NEWS
The Annual General Assembly of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (EFKS) was once again held in May, bringing together representatives from congregations, districts, committees, and various sectors of the Church. This important gathering provides delegates with an opportunity to discuss the Church’s mission, ministry, and future direction.
The Assembly is traditionally held for over two weeks. During the first week, the Church’s committees meet to deliberate on reports, recommendations, and other matters of importance. The second week is dedicated to the General Assembly, where delegates
gather to discuss and make decisions on issues affecting the life and work of the Church.
A special highlight of this year’s Assembly took place on Saturday, 17 May, when the EFKS Tupulaga (Youth Fellowship) held their annual youth service and programme. This event provides an opportunity for young people from across the Church to gather in worship, fellowship, and celebration. As part of the programme, a selected Matagaluega presents performances showcasing the talents and creativity of their youth. This year, the Matagaluega Niu Sa Uelese (New South Wales) was selected and delivered a memorable presentation that was greatly appreciated by the audience.
Another highlight occurred during the General Assembly week on Tuesday, when the Autalavou of EFKS Letogo performed a series of beautiful traditional dances for assembly participants. Their presentation brought joy and entertainment to delegates and visitors, adding to the spirit of fellowship and celebration throughout the Assembly.
Another important component of this year’s Assembly was the theme, “The Holy Spirit and the Doubting Church,” based on John 20:27. Malua Theological College was represented at the Fono Tele by Rev. Dr Reupena Maulolo and Rev. Prof. Vaitusi Nofoaiga. As part of the programme, Rev. Dr Reupena Maulolo presented a theological paper reflecting on the Assembly theme and the biblical text of John 20:27, contributing
to the Church’s ongoing discussion and reflection on the work of the Holy Spirit amid the challenges and uncertainties it faces.
This year’s Assembly was also a significant occasion for the EFKS leadership, with several important appointments confirmed. Malua Theological College was especially proud to celebrate the appointment of Rev. Assoc. Prof. Visesio Saga, a member of our
faculty, as the new Treasurer of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (EFKS). We congratulate Rev. Saga on this important responsibility and pray for God’s guidance as he undertakes this role in service to the Church. Furthermore, Rev Dr Taipisia Leilua was reaffirmed as General Secretary, Rev Elder Enefatu Lesa was elected Deputy Chairman, and Rev Elder Palemia Tauiliili became the Chairman of the EFKS.
Throughout the two weeks of assembly activities, students of Malua Theological College assisted in maintaining and overseeing the assembly grounds daily. Their service helped ensure that the event ran smoothly and that all participants were welcomed in a safe
environment. In addition, the college canteen remained open throughout the assembly period, providing meals and refreshments for delegates and visitors. The students also supported the Church and its congregations in various ways, demonstrating service and hospitality that reflected the values of our Malua Community.
The Women’s Fellowship of Malua Theological College also played an important role throughout the Assembly. It was led by Mile Nofoaiga and the Faculty Staff’s wives, with the help of the students’ wives. The Faletua assisted in preparing and organising various aspects of the Assembly, ensuring that venues and facilities were ready for the many gatherings and worship services. They also undertook the cleaning and preparation of service areas and were responsible for the beautiful floral and plant arrangements for the worship spaces during the church services.
The Annual General Assembly remains a significant occasion in the life of the EFKS. This Assembly strives for fellowship, dialogue, and collective discernment as the Church seeks to fulfil its mission in Samoa and beyond.
More images to come …
The Malua Theological College PhD programme was formally inaugurated on 11 March 2026 in an induction ceremony that marked the beginning of an exciting journey for all involved, especially for MTC and the EFKS.
The gathering opened with a devotion led by Rev. Prof. Vaitusi Nofoaiga, the college’s principal, who shared a Gospel message on theological growth and service.
This induction brought together our inaugural students, a diverse group that includes Elders, Reverends, recent MTC graduates, and scholarship recipients. We were especially honoured to welcome a scholarship student from Kiribati who joined us in person, underscoring the programme’s regional and international reach.
We were also privileged to have special guests, including Rev. Dr. Latu Latai and Rev. Dr. Aukilani Tuai, former MTC lecturers, who will play an important role in supporting and supervising parts of the PhD programme.
A total of 12 students make up this first group. While many attended in person, others joined via Zoom from abroad – including participants from the United States and Australia – demonstrating the global scope of this initiative.
The induction was not only a formal commencement, but also a celebration of community calling and shared vision. All the best on the journey ahead!
On Thursday, 30 April 2026, the official launch of the Malua Theological College CD was held, marking the completion of a special project that began toward the end of last year. This project arose from the vision of the Principal, Rev. Prof. Vaitusi Nofoaiga, to record and preserve some of the treasured traditional church songs of the EFKS, especially the morning worship hymns. Included in the recording was also the historical song performed by the College for the celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the Fono Tele of the Church, presented during last year’s Fono Tele celebrations.
Work on the recordings began in November 2025, with the assistance and professional expertise of Rev. Letupu Faauuga Matautia. Rev. Matautia played a major role in recording the music.
The recordings took place over three days. On Thursday, 20th November 2025, instrumental recordings were completed in collaboration with Rev. Matautia and members of the Au Asafo (Choir leaders). On Friday, 21 November 2025, the College choir recorded the special songs commemorating the 150 years of the Fono Tele. Then on Monday, the 24th of November 2025, additional EFKS hymns and morning worship songs were recorded.
