Members and choirs from several churches came together recently in Samoa to celebrate the Christmas season against the backdrop of a spectacular new lighting display in the grounds of the Government Building.
The Honourable Prime Minister of Samoa, Mr Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi, led a group of dignitaries from government, churches and other community groups at the week-long event.
Around 90,000 coloured lights created a peaceful and reflective mood in the grounds of the Government Building, and spiritual messages delivered through remarks and choir items enhanced the experience for those who attended from 18-24 December.
The lighting display continued until a few days ago when the bulbs were taken down and stored for future Christmas seasons.
Samoa’s TV3 covered the event—titled “My Island Christmas”—with extensive programming.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provided the lights as well as some of the speakers and choirs.
“Christmas is a sacred time for members of our faith, as it is with our dear friends in other churches,” Elder O. Vincent Haleck, a member of the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ, said.
“We live in a world and at a time when we need to come together in brotherhood and sisterhood, to remember Jesus Christ, and to strengthen our faith and commitment to follow Him throughout our lives. With the challenges we face as nations, communities and families, we need our Saviour, and we need each other.”