Ashburton Latter-day Saints Open New Chapel to Public Tours

The Ashburton congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints last Friday and Saturday held a reception for special guests and the public at its recently completed meetinghouse.

Those welcomed at the event by Bishop Uliki M. Pongia, senior local leader of the Church, included government and community leaders, neighbours who watched the construction of the building, leaders of other faiths, friends and family of Church members, and others interested in learning more about the Church and its new meetinghouse.

“It was wonderful to see the interest and support from the city council, other faiths, schools and various organisations,” said Bishop Pongia. “We truly felt the love and made many friends.”

Visitors learned from local Latter-day Saint leaders and members about the Church's programs, teachings and Christian beliefs as they toured the beautiful building filled with educational displays.

As guests moved from room to room they learned about the programs for women, children, youth, fathers, mothers and families.

Also featured was the Family History Centre, where Church members and members of the public can access genealogical records from around the world and receive free instruction by family history experts.

The meetinghouse took 11 months to build.  On 23 October the building was dedicated by President Jared Ormsby, senior Church leader in Canterbury.

Visitors are always welcome at Sunday worship services beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the new chapel.