A Magnificent ward conference

Feb 12, 2012

Church today was a vision of island flowers.  We arrived 20 minutes early and the building was already packed; we slipped into what seemed like the last two empty seats.  Chairs were being set up outside all along both sides of the chapel.  Since the walls are mostly louvered windows that are always opened, it works; the sound carries outside and the air flows inside. Today was Ward Conference and we were in awe at the reverence and importance they placed on this event.  The Stake Presidency was in front with the Bishopric and stake leaders scattered throughout the room all decked out in fresh floral head-wreaths and lays.  There was a feeling of being in General Conference before all of the general authorities.  I have never witnessed a ward conference conducted with such care.  The speakers were excellent and I was so happy to be able to understand what was being said.  Even though one of the young Elders, Elder Jensen, sat behind us and translated, I was able to listen to the Marshallese and get most of it.  As I watched them sustain the prophet and general authorities, with much feeling, and sustain their local leaders, I was impressed with the thought that there would be many wonderful Marshallese people in the Celestial Kingdom, and they are so grateful for the Gospel, which is evidenced by the volumn of their singing. 

Usually, there a a few children running around during the meetings, but even they sat quite reverently today.  There wasn't any room for the stray dog who likes to come in through the doors that are always open; most weeks he waders in and sleeps on the floor during the meetings.

We were a little bit surprised when the block was over,  they pulled out tables outside and provided refreshments!  There were fresh coconuts for drinking, piles of the little sweet bananas, grown here, and a huge pot of something called I Q (not spelled that way, just pronounced like that.) IQ  is a warm drink (made from the soft center of a coconut that has started sprouting) mixed with sugar, flour and water.  It is like a warm, chunky pudding that you drink from a cup. . . pretty interesting. It took a few sips, but it grew on me.  It seems like every important event around here ends with food.