Preparing for the Fono

Greetings to you all in name of our Lord and Saviour. It's been uplifting to read and see all the positive interaction here. Our brothers and sisters from Aukilani i Sasa'e are so glad that they get to catch up here on the blog. This has made them even more eager to see you at the upcoming Fono. We've heard a number of you are already making plans and even practicing. Let's see what our family out in the east of Auckland have been up to!

Ta'aloga a le Tupulaga 1

Grey Lynn Park, Saturday 30th January - Monday 1st February 2010. Remember these dates! The PIPC Tupulaga and Autalavou groups from across Auckland met on the sporting field after many years apart.

Today was a fantastic end to what has been a historical and joyous occasion for PIPC parishes all around Auckland! Especially for all the Tupulaga and their families that attended.

Some teary eyed - nostalgic, joyful as the games unfolded. Some thinking back to the days that have passed at locations such as Pt England and Sacred Heart. Full parks of sporting teams taking their places on cricket pitches, volley courts, touch fields, athletics...our children experiencing for themselves what has been a passion of their parents, grandparents and church leaders of the past and present.

The soul was certainly warmed by the enthusiasm seen in all ages and teams during this long weekend. An obvious sign that this was something we've all been longing to have.

A heart felt note of thanks goes to the Matagaluega o Matu committees (North Shore, Owairaka and Newton) - who decided to get the ball rolling. God's name be praised and glorified in your efforts this weekend. We all loved what you provided for us. This is a historical event, one that will help us to continue growing towards Jesus who is the head of our fellowship. As Reverend Ma'afala shared, the real reason for our sporting fellowship is much more than sport. It's about 'Mafutaga', learning to love and grow together through the God given talents we have.

Congratulations to the many people who won awards during the prize giving. Also to all who attended, as the rep from Matu shared - it wouldn't have been successful without the support of all those present. Including our parents and grandparents who supported us all day.

May God grant us more opportunities as such. To Him be all glory - great things he hath done.

Please be sure to leave a comment to share how you found the two days of fellowship through Kilikiti, Volley and touch. Not to mention all the singing, dancing and laughing we had! We look forward to posting more from the Tupulaga of Aotearoa. God willing we will see you all again at the Fono Samoa in April.

God is good - ALL THE TIME!!