OUR CORE BELIEFS

• Worship God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit – Through collective services and spiritual growth, honoring our heritage and embracing diverse expressions of faith

• Serve Others – Extend compassion and support to those in need within our congregation, and the greater community. Build fellowship and joy through other communal activities, fostering unity and support among members and the secular community.

• Cultivate Fellowship – Strengthen bonds among members through worship, prayer, bible study, cultural and social activities, nurturing a spirit of togetherness and mutual respect.

• Promote Education – Encourage lifelong scripture learning learning and spiritual development, providing resources for all ages to deepen their understanding of Christian Values.

Vai O le Ola Church was established on March 8, 1998 by Reverend Elder Andy Leavasa and his wife Losivale Leavasa with the first worship services held in the home of one of our deacons in Park Village, Compton, California. Many of the founding families, alongside Aoao Fesoasoani Tuilaepa Pepe, came from our sister church, EFKS Dominguez in Compton, where Reverend Elder Liki Tiatia served. Their shared faith and commitment helped lay the foundation for what would become a thriving church community.

As the church grew, we moved to Woodruff Community Church in Long Beach. In 2006, we were blessed to acquire our own church building in Lakewood, located at 5420 Clark Ave, where we still worship today.

In 2023, we mourned the passing of Reverend Elder Andy Leavasa, our beloved founder and spiritual leader. Following his passing, the leadership of Vai O le Ola Church was entrusted to Aoao Fesoasoani Fa’aea Tulifau and his wife Dr. Mafutaga Tagaloa-Tulifau, who faithfully took on the responsibility of caring for the congregation.

In 2024, we were blessed with Reverend Petero Taufagu and his wife Soaimaile Taufagu, as the new pastoral leadership of our church. They currently shepherd our community with dedication and grace, continuing the legacy of faith, love, and service.

Vai O le Ola is affiliated with the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (EFKS) and the United Church of Christ (UCC)

The Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (EFKS) was established in 1830 by early Christian missionaries. John Williams of the London Missionary Society (LMS) arrived in Sapapali’i, Savai’i, bringing the Gospel to Samoa. With the support of local chiefs, including Malietoa, Christianity spread rapidly. The Bible was translated into Gagana Samoa, Malua Theological College was established, and many traditional beliefs were replaced with Christian teachings. By the mid-19th century, Samoa had embraced Christianity, forever shaping its culture and identity.

Today EFKS is a global church with a strong presence in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, supporting the Samoan diaspora. Committed to faith, family, and community, the church adapts to the needs of a new generation while preserving its cultural heritage. With a worldwide network, EFKS strengthens the global Samoan community, promoting unity, service, and Christian faith.