The Malua Theological College yesterday saw the passing out of 21 graduates with diplomas and bachelors in theology and divinity.

Rev. Elder Tavita Anesone led the celebration with a service at the Jubilee Church at the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa headquarters in Malua. 

And he was joined in the celebration by the Chief Justice, His Honour Patu Tiava’asu’e Falefatu and Lady Iliganoa Sapolu, Members of Parliament, and Government officials who were among hundreds of families, friends and well-wishers who gathered to witness the occasion. 

The vice-principal of Malua Theological College, Rev. Alesana Eteuati, congratulated the graduating class of 2018 for all the work that they put into their studies. 

“Hard work pays off. To the principal of the Theological College, elders and leaders of the church, the graduating class have successfully completed their journey in theological studies,” he said.  

Graduating students Kilepoa and Tolusiamupini Ioane were thankful the journey was over.

“We are fortunate that while it has not been an easy passage in the last four years, but we managed and this was not without difficulty. Thanks to our families and friends for their support,” said Mr. Ioane. 

Students graduating with a diploma in theology include: Atapa Lau, Fas Lekisa, Koroseta Tavita, Oli Levi and Peia Lesatele. Those with a bachelor in theology are: Aneteria Ulutui, Elekana Leali’ifano, Esera Jr Esera, Fa’alefu Tumutalie, Charlie Banse, Faauli Maiava, Kilepoa Ioane, Fauena Leilua, Onosa’i Nofoaiga, Harry Cowley and Sunita Nua.  While recipients of bachelor in divinity include Bismark Tamati, Leuelu Setu, Keresoma Seuala and Desmond Toleafoa. 

From Australia, Harry and Vi’i Cowley have so much to be thankful for, as they are following in the footsteps of their parents. 

Mr. Harry told Sunday Samoan it has always been his dream to preach the word and serve God and his people through the church. 

Malua Theological College was established in 1844 with the main objective of teaching and educating local students, to enable each village in Samoa to eventually have an educated pastor as its spiritual leader.