Today, we reported to the International Office at the Provo MTC promptly at 6:50 a.m. as translator machines were needed to be distributed in three international branches for Priesthood meeting--only four different interpreters for four languages were needed this morning! How these young returned missionaries are appreciated as they willingly and joyfully offer their 'spare' time to leave their warm, cozy beds and families so early in the a.m. (and all day) to venture forth to serve their fellow missionaries.

We have found that as we work on Sundays, it will be a challenge to find a sacrament meeting at the MTC we can attend while still fulfilling our missionary responsibilities. Today, we attended Sacrament meeting at a Russian-speaking branch at 1:45 p.m. and witnessed a sister missionary and two elders bare their testimonies (in Russian, translated into English for us Gringos)--it was so powerful and the Spirit incredibly strong. Both elders told of their conversion and the drive to find the true church. I wish I had room to write more. There wasn't a dry eye in the congregation. All these 37 Russian-speakers are returning to either Russia, Ukraine or Armenia for their full-time service in 1 1/2 weeks (they will not return to their 'home' mission). Their stay at the MTC is a total of 4 weeks with the primary goal for them to 'learn the gospel' and become better acquainted with the workings of the church. They also had the privilege to meet with Elder Uchtdorf, new apostle, at church headquarters on Friday, plus they were allowed to leave the MTC today, accompanied by their Branch President Callister, to participate/view the workings of a 'real' American Ward. Of course they loved the Primary best!! Special efforts are being extended to these Russian-speakers to solidify their understanding and testimonies. The first week they arrived, they received their temple endowments in the Provo temple. How far the Russian-speakers have come! I couldn't wait to phone our sons Chip and David to relay the incident. Chip served a mission in St. Petersburg, Russia, 10-12 years ago and and David 8-10 years ago in Estonia, both pioneering missionaries in their areas. To witness the next, rising generation, especially the elders (as faithful and valiant young men) was overwhelming (few males are baptized because of the alcoholism problem-then and now) and to realize that many valiant mothers have kept the faith and are raising a righteous seed!

Working at the MTC is like seeing the future the the church unfold right before our eyes. Words fall short in expressing the power and love felt in our meetings. Our missionaries are being fed temporally and spiritually! Sister Silvia Allred, First Counselor in the General Relief Society Presidency spoke in the combined Relief Society meeting this morning at 10:00 a.m. and related her conversion story. Briefly, while a young 14 year old, the missionaries tracted out our home, but no one was interested except she and her 17 year-old sister. Her mother wouldn't sign the papers for her to be baptized but eventually did. At her baptism, she bore such a powerful testimony, her mother became reinterested and eventually both her parents and all siblings joined the church. What a powerful women she is!!

How thrilled I am to learn that my new assignment includes I am especially concerned with the Russians, Ukraines, Armenians and Korean missionaries who enter our doors. What a blessing to share a 'moment in time' in their lives. Our duties and responsibilities are emotionally, physically and spiritually draining, but we are loving the work required of us, and especially interfacing with all our beautiful young sisters and elders. They are all so appreciative of hugs and encouragement. Again, a special perk is hugging our granddaughter Brittany occasionally. She's 'on fire' and excited about learning/refining her Spanish.

We so appreciate our Monday off today (every other Monday). Regrouping is essential to mental health, I've decided. We're off tomorrow for another growing, learning experience. Of of the two departing couples leave tomorrrow and the Keetch's leave the next Wednesday. Then we're solo! The Andersons' (other new couple) and us decided that two half brains equal a whole brain, and that's about where we are at this moment in time! It's exciting though and we know Heavenly Father will bless us as we strive to magnify our callings.