Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Jacob's Open House


Sunday evening we planned an Open House at the church for Jacob. Many people came to wish him good luck. It was a great way for friends and neighbors to see the church and learn more about what serving a mission is about. Of course, the theme of the Open House was all about Mexico, we had the Mexican colors everywhere and blew up a giant map of the Veracruz mission boundaries. Dessert was served and was delicious!


Monday, August 30, 2010

Farewell, Elder Butterfield!

Today Jacob is leaving for Utah and Wednesday he will report to the Missionary Training Center in Provo. The morning has been full of last minute packing, writing thank-you cards, and saying goodbyes. We will miss him dearly, but are so excited for the great things he will experience on his mission.

This past weekend has been great. Mikkal and Ben flew in from Utah for the occasion. Jacob's "farewell" Sacrament Meeting was yesterday and much of the family was able to be there and even participate in some way. Jacob talked about the recent conversion story of one of his friends and how glad it made him to see his friend accept the gospel. We held an Open House at the church later that evening for friends and family to send their final well-wishes to Jacob before he leaves. Jacob was also set apart as a full-time missionary. Brother Neilson from the Stake Presidency gave him some great counsel at this time, too.

We are proud of Jacob's choice to serve a mission and serve the Lord. We know this experience will be life-changing, not only for him, but also for many people that he meets in the mission field.