Western Samoa

The gathering of the precious things of the nations reaches out beyond the major nations of the world to the small island groups in the vast Pacific Ocean. Since the work began in earnest in these countries in the 1950’s, 26 Gilead graduates and 24 other missionaries and special pioneers from overseas have served in the five countries under the Western Samoa branch. Fruitage of their work is seen in the 650 publishers now serving on these remote islands. About five years ago, a crucial need developed for new facilities. Why was that?

In addition to brothers scattered among the 59 inhabited islands under the branch, congregations using Pacific-island languages had developed among the large expatriate communities in Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, and California. Although they are few in number, the spiritual feeding of these dear ones is important. (Isa. 42:10, 12) Jehovah shows concern for his people no matter where they are found. Reflecting this viewpoint, the Governing Body has worked to strengthen translation into the four Polynesian languages used in these islands, namely, Samoan, Tokelauan, Tongan, and Tuvaluan. Brothers and sisters have been trained in translating, proofreading, and the composing of publications on a computer.

Regardless of the small circulation, the same amount of work, manpower, and facilities is needed for translating publications into these languages as for those spoken by millions of people. By 1990 space at the old branch (a converted missionary home) was at a premium. A much larger building was needed, and the Governing Body approved the project.

However, how was the construction work to be done? Traditional houses in Samoa are built with local materials and have no walls, only poles to support the roof, so most local brothers are totally unfamiliar with the building systems used for constructing a modern branch.

The answer came by means of our international brotherhood. The Brooklyn Construction Office and the Regional Engineering Office in Australia prepared the plans, designing the building to withstand earthquakes and cyclones. Forty-four international servants and 69 international volunteers provided the needed expertise during the three and a half years of construction. Not only did they train 38 local brothers and sisters who worked full-time on the project as well as many part-timers but they also enhanced the spirituality of the local congregations. The experience and skills gained on the construction site have already helped local brothers in building Kingdom Halls.

Dedication day was November 20, 1993. John Barr of the Governing Body delivered the dedication talk. All in attendance enthusiastically responded to the resolution dedicating the branch to Jehovah’s service.

Western Samoa,