The Gathering of Israel—A Cultural Celebration
The Hurst Stake Cultural Conference was held on March 12, 2022 at the Hurst Texas State Center. Women from nine wards (congregations), including Relief Society and Young Women groups, came together to present an extraordinary tableau of foreign cultures to our members and guests.
Preparing for the Event
For weeks before the event, women across the Stake diligently learned and practiced various native dances from a variety of cultures including: Tongan, Fijian, Filipino, Samoan, Mexican, Hawaiian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, and African. The final dress rehearsal for the dance performers was conducted on March 5, 2022 and the actors and players were ready to entertain the assemblage.
“Preparation for the Stake Cultural Celebration dances were more engaging than I expected. I love dancing so I was excited to participate , but I was so impressed with the dance instructors for each culture. They chose easy to learn fun dances and broke them down nicely for us to learn,” said Rachel Eisemann from the Bedford Second Ward.
Above image taken during rehearsals at the Hurst Stake Center. From left to right: Lavinita Faka’iloatonga, Sepiuta Davis, Nika Halaufia, Marietta Tupou Raisaluwaki Walton.
The Gathering of Israel
The conference focused on a central theme: The Gathering of Israel. Prophesied thousands of years ago, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe it’s the greatest work on earth today. Members believe in the literal gathering of Israel: That all of the lost tribes will be returned and gathered together around the time of the second coming of Jesus Christ.
To honor this important work, the Hurst Stake Center was transformed into a world of far-away places so attendees could gather a deeper appreciation for other cultures. Dining tables were decorated with floral arrangements. National flags were hung. Photos of temples and families from various countries were on display. Guests were greeted with Hawaiian leis as they entered the room.
Above: A cultural display of items from Fiji.
Above: Fifita Nau and Suliane Davis getting ready to welcome visitors at their display.
Around the hall, cultural table displays were informative, entertaining and intriguing. The food was incredible and included two roasted pigs, chicken, macaroni salads, rice and the piece du resistance…. a table loaded with exotic fruits.
Cultural Dances
For over two hours, guests were entertained with the 10 cultural dances.
Wanda Peach, from the Euless First Ward said, “I have gained a greater appreciation for the diversity of cultures in our stake. The spirit of the culture comes forth through each dance.”
There was also an area dedicated to photo booths, so the guests could have their personal photos made while “wearing” native dress.
“Gathering Israel is fun on the dance floor,” said Rachel Eisemann.
Article by Debby Adair.
