Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — American Samoa joins Christians around the world to celebrate the birth of Christ. While Christmas has passed in other parts of the world including our neighbors Samoa and other South Pacific countries the spirit of the season is still strong.

Christmas is a special day for Christians, and especially locally — where church is intricately woven into the fine mat of the Samoan culture.

During last Thursday night’s opening of the three-night Arts Council holiday music festival program, Gov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga — in his Christmas remarks — noted local license plates which have the phrase “Motu o Fiafiaga” — Island of Happiness.

He said our forefathers came up with this phrase, knowing this is also the will of God — that Samoan people live in happiness and peace. At this time of the year, during the remembrance of the birth of Christ, it’s important that “we live in happiness” — Fiafiaga.

And happiness can be witnessed throughout the island, with Christmas decorations. Even small family homes have Christmas decorations, Lolo said, adding that he has toured the island to see the Christmas lights.

Lolo reminded the audience, including those watching on KVZK-TV, that neighboring Samoa is faced with a deadly measles outbreak, which has claimed lives. He called on all residents to offer prayers to God to bring comfort to those who have lost loved ones, as well as those who have measles.

He also asked residents to pray for American Samoa and her people, as the government continues to protect the territory from a measles outbreak.

During every holiday season, American Samoans in the US Armed Forces and all American soldiers serving around the world are never forgotten. Speaking on behalf of the government and the people of American Samoa, Lolo sent off special holiday wishes to Toa o Samoa stationed all over the globe as well as American Samoans everywhere.

He conveyed a special Christmas message to Samoa’s Head of State, the Prime Minister and Parliament as well as the people of Samoa. In closing, Lolo wished the people of American Samoa a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

From all of us at Samoa News: “Merry Christmas American Samoa, especially our Toa o Samoa."