The Apostolic Church of the Cook Islands bid farewell to three Samoan students who recently completed their five to six years of training in Rarotonga and graduated as full-time pastors and evangelists.

The students concluded their training last December and graduated during the three-day General Council 2023. They will serve in their home country of Samoa and American Samoa.

Bishop Tutai Pere of the Apostolic Church acknowledged three Cook Islands missionaries who have served in Samoa: Pastor Tereapii Amataiti (Apia, 2014-2020), Pastor Mehau Pate Samuel (American Samoa, since 2016), and Pastor Tangaroa Tekeu Uea (2022-2023). Amataiti has relocated to Melbourne, Australia, and was replaced by Pastor Noo Mataiti.

“We are trusting the three Samoans Elder Faaiu Asofa (male), Elder Tasi Williams (female) and Elder Faafoi Lualua (male) will do well amongst their own families, kindreds and whoever else the Lord shall call,” said Bishop Pere.

A celebration is planned for this Sunday, both at 10am and 6pm, where the graduates “will be at centre stage to showcase the Jesus they had walked with and learned from throughout their training in Rarotonga”.

Bishop Pere expressed sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone who contributed to the students’ upbringing, both within the church and in the wider community. He highlighted their participation in various activities, including bereavement services, government and national thanksgiving services, catering, hospital visits, prison ministry, youth rallies, gospel crusades, and visits with the elderly.

He further commended their development of various skills beyond their core religious training, including basic carpentry, electrical work, welding, tiling, plumbing, house maintenance, and homestead handiwork.

“We shall miss you all very much but Jesus needs you more in his soul salvation ministry. Go, be fruitful and multiply.”

The three graduates will depart on Tuesday, February 27, accompanied by Bishop Pere and Deacon Walter Marearai.

“Tofa Soifua, Aere ra e kia manuia rava!”