This past weekend we had our mission "farewell."
This is our worship service (called a "Sacrament Meeting") where
Linda and I spoke about our feelings as we embark for our missionary service in
South Africa. One of our leaders, Elder Dallin H. Oaks, called Sacrament
meeting the most "sacred and important meeting in the church." That's
because we renew our covenants with the Savior through a Sacrament of bread and
water. As part of the service, Steven Sharp Nelson and Marshall McDonald played
"If you could hie to Kolob" as a cello/piano duet. Admittedly that is
our favorite hymn, but it was seriously the most beautiful rendition of it I
have ever heard. All in all it was one of the most tender meetings we have ever
experienced. Adding to that was the fact that so many families of current
missionaries in ZA showed up to meet and greet us! But I have to admit, that
was a long, lonely road on our walk to the church...
Our family at our home after the
farewell includes Brady, Mindy, Madison, me, Linda, Emi, Chase, Whitney
(holding little Zach) and Jeff.
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Proudly flying the colors of ZA on our front porch.
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| The night before the farewell we had an open house where neighbors and friends brought some of the best food we have ever had! Thanks to all including the Hogues, Cowans, Buehners, Clements, McCulloughs and Holdings who pulled it all together for us. |
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| Holding my grandson Taggart and talking to my brother Jimmy, my mom Patty (...who came all the way from her home in Cannon Beach, OR with her husband Jim Logan—the guy taking the picture on the far right), and great friend Emily Utt. |
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| Special thanks to Liz Cowan who made Malva Pudding—a South African treat. |
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| My grandchildren Madison and Tagg danced until dawn (...almost). |
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| Linda and our good friend and neighbor Sue Buehner fix their hair for the photo. |
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| It was so wonderful to see so many old friends like Steve and Elaine Dalton. |
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| Walking home from church with my junior companions... |
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| ...and can't wait to serve in South Africa with the best companion in the world. |
Such a lovely family! Such a treasure to see your family photo. Thanks for taking the time to share these tender moments.
ReplyDeleteWhat would I give to follow you around and hear all of your zone conference talks! Please post regularly!
ReplyDeleteKeith and I send love and best wishes from San Diego. You were amazing as our bishop at the U, we are sure the people of Johannesburg SA will be equally blessed!! And...probably there are not bears in South Africa!
ReplyDeleteKathy: So great to hear from you! Thanks for your well wishes and kind words. We so loved knowing you and Keith and hope all is well in California.
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