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The Samoan Ekalesia consists of a leadership group (table/laulau) comprising of a Minister, Secretary,
Treasurer, Eldership and supportive Samoan congregational members of all ages.
11am Sunday morning combined English service involves the Samoan Group worshiping with the other PIC Newton groups and weekly parishioners. Additionally in the afternoon, the Samoan group have their own 5pm service in the Samoan language. On the first Sunday of the month the Samoan Autalavou (Young people) have their service at 3pm. There is no 5pm service on this particular Sunday.
Groups under the Samoan Itupa:
Aufaipese is the foundation choir of the Samoan group, made up of 2x Choir leads (ta’ita’i pese) providing musical accompaniment in services and events bringing people together through traditional and modern worship. Their singing is filled with spiritual fervor moving audiences with soulful and cultural renditions. The Aufaipese was formed as the base choir for the Samoan group however has decreased over the years due to being made up of elderly parishioners.
Mafutaga Tinā (Women’s Fellowship) is a dedicated and faithful group made up of Samoan Mothers. This group is led and guided by the Ministers wife (Faletua) and supported by their laulau nurturing the spirit of motherhood and leadership. These women are pillars or strength and service with their monthly services and prayer meetings on Saturdays, regular upkeep of the Church flowers and Lectern and Communion Table Decor. Their gatherings are not just about fellowship but a shared belief and work for the church, contributing to wellbeing, mission/visitation work and support for the needy.
The Autalavou Although translated as Youth / Young People, culturally there is no clear age distinction to being ‘youth’ hence the Autalavou consists of babies and children, to grandparents in their 80’s. The Autalavou reflects the evolution of Samoan people in New Zealand, made up of 2nd and 3rd generation Samoans who are more engaged with technology and life in the current age. The Autalavou bridges generation gaps, fostering a sense of belonging and respect amongst its members. Through various activities such as sports, cultural exchange and involvement in church choral events, the Autalavou promotes education, language, values, responsibility and traditions that are passed down and adapted for the future.
Ta Laau(Musicians) This group makes up our musicians responsible for Sunday worship at 11am English and 5pm Sunday services. Ta laau lead the teaching and worship of both the Aufaipese and Autalavou.
Lima Taumatau (Helping Hands) This group consists of faithful members who are the hands and feet of the Samoan group. Mainly responsible for the care of resources and the set up of food and cultural events, made up of able-bodied elders.
