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The Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd
 
By decree of Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed, Joseph, the carpenter, travels to Bethlehem with Mary, his espoused wife who is great with child. Once arrived in Bethlehem, Joseph and Mary seek shelter only to be told that there is no room for them in the inn. Mary brings forth her firstborn son, wraps him in swaddling clothes, and lays him in a manger. Meanwhile, in a humble village near Zarahemla, a city in ancient America, a young boy named Helam sees a brilliant new star in the heavens and runs to share the news. Amaron, a teacher of God's word, confirms that the new star is the long-prophesied sign of the birth of Christ. And so begins The Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd, a new film produced by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The dramatic story follows the life of Helam, a fictional character, as he endeavors to keep the commandments of God in the midst of persecution and personal tragedy. The life of Helam and his family is juxtaposed with corresponding events in the Holy Land during Christ's Old World ministry, putting in historical context the prophetic events on both continents. Thus, biblical and Book of Mormon witnesses of Jesus Christ are woven into the story.

Produced under the direction of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, The Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd will be shown in the IMAX Polynesia Theater. Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Seventy explains that the purpose of the film is to establish that Jesus is the Son of God, 'the light and life of the world' and to show the miraculous effect the Savior has on the lives of those who believe in Him.

The film took over two years to make and required extensive research into the ancient cultures of the Americas. It was shot in Utah, California, and Hawaii on 57 sets, the largest of which was about the size of a football stadium. Forty-eight principal cast members, along with 52 featured players and over 1,000 extras came together to bring the storyline to life. The inspirational music was provided by the Orchestra at Temple Square and the Tabernacle Choir.

Elder Andersen says: This film bears a powerful witness of the Savior. It dramatically depicts the appearance and ministry of the resurrected Christ in the Americas as recorded in the Book of Mormon. The film also represents an unprecedented collaboration of hundreds of committed, capable people who consecrated their skills, united their creative talents, and in many cases volunteered their time.

The film mirrors man's eternal search for meaning and affirms hope in the saving power of the Lord's Atonement, that through faith and enduring obedience we may one day be reunited with Jesus Christ.

Free tickets can be reserved in advance by calling 808-293-3117, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Hawaii Standard time. Show times are at 7:30 pm, Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Also showing at 10:30 am Saturday mornings.