TEACH BY THE SPIRIT

We love working with the Bennions and the elders and sisters through out our mission. We also spend a good deal of time and energy with the Young Single Adults and Singles here. But the part of our calling that is the most challenging, time consuming, and rewarding for us is preparing for and teaching our institute classes each week. We are so grateful for each one of our devoted students who bring such diversity to our classes. We have grown to love them and appreciate the fact that most of them are very new to the gospel, and each varies in his or her level of knowledge. All have a desire to learn, and so we feel the weight of this responsibility and want to do our very best, with the Lord's help.
Friday we were called to a special Church Education System, or since we have been here, Seminary and Institute meeting. None of us knew why, including our coordinator, Pres. Cory Bangerter. When we arrived, we met Brother Randy Daybell, who is from the Area Office in Virginia. He works as the Assistant to the Director, and described himself as "a home teacher for CES teachers, who travels around making home visits, checking to see how we are doing." We talked about where we were serving and our assignments. It was like a home teaching visit warm and friendly.
Then Brother Daybell began to teach us.
He talked about forts that surrounded Washington DC, built to protect the city from attacks from the South. He also mentioned empty silos, once filled with missiles to protect East Coast Cities. Then he reminded us that President Faust talked about temples, "sentinels of refuge and protection," that are across our country. We were asked to open our Bibles to Zechariah 3 and 4. He assured us that "we would own these two chapters when we finished that day." I thought to myself, I remember teaching Zechariah last winter, I also remember teaching that Zechariah was a contemporary of the Prophet Haggai and also that he prophesied that the Savior would come, riding on a donkey. Brother Daybell challenged us to look at these scriptures with a visual perspective and then had us read just a few verses, and asked us questions, having us quickly fill in the blanks from the verses we'd read. Next we discussed the symbolism, of the menorah, the olive trees, pipes, bowl, and the oil. What did it all mean? We discussed Joshua, the High Priest, and King Zerubbabel, and it was so interesting, and I was wondering, "Have I ever read this before?" We talked about "tapping into others," and others "tapping into us", and about the woman in Luke 8 who "tapped into" the Savior. He explained that we never know when someone else is "tapping into us". Even when the youth seem uninterested in what we are teaching, they are "tapping into our oil". Brother Daybell shared some important things he learned about this in his teenage years, during his mission, and while serving as a Bishop. By the time he finished we were completely thrilled by what we had learned. It was so powerful and meaningful to us. We did own it and have thought, and discussed it ever since. We want to be teachers who truly teach by the Spirit. We are so grateful for the lesson he taught us, not only the material, but what he gave of himself. Through him, the Spirit testified of the truths that were taught and we were all edified. It was a choice experience.

(above L to R) Elder and Sister West, Sister and Elder dePaula, Sister and Elder Smith and Brother Randy Daybell. Picture taken by President Bangerter.

Train Carroling, Joyfully Inviting All to Join Us.

Elder West, Elder Olsen and Elder Goodman sing with might!

Nothing brings the Christmas Spirit quite like beautiful music and we had such success on Thanksgiving weekend, that we decided to give it another whirl! Saturday, December 6th, it was cold and crisp. As we sang Christmas carols, we gave out printed invitations to The First Presidency's Christmas Devotional on Sunday, December 7th. We sang on busy platforms and inside the trains. We would sing two carols, talk to the people for a minute or two and extend our invitations to all, and then hop off at the next stop, into the next car. It was a little like a Chinese fire drill, and we had to really race to all make the next train car. It's everyday fare to see people singing or performing on the trains and then they "pass the hat." We sang and then gave something to them. They seemed to really appreciate and enjoy it, with some even joining in, singing with us.

Sister Thomas, Elder Goodman, Elder Law, and Elder Bahr "hang on" as they barrel down the tracks, singing all the way!

Our plan was to sing in groups of four at different ends of the trains, fa-la, instant stereo! One lady made sure we gave an invitation to each person on the train and when a few new ones got on, she made sure we gave an invitation to them too. It was very rewarding as we received handshakes and smiles. It was a free and easily given gift to all!

Comfort and Joy...serving with the Queensboro Zone!

Senior's Celebrate...Christmas Is Coming!

