The Missionary Training Center is Awesome

We joined 110 other senior missionaries for  our one week training.  We were grouped with 3 other incredible couples and taught by two recently returned younger missionaries.  They taught us about our mission purpose with emphasis to use Christ in our teachings along with the Book of Mormon.  We gained new skills for inviting others to have a desire to make changes in their lives which can bring them more happiness and joy. 

The Thompsons will be serving in Korea.  We were paired with them for our practice sessions. We learned how to understand the needs of others and follow the Spirit in helping to resolve those needs.  They did the same for us and it was amazing how quickly we became good friends after establishing the required level of trust.

The artwork in the center is amazing. There is a large mural depicting the Savior giving sight to a blind man.  Jesus taught that through faith and a willingness to change our hearts that we can be healed of not only our physical afflictions but spiritual afflictions as well.  We can live an abundant life by understanding the purpose of this life and showing forgiveness, service and love to others. 

Over the weekend we were able to visit with Madison, Evan and their four girls.   Here we are on a hike up to Donut Falls.   It's a pretty short hike but we were not aware there was a one mile hike from the parking lot to the trail head.   After walking for 35 minutes to reach the trail head the girls only lasted about 200 yards before we decided we better head back. Even so, the scenery was fantastic and the girls were all great little hikers.  

Especially little Emma who just went along for the ride with no complaints. 

They live close to the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon so there will be many more successful hikes in the future.

On Sunday evening we were able to meet with Elder and Sister Draxler, whom we are going to replace.  They have come home early due to a health issue with a family member so we met  them here in SLC instead of Zagreb.  They helped us come up to speed on our responsibilities.  Now that the baton is passed we hope to continue their progress.