Celebrations, and a visitor from the US

A Baptism, Fathers' Day, a Birthday, a new missionary, and Marit arrives for a visit. Great times for which we are grateful.

Cheryl's Poareu's baptism was, as it should be, a significant event in her young life. And it was equally significant for her family. Her uncle Tony baptized her and her father promised to return to full activity in the Church. Much of her extended family was present to help her make covenants with her Heavenly Father and the Savior. Cheryl is 8 years old and was happy to be baptized. Her Uncle Tony has himself in the last months come back to Church after an absence that was too long. A faithful sister missionary recognized promptings to go see him. Although at first very hesitant, as in 'Go away,' Tony recognized over several months the tender promptings of the Holy Ghost.




Fathers' Day arrived with great celebration in Tontouta. Last year's Mothers' Day celebration this year was matched by their Fathers' Day activities. The sisters cooked. The youth and Primary provided entertainment. The branch went to some lengths to invite the District presidency and their wives as well as us. We had a great time but came away as the karaoke started. The branch is rallying behind its new branch president. A great spirit of unity and enthusiasm present.




When the senior zone leader has a birthday, we have to have a party. So the Magenta District went out to lunch and then had cake at our house. The celebration was complete with gag gifts that Elder Morrill's companion, Elder Wilcox, had gathered over several days. A plastic tiara, sunglasses and the like. We ate well, laughed a lot and then went back to the work that had to be done.



We welcomed Elder Durtschi this week also. He and his companion will serve together in Robinson which has seen a couple departures of late of missionaries finishing their missions. French is already coming along so his Tahitian companion will bless his efforts enormously.




But the biggest event over these last days was Marit's arrival Tuesday, a week ago. Long anticipated, she came in right on time. We were there to meet her. She has attended Church with us, been to missionary meetings and participated in a P-day as well as taking us sail boarding and to the local museums. More on her visit in coming weeks, for sure.



We are now well into our second year here. We are grateful to assist in the great work of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the isles of the sea. Wonderful people doing what they know Heavenly Father wants of them.