This is our third group during the zone conference. Looks like they got the best location around the pool. This group included Elders Tolman, Bauer, Sande, Eckman, Kelsey, and Schioser.

All of the Missionaries in the Luanda Area

I just wanted you to see our small band of missionaries serving in the Luanda area. This doesn't include the 4 Elders and the Violin's serving down in Lubango. You'll see them as soon as we go down the end of next week! Here we have, back rows: Elders Schioser, Kelsey, Eckman, Tolman, Harper, Arrington, Marcelino (a branch missionary), Borden, Walker, Davis, Bauer, Rainbolt, Manuel, and Anhanha. Front: Elders Sande and Bene.

A Note to Parents About Shipping Packages to Angola!

Dear Parents - Recently we have received small packages via DHL, FedEx, and UPS. All 3 are functioning in Angola! We do not know the costs or which shipper is better at getting through customs without cost. Two of the small packages got here in about one week. If you find a good rate please let us know so that we can share it with other parents and post it on the blog. Again, there is no regular mail delivery in Angola, however the government is trying to rebuild some post offices. They do have a website but it has no addresses or functioning phone numbers. When we find a post office and if we can set up a Post Office Box, we will let you know. Progress:)!!

A Baptism for Luanda 2

It's always a great day when there is a baptism. It's the highlight of the week for the missionaries. Valentino was baptized by his older brother, Francisco, and their friends from the Luanda 2 Branch came to support them on this memorable day.

This was a great baptism because an older brother got to baptize a younger brother. Luanda 2 Elders Kelsy and Schioser with Francisco and his little brother, Valentino.

After the baptism the missionaries are all psyched and ready to go find more of the prepared people the Lord has selected. Don't you just love missionaries? Here we have the Cassequel and Luanda 2 Elders. They include Elders Harper, Schioser, Davis, Eckman, Kelsey, Manuel, and Sande.

Another Transfer in Angola

Transfers always begin with the transfer board. The zone leaders, Elders Manuel and Allison, and President Walton and I sit and discuss possibilities for companionship changes. Once we've discussed some options, President Walton prays about what the Lord wants for the missionaries and then the calls are made on the Tuesday before the Thursday transfer day. To missionaries, transfers are a big deal because it determines where and with whom they will be serving indefinitely. All they have to bring with them is the faith, desire, and good attitude to help the work in that area.