Dear Family and Friends,
This is my last e-mail as we will be going home in just a few days. I can hardly write as I shed tears of leaving these great people. When you come on mission you think it will be forever before going home, but then all of a sudden it is over. We have been so blessed by coming to this mission and experiencing the love of our Heavenly Father and the great people of South Africa.
We have been very busy, as you can imagine the past several weeks. We were so happy to have had John and Beth visit for a short time. They had a taste of what we experience daily. It was good to share it with someone in the family, so that they could understand a little of what we feel. Today we had Zone Conference and our mission president asked about the miracles in the mission. I sat there and thought about the many things that we have experienced since being here. Our little “twigs” were just so new and could barely function. There wasn’t anyone in the branch that had been a member for more than two years. It truly has been a miracle to watch these people grow – they have learned to preside, conduct, teach, minister, give wonderful talks, and testify of a Father in Heaven, and their savior Jesus Christ, who is their advocate, their source of strength, their light and their hope for eternal blessings. As they bare such testimonies, I am so humbled by their spirit and their complete faith. Last Sunday in Ngwelezane they had the choir (that is a miracle also) sing; Pres. Mngadi conducted like a pro and called people to callings in the branch. I sat back and realized they were no longer a “twig”, but a true branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We will miss watching them continue to grow – but we know that they will be watched over and the Lord will continue to bless them and help them to succeed.
This past month we have had our Primary programs in both branches. We were the only branches in the District to do so. Nseleni Branch had 25 children sing – they were amazing. They sang with such gusto I thought the roof was going to blow off. Each child also gave a talk. Now this may not seem so incredible to you, but consider that only 5 of the children are members – that they speak very, very, little English. The Primary president is 23. She worked with them for months – she spent almost every day before the day of the program rehearsing with them. On the day of the program, many of their families came to watch. They were amazed that their children could sing such beautiful songs and give talks in English. When their child would perform, they would all clap. The people in Nseleni love our church, even though they aren’t members, because of what we give our young children, our youth and the strength we extend to the Adults through English classes, Aids classes, and constant service throughout the community. Our church is an example of Christ like living. We love all people and serve all who are in need. As individual members, I have learned that this is very important. I know this is what our Savior expects of us. We are all brothers and sisters and need to realize the worth of each soul. We do not worry about what anyone wears to church here. We only worry about what they bring in their hearts. As they come into church, everyone goes and greets each other. Not just by saying “hello”, but with a hug and a warm handshake. After 50 or 60 people have hugged you, you feel loved. I will so miss the simplicity of their lives, their purity of heart and their absolute faith and trust.
This weekend, on Dad’s birthday, we are having an YSA dance at the church. This is a first!! We have tried to work out transport because the young adults cannot afford to come to Richard’s Bay to an activity. We have hired a DJ for the music (church standard of course) and have arranged for transportation to bring them at 6:00 p.m. and take them to their houses at 10:00 p.m. It is very dangerous at night, so we have had to make sure the transport would take them to their individual homes. The young adults are so excited about this activity. I know Dad will be out their dancing away. So, think of us on Saturday as we end our mission by boogieing with 60 of our great YSA’s that we so love.
Our Branch Pres. in Nseleni this weekend is going to Johannesburg to the Temple with his wife. All of our Branch Presidents in the District will then be endowed. The money from our Temple trip with the youth is helping to pay for him to go. Thank you again to all who contributed – it has been a blessing to so many people.
Sunday, we will attend our Nseleni Branch Conference and then sneak away to go to Durban. The next day we will catch a flight home. How can I ever thank my Heavenly Father enough for this experience? Dad and I will just look at each other and start to cry. It has changed our lives and has brought so many blessings. I can’t imagine my life without knowing these people and being a part of this great work. We are grateful for such a supportive family, who without them we could not have experienced this. We love you more than words can express for your sacrifice for us. I hope that you have been blessed as you have held tight together and shared our mission with us.
We have told the people we will see them on the other side. What a party it will be!!
My dear grandchildren – I know that many of you are looking forward to going on your mission some day. I can promise you that it will be a great experience in your life. Prepare now. Grandpa and I know we have the best grandchildren to serve their Heavenly Father and to teach the gospel to many people all over the world.
My heart is heavy to end this chapter in our life, but so grateful to have been granted with time. God continue to bless each and every one of you. Put God first and then all things will work out for your good. I know that to be true. This life is but a moment – don’t get distracted with the insignificant – for we will all be “on the other side” before we know it.
Much love,
Mom, Karen and for a few days more… SISTER B.
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