Christmas Conference‏

Dear Parents and Families,

Last Wednesday and Thursday we had our much looked-forward-to Christmas Conference in the Surrey Hills Chapel by the Oklahoma City Temple. On Wednesday when President Gee and I walked into the chapel the missionaries were assembled and reverently studying their scriptures. I could feel the spirit before we even began. I hope I never get insensitive to the power that a group of good missionaries has. We began with "Hark the Herald Angels Sing." It sounded like angels were singing. We have some wonderful singers in the group. President Gee ususally sings with gusto. He learned to sing in his youth when he spent hours on the tractor. He developed power singing above the noise. On Wednesday, however, he wasn't singing. I looked at him and could see tears in his eyes. I patted him on the leg, because there were tears in my eyes as well. It was so touching. We wished we could sing much longer. In fact, later in the day we inserted some unplanned Christmas Carols. After some preliminary remarks half of the half of the mission left to attend a session at the temple. The temple workers were almost as happy as we were that the missionaries were there. It takes a lot of work on their part to take care of us, since most of the missionaries don't have all their temple clothes. I love seeing the missionaries in their suits, ties, and dresses, but it can't compare to seeing them all in white. They were able to spend a little time in the Celestial room to ponder and pray.

After the session the group returned to the chapel to share testimonies and positive mission experiences. The other half was in the temple by then. What a boost it is to have each and every missionary share some little miracle that has happened to them and to also affirm their testimony.

Next we had a mission picture taken in front of the temple. It was freezing cold but we tried to keep each other warm. Afterwards both groups went into the chapel for the final words from President Gee. He spent time introducing the new theme for 2010. It will be "Look unto me in every thought. Doubt not. fear not." D&C 6:36

It was a day of fasting, so by 4:30 in the afternoon thoughts were turning to food. The Oklahoma City Stake furnished a very nice Christmas meal for all of us. It was beautifully decorated and the missionaries were more than eager to consume ham, funeral potatoes, beans, breads, salad, and trifle dessert. They love to visit with one another. We could tell they were reluctant for it all to end. They were taking pictures by the score. We were grateful that the weather cooperated and we didn't have to cope with an ice storm.

Thursday was pretty much a repeat of Wednesday except they were a bit more exuberant in their visiting and it took a while to get them to settle down. It was another uplifting and renewing day. President Gee and I breathed a sigh of relief when they were all safely back to their areas. We kind of feel like the highlight of the Christmas season has passed, but we will still enjoy the things that are ahead.

Christmas boxes are starting to pile up in the office. It is kind of like Santa's workshop during December. We noticed several of the elders were sporting some newly received gloves. Those gloves and also neckscarves really help. Some of them have thermal underwear, etc. that also helps to keep them warm. Thanks for your support and prayers. Please pray for the health of the missionaries. Several have developed colds, probably because winter is now officially here.

We have potential for a good month of baptisms. Please also add your prayers in behalf of those who have committed to be baptized. We love our missionaries! They want to do the Lord's work. We are so blessed to be part of the work. Have a good week. President Gee sends his best wishes. We both pray for you!

Love, Sister Gee