Leaders and guests of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gathered in Port Moresby last night to mark the 35th anniversary of the creation of the first congregation of the Church in Papua New Guinea.
Elder S. Gifford Nielsen of the Church's Pacific Area Presidency, Elder Jeffrey D. Cummings, President Jonathan Omae, President Mario Amoni, President Pita Hopoate, President Mark Peteru and other local Latter-day Saint leaders hosted guests from government, the diplomatic community, business and media sectors at a special dinner last night at the Airways Hotel.
The first branch (congregation) of the Church in Papua New Guinea was established in Port Moresby in October 1979. There are now approximately 23,000 Latter-day Saints in the country.
Elder Nielsen told guests that Latter-day Saints are devoted to Jesus Christ, family and community. He said that we are here and do what we do because we love the Lord and love our neighbours.
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He thanked governmental, faith and community leaders for their service to the people of Papua New Guinea, and noted with appreciation the opportunities The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has had to partner with others to bless individuals, families and communities.
Port Morseby Papua New Guinea Stake President, Jonathan Omae, announced to guests that the Church will partner with an overseas charity and Papua New Guinea's government in a Measles and Rubella immunisation initiative in 2015.
Two young local Latter-day Saints, Ikal Salaiau and Jerome Lei told guests last night at the dinner about their experiences as missionaries for the Church and what they have been doing since completing their missions and coming home. They shared their focus on developing their talents and knoweldge so they can continue to contribute in meaningful ways to their communities and nation.