New Zealand Auckland Mission

It is done! Kia Ora to Lekias' and Porter's!

2011-09-08T11:35:00.000-07:00

A BIG KIA ORA to President and Sister Lekias!
Porter's leave the New Zealand shores with gratitude in their hearts for the blessings of associating with the Lord's anointed, for having the opportunity to know and love the people of New Zealand and most of all for being witness to the hand of the Lord in the lives of those who will have faith in Him, obey His word and follow the Spirit!!!

A special thank you to the families of all our fabulous missionaries for trusting in the Lord and sharing your loving and talented sons and daughters so that the purposes of the Lord might be fulfilled! We are certain that your trust and faith in the Lord will be richly rewarded with blessings upon your families as well as having your sons and daughters grow and experience God in ways that would never otherwise be possible! Glory be to the Father and to His Son and to the Holy Ghost!!!

The "Mantle" changes hands!

2011-09-08T11:12:00.000-07:00

We were told by Elder Callister of the Seventy that when the mobile phone is passed to the new mission president is when the "mantle" rests upon the new president from the old one! So this was a momentous occasion for all of us!
President Lekias looks anxious and President Porter has been dreaming of this moment since he was given the mobile phone from Elder Cook 3 years ago!
President Porter looks relieved!
Reality sets in for President Lekias!
The Porter's and Lekias' stand side by side with a great appreciation for what the Lord has done in the past three years and with great wondrous anticipation of what the Lord has in store for the New Zealand Auckland Mission in the next three years!

One last game of basketball! President calls it the "celestial sport"!

2011-09-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

Elder Smith's attempt to thwart President, but no luck!
Elder Kimball tries to slap it out--but President is triumphant!
Elder Smith tries again!
Elder Kimball makes another attempt!
The President changes courts and Elder Brown tries his hand at stopping the President!
A final Elder Porter/President Porter dual!!! You do know that I am paid to make President look good on this blog---right!!!
In the end, they are all adorable! Left to right: Back row - Elders Desmarias, Greening. Middle row - Elders Curtis, Chandler, Smith, Handy, Brown, President, Porter. Front row - Sisters Jones, Donumaibugale, Elders Kimball, Hoko, Rehak and Toka!

Getting in those last beautiful baptisms!

2011-09-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

On the final Saturday in June we attended the baptism of Anna and Victoria Howard and Atiu Enerii In Pukeokohe! Victoria is the 9 year old daughter of Anna and who had great faith! She removed a bone carved necklace that she had worn since she was 3 years old and thought that it would bless and protect her; for the blessing and protection of the Lord! I think she made an excellent choice, especially for her young age!
One last stop at Pokeno's with the Papakura Zone and District Leaders and the Sisters after the baptism! Left to right: Back row - Elders Kitara and Kaufusi; Front row - Sisters Leu and Perry, President Porter, Elders Nipko and Pre!
A wonderful farewell with the Seniors in the Area Office! Friends Forever!

"Hurrah for Israel"--time for our temple trips is here!

2011-06-21T22:33:00.000-07:00

Certainly a favorite time is our trips to the temple every 6 months! It was a blessing that the schedule worked out that these trips would be the last thing we did with our missionaries! This group went on Tuesday and included the Whangarei/Kaikohe, Henderson/Harbour, Mt. Roskill, and Manakau/Papatoetoe Zones!
We travel down in two buses!
The bus ride down to the temple and back is a wonderful time of song and association!
Pokeno's doesn't know what hit them! Quite famous among New Zealand Latter-day Saints is a unique and wonderful place in which prices are low and members have discovered the goodness and flock in droves! Every temple trip includes a stop--or two--if the timing is right--to this blessed ice cream shop!
Couldn't have cuter customers!

Sister Sitthidamrong and Sister Mafi supports. Lick it Sister!
I think she likes it!
A happy Elder Smith!
This is Tongan sharing!
Happy Shop owners!
Happy Tongan Sisters Feao, Funaki, Pasiaka and Mafi---such beauty and happiness all at once!
$$$$$$$$$$ Yeah!!!$$$$$$$$
How many scoops is that Elder Pohahau?
Elder Jenkins preaches by the way while enjoying his ice cream cone!
Elder Walker gets a scoop for every member of his family! I wonder if he wishes he came from a smaller family?
Sister Hohaia takes this opportunity to speak with someone waiting for the gospel!
I believe Elder Aldridge and Elder Walker are wondering why they got so much goodness!
Wednesdays group included the Panmure/Waterview, Tamaki, and Manurewa/Papakura Zones!
Elder Greening begins with "preaching by the way" and sets a great example for the mission!
Shop owners are prepared after yesterdays invasion!
Elder Cook gets the biggest cone available! He has a thin body that could handle a few extra fat cells!
Oops! Elder Cook looses the biggest cone! So much for the extra fat cells!
Elders Tugaga and Matu'u and Sisters Masoe and Fu'e!
Elders Handy and Kimball get twin cones!
Tongan share! I think Elder Rehak flipped the bill for these cones that Elders Hoko, Havea, Rehak, Palaiti and Falepapalangi partook of! Thanks Elder Rehak!!!
Sisters Clark, Marie, Jones and Domumaibugale(the one with the huge cone!)
Elders Tito and Huang let the shop owners know who it was that blessed their shop today!
Thursday's group was all the southern kingdom! They didn't get a chance to go to Pokeno's! This was the Glenview, Hamilton, Templeview, Tauranga, Rotorua and Gisborne Stakes! They have longer drives to look forward to in small mission cars--some up to 8 hours drive! The temple is so worth it!
On Friday, President Porter and I were able to participate in a wonderful event--the sealing of Mark and Salina Burdette and their son Jacob! On our first trip down to Gisborne two and one half years ago, we visited the Burdette's in their home and challenged them to get their family to the temple and sent them a picture of the temple as a reminder of their commitment! Here at the very end of our mission, seeing Mark and Salina sealed was a glorious event to culminate our experience here in New Zealand! How could we ask for more! Thank you to Elder and Sister Gubler and the rest of the Gisborne 3rd ward for their love and support for this precious family!

Elder Steven Snow of the Seventy in New Zealand!

2011-06-21T19:16:00.000-07:00

Elder Steven Snow came with Elder David Hoare to make a change in the Panmure Stake President!
President Mark Dean Westerlund was called as the new Panmure Stake President!

Our last Leadership Training!

