Guests of the Auckland New Zealand Papakura Stake Centre Open House held on Saturday 1 September were greeted by leaders and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Music from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir created a mood of reverence as members, friends and community leaders were given tours of the new and impressive facility while others enjoyed watching short videos produced by the Church.
Steady growth of the Church in the region has progressed since the 1900’s to where there are now 15 stakes in Auckland with over 34,780 members.
With increasing numbers, members of the Church in the Auckland area feel blessed to have another chapel where they can assemble to worship and enjoy the spirit.
Toni M. Elkington, president of the Papakura Stake, personally guided Mr. Daniel Newman, Manurewa-Papakura Ward Councillor through the building and facilities along with his guests Jan Robinson and Rema Nakhle.
President Elkington took the opportunity to give brief explanations of each area in the new facility to the visiting officials.
He also gave the Councillor and his guests an overview of the self-reliance program of the Church. They learned that access to the program is a community wide offering.
With a steady flow of visitors throughout the day, organisers felt the event was a success, noting that there was much conversation about the beautiful artwork that adorns the walls of the building.
A special conference will be held at the new Park Estate Road Chapel on 9 September at 10:00 a.m.