Connect

Photograph by Leslie Nilsson

Fofoa V., (left) age 18

Etuale V., (right) age 16, Savali, Samoa

In our family, everyone helps.

Fofoa: Our family believes in working together. My brother Etuale and I gather firewood for cooking. We also help make food to sell. I remember one time when our family didn’t make enough money to pay an expensive water bill, so we all did our part to help. My sister sold barbecue. Etuale and I gathered coconuts and other food and then helped sell the food to raise money. By working hard as a family and trusting God, we were able to get the water turned back on.

Etuale: God helps me with everything in my life. He gives me strength and blesses me every day. I love living in Samoa. It’s very peaceful here. My biggest dream is to serve a full-time mission! I want to offer my two years to God.

Samoa

“Cradle of Polynesia”

Samoa is known as the “Cradle of Polynesia” because Savai’i island is the Polynesian homeland.

Ancient Pyramid

Samoa has its own Ancient Pyramid—the Pulemelei Mound or Star Pyramid.

Apia Samoa Temple

Dedicated August 5, 1983, but burned down in July 2003. Was rebuilt and dedicated September 4, 2005.

First Missionaries

Arrived in 1863.

The Book of Mormon

Translated into Samoan by June 1903.

Ring of Fire

Samoa is part of the Ring of Fire and has one active volcano.

Keith K., 19, Arizona, USA

I’m Keith, and I am an aspiring rapper, music producer, and recording engineer. I have a testimony because I wanted one. I wanted to know that the Church I had spent my whole life in was true. So I studied the scriptures, prayed earnestly, and looked to others in my ward for guidance. And sure enough, through those things, I was able to gain a testimony of the truthfulness of this gospel.

Dzuliah B., 13, Philippines

I love dancing and singing. When I was in fifth grade, I joined an interschool dance competition. Our choreographer decided to have practices on Sundays. Without thinking twice, I went to him and told him that I wouldn’t be available on Sundays because I honor the Sabbath day. He was disappointed, but I remembered my two favorite hymns, “Choose the Right” and “Do What Is Right.” After this incident, I felt the assurance that I did the right thing.