After 25 years of dedicated service to the Villawood Congregational Church in Sydney, Retired Reverend Elder Isaako Iose Patea and his wife, Tavai Patea, have officially retired from their duties. 

The couple was honoured during a special ceremony on Wednesday, alongside other retiring reverends, celebrating their years of commitment and leadership within the church and broader community.

Born on October 28, 1955, Rev. Elder Isaako hails from Sapunoa, Maagiagi, and Sapapali'i. His wife, Tavai, is from Salelologa and Vailoa Palauli. The couple was married on March 23, 1985, and have since been partners in faith and ministry.

In 1996, Rev. Elder Isaako answered the call to ministry by enrolling at Malua Theological College in Samoa. He graduated in 1999 and a year later, on December 23, 2000, began his pastoral journey at the Villawood Congregation Church in the Sydney sub-district of New South Wales, Australia.

Throughout his 25-year ministry, Rev. Elder Isaako held numerous leadership roles. He served five years as a member of the finance committee, was an elder for four years, participated in the Sydney sub-district committee, and held the position of secretary for the Sydney district for five years.

Before his pastoral career, Rev. Elder Isaako was born and raised in Samoa and later lived in New Zealand, where he worked as a taxi and bus driver. Reflecting on his journey, he shared his motivation for becoming a pastor: “I wanted to offer my life in serving the Lord. There are many jobs in life, but serving the Lord is different, which is why I took the entrance exam to be a reverend—to serve the Lord and the church.”

Now stepping into retirement, Rev. Elder Isaako looks forward to spending more time with his family. However, he emphasised that this is not the end of his spiritual journey. He remains committed to supporting the church in various capacities, including leading services and participating in church activities.

His legacy of faith, service, and leadership leaves a lasting impact on the Villawood congregation and the wider Samoan community in Australia.