I love to see the Temple

Dear All,

As previously mentioned, we were able to attend the Johannesburg Temple this past week.  The round trip took nearly 24 hours but it was well worth it.  We greatly enjoyed being with Motherwell Branch members, some of whom were there for the first time.  It was a pleasure to share their excitement and to feel the special spirit which is only found in the temple...it is the House of the Lord.  

Another reason we enjoyed the trip to Johannesburg so much was that we were able to stay with our old and dear friends, Elder and Sister Ludwig.  They started their mission (their fourth) shortly after us and work in the Southeastern Africa Area offices. Elder Ludwig is the Executive Secretary to the Area President and Sister Ludwig receives and processes all the missionary applications which come from the area (more that one half of Africa).  We lived in the Marana Ward (Tucson North Stake) together nearly 40 years ago. Elder Ludwig was called as our bishop and I served as a counselor.  He was only 30 years old (me 30 something), and was a fairly new member of the church.  I thought at the time that this young guy and new member of the church couldn't teach me anything, but wow was I wrong!  He was a wonderful mentor with wisdom far beyond his years.  Sister Ludwig was our son Scott's second grade teacher.  That was a wonderful school year for him and he loved her.  The Ludwigs have had a great influence on our family, and continue to do so. 

On a more serious side, there are three things that we are NOT enjoying about South Africa:  

1. Speed Bumps!  They have few police on the road so they control speed with these annoying bumps...everywhere!  

2. The SA banks!  We have probably spent a total of about seven hours in four different offices of the same bank and we still do not have an account that will allow us to put money in and take money out.  

3. Bugs!  We have awaken several morning with bites from head to toe, and they itch like crazy!

So, that's it as far as what we don't like, and there are so many things we love so it's all worth it.      

Giving a quick report on Motherwell Branch, we had 97 people at church on Sunday!  That is a good 20-25 above average.  Our little classroom chapel was completely filled and it was wonderful.  The testimonies were awesome and the singing was extraordinary, as usual.  One funny thing, at the end of testimony time the Branch President stood, looked at me and asked why I didn't bear my testimony.  Not often you'll see such a thing!  He laughed along with everyone else.  I suppose it was because I don't miss many opportunities to express my love of the gospel and for the people.

The gospel of Jesus Christ and Priesthood power have been restored to the Earth.  We know this to be true with all our hearts.  It is the greatest source of happiness in this life, and is the only way by which eternal joy can be obtained.   

With love,

Elder and Sister Watson