Viriditas2: Soul Greening
Interviewed by Sister Malia Dominica Wong, OP
Hawaii Catholic Herald
For more than 52 years, faith has been the foundation of my life at St. Elizabeth Church in Aiea. Through prayer, family and music, God has guided me through life’s challenges and given me the strength to pass my faith on to future generations.
My faith began at home in Western Samoa, where I grew up watching my mother pray the rosary every day. Sometimes we prayed together as a family, but even when we were apart, she was always faithful to her prayers.
My father was more laid-back, but my mother’s example left a lasting impression on me. Watching her taught me to keep God at the center of my life.
That devotion has stayed with me. I continue to pray the rosary and encourage my children and grandchildren to do the same. I remind them to begin each day by thanking God. Before putting their feet on the floor in the morning, they should remember to thank him for the gift of another day. Without God, we cannot do anything. This is the message I have always shared with my family.
My husband, Iosefo, and I married in Samoa in 1968. We later came to Hawaii with our first child, Soane, who was just 10 months old. Life was not always easy. Raising a family, which later included Peter and Pina, while living in public housing brought challenges, but faith helped us persevere.
We encouraged our children to participate in church activities and sports, balancing their spiritual lives with activities they enjoyed. Living near St. Elizabeth also allowed us to walk to church and remain connected to our parish.
Music has been another important part of my faith journey. I have been involved with the church choir informally for 52 years, and formally for 50 years.
Singing continues to bring me joy. I believe singing is another way of praying. As the saying goes, “Whoever sings prays twice.” Every song is an opportunity to praise God and strengthen my relationship with him.
My children grew up surrounded by faith and music, and all five of my grandchildren have also sung in the choir. Sometimes I become frustrated when family members arrive late for Mass, but I continue to encourage them. I know they love God, and I trust that the lessons planted in their hearts will continue to grow.
Preserving our Samoan heritage is equally important to me. I spoke Samoan to my children at home so they would learn our language. When they started school, English gradually became their stronger language. Today, they understand Samoan, even if speaking it is more difficult. Samoan songs help keep our language and traditions alive.
I have three children, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. My hope is that each generation will continue to know God, remember the power of prayer, and appreciate the faith and culture passed down to them.
My message to my family is simple: Keep God close to your heart. Pray every day, give thanks for each new morning, and never forget that we need him in everything we do.
Faith has carried me through the years, and I pray it will continue to guide my family for generations to come.