The leader for the Catholic youths in Samoa, Father Siolosega Su'a highlighted the importance of this year's 'Aso Tupulaga Samoa' (A.T.S) theme which is "Live to Serve" to remind the youths of their role in their families and communities.

"This year, our theme is "Live to Serve". As we know in our Samoan culture, the role of the youth is they do the "tautua" or service. Our young generation grew up knowing what their roles and responsibilities were which is giving service to parents, family, and church. This will bring blessings," he said.

"We also help them prioritise their goals and their dreams, and build a close relationship with God as the motto for our Catholic youths "Jesus is the Way, The Truth and the Life".

The A.T.S. was initiated by the late Archbishop His Grace Alapati Lui Mata'eliga in 2009. The idea came about after a World Youth Day  event in Sydney, Australia.

"The late Archbishop decided to do a World Youth Day for Samoa and named it "Aso Tupulaga Samoa" (A.T.S.) which translates into Youth Day for Samoa. However, due to COVID-19, a gap was then created for this program. But it runs every two years," added Fr Siolo.

All Catholic youths from both Upolu and Savaii gathered at Leauva'a for a three-day gathering starting Wednesday.

The logo for this year's A.T.S. was taken from the World Youth Day Lisbon 2023 logo which two members of the youth from Samoa attended Sefilino Falaniko and Taumua Wilson. 

An ava ceremony was also conducted to mark the start of the A.T.S. During the three-day gathering there will be seminars, sports, entertainment, church services, and so forth to celebrate their A.T.S. this year.