July 14, 2024

Mount Albert Ward

The photo displays a distorted view of our chapel.  It’s a small church but quite lovely and homey.  We are members of a Polynesian ward.  Most members come from Tonga and Samoa.  A few call Fiji home.  We love the island culture they create together.  They SING in church!!!  I love the loud, deep male voices.  It’s a pleasure to worship with our Mount Albert members.

Our first ward dinner and dance.  This brother sliced lamb pieces as we entered the cultural hall.

He knew exactly what to do.  We simply watched.  New Zealanders eat a lot of lamb. 

A few of the members gather before the dancing begins.  We have been warmly welcomed to the ward and we love these dear people. 

 The beautiful, young sister teaches Gospel Doctrine.  She knows how to encourage a discussion.  Notice the beauty of these little children.

Brother and Sister Tupo wore matching outfits for the occasion.   Dinner tasted interesting.  With so much meat and heavy starch I realized I brought the wrong dish.  Next time I’ll donate a large green salad and a big bowl of fruit.   As we were about to begin, a member placed ten pizza boxes on the table.  Talk about a mix of cultures.

Everyone dances.

Brother Tupo dances with his daughter.

We enjoyed the music.  We mostly danced the swing step.  I noticed several cellphones pointing in our direction.   We were later told there was video footage of us on the ward Facebook page.  I haven’t found it.

The youth congregate together in a circle.  Of course, the boys created their own circle.  At least they all danced.

Primary children joined in with the music.

Even the youngest members swirled and spun.  Oh, to have that kind of energy again.

The floor show displayed cultural dances.  I enjoyed the costumes.  These young women represented Samoa.

This Tongan sister told a complete story with her hands.  I marveled at the beauty of her gestures.   I couldn’t take my eyes off her hands as she skillfully turned each finger movement into a dance with her hands.  They truly represented a language of their own.

Brother and Sister Popolii stand outside the church on a Sunday morning.  He organizes all the music each Sunday.  It’s a joy to see so many young men and women playing the piano in church.  He also makes men’s ties.  He gave Rick four of his unique designs.  I especially like the lavender colored tie with a floral design.  Rick only dares wear it on Sundays.

Our Zone at One Tree Hill.  I’m going back to a previous group activity.  These missionaries are fabulous.  We’re grateful to serve with such amazing people.  Rick and I kneel on the front row.