Thanks to all of you for your wonderful sons. They remind me of the stripling warriors. They have been taught well by all of you. They do learn how to persevere. Just for starters, there is regular study time in the morning, personal and companion study. Somehow, someway they learn the language very well in a short period of time. You know how it happens. Then there is breakfast, cleaning of the apartment, making beds and washing of clothes in a plastic or tin tub. Then off they go walking the dusty and dirty roads. Like the missionaries of old, Paul and Parley, and now them, I do see them going about the business they were called to do. Just imagine in your mind what they might be doing and they are. They do it joyfully. Then there are the hard pillows, and of course the interpersonal relationships that can cause some strain. Yet, they continue on.
The mission is moving forward. We have 12 or 13 branches, soon to be 15 or 16. The foundation for this great work is being fortified. You would be surprised how receptive the people are in Benin/Togo. These people join and encourage others to listen to this most important message. Some of the old false traditions are slowing fading. Primarily, the "I am the chief" attitude, though not easily. The concept of callings and releases is very new to them. They think seniority carries weight and prestige and that they should be honored with "gifts" so to speak. We have seen some who so thought and when they were released they became less active, yet they have been visited and are glad to come back.
We are now projected to have 20 sisters, perhaps as early as October. We are not yet sure about the number of elders. We are glad to have them here.
This past Monday (P-DAY), the elders and sisters in Benin gave President Weed a surprise birthday party (there are about 48 here in Benin). This was totally orchestrated by the elders with no help from the 2 senior couples. Sister Semken and I did provide transportation for some in the 12 man van. The President and Sister Weed were going to Togo to interview the missionaries there. He had just completed that task in Benin last Thursday. A set of missionaries told him that he need to interview some baptismal candidates before he left. When the mission president left we called and told them he was on his way. We then left after he did. But, we got to the building before he did because he stopped for gas. Well, the people in these "villages" watched what was happening. We parked the van 100 yds or so on the dusty road some distance away. We started walking next to their small, small homes just in case the president showed up. The mom, kids and others watched us as they could see what was about to happen. Well, we ducked inside their compounds so as not to be seen. The neighbors waved to us, the little children hid with us. It was fun and the President was totally unaware. Sister Weed was in on the fun. Well, since it was elders who organized the event, they sang songs, made presentation and then the cake and a drink. But, now, The cake was for 24 so the pieces were cut in half, they didn't bring any paper plates, and no napkins. Sounds almost like a scout outing. But, the cake was good and the soft drink as well. Great Missionaries!
Can't you just feel the tender hearts that they have.
We have not yet entered into the rainy season yet. We have had a rain storm or two which signals the oncoming wet season.
The 2nd Benin District Conference was held this past week. We had to rent a hall to hold all of the people. There were nearly 600 in attendance This is about 50%-60% attendance. At the end of the Sunday meeting, people gathered, visited and took pictures.
Last week Sister Semken and I inspected the apartments as we do every month. To our astonishment every single apartment was the best that they have ever been. Usually we only have to decide which apartment is the best among 2 or 3. Well, we are coming up with ideas for rewarding their efforts; one apartment washed every window, inside and out-They will get the cleanest window award. Another the very most improved- and it was- it came from a D plus grade to and A minus in one month-Most improved award- Good for them. They study better, they eat better, they sleep better when all is clean.
Well, enough for now.
Elder and Sister Semken
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