Elder and Sister Smith planned a great December Senior Missionary Social to usher in the Christmas Season. We went to the famous Sardi's Restaurant for their business lunch. The food was very good with great service, a festive atmosphere, and we were with such cherished friends.

Sardi's is famous for their signed caricatures of celebrities that decorate the walls.

The Smith's filled New York City mugs with candy and had it at each of our places!

We attended the matinee performance of the famous 76th Annual Radio City Christmas Spectacular. The sets were magical, with joyful music, starring the high-kicking legendary Rockettes. Santa arrived with the reindeer in the beginning and we wore 3-D glasses. It was very well done and we all enjoyed it. The Rockettes performed their famous "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers." They also danced as darling rag dolls. There was a meaningful story told about two brothers who were looking for the perfect Christmas gift for their sister and Santa was the helper and narrator.

In the end, and the most marvelous gift of Christmas was the birth of Christ. The living nativity with camels, sheep, and beautiful set was so touching. We live in the most secular city in the world, and yet the birth of our Savior was what was celebrated and it was spectacular. Thanks Smiths for hosting a most memorable and festive activity.

Just a quick block away is Rockefeller Center with the most incredible Christmas Tree.

Toy Soldiers with flags and beautiful angels decorate the Square.
Manhattan is magical at Christmas.

Our Day After Thanksgiving Feast

Thanksgiving Day was spent with members and investigators and then on Friday we had our weekly district meeting. It was followed by Christmas caroling on the trains. We gave out many Joy to the World pass along cards. It was lots of fun and people were very receptive. Then we all went back to the church to celebrate with our Thanksgiving potluck together. We won a free 22 pound Butterball Premium Turkey from Best Market. We brought the stuffed bird, candied yams, gravy, cranberry sauce, peach cobbler (for Elder Werner) and pumpkin crunch dessert. The elders and sisters brought mashed potatoes, corn, green salad, fruit salad, and cherry, banana cream and chocolate cream pies and miracle rolls! Amazingly, our dinner was absolutely delicious and we had such a wonderful time together. On Thanksgiving Day some of our elders shared that they had stomach lining, which was tasty and good, but they were grateful for a traditional dinner. Friday was also Sister Marshall's birthday. The sisters put 23 candles in pumpkin crunch and she made her wish and blew them out! We each talked about our beloved family traditions and then drew each others names and told why were thankful for that person. We are a family of sorts and we loose and gain new members every six weeks. Still we grow to love one another as we strengthen and serve together. It's a blessing we cherish. pictured above at the head of the table, our birthday girl, Sister Marshall, on the left side, new Hermano Montano, from American Fork, Utah, Sister Folsom, an ASL sister (who was transferred back to Woodside), Elders West, Werner, Goodman and McLean. On the right side, Hermano Thomas, Elders Imlay, Froerer, and our new Zone Leader, Elder Heiner.

A Special Sunday In Queens NY

Elder L. Tom Perry and Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, were in New York City this past weekend for Saturday Meetings with Priesthood Leaders. Elder Holland spoke in Manhattan Sunday, and after 23 years, an Apostle, Elder L. Tom Perry, visited the Queens Stake, for a special Stake Conference. Our regular conference was held just three weeks ago. The Woodside Stake Center has a huge gym that was packed with excited saints, with overflow in the Primary and Relief Society rooms as well as the chapel. Elder Perry spoke of moving his young family back East and being called to serve as a branch president in Queens. He also helped to obtain the property that the Rego Park Building is on. He told the members that it was a miracle to see how much the Church has grown here. He spoke from his heart and it was warm and so nostalgic. He shared several stories and my favorite was a memory from when he was 8 years old.

Elder Perry's father was a bishop who helped to raise the funds for a new building. He invited President Grant to come dedicate the building on a whim, and the Prophet accepted. He remembered President Grant pulling up in front of his home, and his mother told him that he and his younger brother's manners where not refined enough for them to eat with the Prophet, so they ate in the kitchen! After dinner Sister Perry knew that President Grant was tired from traveling and offered him a guestroom so he could have a nap. Bishop Perry also tired, lay down in his room for a rest. Sister Perry sent her two young sons down to the Church to save her a seat. She busily cleaned up her kitchen and headed for the Church arriving just before the dedication was to begin. When she saw that her husband and President Grant weren't there, she quietly asked Tom to run home and get them. Elder Perry said he quickly woke his father, and when his father saw what time it was he told him to hurry and waken President Grant. He said he had great respect for the Prophet and was scared to wake him. He gently shook his arm and he said President Grant quickly sat up on the side of the bed and tucked him under his arm. He can't remember what President Grant said to him, but he remembered the love in his eyes and the kindness of his face.

