Today Brian and I went to Times Square to see the unwrapping ceremony of the three “Light the World Giving Machines” that will be in NYC for the Christmas season. Sister Camille Johnson spoke first and then about 12 leaders from other organizations/churches that partner with the church on this humanitarian worldwide project (such as The Red Cross.) Elder Quentin Cook and his wife were there too. But he did not speak. (They are in town celebrating their wedding anniversary.) One of the gifts that we paid for with our credit card from the Light the World Giving Machine was “Two Chickens.” The two chickens will be given to a needy family in Africa (or another poverty stricken area) and the family can have eggs to eat/live on and can breed more chickens.
Senior Missionary Christmas Party tonight. We had a catered dinner from Carmine’s and then Elder Kory and Sister Carolyn Katseanes, from Provo, Utah told us about their mission as Public and International Affairs Missionaries. (They do not wear name tags.) They are “friends” to diplomats (ambassadors to the United Nations) and heads of the consulates of different countries. They host and attend many dinners and cultural events. We had our Christmas Party in their office. Our fellow senior missionaries are dedicated, hard-working, and generally nice people. We like hanging out with them.
Wow, I think we read all your posts today on our way to the temple!! Your mission sounds so exciting and interesting. It seems like you’ve done a ton of great things so far. NYC is such an interesting place and your mission has given you so many opportunities to help others, to collaborate, to enhance what’s already there and to be a representative of Jesus Christ. I’m beyond happy for you guys. I’m so sorry about your dad passing but like you, so happy to know that life goes on beyond the veil and you’ll see him again.
I’m so grateful for your friendship and the wonderful examples ya’ll are to us!! May the Lord continue to guide and lead you to those who can benefit the most from your tutoring. We love you and pray for your constant safety as you press forward in His name❣️❣️❣️
We were excited to find, read, and enjoy your mission blogs! We can tell you are having a wonderful and exciting experience! You are exceptional, skillful, and loving missionaries who are blessing and will continue to bless the lives of many of God’s children from many cultures. Thank you for sharing your experiences and your favorite NY sights as well pizza and bagel shops! We express our condolences at the passing of Sheiia’s father. How blessed we are to have an understanding of life after death and eternal families. It was so fun to be able to see pictures of your grandchildren. They are adorable and look like little Brandenbergs!! We’ll enjoy reading about your Church service and other adventures. We love and miss you and wish you a Merry Christmas and perhaps a the beautiful sparkling White Christmas that we have missed for years past.
Love, The Atkinsons
I find myself a little homesick for the Big Apple! I’m so happy you guys are there and seem to be enjoying it. I’m also super proud you bought chickens!
Haha….I love you Nancy!!