Apia West Stake Hosts Multicultural Celebration in Spirit of Unity and Independence

May 31, 2025

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Friday 30 May 2025, Faleata Apia Samoa. As Samoa prepares to celebrate its 63rd Independence Anniversary, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Apia Samoa West Stake, held a vibrant Pre-Conference activity on Friday, embracing the themes of Unity, Culture, and Pride.

The day began with a colorful Float Parade, where members showcased traditional dress, music, and culture from around the globe, including Europe, Oceania, India, South America and South Africa.

The parade ended at Gym 2, Tuanaimato, where the spirit of celebration continued through cultural dance performances.

Seven Wards from Apia West Stake each represented a different region of the world, performing traditional dances that highlighted the uniqueness of various cultures.

Long serving LDS Church leader Faatupunuu Iosua Matuu said the initiative aimed to bring together the shared values of Faith, Family and Community.

“The theme of Unity can be demonstrated by involving our members and especially our youth in activities that helps us to appreciate different cultures,” said Faatupunuu.

“The celebration of diversity involving all 7 Wards in our Stake helps to strengthen unity and fellowship among our Stake members, and set a meaningful start to upcoming Stake Conference.

“It’s also a good way to begin the long weekend for Samoa’s Independence celebrations,” added Faatupunuu.

Apia Samoa West Stake youth were seen dancing and singing with joyful expressions of global diversity. Their eager participation was infectious and Gym 2 erupted into cheering as if an international sporting event was taking place!

In light of Samoa’s Independence Day weekend, the event served as a meaningful reminder of our nation’s own rich heritage while celebrating different cultures from across the globe.

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints brought a positive end to what has been a challenging week for Samoa, celebrating Independence in the same week as the early dissolution of Parliament.

It was a powerful reflection of unity, faith, family and community – both as a people and as members of a global church.

LDS in Samoa

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has a significant presence in Samoa, with a history dating back to the late 19th century and a current membership exceeding 55,000, representing over one in four Samoans.

Stakes and Temples:

In 1962, Samoa became one of the first countries outside the United States to have a stake, and in 1974 it became the first country organized entirely into stakes. The Apia Samoa Temple was dedicated in 1983, rebuilt and rededicated after a fire in 2003.