NZMWF National Executive  — Top row left to right: Tui Salevao, President, Suresa Tufuga, Vice-President and Chaplain, Rosalina Toilolo, National Secretary, Rita Tuimaseve National Treasurer, Janice Auva’a-Walters, Missions Link. Bottom row left to right: Juanita Salevao, Liaison link, Leuluaiali’i Pauline Lauaki-Ah Young, Diaconate Link, Janine Tuivaiti, National Council of Women link, Lautalie Aumua, World Federation of Methodist and Uniting Church Women link and Sharlene Malaeimi.

Navigating Unity and Bearing Fruit: A Samoan Perspective on Our Journey

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Talofa lava and warm greetings. I have had the privilege of serving on the NZMWF Executive alongside a fantastic team of strong Samoan Christian women who have embarked on a transformative two-year journey.

We have come together from all walks of life, united by our common faith and desire to serve others, and guided by our vision to Revive and Unite, inspired by 2 Corinthians 13:11, and fortified by our mission: "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together." I encourage all New Zealand Methodist Women, to "Go and bear fruit, fruit that will last."

Revive and Unite: A Call to Transformation:

"Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, and live in peace. Moreover, the God of love and peace will be with you." - 2 Corinthians 13:11

This verse exhorts us to strive for restoration and unity, challenging us to examine the fractures within ourselves and our community. Through dialogue, collective action, and shared purpose, we have embarked on a journey of healing and unity.

The vision also resonates deeply with our Samoan unity and communal strength values. Our Samoan heritage emphasises the power of Va Fealoa’i - the interconnectedness of relationships. As we worked together, our Samoan heritage became a thread woven into the fabric of our service, drawing us closer to the God of love and peace.

The Power of Collective Progress:

"Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labour.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9

Our mission is encapsulated in the proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together." In an individualistic society, this perspective is revolutionary. Our diverse roles, talents, and backgrounds have become a tapestry of strength. We have seen that the path to enduring impact is marked by cooperative endeavours, underscoring the significance of collective progress in the journey toward a shared goal.

Unity brings strength and prosperity. Our journey exemplified the wisdom of this verse, embodying the essence of Va Tapuia - the sacred connections that bind us. Just as our Samoan community thrives on cooperation, our Executive Team thrives on collaboration, each role harmonizing with the others to create a symphony of service.

Bearing Fruit of Lasting Impact:

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit – fruit that will last.” – John 15:16

These words remind us of the purpose behind our service. We have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit that stands the test of time and speaks to our dedication, love, and unity. This requires a deep commitment to nurturing the wellbeing of those around us, and an understanding that the impact of our actions reverberates through generations.

Jesus Christ's call to bear lasting fruit echoes through the heart of our Samoan culture. Loto Fa’amaoni; a sense of gratitude. Our efforts resonate with this call.

Encouragement for Continued Transformation:

I extend a call to action to the NZMWF. Our journey exemplifies the transformative potential of unity and purpose-driven service. As we look ahead, let us continue to Revive and Unite within our communities. The path to lasting impact requires collective strength, just as the Samoan concept of "Va Tapuia" emphasises unity for growth and transformation.

Let us embrace unity as a catalyst for change, understanding that in accordance lies the power to navigate challenges, cultivate transformation, and create a legacy of love and service that will flourish for generations. May the Spirit of God guide us in this ongoing journey of transformation and unity.

Fa’afetai tele lava. Amene.