The family of Savea Leulua’iali’i Tuivaiese II’s gathered at Afega yesterday for their annual thanksgiving service.

Held at the Maota o Tanumafili le Tolotolo, the gathering was well attended.

The ceremony acknowledged the hand of the Almighty God for the achievements of 2016 as well as to seek his blessings at the start of 2017. The service was conducted by Reverend Luapene Nepo, of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa at Afega. 

He reminded the family about God’s faithfulness.

He said there are times when people’s faith is shaken and they begin to doubt God, wondering if he would come through on his promises.

But God is faithful, he reminded.

He urged the family to be persistent, pray and know that God will always be there to help and support them if they trust and obey him.

He told the family to keep their focus on God and keep their faith on him and he would come through, providing whatever is necessary for their welfare.

The family members – including some visiting from overseas – enjoyed the fellowship.

They spent the day catching up and exchanging stories about the past, the present and the future.

The gathering ended with a feast.