The Apia Congregational Christian Church Samoa (C.C.C.S.) welcomed their new Reverend in a church service held on Saturday morning.

Rev. Dr. Latu Latai and his wife, Loto Latai, will now be serving at the Apia C.C.C.S. He had taught at the Malua Theological College for 16 years.

Rev. Dr. Latai is from the villages of Saleimoa and Moataa and his wife Loto Latai is from Apolima and Lepa.

The ceremony was held at the Apia C.C.C.S and was attended by the Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata'afa, Council of Deputies and Representative of the Apia C.C.C.S. Le Mamea Ropati Mualia, family and friends, members of the congregation as well as members of the C.C.C.S.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer on Saturday morning, Rev. Dr. Latai said he was thankful for the ceremony and for being chosen to serve the Apia C.C.C.S.

"I have been studying at the Malua Theological College for a long time and now I have the opportunity [to look after the church] because of the Apia C.C.C.S considering me," Rev. Dr. Latai told the Samoa Observer.

He had then given his thanks again to the Apia C.C.C.S. in considering him to serve the church.

Rev. Dr. Latai added that the hope is to use the strength and knowledge to serve the church for its future, especially for the youth and the children.

"I would like to thank my whole family [...] and the friends that were able to witness this day," he said.

Asked about his advice to those who are considering studying at the Malua Theological College, Rev. Dr. Latai said: "The advice is to rely on the spirit of the Lord."

"If you feel that you would like to serve the Lord through becoming a church minister then it is important to prioritise the calling and rely on the spirit of the Lord then you will be successful," he said.