White Sundays are always special in Samoa.

But there was extra feeling during the occasion at E.F.K.S. Levi Saleimoa last Sunday.

Having seen that the Town Clock had been painted pink for Pinktober to promote cancer awareness, the church wanted to show their full support for the cause.

Reverend Isaako and his wife, Pereise Apelu Viki, led from the front. 

Rev. Isaako for instance had shaved his hair as his contribution to the cause.

It was a personal dedication for his family, friends, survivors who have suffered and are suffering from the disease. 

He has witnessed the severity of breast cancer with his sister in law, Louisa Papali’i, but also other loved ones who have and continue to suffer fromother forms of cancer.  

The Pastor was also inspired by other cancer champions such as the Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi and many community leaders.

But words without action are empty. And to show that they genuinely wanted to lend a helping hand, the Sunday school at the end of their white Sunday – donated their “Sene” worth $500 to the Samoa Cancer Society. 

Shelley Burich of Samoa Cancer Society was presented with the small gift and she is extremely grateful.

As for the actual service, the congregation was reminded about the  importance of raising awareness on breast cancer and all other forms of cancer. 

Rev Isaako Tupai in his shy but humble word of the day said: “Ia fai sou aoga mo le feau ma le talalelei a le Atua.  Fai sou aoga e faalauiloa le feau o le alofa, sina upu alofa, sina mealofa itititi ma le fautauvaa ae au’a nei ia tei tatou a ia le Atua.” 

Translated in English, make good use of the opportunity to spread, share and show actions and words of love.

The E.F.K.S. Levi Saleimoa Sunday school vasega feololo and matutua together with their Sunday school teach Elaine Tuaitapuono Betham put together a “ie tui” for the podiums using green leaves of the lauti and pink leafs of the  teuila flower to signify the gift of life – Nurtured, protected and valued at all times. 

According to the kids: “We do not have money as we are still in school but this we can do with our hands and time… to all the cancer patients, survivors, be strong and have faith.”