Do you want to learn my Tongan language? 1. Malo e lelei = Hello. 2. Malo = Thank you. 3. Malo ‘aupito = Thank you very much.
Malo e lelei, my name is Akosita Tangi, a student minister of the Uniting Church from the Centre for Ministry at North Parramatta where I live and study on the land of the Burramattagal of the Dharug nation.
It has been an outstanding opportunity to complete my field placement in South Sydney this year. I’ve been serving with South Sydney Uniting Church in Waterloo, a welcoming and inclusive church, under the guidance of the Rev. Andrew Collis. Malo, Faifekau (Minister).
I can boldly say that I am blessed to have witnessed this congregation’s open heartedness. Members of the congregation, community and garden have walked alongside me, making my time so memorable, so real and so fun.
One Sunday, early in my placement, I mentioned to musician and artist Norrie that I’d always wanted to play guitar. The very next week Norrie presented me with a baritone ukulele and week after week has helped me to play. Malo ‘aupito, Norrie.
I’ve had the chance to do new things and to taste new things too, like lentil soup, haha yum!
As we are in the Advent season, may we walk humbly in amanaki (hope), melino (peace), fiefia (joy), ‘ofa (love).
Let us always be mindful of those who are hurting, lost, abandoned and alone. May we offer them hope through the birth of Jesus Christ.
Malo ‘aupito!