Elder Perry testified that our living prophet, President Thomas S. Monson is the most loving and kind prophet we have ever had in the Church. He said if he has time on a Sunday, he visits a rest home and reaches out to the residents there. Elder Perry bore a powerful testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and of His gospel here on earth. Joseph Smith, Restored the gospel and translated the Book of Mormon, here in upstate New York. How thankful we are to have been here and to have seen the saints prepare for this memorable visit. This is sure to be one of our top ten experiences. Pictured above, Queens Stake President David Duffy and Elder L. Tom Perry, as they greet Conference visitors. Our Institute students were surprised Elder Perry was so tall and Anita Maharaj said, "He shook my hand, and said he was glad to be with me." She was so thrilled and happy!

The bittersweet part of Sunday for us was saying goodbye to Elder Jemmett, one of our zone leaders. He and Elder McLean paid us a special visit and enjoyed Sunday dinner at our pad. Notice their Fall ties. The Spanish speaking, Woodside Ward, sang Faith in Every Footstep, at the Conference and all the men wore matching ties! These two elders have spent considerable time in Woodside and we think they are the best. I neglected to get a picture of Elder Jemmett and Sister Cunliffe with President and Sister Bennion at Zone Conference, my tradition. However, we enjoyed their testimonies and have watched both of them serve so valiantly here. Sister Cunliffe, has grown in so many ways. We always appreciated her welcoming hugs and helpful spirit in our district. Along the way she amazed me with her American Sign Language abilities. Elder Jemmett is one who is so easy to know, happy and he represents the best of Idaho for sure. President Bennion said he never heard any thing that was not 100% positive from each of Elder Jemmett's companions. As I'm writing today, Elder Jemmett and Sister Cunliffe are flying home to Idaho and Utah. They were both pretty excited for Thanksgiving Day with their families. Elder Jemmett will attend BYU-I in January, and be there when we get home. We look forward to that reunion. Thanks for serving with us. How blessed we have been by your leadership and direction, and most of all your example of goodness. We love you and will miss you here.

Marvelous Monday Astoria FHE

We invited Elder Wiggington, a missionary in our zone to share with the Astoria YSAs his conversion and testimony. This fine elder, a Jew, was studying to become an Orthodox Rabbi when he helped his new LDS neighbors in Georgia move into their new home. He learned they were the parents of five daughters and offered to help the husband. The next morning two Mormon missionaries were there helping when he arrived. They asked him two questions. Why was Malachi the last prophet here on earth? Why aren't there prophets today, and also, where was he obtaining his authority to become a Rabbi? He couldn't answer their questions and so he called his university teacher and put him on speakerphone so he could answer their questions. Elder Wiggington's teacher could not answer their questions either. The elders handed him a Book of Mormon and said, "Read this!" At first he just glanced through it and then he found some names that made him curious. As he read the book, he asked God if the book was true. He had a powerful witness that it was, "A feeling like he'd never experienced before." He joined the Church almost 3 years ago and will complete his mission in May. He hopes to attend a Church University and become a Seminary or Institute Teacher. We enjoyed what he shared with all of us. I received two wonderful emails the next day about the Spirit that was felt there. Pictured above (L to R) first row: Shara, Annikki, Judy and Kat. second row: Elder Wheelwright, Elder Wiggington, Vanya, Robert and Elder West, and in the far back, Caleb.

Woodside is WHITE, ready to Harvest

(Pictured L to R): Hermano Pellerano, Sister Cunliffe, Hermana Osorio, Sister Thomas, Elder Froerer, Elder Jemmett, Hermano Chavez, Elder Imlay, Hermano Martinez and ElderMcLean.