2011-06-14T01:20:00.000-07:00

What a great group of Elders and a few Sisters were there as well! There are such exciting things happening with missionaries that it is very hard to leave! We must keep in mind that we are never released from missionary service--we are always on duty! It is who we are--we are representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ and we are here to gather his elect wherever we might be! It is truly evident to us that --No unhallowed hand can stop this work from progressing--it will go on boldly, nobly--till the Lord says it is done!(paraphrasing of course!)

Zone Leaders are ready to go!

2011-06-14T01:04:00.000-07:00

Our Zone Leaders are ready!
They are all on board!
They are ready to go when the new President arrives!
They are all in this together!
They are unified!

Welcome ray of sunshine for the mission!

2011-06-05T02:26:00.000-07:00

Our ray of sunshine into the mission begins with Left to right, back row: Elders White, Kitara, Fernandez, President Porter, Elder Mariteragi! Front row: Elder Lam Cheung, Sister Seru, Porter, Elder Chan!
A sunrise view from the deck of the mission home the day after they arrived! They all came to the home for training and saw this breathtaking sunrise with all of its magestic colors!
Elder So'oalo will train Elder Lam Cheung--who is a cousin to a Sister Lam Cheung we had in the mission some time ago!
Elder Wigginton will be training Elder Chan!
Elder Atkin is to train Elder Mariteragi, who is also a cousin to yet another Elder that served in this mission previously! The impact of NZAM lives on!
Elder White is being trained by Elder Jeppesen!
Elder Keyes trained Elder Jeppesen who is now training Elder White! Elder Jeppesen and Elder Keyes are always together whenever they attend meetings in which both are there--it is sure this is a lifelong bond--we hope Elder White will have this great connection as well!
Elder Kaufusi will be training Elder Kitara!
Sister Hafoka is training Sister Seru!
Elder Fernandez will be trained by Elder Bresee!
All of the missionaries pause for a picture at a cold and bustery "One Tree Hill!"
There was a gorgeous sunrise that day which warmed up our hearts a bit!
Sisters Donumaibugale, Vea and Seru all know our first assistant Elder Ramasima! How did you let these young women slip by---eat your heart out Ramasima!!!!
Elders Sua and Papalii pose with a cute sign I had never seen!

Saying Goodbye is NOT for WIMPS!

2011-06-03T18:48:00.000-07:00

Such wonderful missionaries, such wonderful memories and such amazing miracles! Left to right: Sisters Teaupa, Nalesoni, Porter; Elders Belk, Cameron, Christiansen, Stucki, Luckhardt, Timoteo, Magleby, Tonga, Johnson, Afoa and President Porter! On the wharf on Lake Pupuke!
Elders Kauhenga and Fanguna had to leave a few days early due to expiring visas!
Elder Baraniko from Kiribati was also one of those whose visa was going to run out before the transfer, so he ended up leaving over a week early!
The group really missed them when they were all together! Strong bonds are formed in the mission field!
Elder Magleby came right in the mission home the morning of their departure and got right into what their next "Commitment Pattern" would be looking like! I love how the girl is "to be identified!"
Elder Christiansen had investigators that had to come to the mission home to say their final goodbyes to the Elder that brought the gospel to their home and hearts! Vanessa and Fernanda are friends for life and into the eternities!
Elder Christiansen was also picked up by his parents! Mom gets the hug!
Elder Afoa is picked up as well by his mother, father and sister--who he is hugging! (No it isn't his girlfriend!)
Elder Stucki--the "drama king" falls down the steps to greet his family!
Picks himself up and greets his family!
Sister Teaupa is supported by many family members who are not even members--they were lovingly encouraging through the entire testimony meeting!
She was covered with treats--and some to share as well!
Elder Cameron's mom taped while Dad got the first hug--then, his Dad had no idea how to work the recorder for Mom's hug! That's what Mom's do!
The crazy group gather for one final picture!

Sister's Training with Sister Callister!

2011-05-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

We were able to gather our 34 Sisters in the mission together for a Sister's Training on Priesthood and Womanhood! Sister Callister served as our focal point as she trained us on how supporting her husband has been a blessing to her entire family.
It worked out to be quite perfectly timed because our own daughter-in-law had just given birth to grandchild number 6 and we were able to have an illustration of the blessings of womanhood and the great calling and responsibility we have been given as woman--how key we are in the Father's plan!
Our Samoan language program sisters gathered for a photo!
Our Tongan language program sisters were not going to be without a picture as well!

We were able to discuss how sisters can have a critical role in the mission as they lend their support to their Zone and District leaders! I solicited ideas and ways the sisters could do this from the Zone leaders themselves and it helped the sisters see how much they are needed! We then asked the sisters how the Zone Leaders could be more helpful to them in their role as missionaries---the Elders will have to wait till Zone Leader Council! We love our Sisters! We love our Elders too!!!

Tongan Elders Sing!

2011-05-25T02:30:00.000-07:00

Elders Sateki, Mataele, Tonga, and Molisi sang this at Zone Conference thinking that it would be our last time together! We were touched and asked if they could sing it again so I could tape it and share it on the blog! They were happy to help!

New Zealand Auckland Mission has talent and heart!

2011-05-25T01:30:00.000-07:00

More from our wonderfully talented Tongan Elders! The two songs are a complilation of many songs:
'e sihova
'e tamaie
'e otua
nefai pe mei kalevale
Whatever the combination, they sing it with their heart and souls!

Sua Family Singers!

2011-05-22T12:04:00.000-07:00

The Sua Family singing Brightly Beams! Enjoy!

Beautiful Baptism!

2011-05-22T01:07:00.000-07:00

I know this would have been better if his companion was right next to him, but his companion was just in the chapel and Elder Magleby was just walking into what is probably his final baptism of his mission and this was a shot I couldn't resist! Four being baptized from two different families! Do you think these Elders love these boys or what? Bro. Sua, the ward mission leader, Alfred and Edward were just baptized and Elders Magleby and Ward!
Alfred and Edward were having trouble with something that is very common with siblings--fighting! So, the missionaries were inspired to help them with a little jingle that has caught fire in the whole ward! It helps all of us to understand the power of the Book of Mormon--after their baptism, they bore sweet and pure testimony of the power of the Book of Mormon in their lives because it helps them quit fighting as they read from its pages each day! Marvelous!! Sorry about the picture slant!
While at the baptism, I discovered a musical family that was quite impressive--see if you agree! This is the Sua Family, Dad is the ward mission leader, Ashley, Katrina and Tyra are his very talented daughters!

Hurray for Zone Conferences!

