Pastor Paula Tulua is the youngest of nine children and the son of Paula Tulua Sr. of Nukunuku and ‘Ilaise Tupou Ngaue of Vaotu’u. Pastor Tulua was born and raised in Nukunuku, Tongatapu, Tonga. He currently resides in Canoga Park, California with his wife of more than 27 years, Mele Toatepi Taumoepeau of Kotu-O’ua-Fakakai, Ha’apai. Together they have 3 daughters, Liliani Siutiti (26), Ilaise Manatuloto (24), Paul Jr. (23), Siniva (19) and one son named Manatu Maile (29). Pastor Tulua is currently serving as the Pastor for the First Tongan Assemblies of God in Los Angeles, California.

Pastor Tulua and other members of his congregation (which are both Tongan and non-Tongan) have donated money and volunteered services to help build several new churches. His focus and purpose in the Los Angeles area is to reach out to families and young adults of both the Tongan and non-Tongan community with the love and grace of Jesus Christ. He hopes to provide an environment for all who would like to grow spiritually in the Word of God. Pastor Tulua would like to be remembered as a Servant of the Lord for the Tongan community.

When Pastor Tulua was asked about the most influential person in his life, he related this humble experience:

“Besides Jesus Christ, it is my eldest brother Lupeti Tulua, owner of Rainbow Studios, also known as Tulua Bros. Photo Studios (previously operated in Nukualofa, Tonga). At about 15 years old, I was going to drop out of school at Tupou College (College came before High School back then). Lupeti advised that if I quit school or dropped out at such a young age, I would become a failure in the future and I would not be able to contribute anything positive to the family nor be trusted by others. His words and advice encouraged me to return to Tupou College.

The following year, I entered form 6 (equivalent to 10th grade in the U.S.) and passed the government lower living certificate. In my final year at Tupou College, another classmate and myself were chosen to become prefects for Wesley Dormitory. In addition, I passed my government higher living certificate. Afterwards, I attended Tupou High School and there I received my U.S. Visa and came to the United States.

I received the Lord Jesus Christ as my Savior in the U.S. in 1974. I became an active member of the First Tongan Assemblies of God in Belmont, CA (North California) before I was called to continue God’s ministry in Los Angeles, where I am currently. Although, the above-mentioned events may not be a big accomplishment to others in those days, they have served to become important milestones in my life that have shaped the individual I have become.

I thank my eldest brother, Lupeti Tulua, for his advice and the Lord Jesus Christ for turning a life of a failure into a servant of God for the Tongan people and all people alike. Lupeti is an active member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Nukunuku, an established businessman, devout family leader, and father figure to my other siblings and myself (my father passed away when we were young). Through Lupeti’s advice and work ethic he has taught me to be honest and faithful in all my doings and never give up.

If you happen to be in the Los Angeles area and you would like prayer, Bible study (held during the week) information, or any information regarding church services, please contact Pastor Tulua at paul_tulua@hotmail.com.

Tongan Assemblies of God (Los Angeles area) Worship Service

Sunday School & Bible teaching: 10:45 – 11:45 a.m.

Sunday morning service (includes praise & worship service): 11:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Sunday youth service: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

‘Anapesi Ka’ili
anapesi@planet-tonga.com