Inspired by counsel from Church leaders to perform temple ordinances for their own ancestors, more than 30 youth from Harare South and Marimba Park Stakes of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently braved a 1130km journey to the Johannesburg South Africa temple, leaving behind the toil and turmoil of the world to find joy and comfort in The House of the Lord.
| Temple Square is always beautiful in the springtime. Gardeners work to prepare the ground for General Conference. © 2012 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. | 1 / 2 |
This was in harmony with their youth theme for this year, "Embark in the Service of God." The theme was taken from LDS scripture in the Doctrine and Covenants Section 4 verse 2: “O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.”
“I almost broke down when I saw the young people all clothed in white. I could not help but envision them as angels. How beautiful they looked!" said Harare South Stake Young Women President, Sister Locardia Murenza, following the inspirational temple trip.
“It was a unique, life-changing experience for the youth and their leaders. I felt humbled as I witnessed the transformation the youth went through as they recognized the importance of temple work. I was amazed at their demonstration of commitment and devotion to family,” exclaimed Brother Dennis Mukototsi, the Harare South Stake High Councilor in charge of the Young Women's program. "It was a historic and glorious event for those who visited the temple, to feel the Spirit of God and perform temple ordinances for their ancestors.
“I am so grateful for the way in which we were welcomed and enlightened! It was an experience none of us will ever forget and it was definitely worth it. We gained so much from the experience,” said Mellisa Marondera, one of the group of Zimbabwean young people..
“We also had an opportunity to attend a devotional with Elder Walter Chatora, where he taught about the “3 Rs”: Right to Choose, Responsibility and Results. This was a powerful statement to the youth as they echoed his words,” said Brother Tawanda Chitenda, Marimba Park Stake Public Affairs Director and one of the adult chaperones.
At the conclusion of the temple trip, the adult leaders all spoke with one voice saying, “We made sure that the group all learned a great deal, along with having lots of fun along the way! We look forward to bringing our youth to the temple as often as possible. This week has been a wonderful experience!”