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Samoa Methodists welcome new president

The new President of the Methodist Church is Reverend Aisoli T Iuli and his wife Fualole were formally welcomed during a service at Faleula on Tuesday (Samoa Time), according to the Samoa Observer.

The Methodist church also welcomed the church’s new Secretary, Reverend Apineru Lafai says the Samoa press.

The service, attended by hundreds of members of the Methodist Church, also served as the farewell for outgoing President, Reverend Tupu Folasa II and former Secretary, Reverend Vaiao Eteuati.

According to the Samoa Observer, Church dignitaries from all over the world gathered to witness Rev Aisoli and Rev Apineru make their vows before God to honor and serve the church to the best of their abilities.

During his first speech as new President, Rev. Aisoli paid tribute to his predecessor.

“Ever since I started my service within this church, Tupu has been like a father,” he said. “And to have him bless me with this presidency title, it is an overwhelming feeling for such a great honor.”

Reverend Aisoli’s appointment is the culmination of 34 years of service to the church, starting when he was ordained a Faifeau Fa’amaoni in 1978.

From 1998 to 2005, Rev. Aisoli was head of the Sinoti in America Samoa while serving at the Ave ole Fetuao Methodist Church in Fagaima.

Rev Aisoli is currently serving another seven years in Safotulafai from 2005. According to Samoa Observer, the new secretary  Rev. Apineru Lafai graduated from Piula Theological College in 1972.

He worked in the Methodist Bookshop until 1976, and then went to Australia and graduated with a Diploma in Christian Education.

From 1977 to 1979, Rev. Apineru was a teacher at Piula Theological College. He spent three years in Fiji carrying out various church duties.

He returned in 1982 and became head of the Methodist Bookshop. He then served as a faifeau at Asau for five years. Rev. Apineru was appointed Treasurer in 1995.

Traditional formalities followed the church service, where the village of Falefa and family of the President Rev Aisoli presented the church with fine mats and gifts.