Young performers were the stars at the Methodist Church Magiagi as it commemorated Good Friday with songs and skits depicting the crucifixion of Jesus Christ nearly 2000 years ago.

More than 80 congregation members and invited guests gathered at the Church hall on Friday night to witness the programme spearheaded by the youth of the church.

Reverend Fonofaavae Sooalo of the Magiagi Methodist Church told the Samoa Observer that it took three weeks for the youth to do their  rehearsals.

“They [youths] followed the Church’s guideline which is, ‘O Manu’a O Keriso mo le Ola’ [Christ’s wounds and scars to gain life] this is the spirit or theme which the youths were trying to portray through its programme,” he said.

He said that the main focus is "Jesus as the head of everything" to guide the young people, especially during these difficult times.

“We want them to sing and praise the Lord so that their spiritual lives will be strengthened," the church minister added. 

“The performances kick-started with skits from our Samoan culture of storytelling from past events while it concluded with the story of Jesus’ crucifixion.

“We did not host this programme last year due to the COVID-19 state of emergency orders but we are thankful that this year we were able to execute this and showcase talents through dancing and singing from our youths.”

Rev. Sooalo said that there were around 50 youth members who participated in the programme.

“But it also consisted of orators but there is no age limit for those that want to be part of the youths because we do not want to stop anyone from wanting to do the work of God.

“This programme will be continued, it is the youths’ testimonial work but it all depends on opportunities given by God because nowadays everything is unpredictable but as the saying goes, ‘everything we plan or prepare will depend on God’s will.

“The youths’ have done their part of delivering the message while the Holy spirit will work with the audience, everyone has their own journeys.

"But we hope the message of Jesus’ sacrifice will touch them especially if they are going through something in life because Jesus’ wounds were caused by us.”

However, Jesus’ resurrection is the highlight of it all because there’s no use going to church if our Lord and savior did not conquer death but he was victorious,” he said.

Rev. Sooalo also wished all of Samoa a Happy Easter on Sunday.

“May God’s light through his son our Lord Jesus Christ shine bright in all our hearts and may we always put Him first in our lives, have a blessed Easter Samoa.”