Prayer • TNTV Tahiti Nui Television

In Nuku’alofa on Sunday, it seemed that only the Tongan flag was still standing. The entire town spent the morning at the temple or church. Pacific leaders were no exception, such as President Motai Bradson and even UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

Only a few children climbed the bell tower to escape the religious services, but even for them, Sunday was sacred.

« There is one day when we do nothing and that is Sunday. We relax, we talk with friends, we go to mass, we laugh together. We have some time to ourselves and I think that is the most precious thing we have in Tonga. », laughs high school student Sam Palu.

In the Methodist Church, worshippers sing their faith at the top of their lungs, accompanied by a large choir and orchestra, or practice it in their hearts. On this day, work is simply prohibited, as the kingdom’s former Prime Minister Siale ‘Ataongo Kaho explained: “If you don’t obey the law, you have to pay a fine. Because Tonga is the only country that has dedicated its land and people to God. For me, this is a great opportunity.”

Therefore, planes do not fly on Sundays and food is difficult to obtain. The only exceptions to these religious obligations are: emergency services and hotels, so as not to turn away tourists.

After the Mass, families usually open the traditional oven. For the distinguished guests of the Forum, this Sunday is a little bit of an exception. They enjoy the Sunday dishes together. But for the children, there is no exception. In the afternoon, return to the church for catechism and religious songs.

“No shops are open. You can’t enjoy any leisure activities except Christian songs. No one takes a bath. There is no such activity in Tonga on Sundays. According to our Christian beliefs, Sunday is a taboo for Tongans and should be dedicated to rest, go to church and listen to everything related to Jesus.” said Sisilia Tuipulotu Tahaafe, a Sunday School counselor.

The Kingdom of Tonga is proudly linked to God, even in its constitution. Its inhabitants put this Christian principle into practice: On Sunday, we rest and focus. Nothing else.