Fuimaono title bestowed at Lefagaoali’i

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 10 June 2018, 12:00AM

Vaipapa Mata’utia has been bestowed the Fuimaono title at the village of Lefagaoalii, Savai’i.

The ceremony was held at the Maota o Fuimaono where he received the blessings from his family and the Village Council as he embarked on his journey as the High Chief of the family and the village.

“It was a momentous event,” he told the Sunday Samoan.

“The last person who held the title Fuimaono was Fuimaono Mitiana who passed away in 1961 and from then until now the title was not taken up.”

And now as the new titleholder, he said he is excited about what’s ahead.

 “Living together in peace and harmony is the foundation of any Samoan family and that’s my calling in my family, to be a servant and a good leader.” 

Fuimaono Vaipapa said he was humbled by the honour. 

 “I feel very honoured and very privileged,” he said. “I know it’s not easy, but through God everything is possible.”

 He is grateful and he acknowledges the support of his family and those who came to witness the significant event.

“I want to thank my children, my wife and my family as a whole for the support,” he said.

“I also want to thank the district as well as friends and colleagues who came to witness this day.

“I will try my best to serve my family and make good and honest decisions, but I won’t be able to do all of that without the help from God.”

The ceremony started with a church service conducted by Rev. Alesana Afamasaga Fatuvaili of the Samoa Congregational Christian Church at Lefagaoalii with the assistance of Rev. Faafiu of the Methodist Church, Father Fagalele of the Catholic Church, Rev. Vinisini of the Assembly of God and Bishop Solofa Sasulu of the Latter Day Saints.

The blessing of the title by the chiefs of the village was conducted on Saturday followed by traditional formalities.

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 10 June 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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