Last Sunday, November 9th we didn't understand much of what was said, but the Spirit was so strong as three new Woodside Ward members were baptized. Sister Cunliffe and Sister Thomas taught Hermana Maria Teresa Osorio who was baptized by her friend from Chilie and Woodside Ward member, Gregorio Pellerano. They also taught Hermano Miguel Angel Martinez, who came to the states to live with his Mom who is a Woodside Ward member. He was baptized by Elder McLean. Our newest Elder Froerer was brand new in the mission three weeks ago and was "fearlessing" out on the street where he met Hermano Martin Mendoza Chavez.
After his baptizm Hermano Chavez, testified that he'd been looking for this gospel all of his life. He referred to his four angels, Elders Froerer, Imlay, Jemmett and McLean. To witness the hugs between these two brothers was a sweet experience. Both of their lives changed that day and we were blessed to be there. We attend our meetings at the Woodside Building and attend the Astoria Ward which is English speaking. The Woodside Ward is the Spanish speaking ward we share the building with. We are often invited to their activities and love the members there. Below our incredibly giving leaders, President and Sister Bennion offer congratulations to all. We see them often at baptisms all over the Queens Stake. Bless them for all they do to serve in countless ways.

MORE "TRICK 'r TREAT" FUN

How glad we are that handsome Shane and good witch, Jen, our oldest daughter, sent Halloween pictures! Our grandson, Jake was the Mad Hatter, Shelby, the mermaid, Arielle, and blond Lizzie was Snow White! They along with some of their ward friends visited my parents for some treats. My Dad is not costumed, but he is the energizer bunny who just won't give up. He has suffered from renal cell carcinoma for over 12 years. My Mom is an angel who has cared so lovingly for him, especially since last summer. When we were called to serve, my parents and our children helped us decide it was the right time for all of us. My parents served in the New York City Mission in '92-'93, (before it was divided) with Elder and Sister Child. Because of that we have been thankful to follow in their footsteps. We celebrated Christmas with them before said our good-byes and entered the MTC last December. Jen and Shane have been there to help and serve Mom and Dad and we are so thankful to each of them for all their support. We are grateful Dad has been able to bless our children as a patriarch, and seal them to their husbands and wives. He served in the temple as a sealer till the end of August and as a patriarch till September, a tender mercy for all our family. Now for a shout-out..."Happy Birthday, Craig!" My older brother, who I love with all my heart, turned 57, celebrated with my parents and they all went out for lunch together along with my father's hospice care giver. Dad you're amazing, and we love you tons. He's always up for a party!!! Craig and Mom know how to throw one too.

Our Astoria Family

We miss being with our family, but have adopted the Astoria Ward Young Single Adults who join us for Monday night dinner and Family Home Evening. Because of their work schedules, school, and active social lives, our numbers vary from week to week. It's fair to say that Sarah, Judy, Robert and Tony, are our core group! Often we have our Astoria Elders and a YSA age investigator join with us too. This week in light of the backlash from Proposition 8 passing in California, we studied from Luke19:45-48, about Christ cleansing the temple, not once but twice in his life. A protest was planned at the Manhattan Temple on Wednesday night. We talked about the Lord's house being a target and the need for Christian Courage from Elder Hales General Conference talk. We have thought often since the election, how we felt when "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" was first given in 1995. The first paragraph reads,

"We the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children."

I remember thinking, "That's wonderful and it surely is what I believe." About fifteen years later it became clear why our leaders issued The Family Proclamation. How thankful we are to have a living prophet and apostles leading our church today. At FHE and all of our institute classes, we were able to bear testimony that God speaks to His prophets and how blessed we are to have holy temples blessing our lives here on earth.

Queensboro "Jedi-Warrior" Zone Activity

Most of the time these elders and sisters "look the part" and work so hard together to accomplish their goals. Monday, November 10th, we saw a different side, as we watched them play as hard as they usually work at our zone activity. They played, "Jedi-Warrior," fast and furiously. It was a blur and our goal was to get a few pictures and stay out of their way! Below, Elder Mc Lean was his team's Jedi, with songbook in hand, he had the power to tap one of his warriors after they were hit and bring them back to life! Elder Goodman, in the foreground, was Elder Newey and Sister Marshall's target, both with powerful throws. Amazingly, one of our ASL sisters, Sister Marshall who is deaf, was the winning warrior! She has 4 heightened senses and is fast on her feet. It was great fun to watch her jump and duck as all the guys tried to hit her with a ball. She made it very hard for them and was the one to beat!

