The biggest denomination in the country, the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (C.C.C.S), has borrowed $15million from the Samoa National Provident Fund (S.N.P.F).
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Confirmed by the Chairman of the Church’s Finance Committee, Le Mamea Ropati Mualia, the loan is to fund the construction of the Jubilee Church at Malua and “other developments”.
Le Mamea could not say what the “other developments” were.
However, he told the Samoa Observer earlier this week that the loan was taken out before this year’s Annual Conference “The $15million is not only to complete the construction of the Jubilee Church, it is also to fund the other developments by the Church,” he said.
The construction of the Jubilee Church started last year.
Carried out by Shanghai Construction and other companies, the project has so far cost $13million.
Le Mamea said that, in his capacity as the Chairman of the Finance Committee, they are working extremely hard to control the church’s spending.
Asked how the church plans to repay the loan, he said it should not be a problem.
“We have our annual faigataulaga (offering) where we anticipate to collect enough money to pay for it,” he said.
“As with this church, we work hard and depend on God’s provision for the extension of his Kingdom on Earth.”
Le Mamea declined to comment on the status of the John Williams Building renovation contract with South Pacific Cladding.
The ground-breaking ceremony for the Jubilee Church took place last year.
Speaking during the ceremony, former General Secretary Reverend Dr. Iutisone Salevao said six companies submitted bids for the construction.
The Church then awarded the main contract to Shanghai Construction, with Fletcher Construction doing the framework. South Pacific Cladding is also involved.
“The length is 51metres; width is 31 metres, 23 metres for the height and 1,500 square meters for the total capacity,” he said.
“The steeple is 11 metres so the total height of the Jubilee is 34 metres.”
He also confirmed the base would be raised due to threats from severe events such as climate change and tsunami.
Vice Chairman, Reverend Elder. Senara Tautiaga encouraged everyone, especially members of the congregation, to stay strong in the Lord.
“The breaking of the ground this morning is opening doors for all to plant good seed, great hope symbolizes God’s perfection in his timing and blessings,” he said.
“This is why we are here today – in spite of all the challenges and despite all the odds – the gracious hand of God is on us.
“Believe it and we shall receive it, and that’s what we are focusing on this morning as we all gathered together to break the ground for the construction of this new Jubilee.”
He referred to Psalms: “If God doesn't build the house, the builders only build shacks. If God doesn't guard the city, the night watchman might as well nap.
“Let our God start it, continue it and finish it and may his holy name be glorified.”
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