Thoughts and Testimonies Departing Missionaries January 14, 2014

All of a sudden 18 months or 2 years have gone by and Departure Day is really here. They are are getting harder and harder,  because we have come to know these Elders and Sisters so well. These eight leave the mission as true servants of Jesus Christ.  We asked them to leave behind  their testimonies and any counsel they would give to the Arriving Missionaries.  Here are their words:

Sisters Janda, Palomo, Morales, Tulikihihifo, LenWai, Wilkins
Elders Llorin and Golightly

Sister Janda:  I know that missionary work is not so easy and its success isn't automatic, but it's really true.  I know that it will help you and your investigators, less actives and other people change their lives and become much closer to our loving Savior, Jesus Christ.  Love your companion, they are your first investigator and also treat them as equals.  Be focused and center your mind and heart in His work and the power of the Spirit will always dwell with you and in your companion and with the people you may serve.

Sister Palomo:  Always seek Heavenly Father's help and be worthy to receive the Holy Ghost because that's the best teacher.  With the Holy Ghost, the teaching of the principles will go to the hearts of all people.

Sister Morales:  Be strong no matter what happens.  You might face challenges, but it's okay!  Jesus Christ suffered for us because He loves us so much.  It is always possible because of His atonement.  Finish strong.
Be patient, be humble, be diligent, and be exactly obedient.  Be like Him!

Sister LenWai:  It is so true!  All of it!  Our Savior lives and He is always there for us. . .Fear not for He is with us always.  He loves us so much.  Smile!  Never stop serving!! "You sacrifice for the things you love, you love the things you sacrifice for."

Sister Tulikihihifo:  I know that our Savior Jesus Christ has atoned for our sins.  The mission is hard, but it's worth it!  The Book of Mormon is a great tool for this work. . .Use it!  Have righteous fun.  Always love your companion.  Be confident.  Act on the promptings you receive.

Sister Wilkins:  I know that our Savior lives.  He loves you and wants you to succeed.  It's okay to cry, as long as it's a good reason!  Study!  Learn how to listen.  Be the best you that you can be.

Elder Llorin:  You can always choose Jesus Christ, no matter what situation you are in.  I believe that our Heavenly Father loves us and He always will.

Elder Golightly:  I know that this is the work of the Lord!  God loves us and He guides everything in this mission.  I have come closer to Him here than I thought possible.  Love the people and look at everything with a positive countenance and you will do great!



It's not officially Departure Night  until the cutting of the ties, skirts, shirts, handkerchiefs. . .

Before. . .

And After!

After a restful night's sleep (hardly), and breakfast cooked by President Rahlf,

it was time to head for the airport.  We knew all would be well when a rainbow showed

up to bless the day.

Luggage as big as our Sister Palomo!

Sister Wilkins, Sister Tulikihihifo and Sister LenWai one more time

And the doors are open!  First in are Elder Llorin and Sister Janda

Sister Sunshine

One fine missionary

Final Farewells

"and this is my glory, that perhaps I may be an instrument in the hands of God 

to bring some soul to repentance; and this is my joy."

Alma 29:9