Thirty-one young members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) from Papua New Guinea arrived in Tonga to attend the temple for the first time.
According to the LDS Pacific Newsroom, they visitors were welcomed by event organizers and former LDS missionaries who served in PNG. During their stay, the group participated in sacred temple ceremonies, known as ordinances, that strengthen their connection with God and their families.
“It is a privilege for me to come to the temple. Ever since I joined the Church, I have been dreaming about entering the [temple], and finally here I am, ” said Norene Omba, one of the members on the group.
“It is a blessing for me, not only for me, but for my family and ancestors, and also my friends. If we come into the temple with an open heart and open mind and a contrite spirit, the Spirit of the Lord will talk to us, and we will get personal revelation,” she added.
The 9,550-square-foot Port Moresby Papua New Guinea Temple is currently under construction. There are about 36,000 LDS members in 92 congregations in Papua New Guinea.