Retired Reverend Elder Faasavala Leilua Tinai and his wife, Faletua Lina Leilua Tinai, were among 15 retired ministers honoured in a special ceremony held on Wednesday by the Congregational Christian Church Samoa (CCCS). 

The couple was recognised for nearly four decades of dedicated service to the Faiaai church in Savai'i in the sub-district of Salega from the district of Faasaleleaga.

Born on June 27, 1955, Retired Rev. Elder Faasavala hails from Fusi Safotu, Lafai, Sapapalii, Faleseela, Saleapaga, and Fakaofo in Tokelau. His wife, Faletua Lina, traces her roots to Falevao, Siutu, Salailua, and Saleimoa.

 Retired Reverend Elder Faasavala began his theological journey in 1981 after successfully passing the entrance exam for Malua Theological College on his first attempt. He enrolled in 1982 and graduated in May 1986 during the church’s annual general conference, a year later than expected due to unforeseen challenges. That same year, he married Lina Leilua Tinai on February 4, 1986.

Following his graduation, the first church to request retired Rev. Elder Faasavala and his wife was the congregation church in Faiaai. According to the reverend, it was his father who answered the call on his behalf, despite multiple requests from other churches. He said he never regretted that decision, saying yes to the first church that requested them.

From 1986 to 2025, Retired Rev. Elder Faasavala and Faletua Lina faithfully served the Faiaai congregation for 39 years, retiring this year with honour and gratitude.

Before attending Malua, Retired Rev. Elder Faasavala was a student at Samoa College and later continued his studies at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Alafua, as it was known back then by another name before being officially renamed during his final year. He also worked at the Office of Agriculture before entering the ministry.

Throughout his pastoral career, Retired Rev. Elder Faasavala held numerous leadership roles, including secretary for the Salega sub-district, member of the finance committee for the Faasaleleaga district, and elder representative for both Salega and Faasaleleaga. He was also a representative for the Christian School Committee.

Now 69 years old, retired Rev. Elder Faasavala reflected proudly on his years of service: “I thank the Lord for my time of service in Faiaai Church, despite the many challenges. But we made it. I am here today as a retired reverend. 

Looking ahead, Reverend Faasavala said he is ready to embrace a quieter chapter in life. His plans include focusing on his family, spending quality time with his children, and travelling overseas. However, he and his wife have no intentions of relocating, preferring instead to continue living in Samoa, where their hearts remain, even if most of their family resides abroad.

The CCCS retirement ceremony recognised the unwavering dedication and spiritual leadership of all 15 ministers, including Retired Reverend Elder Faasavala, whose contributions have left lasting impacts on their congregations and communities.