Merry Christmas Joy

Merry Christmas Joy

We have been going to many ward activities each is unique and special. It is amazing how many different ways a cultural hall can be decorated. We have heard a couple of companionships say that as they were doing a church tour and show the potential investigators the gym all decorated for the Christmas party they have been asked if there was going to be a wedding reception. The saints here are very clever.

When we were at the Senior Missionary Christmas Party one of the sisters serving in the employment center showed us an unusual greeting. She raised her hand and formed a V with your fingers and said, "Live long and proselyte." We laughed and then Sister Sheffer had a brilliant idea. So, this week she dawned her Star Trek knitted shawl and went to Sister Cristi Miller's home to share the greeting and get a picture of it. It turned out rather nice and we were able to have an enjoyable lesson too.

We also helped with another wedding. This couple Joe and Cheeta at one time told the missionaries that they wanted to be married on 12-12-12. They were not sure if they were serious but surprise, the night before they called the missionaries and said, "Are you coming to our wedding?" These two young missionaries were put into panic mode. It was a testimony builder for them and many others to see how a ward family especially the relief society can respond to the needs of others to support and further the work of the Lord. It was very touching to see Joe lift Cheeta from her wheel chair to give her first kiss as his sweet wife. They have two children and their four year old daughter was handing them the rings and giving them instructions on how they should do it. Our hope is that they will be baptized soon.

One of the wards had the missionaries, Elder Hortin and Elder Spendlove as the wise men. At one party there was the story of the Grinch, and Elder Sheffer and the Grinch were almost as popular as Santa Claus.

We also had another training meeting with the ward senior missionaries. Their numbers are growing and we are praying for a couple to be called in two more wards. The work they are accomplishing is so wonderful. Their lives of service and experience are helping the missionary effort in so many ways. They are a stabilizing influence in the ward as young missionaries come and go. We are so grateful to the Lord for these phenomenal brothers and sisters.

At the same time the leaders were having a missionary meeting with President Gelwix. After the meeting Sister Sheffer told Elder Sheffer that he needed to come and talk to the President. When he got there he found that the only reason he was summoned was so Sister Sheffer could point out to the President that Elder Sheffer was wearing a tie that was not mission approved. She had told him before going to the meeting that someone would correct him. He said, "Not unless you point it out." We didn't know the President would be there. It turned out we were both right. Having both of us right, wow. (Guess who wrote this)

We would like to send a special thank you for Christmas greetings and news for family and friends. We love to hear from you all.            God Bless    Elder and Sister Sheffer

Ps We are taking an opinion poll. Do you read our emails? Are they to long for you? Do you feel the spirit when you read them? The first question will be answered if you reply!! We love you all!