This last week has been very special for the LDS community in Hawaii. We were visited by a Prophet of God, Thomas S. Monson, for the rededication of the Laie Hawaii Temple. Before it was rededicated (it was first dedicated in 1919), over 45,000 people toured the temple in the few weeks it was open to the public.
I was asked by the Temple Historical Committee to document the cultural celebration event which happened the night before the dedication. With the press pass I was able to get up close to the Prophet. The cultural celebration was put on by hundreds of youth from all over Hawaii. It was an amazing performance. I have to say that I believe Hawaii has the most beautiful and talented youth in the world! (The youth leaders are amazing as well). Hailing from nations all over the Pacific and Hawaii, the singing and dancing and storytelling and spirit were incredible.
The picture of the Temple was taken today during the dedication.