Dedication of the Samoan Building

 Yesterday was an exciting day of dedicating the new addition of the Anchorage Samoan Assembly of God building.  It was a large event with many Pastors in attendance.  The event began with a word of prayer and ribbon cutting outside.  Then, we moved inside for the service.  Afterwords, we experienced a feast that was awesome!  We rejoice with Anchorage Samoan Assembly of God at the completion of this project and look forward to hearing more stories of God moving in this place.  Thanks to Odis Ganey for being the project manager and also to Marlan Schoenlaben for his assistance.  It was certainly a team effort.  Thanks to Terry Hull for taking all these pictures.

Pastor Fay leading us in prayer.

Dori Welch was given the honor of cutting the ribbon to the new addition, and Superintendent Welch was asked to be the first to walk through the door.

Pastor Vanilau came to Alaska in 1990 to begin a work to reach the Samoans for Jesus.  There are now 10 Samoan Assembly of God churches in Anchorage, and Pastor Vanilau leads the fellowship of Samoan churches.  We are thankful for his leadership and faithfulness.

Assistant Superintendent Gary Morton led a tremendous prayer of dedication for the new building.  He recalled the prayer of dedication of the new temple of Solomon, with the glory of God's presence filling the place.  

The Alaska Ministry Network presented a gift of a new flat screen TV to Anchorage Samoan Assembly of God to commemorate the occasion.  They will be able to use it in their overflow area.

Pastor Bill brought an excellent message about dedicating the building.  He noted the faithfulness of the Samoans, and also challenged them to continue on in reaching the thousands of Samoans in Anchorage.

One of the leaders in the Hawaii District was present to honor the occasion and was the Master of Ceremonies.

The worship was excellent, and we could sense the presence of the Lord with us.

After the service, we had a feast!  The guests were honored and given gifts.  The Samoans excel at blessing people and are some of the most generous and gracious people that I have encountered.