Elder Ian S. Ardern, second counsellor in the Pacific Area Presidency in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, presided, spoke and ministered to the Saints in Noumea, New Caledonia on Sunday May 13, 2018.
He was accompanied by his wife, Paula Ardern.
President Georgie E. Guidi, stake president of the New Caledonia Noumea Stake also was present and shared remarks with those gathered.
The event was planned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of then Elder Thomas S. Monson coming to New Caledonia to bless the land and commence the missionary effort.
Messages from the original missionaries were shared and early members of the Church remembered the events of 50 years ago when the first missionaries arrived in New Caledonia. They also spoke of the progress and growth of the Church since those early days.
New Caledonia is a land of diversity and rich cultural heritage. Abundant natural resources have drawn islanders from all over the Pacific area for employment. Their customs and cultural diversity arrived with them.
The devotional was a celebration of missionary work and of the unity among the Saints.
All who spoke expressed a common bond and a love for those present and those “pioneers” who came before.
Elder Ardern, speaking in the congregation’s native tongue of French, marveled at the growth of the Church in just 50 years. “I wonder what the next 50 years will bring,” he said.
He promised peace to those who choose to keep the commandments. “There is peace in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” “You have the Book of Mormon—read it and you will find peace.”
“These are simple things, he said, “but most important.”
He admonished the members to teach their neighbours the gospel of peace that the Church could continue in its growth.
Elder Ardern’s heart was tender as he reminisced about his days as mission president. “You will always live in our hearts,” he said. He reminded those attending that they are those spoken of who inhabit the isles of the sea and that they are remembered. “You are not forgotten by the Lord or His leaders.”
Elder Ardern admonished them to remain faithful and quoting Elder M. Russel Ballard, said, “Stay in the boat of Zion.”
“We love you, the Lord loves you, and His Church is on the earth today,” said Elder Ardern.
“We often talk of our friends in New Caledonia – we are always with you.”
President Guidi also tenderly shared his thoughts regarding members of the Church 50 years ago and today. “All in this congregation are of different backgrounds, yet you are all loved by God.” “I am always humbled to see the work that you do and the unity that exists among us.”
Franciska Gorodey, of the Noumea Stake reflecting on the evening said, “It is comforting to know that Heavenly Father is aware of us, even in the smallest islands of the sea, and that we are remembered by Him and by His leaders.
Former missionaries from Noumea were a highlight as they sang in a choir.
Mormons believe that we should share the gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether by accepting an invitation to serve a mission or performing missionary work by sharing the gospel with friends and neighbors, we strive to be examples of good will to all.