After spending some wonderful time in Boston with Phil and Kaylee and the girls, Paul and I flew with them to Salt Lake to spend a final few days together before going into the Provo MTC. Kaylee's parents kindly had us stay at their home with them and we went boating together, had lots of time playing together, talking and eating out. It was precious time. On Friday 22nd June, Paul and I were set apart as missionaries and Mission president and companion. Paul was set apart by Elder Stevenson and I was set apart by Elder Pearson, who was our previous Area President. Philip, Kaylee and Mae were able to be with us. It was a tender time. When Elder Stevenson spoke with us he shared D&C 31, when Thomas Marsh was called to serve his mission. Elder Stevenson shared that a blessing for sharing the gospel was that our sins would be forgiven and told us to emphasize this to our missionaries. After our setting apart, Phil dropped us off at the MTC. This was such a role reversal, reminding us of when we took Andrew, Philip and Rachael to the MTC. A few photos below:
We had a glorious 5 days at the MTC. We were trained well, taught that Love, the spirit and Christ are the centre of the work. We had Sacrament meeting with the prophet as the only speaker. President Nelson spoke on the hopes of his heart. He said we were foreordained to be leaders at this time in the pre-existence. He said for us to help missionaries to teach repentance and prepare for baptism and to love, lift and inspire. He and his wife shook every one of us 112 Mission presidents and their wives hands, as did President and Sister Oaks and President Eyring. What great examples of ministering. Some photos from the MTC:
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| All the new pacific area mission presidents and wives with Elder and Sister Stevenson, Elder and Sister Natress and Elder and Sister Carl Cook |
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| With the Runia's from the Sydney mission |
