New Children’s Book Celebrates 170 Years of New Zealand Church History

DOWNLOAD

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a new children’s book, 'Whakapono, Tūmanako me ngā Merekara: Faith, Hope, and Miracles,” in Kaikohe, New Zealand on Wednesday the 18^th of September.

The launch was in conjunction with the 170^th anniversary of the Church of Jesus Christ in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

Elder Jeremy R. Jaggi of the Church’s Pacific Area Presidency presided at the event which brought together visitors, local members and church leaders for the release of the children’s book commemorating the history of the Church in New Zealand.

Kaikohe has the only designated Māori language congregation in the Church and with New Zealand celebrating Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori Kaikohe (Māori Language Week) the event was a significant cultural celebration for the community.  

Melanie Riwai-Couch, Pacific Area Manager/Church History, said, “The history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Aotearoa New Zealand is full of stories of faith, hope and miracles. This book was created to help children and families learn more about this rich history. I am grateful for the efforts of tūpuna (ancestors), early pioneers, and the Church, to help us have access to the gospel of Jesus Christ here in this country.”

Clara Aperahama-Kopa, who attended the event with her children who were part of a children’s choir, said, “When we read these stories and miracles in the book, the Spirit testifies to us of its [the message] truthfulness.”

Elder Jeremy R. Jaggi addressed the gathering and encouraged everyone to remember those who have come before and sacrificed so much, “Today the word that keeps coming to mind is ‘remember.’ The scriptures are filled with the word remember...Part of the reason we are gathered in Kaikohe…is to celebrate that Jesus remembers us all. He will not forget us. As we remember those who have come before us and sacrificed so much… it connects us, and we remember that we are children of our Heavenly Father.”

A copy of the book will be available to children in New Zealand congregations, and a video of the Kaikohe event can be viewed in congregations from Saturday the 19^th of September.

Link here for video of devotional.

DOWNLOAD