Saturday, January 27, 2018

56 Days and going strong


Had a great meeting with Dr. Teresa, President of College of Marshall Islands, on Tuesday.  She is one classy bright woman, who has truly tried to make a difference in the islands. We are excited to do more projects with her. Get ready to learn about water pumps, establishing a library on an outer island, creating a childcare center at the main CMI campus, and the anticipation of the proposed Wotje Center, which we hope provides a computer lab with needed equipment.

Friday we had our follow-up screening at the Laura Salvation Army Church.  Great turn-out by a group of people where many want a healthier lifestyle.  It was a rewarding place to serve.  We are so fortunate.


At the end, they sang us a song and gave our group three big sacks of coconuts.  
Elder Preston and our team listening while the
Captain and his assistant of the Salvation Army
thank us for coming and supporting their desires to
have good health.






Last Sunday evening we attended the New Beginnings for the Delap Young Women.  The girls were so well prepared and their musical numbers were outstanding.  Rubida, the YW President and vice-principal of Marshall Islands High School, is an amazing leader who really tries to lift the bar for the girls 12-18.
Beautiful young women in the Delap Ward.
Leaders at each end on the back row.
For our P-day on Saturday, we had a delightful time.  With five others, we went to the island of Eneko.  Yes, we have been there before, but it is so good to get away and actually be able to snorkel, kayake and just enjoy the day. Good weather, great friends, and a safe boat helped.

Elder Preston took the pictures of our island hop.  He'll share pictures with all of you.

We rushed home to prepare to attend baptisms for two girls in the Delap Ward.  Of course the event started an hour late, because the Bishop had all the young women at his home for an activity and was late in arriving. (Like dad used to say, "We hurry hurry hurry, so we can wait."
 
The Jack Family.  Lillia and Kania
are waiting for their big moment.

Sister Wilson and Sister Mascoe are the missionaries
who had the opportunity to teach the lessons.

We are now added to the picture, too.

When we drove up, we were shocked that the mother of the two young girls is a lady that we have worked with at our CLPs since we arrived.  She is so intelligent, positive, and has an amazing sense of humor that is contagious.  When her daughters announced to their mother and father that they wanted to attend the Mormon church, Lizabeth (mother) asked why.  Lillia, the oldest daughter, said, "We want to study the Bible with the sister missionaries."  Her mom said, "Sure - go ahead."

After receiving all of the missionary lessons and having their questions answered, the 14 year old and the 10 year old really wanted to be baptized, so mom and dad agreed and attended their baptisms.

After the talks were given, the ordinance of baptism took place, and we had all reconvened in the chapel, the two young girls sang the song, I WANT TO BE LIKE JESUS, with the sister missionaries who taught them , and last but not least, Lillia and Kania shared their testimonies. The spirit was so strong.  Tears were rolling down the cheeks of their father and many others in the congregation. What a great day!


On Sunday, we sat in the congregation when Lillia and Kania received the Holy Ghost by the Laying on of Hands by one who has priesthood authority.  Once again we were all blessed with a quiet reaffirming blanket of goodness.

We have sincerely been blessed this week by great contacts to produce needed projects, time to play, and time to be spiritually rejuvenated.

We pray that your week has been good.  We all know that Hard is Good! As stated by Elder Ellis, "Hard makes us stronger, humbles us, and gives us a chance to prove ourselves. . . . " During weeks like this, we know that the hard things that we have tried to accomplish reap blessings of all kinds.

We love you and pray every day for your well-being.

Elder & Sister Preston

No comments:

Post a Comment