News Release

Two Latter-day Saint Congregations Organised in Auckland for Young Singles

The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently approved the creation of two new young single adult (YSA) wards (congregations) in Auckland.

The purpose of these new young single adult wards is to create an environment of unity and help strengthen the young people’s faith in Jesus Christ.  Both wards began functioning yesterday (3 May 2015).

The Auckland Young Single Adult First Ward meets each Sunday at 2 pm at the Church’s Robertson Road meetinghouse in Mangere. 

Taulia Tafiti has been called as bishop with Edward Anapongi Tauiliili and Loiola Hausia Vea Pome’e as counsellors.

“I love the young adults,” said Bishop Tafiti.  “I pray for love and unity in our new ward.”

The new bishop’s wife, Sister Tafiti, said, “Here is a place where young adults can serve together, make new friends and help one another through life.”

James Mitchell said, “A benefit of being a member of a young single adult ward will definitely have to be meeting new people – and there are certainly a lot of people here I would like to get to know!”

The Auckland Young Single Adult Second Ward meets at the Takapuna meetinghouse each Sunday at 1 pm.  Yesterday over 250 young adults were in attendance.  Skye Nicholls has been called as bishop with Albert Niuelua and Stewart Burgess as counsellors. 

“I am feeling overwhelmed with my new responsibility,” said Bishop Nicholls after the meeting. “But I am excited to work together with so many amazing young people.”

“I was really excited to come here because all of the teaching is especially for us,” said Ericca Huysmans.  “As we are surrounded by other young adults we can grow and learn together.  I think it is also important to serve together and serve each other.”

Nicola Chadderton added, “I’ve been waiting for this to happen!  It is exciting because it gives us an opportunity to progress, take on new responsibilities and grow spiritually.”

Church leader, Elder Paul R. Coward, said, “We love the young people of the Church. Our aim is to help them increase their personal faith in our Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ; and to build happy, successful lives.”

“These two new YSA wards will provide increased opportunities to do just that.”

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