Church (the Samoan Way)

Some of you may be surprised to read this, some of you may be happy to read this but I wanted to let you know that I have gone to church the past two Sundays here in American Samoa. The primary reason is that one of my students asked Brenden (my friend and fellow WorldTeach volunteer) and I to come to his church. He thought we might enjoy it because his pastor is a Palagi, therefore, the service is in English. What my student neglected to tell me, not that it really would have made a difference, is that he goes to a Baptist church.

Two weeks ago, after a night of fun, I was awoken by my student knocking at my door telling me that he and his pastor had arrived to take us to church. Since he had woken we up, I stumbled out of bed and threw on some clothes. I'm sure I didn't look too hot. Once we got to church, everyone was excited and pleased as punch that we were there. People introduced themselves, asked where we're from and told us that they we so happy that we joined them. Considering what I've heard about most Samoan services here, this was a pretty short service clocking in around just a hair over an hour. I was happy to have went and happy to see one of my students in a different light.

WELL, then last weekend happened and it was a whole other story. Last Sunday was White Sunday. White Sunday is a holiday in Samoa dedicated to kids. It's sorta like a version of Mother's Day for kids here. See in everyday life here in Samoa, kids do a lot of the work around the house, most of the cooking and cleaning and usually eat last. Their needs tend to be thought of after everyone else in their family. Well not on this day. On White Sunday, kids are served by their parents, they are given lavish gifts and are treated like kings and queens. And what starts it all off is the children leading the service that day including songs and prayers.

So again, Brenden and I are picked up by our student and his pastor and taken to church. Mind you this time our student arrives in a completely white outfit with a festive necklace and a traditional Tongan skirt to go with it. He looked awesome to say the least. Arriving at church for the second week in a row people were thrilled to see us back, I'm hoping they don't think I'm going to make it a regular habit though. Anyhoo, the service was lead by our student and his fellow youth. It was adorable. The little ones were so precious as they recited bible verses and the older ones were so sweet looking as they pledged themselves to God.

I'm glad I went. I'm glad I experienced the day that is White Sunday. I'm glad to have gone to a church in Samoa so I can understand a little bit more how religion has played such a large role in their lives. But I was still not converted. I believe in myself. I have faith in myself. I am not scared easily and I will not be made to believe that I am a constant sinner. What is the point? As long as I am happy with the way I lead my life, then there isn't anything anyone can do about it.

*I'm sorry if I offended anyone with this post. I understand that religion plays an important role in many lives. I do not mean undermine one's faith. I just know what works for me and what doesn't. LOVE TO ALL*