Days prior to their congregation’s 15th anniversary, brethren in the Local Congregation of American Samoa held activities, all led by Brother Gem H. Baitan, district supervising minister. These were the coastal clean-up, the anniversary worship service, and the INC Unity Games.

Coastal clean-up

On August 8, the congregation’s Christian Family Organizations (CFO) officers and their fellow brethren gathered together at Lion’s Park in the village of Tafuna for a coastal clean-up activity. In keeping the area neat, they used gloves and trash bags in removing trash and debris.

Alexandra Manuel, Binhi officer, said in an interview, “We woke up early in the morning for the activity.”

Brother Brian Aniciete, resident minister, went on to add, “It’s important that we unite with activities like this to make sure we are completely united in doing what is good, including in taking care of the community around us.”

Worship service

On the morning of August 9, brethren attended their worship service to God that was officiated by Brother Baitan. Before his Bible-based sermon, he read a letter from the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo. Upon congratulating them for reaching another milestone anniversary, he encouraged them to uphold their zeal in fulfilling the commandments of God.

“When we heard the letter of the Executive Minister for our congregation, we were overwhelmed with joy because even though we are far from him, the Executive Minister always remembers us,” enthused Jose Lacayan Jr., head deacon and pioneer member. “Our congregation experienced many things, but God never forsakes us. With the help of God, the number of brethren in our congregation continues to increase,” he added.

“We thank so much our Lord God for our congregation having reached its 15th anniversary. It is a very great blessing for us. By the help of God, we still remain firm in our faith,” said Eraño Torres, local safety officer and also a pioneer.

“From the humble beginnings of our congregation, we are able to reach this moment, and God has gifted us so many victories within the last 15 years. That is why no matter what happens, the brethren here in this part of the world will continue to remain strong in the faith. “Despite our distance, we remain united with the Church Administration and strive to persevere until the end,” said Brother Aniciete.

INC Unity Games: Basketball Edition

In the afternoon of that day, the brethren gathered at Vocational Technical High School in the village of Nuuuli for the INC Unity Games: Basketball Edition. The brethren joined together to compete in an atmosphere filled with love for the brotherhood. Before the games start, Brother Baitan reminded all players to practice sportsmanship and respect, both on and off the court, for the glory of God.

“This joyous activity served not only as a fun way to stay fit and healthy but also left a lasting impact that exceeded the basketball court. After this activity, all participants felt uplifted,” said Brother Aniciete.

The Local Congregation of American Samoa was established on August 10, 2011. It is under the supervision of the Ecclesiastical District of Hawaii-Pacific. The place of worship can be found in the village of Falenju, in the town of Pago-Pago, which is in the island of Tutuila. The island is reachable by plane from Honolulu, Hawaii. — With assistance from Brian Aniciete