2015!

We experienced a unique opportunity this week. We welcomed new missionaries and said good-bye to others all near the first of the new year! Every new year now for the rest of these missionaries' lives will be a reminder of their consecrated service in the mission field. It is exciting to watch them come and equally exciting to see them go home and on to achieve great things beyond their time here. We consider ourselves privileged to observe the workings of God in their lives. (More pictures on the Life with Missionaries page)

New Missionaries

New Missionaries and Trainers

Departing Missionaries

Earlier this week, I read the blog of a friend of mine. She wrote about deciding upon a theme, a saying, or a scripture to guide the new year. It got me thinking about a scripture that recently has great meaning in my life. In Helaman 15:6 we read, "Yea, I say unto you, that the more part of them are doing this, and they are striving with unwearied diligence that they may bring the remainder of their brethren to the knowledge of the truth . . .." My phrase for the year 2015 is "unwearied diligence." I have already used it several times to remind myself of the importance of continuing to move forward with great strength and faith.

We have invited the missionaries to develop a phrase of their own. We suggested they start by pondering their favorite scripture. Parents, please visit with your missionary about his/her phrase. Find one of your own and share it with them. Together we can be a powerful force for good in the world!