2011-05-21T23:52:00.000-07:00

We began up in Whangarei with the Whangarei/Kaikohe Elders and Sisters!
Preparing the meal for the Elders and Sisters the following day at Manukau Stake Centre were from Tamaki Stake!
They fed Elders and Sisters from Henderson/Harbour Zone, Mt. Roskill Zone, and Manukau Zone!
Do you get the idea that it was very cold that day!?!

Thank you for the delicious and plentiful meal Tamaki Stake!
We then travel to Hamilton for the Glenview, Hamilton, Templeview, Tauranga/Rotorua and Gisborne Zones!
These missionaries are always spoiled by the expert food production of "Missionary Mums" from the Glenview Stake!
Don't you just love how they decorate!
They even create cute handouts with candy and some kind of spiritual message to go along with our conference!
This time it was about the word being like a sword!
Worked in perfectly!

Well fed and ready for more inspiration!
This is such a fun process to watch! These island sisters know how to put on a "feed"! The missionaries know how to respond! These missionaries are from the Panmure/Waterview Zone, Tamaki Zone and Manurewa/Papakura Zone!
They absolutely love these meals where they can just graze and take all they want!

It took all these to prepare and serve the meal! The adorable thing about it was that they were thanking us when it was over---for the opportunity to feed the missionaries! You just gotta love it!
As you can see, the missionaries do just that---they love it!
And they are good at it!

Left to right: Elders Rehak, Jolliffe, Fanguna, Kauhenga, Gardner and Sister Alatini!
Missionaries love taking pictures together!
All the missionaries who hadn't written on the mission tablecloth, hurried to get their names in permanent marker as part of NZAM--serving under President Porter! It will be a great thing for us to bring to reunions and reminisce over the good ole' days!

Elder Evans City Wide Conference!

2011-05-21T23:24:00.000-07:00

It was such a blessing to have Elder David F. Evans of the Seventy come and hold a conference for those missionaries serving close enough to get there within a reasonable amount of kilometers! He helped the NZAM to better understand how obedience essential to everything a missionary does. He helped us to better apply the new Fundamentals of Preach My Gospel and was helpful in showing us how we should love our investigators enough to be BOLD! What a blessing to have these inspired men to inspire the missionaries!

May Zone Leader Council!

2011-05-09T02:00:00.000-07:00

Where there are missionaries--there must be food close by!!!
I have come to love this scene!
Of course, the view of those who fill the shoes are even better! What a stalwart group of the Lord's missionaries!
Some of these Elders are leaving soon--can you tell by the red, wet faces, which ones!

Our last trip to Niue!

2011-05-09T01:05:00.000-07:00

This is a wonderful view of the Alofi branch building on the island of Niue!
The Lakepa Toi Branch performs wonderful songs and dances the day before we left! Aren't they great!
The Alofi Branch Relief Society sisters performed as well! Sister Lavini (Relief Society President) was leading the group!
As a family we have been mystified by this man who wanders a certain portion of the street always eating coconuts and appears and disappears in the bush! Come to find out from the Elders, they too have enjoyed this man who is actually a member of the church and whom they have nicknamed "Moses!" He kindly agreed to take a photo with Elders Devey and Losalu with our son, David!
A few aerial views of the island from the airplane!
The airstrip of Niue! The "rock of polynesia"--Niue!
Couldn't resist sharing some great moments with the Saints performing at the Niue Festival!
The one thing that I was amazed again at, is how the members were so very influencial in every part of the program for the festival, from decorations to running the whole thing! Members of the church are so talented and have such wonderful gifts that bless the whole world! What a gift the gospel is!! Do we realize what we have?????

Love the incoming!

2011-04-21T18:21:00.000-07:00

Sister Marie is being trained by Sister Jones!
Sister Donumaibugale will be trained by Sister Martinsen!
Sisters Martinsen and Donumaibugale move her things to the Zone car for transport!
Anyone notice--we have a new mission van! That is right--what a beast! It has a larger cargo, easier to drive and turning radius that is much better than the Previa, but this Hyundai is a diesel engine--which gets better gas mileage but sounds like a Jumbo Jet according to our son David! Therefore, the new nickname for our mission van is J.J. the Jumbo Jet!
Ben Marshall, our amazing bike man and his family just adopted a baby and are going through the panges of being a bit older parents---but are loving every moment of it! Congratulations!
Our new Elder Johnson begged me to put this on for his family! Hope they appreciate it! Now we have two Elder Johnson's!

Departure is not my favorite part!

2011-04-21T18:14:00.000-07:00

Departure may not be my favorite part, but from the looks on these missionaries faces--they were ready! Happy to serve and happy to rejoin their families! We will miss: Left to right, back: Elders McKinley, Cline, Babcock and Eckery. Left to right, front: Sisters Shumway, Siilata and Ashcraft!

Thank you Gee's!

2011-04-18T16:53:00.000-07:00

The two of them work together to form their square on the mission tablecloth--is that cute of what!?!
They have served faithfully in the Temple Visitor Centre in Hamilton--the Celestial Kingdom of the mission! We love and will miss you!

Incredible Irene!

2011-04-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

Irene is one incredible young woman! Came to New Zealand from China to study music. She asked a man on the street if he knew of a church that taught about Jesus Christ that she could attend. She was taught by her auntie in China about Jesus Christ! He was not a member but gave her details to Elder Smith and Elder Ng, that were chinese missionaries. She joined the church just one year ago and has now been called to the Wellington Mission to serve! What a blessing her faith will be to those she teaches!

Does anyone know any Tokelauans!

2011-04-18T16:27:00.000-07:00

Fia is the first person that I know from Tokelau! I had to ask where Tokelau was. It is an island south of Samoa that is part of New Zealand, similar to the Cook Islands and Niue! We looked it up and the population is 500! We are thinking that Fia is one of the first members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from her island home, Tokelau! Her adorable sister Herrietta is close behind!

An incredible story!

2011-04-18T15:41:00.000-07:00

Sisters Jones and Sitthidamrong were not the first missionaries to work with and teach John Crichton. His family, from Samoa, had been members for many years and even donated family land for the Samoan Temple to be built upon. The sisters just fellowshipped with the family and took John to the Hamilton New Zealand Temple Visitors Centre! As he stood in front of the Christus--he had a longing feeling to be there clean and worthy as he stood before the Saviour! It was then that he knew he needed to be baptized--that his sins might be washed away through our Saviour and Redeemer!
Brother Fruen, friend and great saint was instrumental in helping his friend John into the waters of baptism!
Sister Crichton and their 5 children have waited 25 years for this day! Congratulations Crichton family!

