đź“Ť Mulivai Cathedral, Apia
đź“… 19 June 2025
Today marked a powerful and emotional milestone in the journey of the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) as we gathered in a special Thanksgiving Church Service to commemorate 20 years of unwavering service to the people of Samoa.
Held at the beautiful Mulivai Catholic Cathedral, the celebration was a sacred moment of unity, faith, and reflection — honoring two decades of advocacy, healing, and hope.
The event was graced by the esteemed presence of His Highness, the Head of State of Samoa, Afioga Tuimalealiʻifano Vaʻaletoʻa Sualauvi II, the Deputy Prime Minister, Afioga Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio, as well as Members of Parliament, faith-based leaders, community partners, and friends of SVSG from all walks of life. Their presence not only elevated the occasion but served as a powerful reminder that the mission of SVSG is one that unites all of Samoa — across sectors, statuses, and denominations — around the shared values of protection, dignity, and love.
The celebration was held under the theme:
“Celebrating 20 Years of Partnerships, Saving Lives, and Advancing the Future.”
This message resonated deeply throughout the service, as heartfelt prayers, worship, and testimonies recalled the countless lives touched by SVSG’s work. From supporting victims of sexual and domestic violence to providing shelter for abandoned and vulnerable children at the Campus of Hope, SVSG’s journey has been marked by resilience, compassion, and faith.
Led by spiritual leaders from various faith-based partners, the service centered not on praise for people, but on glorifying God — the source of strength behind every step taken.
“Ia faia mea uma e viia ai le Atua ae le o le tagata.”
Let all things be done to glorify God, not man.
It was a humbling reminder that SVSG’s work — from case management to court support, from psychosocial care to the education and healing provided at the Campus of Hope — is not done for recognition, but in obedience to a higher calling: to serve those in need with love, humility, and courage.
As we reflect on the past 20 years, we are filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the survivors who found the strength to speak. Gratitude for the donors, volunteers, and partners who stood with us. Gratitude for the faith that carried us through the darkest nights.
And as we look ahead, we do so with renewed commitment — to continue the work, to deepen our partnerships, and to strive toward a Samoa where every woman, every child, and every survivor can feel safe, supported, and empowered.
To God be all the glory. May His mighty name be forever praised.
Amen.
#SVSG20Years #ThanksgivingService #LauPuleleAtua #FaithInAction #TogetherForSamoa #CampusOfHope #SVSGSamoa #ServingWithLove
