Hawaii Catholic Herald
The energy and joy were palpable in St. Elizabeth Church Oct. 4 as the Aiea parish’s Samoan choir celebrated its 50-year anniversary during a Mass of thanksgiving that was filled with culture, tradition, symbolism and love for the Lord.
Bishop Michael T.T. Castori, SJ, celebrated the Mass. He was joined by St. Elizabeth’s current pastor, Father Sebastian Soosai; former pastor, Capuchin Franciscan Father Mike Dalton; and current parochial vicar, Father Royd Mweemba. Father Ese’ese “Ace” Tui represented the Samoan community across the diocese. Father Arrion Rosales-Llantos, St. Elizabeth’s former parochial vicar, was also on hand as a master of ceremony.
Cultural traditions were on display throughout the liturgy — starting with the “ifoga,” or expression of humility, repentance, forgiveness and reconciliation, during which two choir members kneeled beneath a fine mat called an “ie toga” as Bishop Castori prayed over them.
The Liturgy of the Word was introduced with a procession of attendants bearing the Word of God. The offertory was preceded by three dancers — children of choir members — performing a joyful “taulaga”/“moliga” down the church aisles, representing faith, gratitude and honor.
Then, in addition to the bread and wine, other cultural gifts such as flowers and fine mats were also brought forward and placed around the altar.
A powerful reflection song and buoyant recessional hymn sent the packed congregation off on a high note.
