From 13 to 16 April 2025, the Samoa District recently hosted its Youth Camp at the Ululoloa Hall, Church of the Nazarene, with the theme, “You are the Chosen Generation,” translated to the Samoan language, “O Oe O le Tupulaga Autalavou” based on 1 Peter 2:9 [NKJV], “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, the holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the wonderful acts of Him who called you out of darkness into His own marvelous light.” 357 youth, children, and young adults from all the local Nazarene churches in Samoa attended the camp.
District Superintendent Rev. Peniperite Fakaua opened the camp on Sunday, April 13, with the message “Do not love the world or the things in this world” taken from 1 John 2:7-18. DS Fakaua encouraged the youths and children of Samoa to abide in the light, love one another, and resist the allure of worldly things and false teachings.
During the second day, various seminars were held to equip and teach the campers. Rev. Peni gave the workshop on “Holiness and Holy Living,” while Rev. Sharon Latu gave a training on leadership. The participants were engaged throughout the day with games and Bible Quizzes on Genesis led by the NYI Council. The day closed with another evening of Worship with Rev. Talioe Meke, Samoa District Secretary, giving the message from 1 Peter 2:1-10, “You are a chosen generation and who chose you?”
On the third day, the participants continued with vocal training by the music teacher, Ms. Rosa Solomona. Sharon taught about “Discipleship,” and Rev. Talisua Fakaua did a workshop on Nazarene Missions International and how these ministries are essential to the holistic youth ministry. The day came alive as individuals and groups enjoyed the talent show, and finished with an evening service. Rev Ulisese Toafa, South Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary- Samoa Principal shared about Ephesians 1:3-14 with his theme “We are chosen.” He preached that”God chose us in love before the foundation of the world, not because of our works, but for His purpose. As a chosen generation, we are called to live holy lives and be ready when He calls.” The youths and children of Samoa were encouraged to use whatever gifts they may have to serve the Lord at a young age.
On the last day, the day started with games and activities. Rev. Sharon then closed the camp with a sermon titled “Chosen to Go,” taken from Luke 24:1-12. Sharon invited the young people in the altar, and four young people gave their lives to Jesus.
The campers, pastors, and families who attended all shared how blessed and encouraged they were because of the camp. Sharon shared, “Thank you for being of service to God’s calling for His children. The Youth Camp was a success! He is building His church with you, NYI Samoa, and I can’t wait to see how God will use you as the Chosen Generation.”
“Youth Camps were held regularly until 2019. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, camps were put on hold from 2020 to 2023. After a 4-year pause, we resumed with a Youth Camp in 2024. The next Youth Camp is scheduled for 2026. Between now and the next camp, the zones are preparing their youth gatherings, the first to take place on 30–31 May, 2025,” Pisa Fakaua, NYI Vice President, Samoa District.