Welcome, welcome office couples--now we rest from every care!

2011-04-10T16:24:00.000-07:00

Elder and Sister Brower just arrived to serve in the office of the New Zealand Auckland Mission! We have been waiting for months for this couple, due to visa delays and had their predecessors, the Robertson's extended to be able to train them, yet they missed each other by 3 weeks!
They are now here and ready to join in and help the missionaries be successful!
Hurray! The office is now complete and in great shape with the Nelson's and the Brower's! It feels soooo good!
Special "Thank You!" to Service Missionaries, Sisters Ashby and Shepherd for holding us together for the 3 weeks until the couples arrived! We are most grateful for all you have done!

Ask and ye shall receive!

2011-04-08T17:52:00.001-07:00

The prophet asks for more couple missionaries and we receive--thanks President Monson! The Ronnenkamp's have been here for a while already, here from Layton to Coordinate ITEP in the Pacific Area, and they are highly qualified for the assignment! The Davis' from St. George, Utah, have the sweet assignment of being traveling ITEP/CES missionaries and will spend 3 months in Kiritabi, and 3 months Figi, then 3 months in Samoa--anyone salivating yet! I know, they have paid their dues though--they have already served here in the Pacific twice before.
Elder and Sister Hardy have come to us from Clinton, Utah to serve in the Hamilton Temple Visitors Centre! Like serving in heaven! They will be replacing the Gee's!

The Davidson's have been here for a bit and are from Burley, Idaho as CES Specialists who serve the northland of New Zealand! It is a great opportunity to serve the Maori youth in Whangarei and Kaikohe and the adjoining areas! Who will bless the doorstep of New Zealand next--will it be you!

March/April Interviews!

2011-04-07T02:48:00.000-07:00

At the MTC for Mission Presidents, Elder Hinckley informed us that the President would interview over 4000 times within the three year call over a mission--President's very last interview of his time as mission president was Elder Ji from China! Elder Abegg his companion was second to the last!
Elders Piukala, Vaolupe, and Gonda from the Henderson/Harbour Zone! Elder Gonda is holding up some of the chocolate Easter eggs I hid around the room for them to find during my time with the Elders and Sisters. I let them know that they were all "God's in embryo--having all the spiritual DNA in order to be a God! They just need to find their divine gifts and develop them!" Thus the chocolate easter eggs!
Elders Tonga, Eckery, Jolliffe, Vaolupe, Piukala, Spicer and Afa from Henderson/Harbour Zone!
Elders Nu'usila, Middleton, Everett, Tomasi, Spence, Martin, Manning, Cameron, Chandler, Tia and Whipple from the Henderson/Harbour Zone!
Elders Middleton, Walker, Manning, Nu'usila, and Tia from the Henderson/Harbour Zone!
Elders Jibas, Pre and Cline from Manurewa/Papakura zone!
This was a much better picture of Elders Cline and Pre and they are leading the largest zone in the mission, so they deserved another photo!
Back row: Elders Gardner, Tokelau, Kaufusi, Paliti, Sister in front: Sisters Ashcraft, Hohaia, Jones and Sitthidomrang! All from the Manurewa/Papakura Zone!
Elders Filimaua, Penaia, So'oalo, Dyumthi, Brown, Moe, Hatch, and Saunders from Manurewa/Papakura Zone!
Elders Shepard, Finau, Trainor, Killingbeck, Petty, and Havea--also from the Manurewa/Papakura Zone!
Elders Fafai, Desmarais, Haight, Ward, Stucki, Gubler, and Tucker, with Elder Cook, and Sisters Auva'a, and Fue in the front--from the Manakau Zone!
Sisters Nalesaoni and Pasiaka from the Manakau Zone!
Elders Sateki, Heslop, Mataele, Ward, Tugaga, Love, Fuataga, Stucki, Moss, Ulu'gia, Utai from the Manukau Zone!
Elders Timoteo, Petero, Sisters Perry and Martinsen, Elder Parry in back, Elder Tufaga, and Elders Porter and Nipko in front - from Panmure/Waterview Zone!
Elders Gunn, Inglis, Rehak and Kauhenga from Panmure/Waterview Zone!
Elders Cerros, Molisi, Hoko, Snow, Tito and Huang as well as Sisters Leu and Masoe, also from Panmure/Waterview Zone!
While down in Hamilton we noticed this amazing sight surrounding the Sandwich Rd. Chapel! Hot Air Balloon week in Hamilton!
Hamilton is the only place we have seen these Hot Air Balloons here in New Zealand, but we see them regularly!
Just never so close up!
Aren't these incredible! I think this is one from Brazil!
Elders Hibbard, Whaanga, Sessions and Smith from Hamilton Zone!
Elders and Sisters alike, love to devour the pictures of all the missionaries in the mission on my notebook!
Elders Allred, Smith, Sessions, Whaanga, Sua, Hibbard, Nelson, Kamal and Seuga from Hamilton Zone!
Sisters Avauli and Kamal from Hamilton Zone!
Elders Singh, Jeppeson, Huang, Purdon, Pohahau, Curtis, Rubalcava and Jensen from Hamilton Zone!
Elders Cannon, Smith, Kimball, Beckstead and Sorensen from Hamilton Zone!
Sisters Shumway and Joost at the Visitors Centre!
From Tauranga/Rotorua Zone we have Elders Beecher, Naicker, Jenkins, Ales, Johnson, Christiansen and Keyes-with Elders Loomis and Mayer in front!
Elder Espino, Sisters Tanuvasa and Frost, and Elder Luckhardt also from the Tauranga/Rotorua Zone!
The decision was made recently to allow mobile phones for the district leaders. The Zone leaders are the only ones to have them previously.
Elder Walk was so funny with his--it was like he had to retrain his fingers again!
It was like Christmas time for him!
Elders Battsagaan, Baraniko, Halavaka, Rangi, AsaAsa, Fakahau, Ioasa and Sisters Feao and Naidu from the Mt. Roskill Zone!
Elders Stewart, Sisters Mafi and Funaki, and Elders Babcock, Leong and Walk from the Mt. Roskill Zone!
Elders Fanguna, Hehepoto, Sisters Vea and Alatini are from Tamaki Zone!
Elders Papalii, Cunniffe, Afoa and Edlefsen are from the Tamaki Zone as well!
Again from Tamaki Zone we have Elders Leetham, Apelu, Christensen, Bake and Sisters Teaupa and Siilata!
Elders Magleby, President Porter and Elder Mutton from the Tamaki Zone!

