The history of the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary took root in Samoa in 1864, beginning a
long legacy of evangelization through the Catholic education of women and girls. Today, our Sisters remain deeply committed to this mission, teaching in our two remaining schools: St. Mary’s Primary at Savalalo and St. Mary’s College in Vaimoso.
My own journey is deeply intertwined with this history. I was blessed to be educated by many wonderful SMSM expatriate Sisters who taught in both schools. Through God’s mysterious plan, their dedication inspired me to follow in their footsteps, blending a religious vocation with a lifelong passion for teaching. Education runs in my blood; my father was also a devoted primary teacher, serving at the Marist Brothers School in Mulivai for 43 incredible years before his retirement.
Today, I celebrate 42 happy years as an SMSM. I am currently back in the classroom at St. Mary’s College, Vaimoso, which serves 490 students aged thirteen to sixteen. Our diverse faculty of 25 members is composed primarily of local educators, enriched by two staff members from Fiji, two from Tonga, and one from Kenya.
Returning to the classroom after six years in administrative roles has been a joy. In total, I have taught at St. Mary’s College for eleven years across three different periods. Education has certainly changed over the decades. I must admit that the student generations of the 1990s were often easier to manage; they frequently arrived with strong self-discipline, a clear focus, keen observation skills, and a love for reading. Today's digital age has shifted the mindsets of the younger generation, presenting new challenges. Yet, despite these changes, I thoroughly enjoy teaching and find great joy and fun in working with these young people.
Every day, I strive to fulfill our school’s mission and vision in this fast-paced digital world. My goal is to guide our students to become role models of Jesus, to respect and value their holistic wellbeing, and to serve them in the humble, loving spirit of Mary, our school Patroness.
School marching practice in preparation for Samoan Independence Day on Monday 1st June (64th Anniversary)
Sr. Pelenatete Peni, smsm
