This is only the second time it has happened for us on a mission, but it happened again this week. Wow, is it hard! Having to let these precious missionaries go..........when you've come to know and love them so much. It's like letting your children go, not knowing if you will ever see them again or know what is happening in their lives. I guess it's a good thing, but I'm crying as I even write this blog. :) President Ostler and I just feel soooooo grateful for these valiant souls! They are the salt of the earth! We will always love them!
They began their last day with a final interview with the President. After a pizza lunch provided by our ever dependable Elder Paine, we enjoyed a group discussion about what they have learned about choosing an eternal companion from the different experiences they have had with their missionary companions. President Ostler encouraged them to have faith, be patient and wise, and choose carefully a companion with whom they can be "equally yoked".
Then, we went to the temple. Although it was closed for cleaning, we enjoyed the spirit of the temple grounds.
Elder Bayatan
Elder Vang
Sister Romero, Sister Grant, Sister Gubac
Elder Woolsey
Elder Stephens and his beautiful mother
Sister Grant, Sister and President Ostler
Elder Bayatan, President and Sister Ostler
Sister Romero
Elder Vang and Elder Burkhart
After spending time in the spirit of the temple, we traveled to the American Cemetery in Manila. It is the place where Elder Gordon B. Hinckley rededicated the land for the spreading of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We had time to talk about and reflect upon the sacrifices made during World War II so that there could be freedom in the Philippines. We read Elder Hinckley's talk and prayer and reflected on the great sacrifice Christ made for our spiritual freedom. We recalled those missionaries who had sacrificed so much to bring the gospel to us or to our ancestors. Then we each found a quiet spot to make personal commitments as to what we each will continue to sacrifice so that our brothers and sisters on this earth may be set spiritually free.
What a treat to get to know Elder Stephens' mother. Now we see why he is so wonderful!
Our final testimony meeting began with a special musical number sung by the outgoing missionaries.
President Ostler shared with the missionaries a beautiful painting by a former member of our home stake, Howard Lyon, called From Fear to Faith.
We're so grateful for such a skilled artist to provide such a beautiful teaching tool. Thanks Howard for your many sacrifices and the faith it takes to paint!
Elder Burkhart
Elder Bayatan
Sister Romero
Elder Stephens served faithfully and full-heartedly as an Assistant to the President. He will be sorely missed.
Elder Vang
Just before they all left, Elder Stephens paused to get this picture with
Caleb. As they all walked out the door, Caleb turned to me and said, "There went the best missionaries in the mission!" That's how we all felt.
