Sr Folola Sala celebrated her 25th year anniversary as a FMA in a way that is only fitting for someone who chose to follow the motto “Serve the Lord with Joy” – a joyful celebration surrounded by friends and family!
The day’s events started off early with a 6.00 am Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Archbishop Alapati, concelebrated with parish priest Fr Visesio. The truly Samoan, Salesian celebration, full of beautiful singing and touching music, was televised by the Catholic Media station, Upu Mana TV.
The celebration was perfectly simple, focused on giving thanks and praise for the journey of Sr Folola so far, and all the good she has done in service to God and the young. After the homily, all the sisters renewed their vows together, led by Sr. Folola.
Sr Folola's Celebration was a beautiful experience for all present!
Most of the guests were from Sr. Folola's family, the Sisters' families, staff, the SDBs and the Cooperators, Past Pupils, and friends of Folola. This gathered congregation were great witness to the commitment and fidelity of Sr. Folola and the sisters in general, who have been able to unite so many people.
After the renewal of the vows, the Sisters as a whole group broke out in song, with a beautiful rendition of the Magnificat. Of course, the mass was followed by a delicious meal, speeches and entertainment.
No true celebration is complete without cake!
“I thank God for all these beautiful years given to me, years of blessings, challenges, joys and fidelity as FMA” said Sr. Folola. I thank God for the great gifts of my FMA sisters for journeying with and supporting me through prayers and their unconditional love through my journey.”
“ I thank God too for all my friends and my family for their prayers and un-ending support even though my parents were not here with me to celebrate this milestone of my life but they are celebrating with me in heaven.”
In the absence of Provinical Sr. Louise, or any of the Sisters from Australia, due to COVID-19 lockdowns, Sr. Sialei spoke on behalf of the SPR Province.
We rejoice with Folola and we hope the witness of her life and dedication to the Salesian Charism, to our founder Mary Mazzarello and to the young, will inspire many vocations to our Congregation.