News Release

French Polynesian Teens Strengthened by Christ Focused Conference

Youth, ages 14-18, from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in French Polynesia, gathered together this past July in Tahiti and Raiatea to participate in a “For the Strength of Youth” (FSY) conference.  The five-day event, attended by 1,000 youth, was divided into two sessions, 800 in Tahiti and 200 in Raiatea. 

The theme of the conference was, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13).

The youth enjoyed morning scripture study, daily devotionals, workshops, outdoor games, giving service and dancing.

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Nahema Temarii, Minister of Sports, Youth and Crime Prevention, attended the opening ceremony of FSY in Tahiti.

Minister Termarii posted on her Facebook account, “Tonight I met youth from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who are particularly committed to the challenges of today's society. They understand the needs to support the leaders of tomorrow. The youth during this conference are learning through education, activities, and games. The organisation is top-notch. It is professional and it’s beautiful. This is what our country needs.”

Here’s what youth said about their FSY 2023 experience:

Ororagi: “I felt God’s love for me, during the activity about the living Christ. My group was assigned to teach a lesson and we were not ready.  We decided to pray to ask for divine help and He lifted us up.”

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Mihialani: “I enjoyed the missionary workshops. I learned what it means to have faith in Jesus Christ. He is our Savior. He loves us and He is always there for us.”

Owen: "We studied a talk by Elder Ulisses Soares on spiritual GPS’s. I learned that the best spiritual GPS in my life is to listen to the prophets.”

Maui: “Prayer can answer all of our questions.”

Vahinetua: “After doing morning scripture study, I feel grateful for God’s creations.”

Mauri: “I want to spend more time with my family, to live a more Christ centered life.”

Anahei: “I’ve made a commitment to myself to improve the way I am with my family and my friends.  FSY helped me to want to be more Christlike.”

Heretahi: “My friends and I have been praying each morning on bended knees. My prayers have helped me to have more faith.”

Tuora: “I want to read and study the scriptures more. I want to know more and more about the gospel and be closer to God.”

FSY is an annual event sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for youth ages 14-18 years.

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