It was a White Sunday like no other for 12-year-old, Veronica Mefi, and her five other siblings.

Their father Mefiposeta Laufale, of Matautu-uta, who was his family’s only breadwinner and the chef on White Sunday celebrations – tragically lost his life in August this year when he was hit on the back of his head with a rock in a village dispute and died.

And his absence was sadly noticeable on White Sunday by his six children and their mother Luisa Afaese.

Veronica told the Samoa Observer that their father cooked up a storm on White Sunday celebrations, but that is never to be after the tragic events two months ago.

“We would always look forward to White Sunday as it’s the time when we get spoiled by our father so much, and he’s always cook delicious food for his children on White Sunday. He’s always the chef of the family,” she said.

“We missed our chef of the family, he’s always the cook to cook delicious food to await us from White Sunday service.”

On Saturday, it became the norm for their late father to take them on the bus to town to buy new clothes, shoes and all that they need for White Sunday. And while their mother took on the role this time around and took them shopping, it was not the same according to Veronica.

“Our White Sunday would have been complete but I I have to be strong for my siblings and help out my poor mother.”

Mrs Afaese said she is trying her best to hold everything together for the sake of her children, but they missed her husband and their father when the celebrated the day. 

“He was our only hope during days like these. His love for his children and our family is pure and we just can’t help but miss him,” she said.

Children’s recital of bible verses is considered part and partial of White Sunday celebrations, with Veronica dedicating hers to her late father, on behalf of her mother and siblings.  

“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Veronica’s other siblings are Sialataua who is 11 years of age, 9-year-old Raysam, 6-year-old Brianna and 4-year-old Abigail.