News Release

Elder Kazuhiko Yamashita Promises Young People, ‘Family History is Good For You’

First online discussion for young people on family history organised by the Church in the South Pacific

Elder Kazuhiko Yamashita, a member of the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, accompanied by his wife, Sister Tazuko Yamashita, were guests on a “Family History table talk” on Facebook on Sunday, 29 August 2021.


The event was the final in a family history online series aimed at encouraging young people to learn about their ancestors, participate in research and help prepare their family members to receive temple ordinances.

New Zealand young adults, Toni Talamaivao and Maui Kinikini, hosted the table talk joined by Nicholas Ezekiela and Lela Tuitavake.

Addressing young people, Elder Yamashita promised, "Family history is good for you."

He went on to share President Russell M. Nelson’s promise given in the April 2020, General Conference: “I promise that as you increase your time in temple and family history work, you will increase and improve your ability to ‘Hear Him.’”

Elder Yamashita urged Church members to connect with temple and family history consultants straight away. “They will help you to turn your heart to your fathers in fulfilment of Elijah the prophet’s mission to gather Israel,” he said.

Sister Yamashita reminded the group that family history work is a spiritual work. She told a story about participating in a family reunion via zoom. “I had a really good feeling as we shared and recorded memories of each other’s deceased grandparents,” she said.

“Everyone felt peace and comfort through the Holy Spirit, and realised that family bonds are really important and families could be united again."

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