Smith Family song in Maori!

2011-04-05T02:53:00.000-07:00

This is a song written by Elder Smith and his father. Sang in Maori about the difficulty of a child leaving. What a wonderful family and a lovely song!

Just something fun!

2011-04-05T01:21:00.000-07:00

Elders Parry and Brown were just doing a bit of sight reading one day while waiting for interviews or something and I just had to catch their amazing gifts on film! Enjoy! As I did!

Fantastic Baptisms!

2011-03-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

Sister Martinsen, Sarah, Lahveen and Sister Perry at the mission office!
The next day here is Sister Martinsen, Katrina, Sarah, and Lahveen and Sister Perry at the baptism! A special service shared by 3 lovely ladies!
Here they are with those asked to baptize them! This day was quite a day for baptisms scheduled in New Zealand Auckland Mission--we have over 80 baptisms scheduled for this one day!
I was able to be blessed to have participated in two trade offs with the sisters which were instumental in getting missionaries in contact with Gary and Jessie! God never gives up on people and He many times creates miracles on their behalf! This is what happened with Jessie and Gary!
The Watere family have all been baptized in this very building and the same font--now their daughter-in-law adds to the tradition!

We lose another wonderful couple!! We need more couples!!

2011-03-25T20:44:00.000-07:00

We said goodbye to another amazing couple that had a great experience here in the New Zealand Auckland Mission --The Robertson's! What a blessing they were---you better appreciate them family!
Isn't he just the cutest!
No, I take that back, she is the cutest!
Oh, how we are going to miss them!
Hey, didn't the prophet ask for more couple missionaries---ours seem to be leaving much faster than they are coming!

Zone Leader Council--Amazing Leaders!

2011-03-25T20:23:00.000-07:00

Elder Mataele really enjoyed the buttered chicken for lunch! He even got to wear it! It was a good thing I had the stain stick because 3 other Elders needed it as well that meal! I always say--it's not a meal without a spill!
Chow time!
Elders Chandler, Cline, Wigginton, Keyes and Porter!
Don't worry, Elder Handy was just posing--he didn't really lick the spoon! Elder Aldridge was just loving it!
Elders Belnap, Cooper, Cameron, Jenkins, and Keyes!
Elders Porter, Aldridge, Greening and Magleby enjoy the deck while the weather is good!
What can I say, you have raised some "righteous dudes"---we love them all!

This week of Specialized Training!

2011-03-25T20:11:00.000-07:00

We did some training with some zones just by themselves, like this training with Manukau Zone!
And Tamaki Zone!
And this large zone of Manurewa/Papakura!
Then we had Henderson/Harbour, Panmure/Waterview, and Mt. Roskill all together!
Hamilton was done in the visitors centre! I call it the celestial kingdom of the mission--how can you not be in this environment and not be filled with the Spirit? That's it, you can't, thats why I call it the Celestial Kingdom of the mission!
It is wonderful to have any opportunity to be with the missionaries--they are incredible young adults--and with the authority of their calling--they are powerful!

Crazy, mixed up, incoming experience!

2011-03-13T19:58:00.000-07:00

Here they are, all 18 of the 19 that were expected this cycle of incoming missionaries--but getting them all here was a crazy series of events! On Tuesday night as the missionaries we have come to love and serve with for 18 months and 2 years were saying their goodbyes, we received a frantic phone call from Salt Lake saying that we had 8 missionaries that had missed their flight to Auckland and another Sister who had lost her passport and was on her way back to the MTC! What!!!
When we got to the airport the next morning at 6:00 a.m., four missionaries walked off the plane--the MTC in Auckland had a few mix ups, so the six missionaries we were expecting from that MTC, we ended up going and picking up ourselves. The only ones that made it to One Tree Hill were these four out of the 19 that we were counting on!
The day they arrive in New Zealand Auckland Mission we give them their first experience with PBW - Preaching By the Way--like in the Doctrine and Covenants! I couldn't resist getting this shot of Sister Frost and Sister Perry's experience--will they catch up to her?
At transfer meeting, all the new missionaries gather in the middle to introduce themselves to the other missionaries--here was a picture of this introduction!
Elder Cook will be training Elder Gubler!
Elder Hatch will be trained by Elder Saunders!
Elder Snow is training Elder Cerros!
Elder Trainor will be training Elder Killingbeck!
Elder Fiu is being trained by Elder Webb!
Elder Middleton will be trained by Elder Manning!
Elder Fafai will train Elder Tucker!
Elder Pohahau will be trained by Elder Rubalcava!
Elder Kauhenga has met his match for general size and President has a backup chiropractor--both of these Elders can pick up President by the shoulders and give him a good back adjustment! President is 6'3"--these are big Elders! Gentle giants!
Elder Johnson will be trained by Elder Jenkins!
Elder AhFua is being trained by Elder Cushing!
Elder Piukala is being trained by Elder Gonda!
Elder Walker is training Elder Martin!
Sister Tanuvasa will train Sister Frost!
Elder Whipple is being trained by Elder Everett!
Sister Perry is being trained by Sister Martinsen!
Sister Mouata will be trained by Sister Hafoka!
Elder Cline and Elder Pre are Zone leaders that are together for Elder Cline's last transfer! They look like a winning combination!
Elder Hughes will be trained by someone just a little smaller than himself, Elder Johnson!
But it's all good!
Elder Smith will be trained by Elder Kimball!
Sister Brown made it in the third day, all by herself! She is the one whose passport got misplaced---she is being trained by Sister Mahas! Welcome all--we are so happy to have you!

A difficult Goodbye!

2011-03-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

How very difficult to say goodbye to our loved office couple Elder and Sister Walch! What an amazing example they have been to all of us! Our lives have been blessed by knowing them!
Ever the picture perfect couple who gave their all to the New Zealand Auckland Mission --We love you Walch's!
Outgoing missionaries say cheers to the New Zealand Auckland Mission! Left to right around the table: President Porter, Elders Witt, Smith, Moody, Faka'i, Allsop, Sisters Chen, Elisaia and me! Elder Manu's visa ran out before the departure date of the outgoing missionaries, so we had to say goodbye to him a few days earlier! Same thing with Sister George, from India and Sister Kapalu from Vanuatu! Visas have become a curse to missionary work! The Moody's came to pick up their son. The Mum always gets the first hug! Funny huh! Next, it is Dad's turn! Elder Moody just happens to be the baby of the family and the Moody's went on a mission to Africa while Elder Moody served here. They just returned home from their mission in December! How is that for a missionary minded family! Way to go, Moody Family! You deserve the best reunion ever! The Smith family came to pick up Elder Smith---see, Mum gets the first hug! This brother-in-law made a lot of points by getting a ticket for Elder Smith's sister at the last minute, to complete the family reunion so they could all be together once again to pick up Elder Smith from his missionary service! Elders Handy and Greening (assistants to the president) and Sister Chen (from China)! Left to right back row: Elders Allsop, Smith, Witt, Moody and Faka'i, and Sisters Chen and Elisaia in the center! You will be missed!

