On Saturday, December 19, 2015 we left the flat at 6:40 a.m. and headed to the Temple.  We have a young lady from our Temple Preparation class receiving her Endowment today.  Her name is Priscilla Gatoloai and she is leaving on her mission to the Philippines in January.  It was a great day and we had some of the YSA and the Bishop and his wife with us also.

At 5:00 p.m. we headed to our ward for a baptism of a young woman by the name of Fusi and then we had our ward party.

They have the YSA broken down into tribes numbered one to twelve.  So according to their tribe number they attend Sunday School classes and plan activities with their tribes.  Kind of like family home evening groups, etc.  So tonight each tribe was assigned to perform something musical for Christmas.  Some of the tribes joined together and we had a lot of fun.  Not as many YSA there as we have had at other activities.  Some are out of town and involved with family activities for the holidays.

Some of the kids had on costumes and some were very prepared.  Others were throwing it together at the last minute.

 A couple of tribes joined together and while they sang their song they decorated the Christmas tree and put gifts for charity under the tree.  They were the most organized group of the night.  They were also the three tribes that were in charge of the evening.

This was the group that put it all together.

Another tribe performing.

 This young lady on the right, Atilaite, is so much fun.  She is very smart and is not shy at all.

 Brother Pome'e, Bishop Tafiti and Brother Tauili'ili our Bishopric.  They did a little dancing and singing.  They really connect with these young people and are doing a great job.

They asked some of the YSA to perform a Haka for the Senior Missionaries.  They know we like to watch them perform and it was their gift to us saying Merry Christmas and we appreciate you working with us.  It was very nice.  Haley was the only girl that joined in.  She is all Maori and was baptized three months ago.  It has been fun to watch her grow in the gospel.  John the young man closest to Hayley is the leader.

 Brother and Sisteer Pomee had a baby the last week of November and she was there.  Of course, Nada found her and Olivia said I could hold her so that was my highlight of the evening!

We love these YSA kids and enjoy associating with them.  It is great to watch them lead and grow in the gospel.  Some of them are getting ready to leave on missions and it has been an honor to teach them in the Temple Preparation class and go to the Temple with them.  Some are getting married, some leaving for school in other countries.

The Gospel is true and blesses our lives so much.   As we celebrate Christmas we are reminded of the greatest gift of all, the birth, life and Atonement of Jesus Christ.  May we always show our gratitude.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  Love Elder and Sister Spencer (aka Reed & Nada)