Saturday the 26th of April saw a
vibrant and colourful explosion of smiles, music, faith and friendship erupt in
York City Centre. The second annual York International Festival of faith and
culture was a huge and positive success.
The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints in York presented an international presence with Elder and
Sister Smith and Bill Kimberling from the USA manning the Church exhibition, along with English members including the
Siddall's, Hayden Beaumont, and Meryl Hird, plus Sister Wu from China and Sister
Cabrejas from Spain. We also had Elder Oriheula singing Catalan folk songs on
the main stage and receiving warm applause.
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| Elder Orihuela performs for the Lord Mayor and guests |
Throughout the day, local Church
members also came along to support and to say hello and were among some 7,000 people
flowing through the marquis on Parliament Street.
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| The Lord Mayor of York & the Indonesian Ambassador join in the applause |
Most of the other exhibitors and
community leaders (from most of the other faiths and groups in attendance)
engaged in polite and positive conversations with Church members and
missionaries. Gospel conversations were had, respect and friendship was
fostered, some great missionary experiences.
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| Members and missionaries at the Church stand |
Church member Mark Cosens was asked to
address the festival with a brief impromptu speech. Later the Indonesian
Ambassador and Lord Mayor of York met Church members and took time to take a
look at our exhibitions.
Along with the Church exhibition, there
was also a family history ‘Family Tree’ exhibition, which proved very popular. We
were able to share all of the introductory cards that we had prepared to people
interested in starting their family tree.
Next year we hope join in the York
International Festival again. The event has been a really positive way to share
our faith in the Jesus Christ, as well as foster respect and understanding with
others in our community.
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A youth choir from
Rwanda perform a traditional song and dance
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