Mission Tour with President and Sister Callister (Pacific Area President)!

2011-03-06T13:24:00.000-08:00

Our smallest gathering occurs in Whangarei, in which the Whangarei/Kaikohe Zone group is shown with the Callister's! Elders and Sisters from the Harbour/Henderson, Mt.Roskill, and Manukau/Papatoetoe Zones take their picture with the Callister's! Elders and Sisters from Glenview, Hamilton, Templeview, Tauranga, Rotorua and Gisborne Stakes are together with the Callister's in Hamilton! Cousins one and all! Elders Greening, Whaanga, and Smith are all cousins and originally from New Zealand--with Elder Smith's mission coming to an end, the cousins see each other one last time while on their missions together! Elders Hibbard, Jensen and Espino find each other and are discussing their experiences since being in the same intake just a few short weeks ago! Boys to men -- that is what a mission does! Elders and Sisters from the Panmure/Waterview, Tamaki,and Manurewa/Papakura Zones pause for a picture with the Callister's! Elders Gardner and Porter take a moment while waiting for interviewing missionaries to read their "love" from home! Elders Hehepoto, Shepard and Tokelau patiently wait after the Mission tour! Darling Sisters Jones and Sitthidamrong after our final meeting of our mission tour! Elders Davis, Finau, Loomis, Jolliffe, Trainor and Snow wait for those being interviewed by President Callister! Elders Asa'Asa, and Matu'u wait for the interviewees! How grateful we are to our noble assistants who did such an excellent job of running the mission tour in a professional and dignified manner! Go NZAM!
This song was presented at one of the meetings for a special musical number by the cousins! The song is in honour of God, the words are as follows: The honour and glory, peace on earth, goodwill to all mankind, forever and ever, Amen. To Heavenly Father, whom I hold close for my well being.

Our latest couple--the Nelson's!

2011-02-25T20:44:00.001-08:00

A big NZAM Haere Mai to Elder and Sister Nelson from San Luis Obispo, California! They will be serving in the office taking the place of the Walch's who have served NZAM so faithfully! God bless great Senior Missionary Couples! They are invaluable to building the Kingdom of God!

Anybody wonder what NZAM is up to----we're BAPTIZING!!!

2011-02-25T20:28:00.000-08:00

Here is the latest Tamaki Stake Baptism in which Elders Utai, Papalii, Petty, Bake, Afoa, Kaufusi, Stucki and Mutton, along with Sisters Alatini and Pasiaka are looking quite happy! This is what I imagine the que to heaven looking like! All dressed in white, lead by angels! This was the happiest family--Crystal and Matt Coates and Theodore Tavete all were baptised and confirmed and then came to the "Come and See" fireside that Sunday night with the biggest smiles ever! Gloriously happy to be entering in at the strait gate!
These adorable young women are the Fetu Sisters who sang "Ye Elders of Israel" at the baptism! It was so beautiful I had to have them sing it again so I could record it for all to hear! They have just made a CD--they are that good!

We are well enough!

2011-02-21T23:14:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to put out a shout to all who are worried about your missionaries that all is well! We here in Auckland have not even felt tremors! Cease you concern about us! Our prayers are with the good people of Christchurch!

A heartwarming scene!

2011-02-16T21:09:00.001-08:00

Today, I was on my way to some of the Sisters flat and saw two of our Elders on their way to an appointment! I was so touched by their faithfulness and so I followed them without them even knowing for several blocks!
I then caught up with them and told them I was stalking them and caught a picture of Elder Falapapalangi and Elder Battsagaan!
With these Elders having 8 or 9 souls to be saved this month--it reminded me of what one of our dear prophets Spencer W. Kimball said:
“If only you could see the vision as I have, I wish I had your bodies to do the mission work, I would run to every house to teach the gospel and when I could no longer run then I would walk, and when I could no longer walk, I would crawl on my knees, and after my knees were so bloody that I could not use them, I would use my arms to drag myself, and once every muscle in my body was gone I would begin to yell! Oh that you could see the vision that I have."
We are about a great work!! Bless you faithful Elders! WE LOVE YOU!!!

February Specialized Training!

2011-02-16T20:42:00.001-08:00

President and Sister Porter played a dirty trick for Specialized Training this month--we decided to give the mission a bit of a wake up call and call on a few missionaries at 8:00 a.m. for companionship study without warning!
Elders Kauhenga and Vaolupe were the first lucky ones to receive us! It ended up being a wonderful experience as we studied and talked about the Atonement with them!
Elder s Faka'i and Fafai were our next victims (I mean lucky recipients) and we had a great experience having them give us the lesson they were planning to give their "golden investigators" that very night!
We also spent time going on tradeoffs with some of the missionaries to teach with them. In one night I was blessed to teach with Sisters Siilata, Alatini, Pasiaka and Teaupa! Strong spirit and wonderful teachers!
Elders Fillimaua and Fuataga were next for the early morning call! They were able to practice teaching us the Atonement!
We caught one companionship on a tradeoff. Elder Seuga was with his district leader, Elder Jenkins! They too were able to teach us about the Atonement!
Funny thing happened as a result of the tradeoff--Elder Love (Elder Seuga's companion) had the key--therefore, they ended up having to crawl in and out of the window for half the day!
I was blessed to have an incredible experience teaching with Sister Chen and Sister Feao!
Sister Jones and Sister Sitthidamrong looked so adorable that I just had to post them on their bikes! They are wonderful teachers as well!
Even without the gift of tongues it is a pleasure to listen to Sisters Auva'a and Fu'e teach in Samoan--they carry such a wonderful spirit! We left our experiences saying, "We need to do more of this!" Just a warning for the rest of the missionaries! Good times ahead!

New Stake President in Tamaki Stake!

2011-02-16T20:30:00.001-08:00

President Arthur did an absolutely fabulous job as the Stake President of the Tamaki Stake for 9 years and now will be able to have a bit more time to spend with his grandchild, shown here in the picture with he and his lovely wife, Lisa.
President Pulu was President Arthur's first counselor and has been chosen by the Lord to lead the Tamaki Stake for the next era--go Tamaki Stake! Thank you and best wishes to the Pulu family!