Tuesday, Nov. 4th "Come As You Are Party!"

New Yorkers Are Very Proud People. Tuesday we were thrilled to join with them as proud Americans...

PS 84Q...a grand old school, currently under renovation!

This was historic for us, California/Idahoans voting in New York City for what was reported as the most important presidential election, without any incumbents since 1952! We knew our votes would make no difference in Idaho and hoped our votes would count in New York!

The polls opened at 6 AM and we walked to PS 84, located at 22-45 41 Street, LIC, NY. There we waited in line for about one hour. It's crazy here...we used a voting machine, one at a time. We were excited to vote for our first and probably last time, (one never knows) here in NYC!


Notice the sign, VOTE HERE printed in 4 different languages!
Let freedom ring...we are having a real adventure here and are glad we voted as New Yorkers on Tuesday!

Singles Mix and Mingle Before CES Fireside

Last Sunday we had a good time with the singles of the Queens Stake before the CES Fireside. We played scripture password which has been a well-received activity with our institute classes and our FHE group. Above, Nellie and Ralph oppose Ben and Caleb. The word was "watchman" and all were winners! We played three rounds with 5 different teams. Grace and Elder West moderated! Below, the crowd supported and encouraged their friends and enjoyed snacks and treats, while socializing. Bishop Burton spoke at the Fireside and afterward we served a pumpkin cake dessert. It was a nice evening and the best part was being with so many of our dear friends.

THIS HAS BEEN SPOOKY...downright SCARY

We've seen a lot of Elders Rencher and Patton, lately. They are two of our all-time-favorite Astoria Elders who are now serving together at the mission office. About three weeks ago, Elder Patton (who's Dad is a Salt Lake surgeon and Mom is an RN) was over-confident and encouraged by his caring companion, to perform self-surgery on a wart he had on his hand with a pocket knife they had at their pad. They sterilized the knife with a gas flame and he cut the wart out and then he developed a bad infection. We will never know if his hand and foot conditions were related, but after taking an antibiotic, he developed a baffling problem on his feet. He was suffering from several oozing, weepy new sores each day. It became horribly painful and we were all very worried about him. He saw six different specialists here in Queens and yet the problem was escalating hourly.


Friday night, yes Halloween, the Bennions were "putting out fires" with other missionaries and asked us to take Elder Patton to the hospital. We headed out to Long Island Jewish, North Shore Medical Center. It's the best facility we have found..clean, well staffed and stocked, ready for major emergencies. They took enough blood for all the tests they needed to run, and he experienced his first IV. All three doctors agreed that they thought it was a severe fungal infection and he needed to see their dermatologist the following Monday. His ER doctor, Thomas Caggiano, a future anesthesiologist, was "cool" and did a great job of reassuring Elder Patton he would be OK, cleaning his sores, and bandaging them and then he put him in comfy, snugly socks so we could get him home. After we filled his medications and took them to Rego Park, we got home at 2 AM. On the way home we did see some frightening party goers and lots of NYC Cops on Steinway Street outside the Eternity Lounge. So much for being in early Halloween night!

This week we are happy to report that Elder Patton is on the mend. A Flushing dermatologist was most impressive in helping to treat his fungus. Sister Bennion has been pushing yogurt to replace the good bacteria his drugs have been killing to help balance his system and he's healing. We are hopeful he'll be back to work this next week. It's been a real learning experience for all of us. Elder Rencher will be an incredibly caring father someday. We have been so impressed with him and know that Elder Patton has been very blessed to benefit from his TLC.

Our Steinway Scarecrow...a Fun Friend

We had a hoot creating and wearing our scarecrow costume for the annual Astoria Ward Halloween Party. The festivities included a Chili-Cook-Off, Trunk-or-Treating, and awards for costumes. The costumes were amazing and we were thrilled to win the award for the most original costume with our "scarecrow investigator." Just before the trunk-or-treating began we had to leave to take Elder Patton to the hospital. It was well attended and we were able to taste a multitude of delicious chili and cornbread, before heading out. All in all it was a Spook-tacular evening we won't forget!!!

