Veitongo church down, but not out, after quake [1]
Friday, May 5, 2006 - 18:25. Updated on Thursday, July 16, 2015 - 10:49.
Story and photos by Mary Lyn Fonua
Tons of rubble fill the main entrance to the Free Church of Tonga at Veitongo, while the walls of the 60-year-old village church are cracked beyond repair, but this did not deter the congregation who gathered for their regular 5 a.m. service today.
The steeple tower at the main entrance to the church collapsed in yesterday's violent earthquake at 4.26 am and it might have buried them alive, but today lay minister Fakapiano Tu'iono gave thanks that they were spared. He and his congregation appeared to be unconcerned about gathering in the structurally damaged building.
"We'll build a new church," said Nepote Vehikite.
Church Secretary Sitaleki Faupula said their Minister Vili Hasiata had gone to Australia last month on a fundraising mission to build a new church, and was in Sydney at the time of the quake.
But in the meantime until they can replace it, they have faith that the little church in the heart of their village will hold itself together over their heads, "with the help of the god," said Nepote.