The French Polynesia Minister of Solidarity and the Family, Madam Chantal Galenon, invited Elder Taniela B. Wakolo, General Authority Seventy and a member of the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to pray for French Polynesia during his visit with her on Friday, 2 February 2024.
Elder Wakolo prayed for the spirit of peace, love and unity to reign throughout French Polynesia.
Accompanying Elder Wakolo was Elder Frédéric Riemer, Area Seventy for French Polynesia and New Caledonia.
Madame Galenon presented government priorities for protecting families living in precarious social and health conditions.
"Today, we are looking for alternative ways to help these underprivileged families. I am seeking greater cooperation between the Government and the churches to help improve the daily lives of people,” said Madame Galenon.
Elder Wakolo thanked Madame Galenon for the opportunity to work with the Government to support families and individuals in French Polynesia.
He said, "We want to do what the Saviour did. He loves everyone and we want to share His love by extending our arms to all of His sons and daughters in love and in peace, whatever their religion."
The Church currently facilitates self-reliance training groups in French Polynesia. Self-reliance courses help people to learn principles and skills that will empower them in caring for their own needs. Courses include topics such as how to find a job, how to start a business, how to manage finances, how to build emotional resilience, and more.
The Church also provides support to individuals, families and communities to alleviate suffering in French Polynesia and throughout the world. Read more here.