Love Affair Continues...More of Sagamore Hill

I have a warm memory of visiting Sagamore Hill with my parents in 1993 while they were here in New York City serving their mission and living in Jackson Heights. We collected some small pods that I still have and use in arrangements at our home in Rexburg. I wanted more and to be honest, I love this place! It's not too far from Hofstra University where we had to be that evening and were able to stay for a short time. On this trip we visited the day before Roosevelt's 150 birthday celebration and discovered the Old Orchard Home. For 50 years the look of Sagamore Hill changed little. Then in 1938, Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., the President's oldest son, built the Georgian home on four acres of the farm's old apple orchard. The house is now open to visitors as a museum of President Theodore Roosevelt's life and family.


Along this roadway cows were led to the nearby fenced pasture. We could only imagine what fun the six Roosevelt children had working and playing on their farm. It's such a serene place and we love what we feel here.

"God Be With You,Till We Meet Again"

President and Sister Bennion, Elder and Sister Conlin and Sister and Elder Hess

The Senior Missionaries met to bid farewell to Elder and Sister Conlin, from Soda Springs, Idaho, who have served so faithfully in the Mission Office for the last 22 months. Elder Conlin has managed the mission finances and Sister Conlin, as the President's Secretary. They have also taught an Institute class and served in the Hempstead Branch. We congratulate them on being valiant in their callings. We will really miss them. Elder Conlin, a CPA, and Sister Conlin, an inspired homemaker and manager, raised 9 children on his family's farm they bought. He told the missionaries he won his wife's heart by having, "daily contact!" We welcome Elder and Sister Hess, from Malad, Idaho, who will take their place. They have raised three children and run a very successful international business together, using pumas made from volcanic ash. I have lay awake at night trying to dream up something that brilliant! We are sure they will do a fine job in their new calling, and look forward to getting to know them well during their stay. They are terrific! (above) Sister Gayle Bangerter made a Brazilian Black Bean Stew, feijoada, that she served over rice. It was very tasty! We had a crisp green salad and an array of delish deserts. It was a delightful evening, and we are so glad we get to see all of our friends each month. What a treat!

OUR GREAT ESCAPE

Saturday, October 18, 2008
Bear Mountain New York

Imagine our surprise! While reading about the great State of New York, we discovered there is a Harriman State Park. We thought for sure it must be a mistake. For years we have enjoyed visits to Harriman State Park in Idaho, an 11,000-acre wildlife refuge in the greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, where we have seen Elk, Moose, Sandhill Cranes, and Trumpeter Swans. It is a beautiful and tranquil place, with breath-taking wildflower displays not far from our home. Harriman State Park in Idaho served as a cattle ranch and private retreat for Union Pacific Railroad investors, the Harriman and Guggenheim families from 1902 to 1977. For us it is a favorite place to pull our trailer to, with lots of hiking trails and great fishing on the Henry's Fork, in Summer and cross country skiing in Winter. New York's Harriman State Park is one of the largest parks in New York, 46,613 acres. It is about 30 miles north of New York City, about a 45 minute drive from our home here in Astoria. Amazingly our home in Rexburg is about 45 minutes south of Harriman Park. The New York State park boasts over 200 miles of hiking trails, 31 lakes, multiple streams, camping areas, and great vistas. On its northeastern edge, Harriman State Park borders the smaller Bear Mountain State Park. We think the history of the park is interesting. New York was going to build a prison at Bear Mountain. The Harrimans were very opposed to that proposal, and donated 10,000 acres of land from their Arden Estate along with $1 million for the creation of a new state park. As part of the deal, the state would do away with the plan to build the prison, appropriate an additional $2.5 million to acquire additional land and construct park facilities. It was established October 29, 1910.

Our first stop on Seven Lakes Drive, was at Lake Sebago, where we watched Black Ducks diving for fish. The Fall leaves were incredible, like nothing we've ever seen. It was a showstopping

scene, shades of wine, bright red, orange, gold, and green to bright yellow, against clear blue lakes and green pine trees revived our spirits. We must admit that at times, New York City closes in on us. After our Saturday morning correlation meeting, we spent a glorious afternoon, not too far from home, and had such a great time together. We, like Edward and Mary Harriman, share a love for the beauties that can only be found out and away in New York and Idaho. We celebrate their generosity to both states and are grateful recipients after enjoying their contributions through out the years.

New Woodside Elders...WELCOME!

