CCCAS to draft public statement on the proposal for seabed mining near American Samoa

This year’s general assembly’s theme: “God Takes Residence in Creation” By Samoa News staff reporters@samoanews.com Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The 36th General Assembly of the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa is scheduled to convene from July 12 to July 24 at the church's headquarters located in Kanana-fou. The central theme for this year's assembly is “God Takes Residence in Creation,” reflecting a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and the sanctity of God’s creation. This significant gathering will see the attendance of over 600 delegates who represent more than 100 member churches from a diverse geographic area, including the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and American Samoa itself. Rev. Nafatali Falealii, the General Secretary, has announced that at the conclusion of the Assembly, a comprehensive resolution will be drafted along with a public statement that will clearly articulate the church’s position on the controversial proposal for seabed mining in the waters near American Samoa. The church has emphasized its role as the largest self-governing mainline church in the territory, which entails a unique moral responsibility to advocate for the well-being of the local population, the preservation of the territory's future, and the protection of the integrity of God’s creation. The resolution will be grounded in a thorough examination of theological and ethical considerations regarding seabed mining. It will draw on relevant Biblical scripture, insights from Pacific Islander communities, and the prayers and support of the global ecumenical community. Importantly, it will also reflect the church's enduring tradition of stewardship for the environment. The document will define the ecological, cultural, and spiritual risks that arise from extractive activities in oceanic environments. Moreover, it will support the precautionary principle, requiring caution in the face of scientific uncertainty surrounding such activities. Leaders from local and federal governments, as well as regional and international partners, will be urged to adopt and uphold policies to protect the delicate marine ecosystems of the Pacific. Additionally, the statement will reinforce the CCCAS's commitment to intergenerational justice, emphasizing that the choices made today will significantly influence the inheritance and quality of life for future generations. As part of its initiative, the church will encourage congregations across the territory to pray, learn, and advocate, seeing these as vital ways to live out faithful discipleship in their communities. Through this meaningful resolution, the CCCAS aspires to present a courageous and unifying voice dedicated to the protection of God’s creation, standing steadfast in solidarity with Pacific churches and communities that are actively defending their homelands against threats of ecological degradation and harm. This assembly represents a crucial moment for the church to reflect on its role in environmental justice and to mobilize its members toward meaningful action. Section: Local News Tags: seabed mining
2026-05-07 15:35:46