Photos by Linny Folau

THE 81st Annual Church Conference of the Church of Tonga is currently being held in Nuku'alofa from May 10-14, a week of prayer services and feasting.

The spiritual gathering brings hundreds of church members throughout Tongatapu, the outer islands and abroad to the main church at Kilikali at Kolofo'ou in Nuku'alofa.

President Rev Dr Feke Mafi said the conference is attended by 174 preachers where they affirm the church's goals and programs for the next year.

On May 12, instead of holding its usual feast the conference held a day of fasting with a colourful performance by church youth groups, who presented songs and skits for the conference.

Attendees include church congregations from Australia, New Zealand and Pagopago, American Samoa.