You Learn Something Every Day!

Greetings to all!   We had a good week and each day seemed to bring some new insights about the gospel plan and especially our experience as missionaries here in Pennsylvania.  Monday Elder A and I split up for a few hours (horrors!) and I went with Sister Neff over the mountain and through the woods (literally) to visit the Lund Family.  Elder A went out to lunch with a brother who is having some problems and who needed a listening ear.  At the Lunds’ we were greeted by one mangy dog, three noisy children, a home in major stages of dishevelment, and sweet Sister Lund who is doing her best to be a good mom, wife, and member of the church.  They moved to our Branch about a month ago and have no employment.  It is a financial sacrifice to get enough gas to drive the 45 miles to church each week,  but they are a faithful family and I know they will be blessed.  We had a good visit and I was happy to hold the baby and clean up a little while Sister Neff gave the Visiting Teaching lesson.  Elder Abbott’s listening ear got a good workout and I was taught a lesson in humility and sacrifice.

Tuesday we drove to Turbotville (I love the amusing names of many of the towns in PA, my favorite is Larryville – it gets me giggling every time I see the sign!) for the funeral of Millie’s sister.  It was held in a lovely old Methodist church in the very small town of Turbotville.  We were the only members of the church to attend the funeral, and we had a chance to meet some of the family members of Millie and Barry,  who were recently baptized.  Millie is one of 12 children which makes me understand a little more about her quiet nature and compliant personality.  The pastor did a decent job, but there was no comfort of the plan of salvation to help this family cope.

Wednesday we spent all day with the Elders at Zone training.  We got fired up to help our Branch make a Branch Mission Plan and make goals with the Branch Council for accountability and success.  We had greasy pizza, potato chips and water for lunch!  The District Leaders were in charge of the food which explains the quality of the meal.   We were spiritually fed, however!  It is always fun and motivating to be with the young Elders and get caught up in some of their enthusiasm.

Friday evening we attended the baptism of Nate Parker, eight years old.  There hasn’t been a child baptism in the Branch for ages which you would think means it is a big deal.  We were sad and disappointed to see a poor turnout, but Nate seemed to enjoy his special day even if there were very few people there to enjoy it with him.  Dad and I just look at each other and shake our heads –  the “Branch family” concept hasn’t quite sunk in here in the Lock Haven Branch.

Saturday was a beautiful, sunny day with no humidity!  We drove to State College Area to visit Rose Ann who was house-sitting in the backwoods somewhere.  We are sending pictures of this amazing house, built and designed by Rose Ann’s friend.  It started as a small cabin, and has become 13,000 square feet of awesomeness!  The difference between this house and most of the other homes we have visited here is astounding.  We ended our day with a special tour of the Woolrich Woolen Mills – the Mills have been here since 1830 and is second to Pendleton Co. in production of wool fabric.  The process is amazingly complicated and we came away with a real appreciation for anything made of wool and an understanding of why good quality wool garments are so expensive.

So to sum up our insights of the week: The gospel is true and we are humbled and blessed to be involved in the great work of sharing the message of Jesus Christ, his love and example of devotion.  On Monday we have an appointment with the Hanna Family for Lesson #2 – the Plan of Salvation.  This week has been a good preparation for us to teach that message with a grateful heart.  We send love to each and every one of you.  Abby and Papa