By Landen Muasau
Although young people have not been able to gather together in church services because of the pandemic, the Kapolei Sāmoan Seventh-day Adventist Youth (KSY) have continued to claim 2020 through creative and innovative ways, including digital services, Bible studies, small groups, social events (e.g., beach picnics, sports night at the park), and more. However, one activity that stands out more than the rest is a visiting ministry.
The ministry is structured around important concepts that honor the values of their Sāmoan heritage. In the event of an opportunity for ministry, the members of KSY keep three core pillars in the forefront.
Humility
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God” (1 Peter 5:6, ESV).
The visit begins with the youth sitting on the floor of the home, regardless of condition. In the Sāmoan culture, sitting on the floor is a gesture of humility, showing that one is less important. It is an act that brings the youth to a level of humbleness. The visits are not made for recognition or to count every good deed done. They truly are made for one purpose: to serve.
Sharing the love of Christ
“Music…is one of the most effective means of impressing the heart with spiritual truth” (Ellen G. White, The Faith I Live By, p. 273).
The brief visit combines prayers, words of encouragement, gift-giving, and the pinnacle of it all: the melodious singing of hymns. Sāmoan hymns are traditionally sung a cappella, in a beautiful weaving of harmony. The singing soothes the brokenhearted, uplifts the aching soul, and brings strength to the spirit.
Giving
“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7, NKJV).
Before heading to a person’s home for the visit, the youth prepare gifts in the form of food, cases of water or juice, and/or monetary donations. The sacrificial giving has been a spiritual growth experience for the youth, considering that three-fourths of them are not working. The ministry provides avenues for the youth to witness, but it is also a way for them to build their spiritual lives through the act of service.
The past couple of months have been filled with uncertainty, but KSY continues to take every opportunity to witness with grace and love. The gospel of Christ continues to thrive in Hawaii, even in the midst of the pandemic.
