The Samoan Mission

McKay arrived in Samoa on May 10, 1921, and spent time on all three principal islands— Sava‘ i, Upolu, and Tutuila. During his visit, he toured plantations, humble meetinghouses, and two of the church’s schools in Mapusaga and Sauniatu. McKay and Cannon were repeatedly feted as honored guests by local tribal chiefs at cultural celebrations, concerts, and dances; received ornate handmade gifts; and were well fed by local members. Bidding the Latter-day Saints farewell to the islanders was never an easy task; one memorable experience unfolded at Sauniatu when McKay felt impressed to turn back to a group of church