Elder Werner and Elder Goodman are happy to be serving together. Elder Goodman has 6 weeks on Elder Werner, beginning their missions last May 21st and July 2nd. So they are both new missionaries in the last 6 months. Their enthusiasm for the work is palatable! We are excited to work with both of them and already love Elder Werner, here for his third transfer and Elder Goodman, from Centerville, VA, was transferred from Brooklyn. We learned that Elder Goodman will be 25 years old in November and on his 24th birthday, his father passed away after a struggle with cancer. It's been a difficult year for him, but he loves his family and their support has given him strength.


Our outstanding District Leader, Elder Imlay is a "new Dad" training brand new Elder Froerer, from South Jordan, UT.. This new elder is the oldest of 3 sons, and when he was asked why he was serving a mission, he answered," I've been so blessed it's time to pay back." We thought of our son Jeff, and how important his mission was to our whole family, especially his two younger brothers. Like Jeff, Elder Froerer is here serving the Lord and setting an important example for his younger brothers. He has a great attitude and a warm smile! He will do well. Elder Imlay asked our district to bring family pictures for a sharing and getting to know you activity. It was really memorable to hear about each elder and sister's family. We have a much better understanding of where each is from and what helps their world go round!

Serenity of a Fall New England Day

Wednesday was a pristine New York day and our Institute lesson was prepared for our evening class. President and Sister Bennion spent last weekend in Palmyra, NY, at a Mission President's Conference with Elder and Sister Bednar and Elder and Sister Jensen. They arrived home Tuesday evening just in time for the departing missionaries dinner, testimony meeting, and stayed up late visiting with their guests. We knew they needed help for a group of 19 new arriving missionaries and others at a dinner for 30 at their home that night. We headed for Long Island, destination, Port Washington with plans to serve, making up beds and preparing food for that evening. Well organized as always, there was little for us to help with. We shopped for a few incidentals and set the tables. Before we started home we wanted to explore Port Washington and savor a little peace and quiet before heading back to the city. Above, the Port Washington Duck Pond with brilliant trees and flocks of geese is a favorite Fall foliage sight. Next, we drove to Port Washington Harbor, drinking in the sailboats and clear blue sky along with noisy seagulls made a nice memory. Below, we loved this charming church. The Reformed Community Church of Manhasset, (with a small graveyard next to it), is of Dutch origin. We hope we can return to see the inside as there were large stained glass windows we think require an insider's closer view.

Planting Seeds...and the law of the Harvest

Last Friday the Woodside District participated together in yet another street sweep in Astoria. They are such a meaningful way to plant gospel seeds. Elder Teerlink, undoubtedly one of the finest missionaries in the whole Church, is pictured above visiting with two men about the happiness that the gospel of Jesus Christ brings. One young man was interested in Elder Teerlink's message and one was not. Elder Teerlink found a place to visit with and teach this young man about the Book of Mormon, another testament of Jesus Christ. About an hour later as we were leaving for another appointment, I took this picture of Elder Teerlink and his new friend. We learned Monday that Elder Teerlink was transfered to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn.

As we taught our Institute Classes this week, Mark 4:26-29, The Parable of the Growing Seed, we were able to testify of the importance of Elder Teerlink's faith as he was planting seeds of the gospel. This young man will be taught by Elders Imlay and his brand new companion who arrived from Bountiful, Utah, yesterday. Hopefully they will reap the harvest. This parable was only recorded in Mark, and we are grateful for James E. Talmage's interpretation from his book, Jesus the Christ. "The sower in this story is the authorized preacher of the word of God; he implants the seed of the gospel in the hearts of men, knowing not what the issue shall be. Passing on to similar or other ministry elsewhere, attending to his appointed duties in other fields, he, with faith and hope, leaves with God the result of his planting. In the harvest of souls converted through his labor, he is enriched and made to rejoice...Let the seed be sown, even though the sower be straightway called to other fields or other duties; in the gladsome harvest, he shall find his recompense." Today our Woodside District changed. We have loved this group and say good-bye for now to Elder Warner who is home in Orem, Utah, Sister Brown, who was transferred to Richmond Hill, Elder Rencher, who joins Elder Patton as a new Office Elder, and dear Elder Teerlink. What a joy it has been to serve with each of you and we look forward to meeting those that have been assigned to "plug holes," in our district and meet the new companionships tomorrow at our district meeting.