Senior Couples are dropping like flies around here!

2011-02-16T20:19:00.000-08:00

So sorry to say that Elder and Sister Hillborne are leaving us shortly--but they are leaving for the best reason, they will be going on another mission to the Marshall Islands! Congratulations Hillborne's and best wishes and a huge thank you from NZAM for all you have done for this mission from flat inspection, to hand holding, to being the best landlord, to getting us access to the scout camp, to repairing flats, to being some of the best examples ever on serving with the right attitude! Love you both!

"Match your Message" Fashion Show!

2011-02-05T23:31:00.000-08:00

At our last Zone Leader Council we realized that there were some fashions creeping into the mission that doesn't match the magestic message we bring----so, it was determined that we would put on a "Match your Message" Fashion Show at lunchtime for Leadership Training the next day to help the leaders of the mission be aware of what is appropriate and what is not! Here are our models:
Elder Mataele shows off about a 6 inch tie---doesn't quite measure up to good missionary attire!
Woa---Elder Magelby just put his finger into a light socket with that spikey hair thing going on!
Thank you Elder Christiansen for being our MC for the "Matching our Message" fashion show!
Dirty shoes aren't a good look for Elder Belnap or any other missionary!
I think Elder Mutton has spent too much time on his bike---his pants have been mangled---not a good look for missionaries!
Thank you Elder Stucki, for showing us how tacky wearing wrist bands look!
Yo, Elder Jenkins has got some fohawk going on---tooooo much for missionaries!
Elder Pre models wearing a vest without a jacket---keep that look in the fashion magazines!
Air conditioned socks are displayed by Elder Bresee!
Elder Witt demonstrates the inappropriateness of facial hair!
I think Elder Keyes has his top button undone---what do you think!
It looks like Elder Alldridge is showing off his muscles, but he is actually showing how rolled up sleeves is not a good look for missionaries!
Elder Ward sports a mismatched suit!
It is hard to see on this photo but Elder Sessions has a CD for a belt buckle---some of these belt buckles are the sizes of hubcaps and are not to be worn by missionaries!
Elder Timoteo models inappropriate sunglasses!
Elder Wigginton sports the fashion of logos on the tie! Certainly not for missionaries!
Elder Smith exhibits pointy side burns! Certainly not the look for a missionary!
Elder Cline displays a wrinkled shirt---so sorry about the position of the pose---that is when the flash went off and I wasn't able to get another photo taken as they all walked at quite a quick pace!
Elder Smith is used as our role model of a missionary who matches our message!
Here are all of our wonderful missionary models! Thank you Elders for displaying the "no no's" of missionary attire!

New Couple Arrives!

2011-02-05T01:02:00.000-08:00

Wow! Our newest couple, Elder and Sister Gubler from Santa Clara, Utah! Yes, they are young! We are very fortunate to have such wonderful, hard working, dedicated leadership and member support missionaries for the Gisborne area! A true blessing!
Difficult to see, but these are the Gubler's in the Zone Leaders car being taken with their luggage in the trailer behind them! What an adventure!

February Zone Leader Council!

2011-02-04T21:31:00.001-08:00

Elders Mataele, Timoteo, Cline and Greening partake of a new breakfast specialty at the Porter Mission Home! Pancakes with ice cream, fruit sauce, maple syrup and whip cream! Can't get any better than that---breakfast and dessert all at once! Don't worry Mom's they don't get that every meal!
Elder Mataele goes bonkers over the whip cream!
Elder Timoteo is loving the fruit syrup!
What a great group of Zone Leaders! Lots of new Zone Leaders for the first time replacing the many we lost at our last out take! During our Zone Leader Council, we received in a new missionary couple from St. George, Utah---Elder and Sister Gubler! They got the royal Maori welcome from some of our Maori Zone Leaders in the front---the rest of the Zone Leaders joined in with the welcome! They really got into it and you could certainly tell they were proud of their Maori roots! Kia Ora Elders!

We are family!

2011-02-04T21:00:00.000-08:00

Returned missionaries from Australia are cheering on their newest member of the family --Elder Javier - coming to NZAM in March! What a wonderful supportive family! We love you all! Left to right: Denys Adams, Guy Lawton, Peter Ma'a, Jared Barber, newbie Javier Cerros, Richard Felton, Fran Bush and Thomas Stuart!

We are losing the Brasher's!

2011-01-29T23:30:00.001-08:00

The Brasher's are a special couple that we adopted from the new MTC when they moved up to Manukau! They have been a blessing in our mission working with the Elders and Sisters to improve their teaching skills! The Elders and Sisters have loved them as much as they have loved the missionaries! Thank you Elder and Sister Brasher----how we will miss you!

January 2011 Incoming Missionaries!

2011-01-29T22:54:00.000-08:00

I call this intake the "United Nations" intake! We have missionaries from Vanuatu, Cook Islands, Botswana, Africa, Mainland China, Figi, Australia and America! We are a global mission of miracles!
Elder Whaanga will train Elder Hibbard!
Elder Rangi will be trained by Elder Trainor! Get the name tag---there was a misspelling on his original name tag so he kept it!
Elder Tomasi will be trained by Elder Chandler!
Elder Devey is training Elder Espino!
Elder Haight is to train Elder Alejandro!
Elder Beecher will be trained by Elder Eckery!
Elder Dyumthi is being trained by Elder Spicer!
Elder Brown will train Elder Jensen!
Elder Toka is being trained by Elder Atkin!
Elder Jeppesen will train Elder Singh!
Elder Moody is training Elder Inglis!
One Tree Hill was a unique experience where the Elders got some real mission experience with a man who didn't like Mormons and was bold about his opinion! They realized they weren't in the MTC anymore!

It was a beautiful day as Elder Ji entered the temple for the first time! He arrived from Mainland China direct to the mission because his government would not let him go to both Provo MTC to learn English as well as going to New Zealand. He joined the church 18 months ago and had a branch of 5 who he loved and they loved him! At 25 years old, he faithfully followed the call of the Lord to serve a mission! The New Zealand Auckland Mission is blessed to have such a faithful missionary!
Just out the door of the temple! Elder Ji is next to me with Elder Walk his trainer and Alan, supportive member who just got married 2 days prior!
What an amazing day!
When asked how he felt, he said, "Peace and Happy!"

Losing almost 10% of the mission in one out take!

