Starting a new year is always a special moment, and January 2025 was no exception for our EFKS family. As we turned the page into another year, the SULU SAMOA devotional reminded us to thank God for His faithful guidance and loving patience that carried us through the past and gives us hope for the journey ahead. January’s reflections called us to embrace fresh beginnings, walk wisely with God, and make choices that honour Him in every part of our lives.
Theme of the Month: The Power of the Loved Sheep
- The main message centered on “O le Malosipaoa, O le Mamoe Ua Alofaina” (The power of the loved sheep).
- The story of David, Nathan, and the “little ewe lamb” (2 Samuel 12) was used to explore how power and leadership should be used with love and justice—not for selfish gain.
- We were reminded that God sees and values the humble, the voiceless, and the overlooked, and that God’s justice will always lift up those who are mistreated.
Leadership & Power: Using Influence for Good
- Power and authority are blessings from God, meant to be used for the good of all—whether in families, schools, churches, or communities.
- Abuse of power leads to injustice and suffering, but God calls us to stand up for what’s right, even if it means challenging those in authority.
- The newsletter challenged us to be like Nathan—courageous enough to speak truth and defend the vulnerable.
Youth Sunday (Aso Sa Tupulaga): Your Calling Matters
- January included a strong focus on young people, reminding us that our voices and choices matter in the church and in society.
- We’re called to be “fitafita tau a Keriso” (warriors for Christ), standing up for justice, faith, and truth in a world full of challenges.
- Encouragement for all youth: Get involved in your faith journey—whether it’s Sunday School, Bible reading, youth group, or choir.
Pacific Forum & Church Developments
- EFKS hosted the Pacific Members Meeting Forum (MMF) at Malua, with the theme “Togetherness in Transformation.”
- Leaders and theologians from across the Pacific discussed decolonizing education, gender justice, and the importance of Pacific wisdom and storytelling.
- The forum highlighted the need for unity, respect for all cultures, and the power of working together for positive change.
Celebrating New Beginnings
- EFKS Vaiala dedicated new buildings and facilities, celebrating the faith, sacrifices, and teamwork that made them possible.
- These milestones are a reminder that with God and community, big dreams can become reality.
Welcoming the Next Generation of Leaders
- The Malua Theological College welcomed its new first-year class, encouraging them to become “fishers of people” and future leaders for the church.
- Shoutout to all the new students stepping into ministry—your journey is just beginning!
Real Talk: Modern Challenges
- The newsletter addressed real issues facing young people today—like the dangers of social media, substance abuse, and the silencing of youth voices.
- We’re encouraged to use technology wisely, speak with kindness, and avoid anything that leads us or others away from God’s best.
A Call to Action for Youth
- Stand up for justice and be a voice for those who don’t have one.
- Lead by example in your family, school, and church.
- Remember: Even if you feel small or overlooked, you are “mamoe ua alofaina”—the loved sheep of God, valued and protected by Him.
Looking Forward
As you head into the rest of 2025, remember the lessons of January:
- Use your influence for good.
- Stand up for what’s right.
- Get involved in your faith community.
- Trust that God sees you, loves you, and calls you to make a difference.
“Afai ua au ma i tatou le Atua, o ai e faasagatau mai ia i tatou?”
(If God is for us, who can be against us?)
