Members of Gatoaitele Savea Leulua’iali’i Tuivaiese II’s family gathered in Afega yesterday for their annual thanksgiving service.

At the Maota o Tanumafili i le Tolotolo, family members acknowledged God's guidance during the past year. They also used the opportunity to commit the tasks and goals of 2020 in prayer as they begin their journey in a new year.

The annual gathering was well attended by members of the family living in Samoa and from abroad.

Reverend Luapene Nepo of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (C.C.C.S.) at Afega conducted the service.

Family member, Leuluaiali'i Tasi Malifa, said the service is an important one for the family because it allows them to give back the glory and thanksgiving to God for his never ending blessings, guidance and protection.

“The ceremony was started by our forefathers," he said.

"It is a celebration for our family, uniting us in prayer."

The 64-year-old lawyer from Afega said their family has been blessed to have grown in numbers over the years.

“We are thankful to have family members who have traveled from New Zealand, Australia and as far as Great Britain," he said, "this is a sign of the family expanding around the world."

“A lot of the members of our family have offered their lives to serve the Lord in various church denominations such as Assemblies of God Church of Samoa and the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa. One example is Pastor Joe Amosa.

“The service is also important to the young generation so they can learn and understand their family history in terms of where they came from and familiarise themselves with other relatives."

He added that it is their hope the young members of the family will continue the annual tradition for as long as possible.

As always, the service ended with a family feast, where family members caught up, shared stories and reflected on the past.