Brian Waiane heard that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint leaders Elder Ian S. Ardern, Elder Adolf Johansson, Sister Bonnie Cordon and Sister Joy Jones were planning a visit on 14 November to the Erakor chapel where he worships each Sunday—so he walked the two kilometres from his home in the hot Vanuatu sun, carrying his toddler the whole way, in the hopes he might meet them.
He was not disappointed.
The members in this branch of the Church are cared for by President Charles Dasarur. He was on hand to talk with the visiting leaders from Church Headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah, in the USA, and spoke kindly of the "flock" he shepherds.
President Dasarur said the tiny chapel is packed every week with an average attendance on Sundays of 114 worshippers.
He explained to Sister Jones that the children meet under a nearby tree on the "Primary" mat. She couldn't resist the opportunity to hold the special mat—a good reminder of the dedicated followers of Jesus Christ who call Vanuatu home.
With tears in her eyes Sister Jones said of the humble structure: "There is such a sweet spirit here."
While branch members are very grateful to have a place in which to worship, they're very excited that the Church will begin construction on a new chapel for them in the near future. Brian is especially happy—it will mean a much shorter walk to the chapel every sabbath.
