Elder S. Gifford Nielsen of the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints visited with members and guests of the Church last weekend (27-28 June) in Rotorua, New Zealand.
Elder Nielsen was accompanied by his wife, Sister Wendy Nielsen.
In addition to presiding at the Church’s Rotorua New Zealand Stake’s semi-annual conference, Elder Nielsen met with a number of Latter-day Saints in their homes.
“Jesus Christ showed us how to love, serve and teach,” Elder Nielsen said. “He went into people’s homes to listen, to encourage, to heal and to bring hope to individuals and families. As followers and servants of the Saviour, we strive to do the same, in His name and by His power.”
A Latter-day Saint stake is a group of congregations in a geographical area. Every six months all the members of the Church in the stake are invited to meet together to be taught by visiting general authorities and local leaders.
Hymns are sung by choirs and members of the congregation, addresses are delivered and prayers offered. Sermons focus on the gospel of Jesus Christ and counsel from modern-day prophets and apostles.
In many cases local government and other community leaders also attend stake conferences. Other visitors are also welcome to attend.
Watch a video of Elder Nielsen speaking to a worldwide audience at the October 2013 general conference of the Church.