli Faimata was named the top student for the Foundation programme, Piula Leifi was named the top student for the Diploma 1 while Tim Ray Tuilaepa was named the top student for Diploma 3.

Diploma in theology (Level 6): Tipa Fa'alafi Lale, Afaese Fau Meredith, James Lifu Tavana, Nu'utupu Afutoto, Deon Solomona Saifiti, Peti Esekia Taufao, Iese Aiga, Ulisese Timo Togage, Misipati Tiatia, Malua Galovale, Sailiai Tumaai, Taufusi Faletolu Auelua, Enoka Enoka Liki, Faigame Seuteva Livi. 

Bachelor of Divinity (Level 7): Samoa Mata'afa, Ioane Lene, Lepapa T.F. Savai'i. 

Master of Theology (Level 9): Apelu Fa'aniniva, Apineru Tavita.