MicronesiaFirst Pohnpeian Ward Outside Micronesia
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has created its first Pohnpeian-speaking ward outside of Micronesia in the United States. The Hendersonville 2nd Ward was formed from a branch in North Carolina.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has created its first Pohnpeian-speaking ward outside of Micronesia in the United States. This new ward, named the Hendersonville 2nd Ward, was formed from a branch in Hendersonville, North Carolina, on September 20, 2026.
Bishop Warney Alati, who previously served as branch president, is now the bishop of the new ward. He was baptized on the island of Pohnpei and served a full-time mission there before moving to the United States.
Asheville North Carolina Stake President Kyle Gillett said the creation of the new ward reflects the extraordinary faith and love of the Pohnpeian-speaking members. He noted that the members embody the invitation to love, share, and invite others to the gospel.
The past year has seen significant growth in the ward, with over 20 baptisms. President Gillett described this growth as remarkable, but emphasized that the love behind it is even more remarkable.
The Pohnpeian-speaking community in North Carolina originated from a group of Latter-day Saints who moved to the area in search of employment. Over time, the community has expanded through the growth of families and baptisms.
Bishop Alati credited the leaders in Hendersonville and the stake leaders for helping his testimony grow since he moved to the United States. He expressed gratitude for the Lord's help in the creation of the new ward.
The new ward is a significant development for the Pohnpeian-speaking community in the United States, marking a major milestone in their growth and organization.
Key facts
- The Hendersonville 2nd Ward is the first Pohnpeian-speaking ward outside of Micronesia.
- The ward was formed from a branch in Hendersonville, North Carolina, on September 20, 2026.
- Bishop Warney Alati serves as the bishop of the new ward.
- The ward has seen over 20 baptisms in the past year.
Three perspectives
Neutral
The creation of the Hendersonville 2nd Ward marks a significant development for the Pohnpeian-speaking community in the United States. The growth of the ward is a result of the efforts of its members and leaders. Further developments in the ward's growth and activities will be worth watching.
Positive
The new ward is a testament to the faith and love of the Pohnpeian-speaking members. The significant growth in the ward is a positive indicator of the community's strength and resilience. The leadership of Bishop Alati and President Gillett has been instrumental in the ward's development.
Negative
The creation of the new ward may also present challenges for the community, such as integrating new members and managing growth. The ward's reliance on leadership from outside the community may also be a concern. The long-term sustainability of the ward's growth will depend on the community's ability to adapt and respond to these challenges.
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