Hey PPN Family,

I hope you all had some time to rest and recharge over the school holidays. Not to brag, but I took four weeks of long service leave—so I still have a week and a bit to go! 

We’ve spent the last week in cold and wintry New Zealand, but we began our holiday with 11 beautiful days in warm and sunny Samoa. It was a particularly special trip because my mum was able to take her children and grandchildren back to her villages, sharing with us the stories of our ancestors and the heritage we are blessed to be part of.

One of the most significant places we visited was the village of Avao, where there is a monument commemorating the Samoans who helped translate the first Samoan Bible from 1855-1858. Among the names on the monument was Maiava Afele—my great-grandfather. Standing there beside that monument, I felt deeply honoured and humbled. To know that my great-grandfather played a role in bringing the Word of God to his people in their own language reminded me of the incredible legacy we each inherit—and the calling we all share.

God has given each of us gifts—not just for our own benefit, but to build up His kingdom. Whether it's through words, service, leadership, teaching, creativity, or compassion, we are invited to use what He has given us to bless others and to point them to Jesus.

This is exactly what Jesus was teaching in His parable about the servants who were given gifts. He shows us how pleased God is when we use the gifts He has entrusted to us. The master says to the faithful servant: "Well done, my

good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!" (Matthew 25:21, NLT).

As we begin this new term together, may we be encouraged to carry our stories and gifts with purpose. Let’s support one another, serve wholeheartedly, and seek every opportunity to reflect the love and light of Christ in all that we do.

Blessings,

Roland Talamaivao-Amituanai