It was a day of celebration for 16 Congregation Christian Church of Samoa's ministers who officially became "Faife'au Samoa" on Saturday at Malua.

Faife'au Samoa is given to a minister who has completed two additional years at Malua Theological College to be able to perform the giving of Holy Sacraments.

These sacraments include marriages and funerals.

A special prayer service was led by Reverend Elder Leaso Tupa'i of the CCCS Church of Gautavai, Savaii. Hundreds from all over Samoa gathered to witness this special occasion.

A proud mother, Fa'aulu Leiataua told Sunday Samoan that she was thankful that this day has come.

"I am so proud of the man that my son has become, giving his all to serve the Lord," Mrs Leiataua said.

"This is what any parent wants is for their children to succeed in life, and especially using their lives to serve God."

The proud mother said this was an important milestone for his son and his wife as they were ready to serve.

The proud Reverend Oata Leiataua of the Malua Parish said this was the day he had worked hard for with his wife Tuafale. He highlighted what his mother shared, saying it's all glory to God.

"This success is dedicated to my mother for being strong and supportive as we studied for two years to become "Faife'au Samoa," he said.

"This is very important so that I can be able to cater to the needs of the church in terms of performing its holy sacraments."

He said it was not easy and the journey had ups and downs.

Another graduate, Ata Lemana was in tears as he reminisced about his journey of becoming a Faife'au Samoa. Being in a wheelchair and studying was not easy but through the love and care of his wife Kuinimeli and their family, they were able to complete their journey.

Rev Ata, 46, said he was looking forward to being ordained and help with any services in performing the sacraments for the faithful people of any parish they will be able to serve.

"My heart is full and I thank God for bringing us to this special day," he said.

From the villages of Manase, Avao and Salailua, Savaii, Rev Ata said he was ready to serve and acknowledged the support of his parents, siblings and all his family.

The 16 church ministers of the CCCS who have been ordained:

Asoiva Saofa'i and May (South New Zealand), Ata Lemana and Kuinimeli (Auckland), Collin Faleto'ese and Aifala (Apia), David Mafua and Leah (Fa'asalele'aga), Fa'afoi Atonio and Taulaga (Fa'asalele'aga), Fa'amoana Fuimaono and Soonasiva (Falealili-Safata-Siumu), Ioane Samuelu and Lufi (Lotofaga- Lepa- Aleipata), La'au Mila Tanielu and Fa'alaniga (Auckland), Limuaa Fue and Kate (Apia East), Mika Su'esu'e te'o and Taliilagi (Falealili-Safata-Siumu), Oata Leiataua and Tuafale (Malua), Paie Legalo and Lolatasi (Lotofaga-Lepa-Aleipata), Paulo Sepuloni and Taufau (Fa'asalele'aga), Pelenato Liufau and Susana (Itu-o-Tane), Peni Manila and Florance (Faleata) and Vite Tuipoloa Kalepo and Ferite (Malua).