#29 "We Are Like Pioneers" (By Grandma)

Durhams & Grandpa

Thank you for all the provisions you sent to use.  We haven't opened everything because we don't know if we should wait.  We are looking forward to gaining lots more pounds with all the goodies.  We all own Debbie P a debt of gratitude and Julianne for gathering everything up and everyone for their contributions.  

We had a great Mission Conference.  Our mission is small in numbers but huge in territory.  There are 4 time zones in our mission.  So it is unusual to have a visit from a member of the quorum of twelve apostles visit us.  We were able to spend two days with meetings with Elder Holland, his wife, and two other couples.  They have a lot of affection for this part of the world.  It was wonderful for me to see the commitment and strength exhibited by the young missionaries.  This has to be a difficult place to serve, but they learn the languages, and work hard to find those who may be interested in the church.  

We now have 2 YV's assigned to our area.  They have been in a hotel while searching for a place to live.  Again, these young men are outstanding.  I'm amazed at their language skills.  This language is very hard.  They are positive, hard working, and willing to help anyone.  We've gone shopping with them and invited them to dinner while they are homeless.  But their beds were delivered yesterday and they are about settled.

I thought church today was especially touching.  There were only 11 of us there but that is a good number.  Three were non-members.  The elders helped with the translation.  Dad and I carry everything to the hotel where we hold church.  We were part way there this morning and dad said he'd forgotten the sacrament cloth.  So he had to walk back and get that.  I always take a little treat or food.  Today I took orange sections, some curly cheese things and some cookies.  The hotel provides water.  Sometimes I buy baklava.  

I liked church because a newly ordained Aaronic Priesthood member spoke.  He is about 22, but was able to baptize his sister a few weeks ago.  He has been a member for awhile but has not had the priesthood.  He has a light in his eyes.  Dad also spoke about the Priesthood. He told about Moses and Aaron.  

Elder Holland made it clear in his remarks that we are like pioneers here.  We need not worry about numbers, but doing things in the right way.  

It is hard to not worry about numbers.  Every Sunday I wonder if anyone is going to come to church and when they do I'm very excited to see them.

I'm writing this from our hotel in Istanbul.  Yes we are here again!  Cole Durham is in charge of a conference here.  But he and Louise came to visit us prior to the conference and we went to Ephesus.  They were our first visitors!  It was so good to see them.

Sorry it is cold there.  We sometimes have to wear sweaters here....

I love you all,

Mother