Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Kanana Fou Theological College is celebrating a momentous milestone — since the college’s founding 40 years ago, there have been over 400 theological student graduates. This is according to General Secretary for the CCCAS, Rev Nafaatali Falealii in an exclusive interview with Samoa News.

Of the graduates, some remained as church ministers, others pursued degrees in theology. The one-week program to celebrate the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa Theological College's 40th Anniversary concluded this past Saturday, July 1.

The program started on Sunday, June 25, 2023 with a service to commemorate those from the first graduating Class of 1987, some of whom are still preaching from the pulpit to this day.

According to Rev. Falealii, the 1987 class — of which about 60 are left —includes ministers and their wives who will be presenting a gift in remembrance of their services.  

“The Celebration has been approved by Elders of the Congregation to carry out this year, as most of the first year students have passed, but they must proceed with the 40th Celebration instead of waiting for the 50 years Anniversary as some may not be around in the next ten years.”

The Commemoration Celebration replaces the Church's Annual Conference for 2023.

Altogether close to 400 past and current students came together last week for the celebration.

Despite the close to 80 church ministers having passed, the Secretary General  confirmed, "Several of the first Class are still preaching overseas, at San Jose, Seattle and Alaska, while some have reached retirement pension successfully and are all here."

The 17- member Class of 2023 held their graduation Saturday, July 1 at the Church Hall at Kanana Fou. This comes after a completing four years of study.

Ten first year students will start in August this year following a college break for about a month, while 6 students comprise the 3rd year class and the second year stands at 10.

 The week-long celebration included entertainment provided by CCCAS Church youth groups, along with the different graduating classes wearing different colors parading on Wednesday, following the retreat held for all participants on Monday and Tuesday.

The Alumni announced their special gift of a new building for the college at the close of the celebration, the General Secretary said.