Mormon Newsroom Pacific

You are probably all aware of Mormon Newsroom, but did you know that there is a Mormon Newsroom Pacific  www,mormonnewsroom.org.nz?  Mormon Newsroom Pacific focuses on what is happening here in the Pacific Area.

Paula Fugal, a missionary currently serving as a public affairs specialist in Auckland says: “There is so much good that happens in the world that often goes unnoticed.  I love the fact that we can provide a positive space for people to go for uplifting stories and information. I hope when people read our stories they feel inspired to do good things in their communities, churches and families.”

Elder and Sister Fugal, Elder Wallace, and Elder Melligan, 

During June and July, 2015 the US Navy Ship Mercy visited our part of the South Pacific.  This hospital ship spent considerable time in both Fiji and in Papua New Guinea.  In addition to Navy medical personnel, there were also 20 volunteer dentists, doctors, nurses, veterinarians, engineers and other specialists from the Church.  They participated with nearly 1000 navy crew members to provide free services to local communities.  This navy ship is actually a floating hospital. There are 12 operating rooms on the ship.  There are several articles about the ships' visit to the Pacific.  Medical supplies donated by the Church were also taken to both Fiji and Papua New Guinea.

It is interesting to see photos that our humanitarian couples sent to us when they reported on the Mercys' visit.  The missionary couples set up stations for people to be interviewed and surgeries to be scheduled. The navy medical personnel didn't just work on the ship; dentists worked on people in tents and medical doctors saw patients in local clinics and in parks.   The young missionaries were especially helpful in translating for the doctors and in assisting the local people.

This is one of our favorites stories when they visited Fiji. http://www.mormonnewsroom.org.nz/article/medical-ship-humanitarian-clinics-lift-lives.

Another interesting you tube clip we were excited to see was: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3HGTTIkKQM.  This clip tells about the work the Church is doing all over the world with vision care.  What was exciting to us was an 8 year old boy that was a part of the project.   We worked on this project when we served in the Adriatic North Mission (2012 - 2013).  We met the young boy and his parents.  He was diagnosed with vision problem that was corrected as a result of this project.

Another week is completed and we find that we are over half way through our service here. This mission is a wonderful experience.  We love the work we are privileged to be engaged in. 

"Time flies on wings of lightning, we cannot call it back.  It comes, then passes forward along its onward track.  And if we are not mindful, the chance will fade away.  For life is quick in passing, 'Tis as a single day. 

 Improve each shining moment, In this you are secure.  For promptness bringeth safety and blessings rich and pure.  Let prudence guide your actions; Be honest in your heart, and God will love and bless you and help to your impart." Improve the Shining Moment #226 LDS Hymns, Robert B. Baird, Verses 2 and 4.