Good afternoon, dear brothers and sisters, on this glorious Sunday afternoon.

This morning, at the Ilford branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, this being

Fasting Sunday, members of the congregation can stand in the pulpit and give their testimonies. 

Fast is observed once a month in our church, and members skip two meals and contribute in cash and kind for the benefit of those who are in need. 

The service began with the Confirmation of three newly baptised members.  The gift of the Holy Ghost was offered unto David Foreman, Sharon Pickering and Angela Stokes. 

Bishop Onoalapo began by giving his testimony.  "Before me, Bishop Herbertson was the Bishop, and letting you know how truthful is the Book of Mormon.  To me, it is the most correct book on the face of the earth today, letting us know how gracious, kind and merciful our Heavenly Father is.  King Benjamin and King Hellaman showed us how we too should espouse God's gospel and live by His principles.  This is the only church that has the fullness of the Gospel.

     The Lord knows the difficulties each and every one of us is facing.  Let us trust in Him, because He cares for each and every one of us.  We all have a role to play.  It is a privilege to serve you."

Sister Enid Burnett ; "I bear my testimony that this Church is true, and we have a living Prophet in President Thomas S. Monson."

Sister Shariah Steele : "It touches my heart to know that our  Heavenly Father knows us all so personally.  I am grateful to know that I shall always have the company of the Holy Ghost to be with me.  My brothers and sisters, we (Sister Nebeker and I) love you soooo much, and I hope to get to know you all."

Elder Tionga : (Began with some words in Samoan language).  My brothers and sisters, I do speak English.  (this humoured the congregation greatly).

(He quoted something from Vermans Chaper 14)

I bear testimony that the Saviour lives, and we live through the Lord.  No matter what, the Lord will always live through us and be with us."

Brother Nana Aggrey : "It has been a particularly happy day for me.  It was a joyful duty to confirm my dear friend Angie Stokes into the Church. 

     Brothers and sisters, it is my testimony that the world is not what it appears.  There is a lot of wickedness, which you will find if you dig for it.".

Sister Lawal : "Brother Samuel has returned from his mission in Taiwan.  I remember how depressed I felt when I returned - when you are on a mission, you live in a bubble : not having to worry about earning a living or paying the bills.  Everything is taken care of."

Sister Lydia Stevenson : "I have had a wonderful morning with all the confirmations.  Last week we went to the Temple, and did a baptism for someone who had died a few years earlier.  We believe that the power of sealing is a power for eternity....So that marriages are for ever, not only in our earthly life.

I was called last year as the Seminary Teacher, and I would like to tell all my students that I love them, and the Saviour loves them. (she started to weep with emotion)  Read the Book of Mormon every day - it illuminates the Bible.  The Sacrament Table represents the body of Jesus Christ - it looks like that, doesn't it?"

Sister Taiwo Akkune : "I am thankful for the Gospel in my life, going through the Seminary, University, getting married, and becoming a Mum,  all with the companionship of the Gospel and the Holy Ghost.  It has made me a better person.  I am here because of the Saviour.  I am here because of the connection I have developed with our Heavenly Father.  I know that the Book of Mormon is the true word of God.  I know that the Bible is the true word of God."

I hope you enjoyed reading these testimonies, and got a flavour of the Church and its congregation.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is a warm, welcoming Church, attended by families who believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  I enjoy attending it every Sunday morning (open 10am to about 1.30pm)  Should you wish to visit, please feel free to do so.  It is a truly democratic church, giving callings to whoever is deserving. It is open to everyone.  (In the Muslim nations, they open on Fridays, like the mosques).

Kind regards,

Duru-darshan