Tonga’s King is reported to have sent soldiers and the Prime Minister to halt the baptism of his son Prince Ata into the Mormon church.
Prince Ata is the King’s second son and fourth in line to the throne, and some reports say the King has warned his son he could have his title revoked.
Kaniva News says the prince had agreed to postpone the ceremony, but two months later the 26 year old prince has still not been baptised, despite continuing to attend the Latter Day Saints Church.
Kaniva News reported that The Prime Minister was sent after the Prince sent away soldiers.
When the soldiers relayed the king’s message the prince refused to obey and told the Mormon leaders at the ceremony he wanted them to continue and baptise him.
A spokesman for the Tongan military says he has no information about any soldiers being involved.
In September a Mormon blogger living in Tonga, Mindymoon22 reported that the King and Queen were traveling to the USA:
“And the hope is for them to visit SLC and to have the General Authorities or someone high in the church to give them the “royal” treatment and tour of Temple Square and go to a session of General Conference.”
“The hope is for them to get a larger picture of the Mormon Church that their son is so set on joining.”
“That is what we are hearing and it changes depending on who you speak to.”
“Our Mission President has been the one teaching him so we think we have a pretty good insight.”
“Anyway, after the Temple Square experience, we are sure the King and Queen are going to join the church. ”
Source
Additional readingNews category: Asia Pacific.
