Elder F. Michael Watson of the First Quorum of the Seventy and Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will visit Samoa this week [21-24 December 2012].
The purpose of his visit is to assess the needs of families and communities after Cyclone Evan, and to offer love and support.
Elder Watson will meet with local Latter-day Saint and community leaders to determine how the Church can best contribute to the overall relief and recovery efforts which are being spear-headed by the Samoan government.
“Our brothers and sisters in Samoa, of all faiths, are in our thoughts and prayers,” Elder Watson said. “We are already engaged, as a Church, assessing needs and providing support in Apia and in villages across the nation.”
“My hope is that we can continue to do so, and to do whatever else we can as a Church and people, to work together with our friends in government and other churches to help those impacted by the cyclone to get back on their feet.”
Elder Watson continued: “Our mandate is the Lord’s commandment to love and serve our neighbours. This is especially important during this Christmas Season.”