2020 Semaine 15 (6 -16 avril)

We started the week with cyclone Harold that I was tracking.

We got some high winds and rain.  In our part of the island of Efate it was more like a tropical low.

The islands of Santo and Malekula saw a lot of devastation.  In Santo 70% of habitations were destroyed.  Tuesday evening  and Wednesday we were able to finally get in touch with the district presidents there.  They have no water, no power and many are living in our church buildings. All the gardens were destroyed and so have the fruit trees.  We are so sad for the people there.  All our missionaries were with us on the island of Efate because of COVID-19.  So they could be ready for the time when they can be evacuated from Vanuatu.  That was a major relief for us.  We have 49 missionaries leaving this coming Wednesday(if all goes as planned).  When plans change ( as they often do in the islands), one senior sister calls them Vanuatu surprises.  I just love that.  I have decided to use that expression also from now on.  

I made an apple pie for us and the senior missionaries Wednesday night.  And with the left over dough I made what we call in Quebec " des pets de soeurs" "nun's pastries for the missionaries participating in the Mission Leadership Council.  I told them as they were eating them that I was not sure if I should tell them how we call these in French.  One way to translate them would be nun's farts.  I finally told them and they had a good laugh.    

We need a good laugh.  The missionaries have a hard time being motivated.  They feel they are just in Efate in transit before they go home.  Some will go home but we will still have 71 missionaries who will not be going home because the borders are closed.  The young missionary leaders told us there is about 25% of the missionaries right now that are still working.  We will be holding a special meeting in small groups to try to light the fire again.  President Nelson said in his opening remarks last Saturday:" COVID-19 has altered our Church meetings, missionary service and temple work for awhile."

He said "altered" not destroyed and "for awhile" not forever.  We need to think outside the box and pray for revelation to do the work of the Lord.  He is still in charge and He can show us the way.

I have faith that our fasting and prayers have reached heaven. Things will start changing and the work will continue to move forward.  

A few fashion changes may happen. 😷I am smiling underneath that mask.

I also saw this example of a quilt for you quilters with a sense of humour!

President Nelson closed his opening remarks with these comforting and true words:

"I know that God, our Heavenly Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ, are mindful of us.  They will be with us throughout the proceedings of these two glorious days as we seek to draw closer to Them and honor Them."

I know they are with us.  We see the hand of the Lord everyday amidst all this ordeal.  I feel Their peace.  What a marvelous blessing!

Bae mifala lukum yufala nekis wik.

Lavem yu evriwan.

See you next week.  We love you all.