Tonga may be the only country in the world that fasts as a nation monthly.
Going without water and food for 24 hours (or other duration) is a religious practice enjoyed by many people of faith around the world.
Over the last several months, the churches in Tonga, as well as many government officials, have invited citizens to join together in fasting and prayer, to ask God to help the people during a worldwide pandemic and following a volcanic eruption and tsunami. Many people have accepted the invitation, and chosen to fast.
Churches have taken turns holding special devotionals to open or close the fasting period.
Last weekend, a special meeting took place to mark the beginning of a national fast at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Nuku’alofa Central Stake meetinghouse in Havelu.
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- Reverend-Viliami-Polota,-Church-of-Tonga,-and-Secretary-to-Church-Leaders-Counsel-gave-a-vote-of-thanks-at-the-Tongan-National-Fast-Day.-September-2022-
- A-multi-faith-choir-sang-at-the-National-Fast-Day-Hosted-by-The-Church-of-Jesus-Christ-of-Latter-day-Saints-in-Tonga.-September-2022
- Andrew-To'imoana-in-his-remarks,-spoke-about-the-importance-of-fasting-in-seeking-the-Lord's-divine-direction-as-He-has-instructed-his-prophets-in-all-gospel-dispensations-at-the-National-Fast-Day-in-Tonga.-September-2022
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Government officials and religious leaders came together to pray for guidance and the capacity to rebuild and care for individuals and families affected by the recent volcanic eruption, tsunami and pandemic.
Latter-day Saint leader, President Ian Tuihalangingie of the Nuku’alofa Capital Stake, conducted the meeting.
Distinguished guests included: Acting Prime Minister, Samiuela Vaipulu and his wife Mrs. Mele Vaipulu; Acting Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. Viliami Uasike Latu; People’s Representative, Dr. ‘Uhilamoelangi Fasi and his wife Mrs. Nola Fasi; Laki T. Pifeleti, Free Church of Tonga; Viliami Polota, Secretary of Church Leader Council; Motekiai Taufa, Anglican Church of Tonga; Sister 'Anamalia Pailate, Cathoic Church of Tonga; Maloni Kafa; Siasi Tokaikolo; and 'Inoke Pulu, Siasi Tonga Hou'eiki.
Latter-day Saints believe that fasting combined with sincere prayer can provide spiritual strength, closeness to God and preparation to receive His blessings.