New Horizons

Dear All,

In case you didn't know, we were inspired to serve a mission at this time and in this place by our dear and long time friends, Van and Vicki Pershing.  It has been wonderful to not only serve with them these past 2+ months but to also socialize with them on occasion and receive their guidance as new missionaries.  Well, the honeymoon is over...we took them to the airport yesterday morning as they are headed home.  They will be sorely missed!

With the Pershings leaving, we will be the only senior couple in the Port Elizabeth region, which includes two zones of missionaries (24).  Yesterday, we moved into the Pershing's home, which is closer to the center of town, and are now trying to assume the responsibilities they have had.  It is a bit over whelming but we trust the Lord will continue to bless us and will qualify us to do the job.  The good news is that President Merrill asked us to continue working with the Motherwell Branch!  We love the people there so much and are hoping to be with them at least 2 or 3 days each week.

We are currently teaching a woman named Shelia, who works at a grocery store with Sister Mashiqua, the Young Woman's President and a member for only about 6 months.  After their discussions at work about religion, Shelia asked to have us teach her about the church.  She is one of the sweetest women we have ever met, and she has a sincere desire to live a life which is pleasing to God.  Shelia has been an active member of another church for many years but is now preparing to be baptized into the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, and she is very excited about this marvelous event.  From the first time she attended church she felt a special kinship with the members, and she was amazed by the many things which were taught each week, as compared to the church in which she has been a member.  It's true, there is a treasure trove of knowledge to be gained each week as we attend church, and each day as we study the scriptures.

We are grateful to be members of the Lord's church and to be serving as missionaries. 

We send our love!

Elder and Sister Watson

Going to miss being neighbors to these two!  Also, Elder McCarroll (right) is being transferred tomorrow. 

 

Some names can be challenging.  Elder "Randri" is from Madagascar and is headed home tomorrow.

 This is Sister Mene, with her 2 year old grandson and 12 year old daughter. Her kidneys failed about 9 years ago but she has an amazingly positive attitude about life.  One of the many who are filled with gratitude as they become members of the church.  We love the Mene family.  

Home sweet home!  

(The smoke is from a wild fire in the hills behind our place.)