Spreading Cheer at Kangaroo Point

Over 1000 attendees flocked to the annual “Joy to the World” Christmas concert evening organised by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Kangaroo Point, Queensland.

People of all ages, nationalities and religious traditions were welcomed to Kangaroo Point to enjoy live nativity scenes, musical performances, Christmas stories and a Jerusalem marketplace with their Latter-day Saint neighbours.

One attendee, Kym Langill, Executive Director Families & Young People Services at Mercy Community, said of the event: "I enjoyed the event very much and was impressed by the musical talent along with the entertaining live nativity scenes as we walked around the building."

Another attendee, Ibraheem Malik, a leader in the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, commented, "I came to this event because it's important to respect and support others in their convictions. Joy comes to us when we do that." The Ahmadiyya Muslim Association recently joined with members of the Church to provide Christmas gifts to children in foster care. 

President Esben Strodl of the Brisbane Stake (diocese) was overwhelmed by the community response. He said: "We were thrilled that our Christmas musical production could be enjoyed by members of the local community as well as those from other faiths and organisations. We hope that each year this free production may bring a little cheer, as well as a sense of peace and goodwill to those living in this neighbourhood as we all try to serve each other in our respective ways."

This annual event is quickly becoming a highlight of the Southeast Queensland Christmas calendar. The program was headlined by a local community choir, MUSICA, and supported by the Sing Studio Young Women’s Choir.