March 16, 2025

Auckland New Zealand Temple

The temple open house continues through March.

Another view of this stunning House of the Lord.

EVERYONE knows about the temple.  It stands above the main motorway for all to see.  Invitations to attend are readily accepted.  Curiosity abounds.

We served as hosts for the attorneys of a law firm that works frequently with Rick.

Another VIP guest expected to find a large cathedral inside.  He later expressed joy in discovering several splendid 'instruction' rooms conducive to true worship with one's maker.  He felt the impact of that communion.  Miracles continue in the House of the Lord.

I like the subtle Māori designs on the granite near the base and then again towards the top.   Several pieces of the interior art are reflective of Māori culture.

The Prophet believes the temple should reflect the land it stands on.  This temple doesn’t disappoint in that regard.  The interior takes one’s breath away.  I love the Pohutukawa blooms depicted in the carpets.  Much Kauri wood graces the door frames and décor.  Everyone comments on the simple beauty of the bride’s room, sealing rooms, and celestial room.  Auckland is blessed to visit this piece of heaven on earth.

Our first tour took place on a windy day.

Celestial Room.

The stunning stained-glass windows tower over this sacred room.  Notice the Kauri wood encasing the window.  No one makes a peep here.  We were encouraged to depart after several minutes.  None of our guests initiated that exit on their own.

I never tire of the view.  It’s breathtaking.

Stake President Dil and his wife, Heidi, served as tour guides for our group on VIP Day.  Three attorneys from Norris Ward McKinnon made the two-hour journey from Hamilton to join us.  Dan Moore, Chris Steenstra, and Phil Hyde graciously talked of the honor to be invited.  They asked brief questions in each of the rooms.  After taking photos, we returned to the Stake Center where we continued our visit.  Thirty-five minutes later I invited them to partake of the snacks available.  They declined and continued talking.  All needed to return to the office, but no one wanted to leave.  Their respectful enthusiasm convinced me they felt something significant.  We were honored to be part of this special day.

Sister Power Hour

This blessed time we spend together once a week nourishes our souls.  These women are wonderful in every way.  Penny Owen, from Australia, wears her apron which reads:  There’s a thin person inside screaming to get out – I keep them sedated with chocolate. 

Sister Cindy Barton talks of roots and branches – part of Elder Uchtdorf’s April 2025 address – as she guides our painting of trees.  This proved to be a delightful hour, a break from our usual routine.