A CHALLENGING WEEK

This past week was one of highs and lows, times of feeling the Spirit and enjoying the work, and times of experiencing contention. We heard from one grandchild for the first time in three years and from another who is just starting his mission experience in the MTC, and then also learned of other family members who are experiencing the heavy burdens life seems to throw in our way. 

On Monday night, for our missionary Family-Home-Evening, President Theurer (Frankfurt Germany Mission) and his wife came to talk to us. In essence he was recruiting for volunteers to attend some of the other wards and branches of the Frankfurt and Friedrichsdorf stakes. Most of the senior missionaries, like us, have attended either the International Ward or the ward located next to the temple. He brought a list of wards and branches that he felt could use some support. He told us how senior missionaries could be of help, even though they did not speak German. Two of our missionaries attending the Offenbach branch told of being involved in helping to teach, fellowship, and baptizing investigators. Both Eileen and I felt like it was something we should do. After the meeting I gave my card to President Theurer and said we would be interested in serving. We will see where that leads.

This week Eileen started taking calls/text messages from the Paris South missionaries. It was fun for me to watch as she interacted with them and their mission president. I could see the lift in her spirit as she did so. Although the assignment took up just a small part of her week, I feel it was God sent to her.

Last night, with about two to three dozen of our fellow senior missionaries, we attended a symphony and listened to pieces by Mozart and Haydn. It was a relaxing change of pace.

The parade came right past our local Rewe which is less than a 5 minute walk away. 

A number of senior missionaries were waiting for the parade to start supporting the Lantern Festival.

President and Sister Theurer who are the mission leaders for the Frankfurt Mission spoke to our zone for FHE. 

This is a new map showing the missions within the Europe Central Area.  The Paris South Mission is quite large geographically and goes south to the Spain Border. 

Kristian Katzenberger was the guest artist.  He is a professor of music/horn. He was amazing.

The symphony on Saturday evening was well attended by a number of missionaries within our zone. 

                           

We didn't get there in time for the group photo as we had gone out to eat with the Clemes. 

Elder and Sister Clemes spent the evening with us. They are a new couple in the humanitarian department. 

Prelude music for church today. I love hearing this organist play.