Despite Electricity Outages, No Shortage of Spiritual Power at Port Moresby Conference

Members and friends of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had to contend with intermittent power outages during a recent conference of the Church in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.

“The power dropped a few times, and then came back on after those in attendance had to endure the heat and other discomforts of no electricity,” said Elder Carl R. Maurer, Area Seventy, who presided at the two-day conference on 23 and 24 April.

“Everyone was happy, everyone was positive, the spirit of God was at our meetings in great abundance, despite the challenges.”

It has been over two years since a stake conference—where several congregations come together—has been held in Port Moresby, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The saints were eager to gather even under difficult circumstances,” Elder Maurer said. “Busses were hard to come by, or running late. For much of the conference there was no power. Therefore no sound, no lights and no fans. It was hot and steamy but the faithful saints of Port Moresby endured the challenges with grace.”

Many of the sermons and musical items focused on Jesus Christ and temple worship.

Local leader of the Church in Port Moresby, President Moasope McCarthy, said, “The Lord Jesus Christ continues to bless His faithful and dedicated people with joy, as they look towards the construction of the Port Moresby Papua New Guinea Temple. We are grateful for opportunities to make and keep sacred covenants with God, and with our families.”