06/09/2026
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Reverend Dr. Samisoni Moala Lenati, a giant of the faith.
Dr. Lenati and his late wife, Mele Lenati, were pioneers of the Tongan Pentecostal movement. With a burning passion for the Gospel and an unwavering obedience to the Great Commission, Reverend Lenati evangelized, discipled, and established Tongan Assemblies of God churches throughout New Zealand, Australia, Tonga, and the United States. The Honolulu Tongan Assembly of God is one of those churches.
In Hawaiʻi, he was lovingly known as Sami Lahi. Our late Senior Pastor, Filimone Maʻu, and Mele Maʻu served under Reverend Lenati’s leadership in New Zealand from the late 1980s to the early 1990s. In 1994, Reverend Lenati commissioned Pastor Maʻu and his ʻohana to the island of Oʻahu to pastor the Honolulu Tongan Assembly of God Church.
Reverend Lenati was, and always will be, an integral part of the Honolulu Tongan AG ʻohana as a father, mentor, brother, and spiritual leader. His legacy of faith, leadership, and service will continue to impact generations to come.
On behalf of our Senior Pastor, Samisoni and his wife Mele Kakala Maʻu, and the entire Honolulu Waipahu Tongan Assembly of God Church, we extend our heartfelt condolences to President Reverend Lawrence Lenati, Rev. Will, Rev. Charles, Chris, Yoido, and the entire Lenati ʻohana.
May God’s peace, comfort, and strength be with you during this time of loss. Ofa lahi atu Faifekau Sami Lahi. ‘til that glorious day.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” -Revelations 21:4