"Nearer My God, to Thee. . ." December 3-4 Returning and Arriving Missionaries (Part 1)

There is nothing quite like listening to missionaries on their last day in the field sincerely singing, "Nearer my God, to Thee. . . nearer to Thee."  Nothing like it because you feel what they have come to know over the past 18 months or two years of dedicated service to their Heavenly Father.  They have drawn unto the Savior in ways they never knew they would and they have felt His protecting arms around them.  They have felt His guidance as they have walked in His footsteps.  They have shared His gospel and love.  And they understand what it means to be nearer to Him.

"Still all my song shall be, nearer, my God, to Thee.  

Nearer my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee."

Tuesday, December 3
The day begins with missionaries coming in for luggage check and their final interview with President Rahlf.

Elder Wellman, Elder Amoi, and Elder Smith

Sister Barcela, Elder Juzgaya (who is not leaving yet!), Sister Vea and Elder Makiling

Elder Amoi presented President Rahlf with a lava-lava
(I couldn't convince him to pose without the dress slacks and shoes)

Two of our missionaries had special reunions as their parents came to pick them up and tour the mission.

A very happy Elder Bluth with his parents and younger brother, Kevin

A joyous Sister Peckham and equally joyous parents

By mid-afternoon, we gather for a meeting together.  President Rahlf and I share some advice and counsel for the great future that lies ahead.  

But first, we had to try on the special effects glasses and look at the Christmas tree!

Elder Garcia and Elder Amoi

Elder Makiling and Elder Linnell

Elder and Sister Laker, (our Senior Couple who are completing their mission) along with the Peckhams

4:00 PM  We have a Fireside with the departing missionaries as well as any members or investigators who would like to attend.  The Elders and Sisters have a chance to share their testimonies one last time in the field, and express their gratitude and love for this beautiful country and people.

Then it's back to the mission home for a celebration dinner and activities.

Feasting is always a good time in the Philippines!

Before and After pictures for the Cutting Ceremony:

Back row:  Elders Bluth, Smith, Wellman, Amoi, Linnell, and Sister Peckham
Front row:  Sister Barcela, Elder Andaya, Elder Makiling, Elder Aguila, Elder Garcia and Sister Vea

Elder and Sister Laker too!

Elder Buness had to leave two weeks early due to scheduling conflicts, but we made sure to get his tie!

We'll use the material for a quilted wall hanging, and
this way will get to keep a piece of them with us always.

Wednesday, December 4:  After breakfast at the mission home, it's time to load the luggage and head to the airport.

The door between Cauayan Mission and the flight to Manila

From the back: Elder Linnell, Elder Amoi, Elder Smith, Sister Vea, Elder Garcia, Elder Wellman
Elder Aguila, Sister Barcela, Elder Andaya, and Elder Makiling

And they're on their way!

With time for one last hug between fellow servants--

'til we meet again. . ."



(Part 2 ahead)