Christmas lights at the Hamilton New Zealand Temple have brought neighbours, friends and families together for over 30 years to share the spirit of Christmas.
After a four year hiatus due to temple renovations and covid, the community is grateful to have the tradition that is so integral to so many, return.
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Christmas displays in Temple View. Hamilton, New Zealand 20222022 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.On Wednesday, 14 December, faith and community leaders gathered at a reception hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to celebrate the Christmas season and the return of the lights to Temple View
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President Alf Daniels (L) joins Vicki Lee Wihongi and Dr. Gaurav Sharma (R) at a reception held 14 December. Hamilton, New Zealand, 20222022 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved..
Hamilton City Councillor, Emma Pike, observed that the return of the Christmas light tradition felt like a return to home. She said, with emphasis, “It’s Hamilton. It’s community.”
Former M.P., Dr. Gurav Sharma, noted his pleasure in joining the Christmas festivities and the sense of connection and belonging he felt. “It is good for us to get back to our churches and worship together,” he added.
DOWNLOADThe reception was a lovely way for guests from many different faiths to enjoy beautiful musical numbers, a splendid array of food, Christmas décor and a feeling of warmth and friendship. The guests mingled and visited together before enjoying a short program.
Two special musical numbers were presented, as well as a Christmas poem read by Christine Roberts, who, with her husband, oversee the management of the Hamilton Temple.
The music and the reading focused hearts upon the Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Local Church leader, President Alf Daniels, thanked the guests for being willing to come together and for being great examples in the Hamilton community.
He reminded all in attendance to: “Diligently seek Jesus Christ all year long. Don’t leave Him in the manger, take Him with you.”
He invited all to enjoy the evening and to return with friends and family.
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The life of Christ displayed in Temple View. Hamilton, New Zealand 20222022 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.The reception concluded for guests with a walk through the quiet woods of Legacy Park, towards the temple.
The area has been lit in elegant simplicity with colourful bulbs, illuminating scenes from the life of Christ.
A feeling of reverence prevailed as visitors contemplated the birth and life of Jesus Christ as they strolled the lit pathway. The temple, a shining light on the hill, was the backdrop for a nativity scene at the end of the walk.
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Hamilton New Zealand Temple. Hamilton, New Zealand 20222022 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.Tui Fau reverently spoke of the meaning of the lights on the temple grounds.
“The temple lit up and the lights and displays that focus on the Saviour are so important. They are a beacon of light to remind us of the Saviour. Especially for our children. It brings them up onto these sacred grounds and they come here and feel the Saviour’s love. It is a safe haven.”