The Mulivai Catholic Cathedral was packed as Samoa came together to celebrate and witness the commencement of the 63rd Independence Day celebration. 

The Thanksgiving service, a tradition steeped in reverence and unity, drew a congregation of esteemed guests, including government leaders, church dignitaries, officials, and community members. 

Reverend Faulalo Leti led the service. His sermon resonated deeply with those in attendance, focusing on themes of unity, harmony and peace. He stressed that today is the day when we should think deeply about whether we are working for the country or ourselves. Drawing inspiration from Jesus' life, where he only asks his father for his disciples to be one, because if they are one in spirit and heart, everything will be easy. 

"Our country, which is listening every day, does not know where to stand, they don't know what is right and what is wrong, but if we unite and work towards something better for our country, then we will be one in unity. We will find love for one another. I have no other words because we have dissolved our parliament, it's not like if I make this sermon, then there will be a chance of uniting them again. However, the message for you, Samoa, let's work towards uniting Samoa to become one. That is God's will for his children," he said.

He emphasised that Independence Day is a day of joy, not sadness. It is a day to give thanks to God for the freedom Samoa has gained through their ancestors who have gone before us. They died and were injured just to gain independence for Samoa.

"May what happened to our Government be a lesson for us to look for ways to better our country and to move forward. I believe in Parliament, a lot of things were done selfishly, and as you all know, selfishness is the root of all evil."

He also reminded the Parliamentarians that humility was lacking in them. He used Jesus' life to draw inspiration, where Jesus told his disciples that if they wanted to be the best or be number one, they should serve others instead of being served. Let what happened to our Government be a lesson for the next. Another thing he wanted to remind Samoa was that obedience is very important. 

"God has long known what parliament should do, but we often don't listen. But God has already prepared all these things for the good of Samoa. All speeches delivered by Parliament are the words spoken by those who support them. Wherever we go, the people will go; if we lead them to the wrong way, they will still follow."

Rev Faulalo also reminded of the strong language used on social media, which has damaged the reputations of families and individuals. He begs Samoa to remember to respect each other. 

The service saw participation from a diverse array of dignitaries, including leaders from the governments of American Samoa as well as members of the Diplomatic Corps.

The formal celebrations for Samoa's Independence are set to continue on Monday in front of the Government building at Eleele Fou. This year's program reflects a conscious decision by the Cabinet to scale down the annual activities, reserving grand celebrations for milestone years. The scaled-back observances will include essential elements such as the Thanksgiving service, a government-led ceremony, the traditional flag hoisting, and an Independence Day parade. 

Looking ahead, the government will only plan grand celebrations every five years, which means the next big celebration will be for the 65th Independence Day celebration.