The Government of Samoa has called on the National Council of Churches to consider and advise on the future of non-Christian beliefs in the country.
According to Samoa Global News, Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt said this must be carefully considered going forward, as a way to protect Samoa from religious extremism and violence, referencing global conflicts now affecting neighboring countries.
In 2017, Samoa’s Parliament moved to amend the country’s Constitution to declare it a Christian nation founded on God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, changing it from a secular state.
Previously, the Preamble of the Constitution described Samoa as “an independent State based on Christian principles and Samoan custom and traditions.”
On Christmas Eve, Prime Minister Laauli announced his Government’s view that non-Christian religions should not be allowed in Samoa.
“We must consider very carefully, as a nation, the entering of pagan beliefs that are not founded on God,” said Laauli.
He said the people of Samoa should look seriously into this.
“Will Samoa accept that in the future?” he asked.
He said now is the time to address the issue and religions that do not believe in the Christian faith, should not be accepted in Samoa.
Photo: Samoa Global News
