Elder Ian S. Ardern Welcomes Ratana and Kingitanga Leaders to Temple View

Earlier today The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosted representatives of the Ratana Church and Kingitanga at the LDS Church-owned Temple View project.

The Temple View project includes the Hamilton New Zealand Temple and Visitors' Centre, David O. McKay Stake and Cultural Events Centre, George R. Biesinger Building, Kai Hall, Wendell B. Mendenhall Library Building and Legacy Park.

The Ratana Church and Kingitanga guests were welcomed onto the Temple View property with a traditional powhiri at the George R. Biesinger Building.

Following the powhiri the group toured other parts of the Temple View project, including the stake centre, visitors' centre and Matthew Cowley Pacific Church History Centre.

Elder Ian S. Ardern, Second Counsellor in the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said of the visit: "We were honoured to host representatives from the Ratana Church and Kingitanga today at Temple View. We have a common belief in Christ as the Saviour of the world and a deep interest in the welfare of our members."

He added, "Sitting in the G.R.B. Hall, with the majesty of the New Zealand Temple in the background, we could not help but feel we were in a blessed place. Having the chance to welcome our guests, to share our feelings and rekindle a friendship was important and a blessing for us all."

The visit concluded with a video and brief remarks in the theatre of the Mendenhall Library Building.

Several Latter-day Saints will attend the Ratana Church's 100th anniversary events in Auckland on 28-29 July.