Flaxmere Mormon Choir Shares the Joy of Christmas

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints choir from Flaxmere is working overtime spreading the Christmas spirit throughout the Hastings area this holiday season.

Five events fill their holiday schedule, a big commitment considering the hustle and bustle of the season. Yet the 30-member choir is delighted, according to Traci Tuimaseve, choir director. 

“It’s an opportunity to spread a little festive cheer as well as a real message of the Saviour,” he said.

“Our choir has always been a shining light,” said Rikki Te Kira, leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Flaxmere.  “They bring joy wherever they sing.”

Songs of inspiration and Christmas Carols, often followed by audience carolling, is the choir’s seasonal forte.

“The choir is the perfect choice to celebrate the traditions of carol singing whilst reflecting the diverse community which makes up modern day Hastings,” said Craig Ireson, Events Manager for the Hastings District Council.

He invited the choir to perform at two events he oversees: Hastings Carols by Candle Light, a 150 year old Christmas in Cornwall Park event; and Hastings Night Market Carolling.

Te Rangi Huata, Events Manager for Public Dreams Trust, sponsors of Fiesta of Lights, also finds the choir a good fit. 

“Fiesta of Lights is delighted to invite Flaxmere LDS Choir to sing carols at our 16th annual event,” Huata said.

“I visited Temple View Lights in Hamilton some years ago and enjoyed the wonderful Flaxmere LDS Choir singing. That’s the reason for our invitation and I am delighted the LDS Choir have accepted our invitation to support us for a second year.”

A highlight for the Choir is its own cantata: “Saviour of the World and Songs of Inspiration,” a free outdoor presentation about the life of Jesus Christ performed at Te Aranga Marae on Sunday, 20 December at 6:30 p.m.

Choir director Tuimaseve estimates the choir will perform before over 6,000 people before the season is over.