Various training and gatherings

The past two weeks we have had a variety of training and socializing activities.
At a birthday dinner for a senior missionary in a nearby restaurant the waitrons sang a wonderful African rendition of a familiar greeting.




Ron and I taught stake and unit leaders regarding priesthood stewardship of meetinghouses at a chapel a 30 minute drive west of our neighborhood. As we arrived we were pleased to recognize Munsieville Branch President Miller with two young men from his branch who have been called on missions to Cape Town and Uganda, Elder Mooki and Elder Moll. President Miller's sister is a fellow member of our home ward in north Idaho.



Meeting with 11 couples serving as Humanitarian country directors who were at the Area Office for a week's training from countries throughout the Africa Southeast Area (ASEA), we taught a security presentation to some who have only been on mission for two weeks to seasoned missionaries who validated our suggestions with the group. Aware of some of the life-changing projects they are facilitating, it was fun chatting with them during a break.

Our first and only Senior Missionary District Conference held during our 18 month mission was conducted by our Area Presidency who shared their goals for the ASEA, examples of tremendous growth in Church membership this area is experiencing, and new areas soon to be created. Our afternoon included temple sessions and a group BBQ, termed braai, which was served in the presidencies' tiled garage (dubbed the banquet hall).



This coming month four new couples will arrive as four companionships complete their missions and return home. A combined farewell was held for Sister Virginia Dolinar, Office Specialist, who has served as a single sister with her companion Sister Ellen Lee who follows her shortly, and Elder and Sister Butler, Employment Resource Center. Sister Dolinar is in the center of the final photo with the Butlers on the right. In three weeks our Medical Advisor, Elder and Sister Merrill, will leave just days prior to Ron and my departure. Of course, whenever a gathering occurs delicious treats are served front and center.