The Bishop and the YW & YM Presidents did a wonderful job in planning this activity. Actually from the mouth of Bishop Ropelato, the spirit had it all planned out and the leaders just made it happen. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints really is HIS (Jesus's) Church. He is the one that guides and instructs each ward. The leaders need to be in tune and prepared for His instruction and when they are....wow....miracles happen! It's fun to witness and I will say that for me that is the coolest part of Larry's calling for me.
To start things off the kids had breakfast, there was lots of fruit, bagels and cereal. At the beginning the kids watched a video of being called on a mission. It's not by chance they get sent where they do. Bro & Sister Simpson came and talked to the "missionaries" since they were Mission Presidents. (that's they part I missed) The kids had a little time to study. Then Braxton came and taught them how to teach about the plan of salvation. I was one proud momma as I listened to my son teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I felt the spirit again. I love feeling the spirit and try to feel it throughout each and every day.
President Malone came and talked about being worth to go to the House of the Lord. If you are worthy to go to the Temple then you are worthy to go on a mission. He let the youth know that it is really important to take care of any misdeed before leaving because it's harder taking care of such things after. (on them and their families) Ronnie spoke about his experiences and some the the things that he learned. He spoke how missionaries will make your life different forever. As he was saying those things I thought how each of my sons missions helped me to even be better. I'm sure they have no idea by them serving it also strengthens their families but it does. I have grown from each of my sons missions. I felt I needed to step up my life to feel comfortable around them. It was a good thing.
We all went to Sacrament Meeting and "miraculously" the speakers talks went right along with today's message at our house. Funny how often that works out.....must be inspiration. (of course it is!) It happens all the time. The Speakers in Sacrament Mtg so often talk about the things in the others classes for the day...this Church is lead by inspiration....it's true!
The youth prepared lunch when we got back and were filled and ready for more. Our friend Wayne Willey who is investigating the church came with his sweet wife to let the youth teach and question him. It was a great experience. I loved watching the youth turn to their scriptures and tell scenarios that helped Wayne's questions be answered. We learned later that some of the things said were also answers to some of the others prayers. (so cool) After Wayne talked with the youth, each youth was assigned a companion and together they went out to teach a family about the restoration. I know it was kind of scary for the youth but I think it also helped them realize what a mission will really be like.
They met back at our home and then they had a Testimony Meeting. It was a great day and I am really glad that I decided to come in and listen and observe. It was the Bishops best day. He spent a few less hours working today and during that time was edified and helped edify everyone else.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is True! I'm thankful that I know that.....I thankful that I "feel" that!
