Heavy rain and strong winds are not dampening the spirits of over 500 young members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who started a four-day youth conference in Suva yesterday.
The 14 to 17-year-olds come from various parts of Fiji including Taveuni, Kadavu and Labasa.
Conference-goers met at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Church College in Suva yesterday to begin their program, which includes, according to organizers, “educational workshops, cultural presentations, great food, games, and opportunities to make new friends and to participate in spiritual discussions.”
The theme of the conference, chosen by a committee of youth organizers, is: “Holy Places — My Life, My Desire, My Choice.”
Latter-day Saint youth conferences provide the opportunity for youth to associate with and make friends with those who have the same standards and beliefs, as based on the gospel of Jesus Christ.
“Even with the adverse weather conditions today I am so happy the programme is going on as planned,” said Evonne Taufuga, a member of the planning committee.
Not hampered by the inclement weather, Lote Robanakadavu, is enjoying the chance to meet fellow Latter-day Saint youth from other parts of the country. “My favourite activity was the chicken soup game where I got to meet youth from other stakes.”
There are four Latter-day Saint stakes in Fiji. A stake is a group of Mormon wards (congregations) in a geographical area.
Elaine S. Dalton, past general president of the Church’s Young Women organization, says the goal of youth conferences and other similar activities, is to “provide a wholesome atmosphere where the young people learn about themselves, their potential and their purposes here on earth.”