Following several months of editing and production work by Rev. Matautia, the project was officially completed and launched. The launch was a joyful and meaningful occasion for the College, celebrating not only the preservation of treasured EFKS hymns, but also the continued commitment of the College to share the rich musical heritage of the Church for future generations.
On 31 March, Malua was honoured to welcome representatives from the University of Otago to Malua Theological College. Their visit was a significant moment for our community, reflecting a long-standing partnership grounded in mutual support and shared vision. A highlight of the visit was the generous gifting of 20 laptops to Malua Theological College. These resources will greatly enhance our academic and library services. The laptops were formally presented at the library, where our guests were shown how they are already being put to good use in supporting research and learning within the Malua library. The group also enjoyed a brief tour of the library.
Following this, we gathered at the Fale o Tina for the formal welcome. Dr Mariota Seiuli guided the proceedings, and the programme began with an opening prayer led by Rev. Assoc. Prof. Arthur Wulf. A traditional ava ceremony was then conducted, symbolising hospitality and the safe arrival of our guests from Otago.
An exchange of speeches followed, beginning with the principal, Rev. Prof. Vaitusi Nofoaiga, who expressed gratitude and acknowledged the enduring relationship between Malua and Otago over many years. In response, Vice Chancellor, Honourable Grant Robertson, along with Rev Prof. Murray Rae and Rev. Dr. Terry Pouono, conveyed their appreciation and reaffirmed the strength of this partnership, also offering thanks for the gifts presented by Malua, which were hand-made by Mile Nofoaiga and our very own faletua.
The visit concluded with a shared meal and cultural performance by the Malua community, including singing and traditional dances, celebrating fellowship and the deepening of relationships between our institutions. Thank you, University of Otago, for your generosity, and may God bless this partnership!
It was a privilege to host Prof. Cyril Hovorun, a guest speaker at our college, who offered a thought-provoking reflection on political theology and its implications in today’s world. In his presentation, Prof. Hovorun explored how Christianity has, at times, been weaponized within political systems and used to legitimize power, control, and even injustice. Drawing on historical examples, such as the era of Joseph Stalling, the atrocities of the Holocaust, he highlighted the dangers of aligning theology uncritically with political authority.
Moreover, he described two broad trajectories (tracks) within political theology: one that tends toward conservatism, and another that seeks transformation. While acknowledging these tensions, Prof. Hovorun emphasized that political theology is not inherently negative, but can contribute meaningfully and ethically to public life if approached with discernment. Importantly, the implication of his presentation was: how can we faithfully and responsibly navigate the relationship between Church and State? This sparked a rich and engaging discussion among students and faculty, with many insightful contributions from our community.
The event concluded with a shared meal, providing further opportunities for discussion. We extend our sincere gratitude to Prof. Cyril Hovorun for his time and generosity in engaging with our Malua Community.
On the 12th of March, the College gathered for a fellowship farewell meal in honour of Rev. Esera Esera and Faletua, Pauline Esera and their children, as they prepare to take up a new call to ministry at Cannons Creek in Wellington, New Zealand. The College and the Community shared a meal and warm fellowship, celebrating the family’s faithful service and meaningful contributions to the College’s life.
Rev. Esera Esera has served diligently within the Theology Department as a lecturer, shaping and guiding students in their theological formation. In addition to his academic role, he also carried significant responsibility as the canteen leader, overseeing the daily provisions and practical needs of the Community.
Pauline Esera likewise played an important role within the College, serving on the library team and contributing to the care and management of its resources. Beyond this, she was actively involved in Sunday School, nurturing and teaching the younger kids of the Community.
Their children were also deeply engaged in the life of the College, participating in Sunday School, Literacy, Reading, and other children’s programmes, contributing to the vibrant spirit of Malua.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Esera family for their dedicated service, commitment, and the many ways they have enriched our Community. Prayers and Blessings on this new journey. God Guide!
[posted 05 January 2026]
Please note the following Biblical Books that will be examined for the MTC Entrance Exams in 2026
- Old Testament Exam: JOB
- New Testament Exam: GALATIANS & EPHESIANS
- English Exam
MEDIA LINKS
For the most recent posting of MEDIA LINKS for MALUA, please follow the link provided
PUBLICATIONS
Tafatolu o Tūsiga Faa-Mataupu Silisili a Malua
The College continues to release its most recent edition of The Malua Journal during the Fono Tele each year, as a collection of articles and papers presented by members of the Faculty, during the annual Minister’s Fellowship, as well as at international conferences during the year. This annual publication, predominantly in the Samoan language (with a few English entries), continues as a significant source of theological discourse and critical knowledge.
Downloads
The College releases its bi-annual newsletter I’uleo o le Maluapapa (The Echo of the Rock-Founded Malua) during the Fono Tele and at the Malua Graduation each year. Events and activities in the life and work of the College throughout the year are reported through these publications. The Samoan language is mostly used for these publications, although some reflections and news articles are written in English from time to time.
Downloads
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
151st Malua Theological College
Prize-Giving 2025
Malua Theological College acknowledges with gratitude the following Prizes and Donors for its 151st Prize Giving in 2025
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