Elder David J. Thomson, Area Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, recently met in Auckland with leaders of several other New Zealand churches and faith communities. It was the first meeting of this kind to be held in New Zealand.
Topics discussed during the group’s meeting included the value of religious diversity in our society, how each could help strengthen the communities in which they are located and the status of religion in New Zealand today.
Speaking to the topic of how his religion could support the communities in which it is located, Elder Thomson said: “We will naturally desire to support our communities as we follow the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, focus on strengthening families and perform community service. We encourage not only our members, but everyone, to do likewise.”
Suggestions about supporting religious diversity included learning about and respecting differences with other religions, fostering positive interaction between faiths, and uniting on issues of common interest. It was also suggested that religious education be supported.
The meeting provided an opportunity for faith leaders to establish or renew acquaintances and to enjoy discussions of how they could work together for the common good of all New Zealanders.