2011-01-29T21:36:00.000-08:00

Three Elders from Gisborne required a trailer in the middle of a major storm and roads closed to get them up to Auckland!
The normally 8 hour trip took 12 hours to make! Even the Lord's cars are tough!
Reunion of the Collett family! Elder Collett gives his father a hug but doesn't recognize his mother--while he was serving she lost 170 lbs. You go girl!
Elder Collett was not expecting his younger brother to come along with his parents!
The biggest surprise was that his younger brother was also expecting his mission call any day now. Our Elder Collett didn't even know he was planning to serve!
What a reunion!
The Collett family!
The Andros family is reunited! Actually, they picked him up in Tauranga and brought him up to the mission home!
The Petty family comes from Christchurch to pick up Elder Petty!
A stalwart Elder from a great family!
All of these missionaries represent almost 10% of our mission lost in a single transfer! This was a tough one! We love you!

SPECIAL VISITORS!!!

2011-01-22T20:34:00.001-08:00

Elder and Sister Bednar, Bishop and Sister Edgley and President and Sister Callister visit with some NZAM missionaries! Just the missionaries serving close by the city of Auckland were able to attend which was a bit sad after having the opportunity twice recently to get all together, so the one's missing were truly missed! The message was enlightening and strengthening for all, we were grateful to have a member of the Quorum of the Twelve here for us to learn at his feet. Bishop Edgley and his wife were a treat and the Callister's are on the top of our list---truly an amazing and inspiring occasion!
Elder Bednar is always very kind to the youth. Our youngest son was the beneficiary this time!

Basketball---the only true sport according to President!

2011-01-22T16:10:00.000-08:00

How many missionaries does it take to guard the President?
He's still got it!
You go President!
Missionaries are still men!
Elders Cline, Handy, Davidson, Sevey and Aldridge take on the President at the true sport!

Random pictures from Interviews!

2011-01-13T19:40:00.000-08:00

Left to right: Elders Watson, Ales, Love, Moss, Magleby, Whitrod, Tugaga, Mutton, Allsop and Tia!
Elder Ales and President Porter!
Left to right: Elders Webb, Smith, Fakahau, Sheperd, Tito, Abegg, Babcock, Belk and Sisters Funaki and Nalesoni!
Sister Sitthidamrong watches Sister Chen play her violin at a baptism!
Sister Chen is wonderful at playing the violin, she is able to bless the baptisms of her investigators by playing a medley of church hymns while people are changing!
Sisters Martinsen and Hohaia and Elders Davis and Battsagaan!
Sisters Mahas and Joost and Elders Havea and Porter!
Elders Edlefson, Spicer, Manu, and Rehak! Weighing in!
Elders Devey and Baraniko! You can almost see the marks on Elder Baraniko's arms from the cast (just removed) from his DOUBLE BROKEN ARMS! He had one in a cast and one in a sling! How is that for a bike accident with style!
Elders Nelson, Wigginton, Penaia, and Tufuga!
Elders Hussain, Hoko, Mataele and Moody!
Sisters Avauli, Masoe and Elders Huang, Stewart, Tonga (getting a hiding from President Porter; not really), Palaiti, Tokelau and Parry!
Elders Cook and Jenkins!
Elders Love, Falepapalangi, Finau and Fafai!
Elders Jibas, Snow, Sateki, Gardner and Papalii!
Elders Sateki, our son David, and Elder Filimaua! David is getting a love sandwich!
President is having a special moment with Elder Gardner!
He is reading his recently received "Dear John!"
Not much sympathy, more of delight!
Elders Saunders, Afa, Naicker, Russell, Eckery and Kitchen!
Sisters Engebretsen, Kamal, Elders Gonda, Seauga, Andros, Russo, Sessions and Nipko!
Elders Belmap, Whaanga, Rance, Sisters Irobeni, Elder Ward, Sister George, Elders Everett, Loomis and Gunn!
Sister Irobeni---now that is a story---first sister from the Solomon Islands! Never rode a bike in her life!
Now she is loving it!
Watch out Solomon Islands, Sister Irobeni is one powerhouse missionary now!
She is keeping up with everyone!
Elders Fakai, Petty, Afoa, Curtis, Jeppesen, Huang, Brown and Hamann!
Sisters Hafoka, Tanuvasa, Lauritzen, Jones, Us!, Elders Luckhardt, Beckstead, Sorensen and Mayer!

Zone Leader Council and before!

2011-01-12T23:48:00.000-08:00

I got kind of a funny phone call the night before Zone Leader Council.
Elder Smith had a mishap with the clippers! Uh--oh!
This is how we were able to smooth it over and make it blend in a bit! Even missionaries have their mishaps every once in a while!
All were asked to bring a picture of their families and share which one of their family members they desired that their service as a missionary might bless---it was a touching experience! We got to know each other much better. Nice outdoor shot at Zone Leader Council! Yes, we are now into the summer here! Hurray!

Double feel twice as good!

2011-01-02T11:49:00.000-08:00

Well, it is official! The New Zealand Auckland Mission crossed the finish line of the year by doubling the baptisms from the previous two years! What a miracle! It is truly a testament to the reality that when the Lord gives us a challenge: President Hinckley's challenge to double baptisms---he certain provides a way for us to accomplish the thing which he commands us! Truly the Lord has sent the missionaries here that have the faith necessary to know that Nephi was right and were willing to follow and do! They have worked hard, they have exercised their faith, they have been obedient with exactness and they have followed the Spirit! As a result, miracles came in great abundance right up to the very last moments of the month! Great glory be to God for His mighty works among His people here in New Zealand!

White Christmas in New Zealand!

2011-01-02T11:37:00.000-08:00

What a Christmas to remember! 14 souls were saved all together on Christmas day just in one stake! The Tamaki Stake decided to hold a baptism for all the people wanting to be baptized on Christmas day within their stake boundaries. It was an amazing sight and such a beautiful event. Nineteen missionaries were involved and 6 bishops and the Stake Presidency---I feel like I should break out in of rendition of the "12 days of Christmas" (and a partridge in a pear tree or and a pukeko in a pongo tree, here in New Zealand!) Can't think of a greater present to the Saviour than bringing Him souls willing to be healed and blessed by His atoning gift to all of us!

President Callister visits Niue!

2011-01-02T11:21:00.000-08:00

President Callister (Pacific Area President)blessed the lives of the saints in Niue by presiding over a conference on the island just before Christmas!
He was able to meet and invite the High Commissioner of Niue, representing New Zealand, to come to the meetings and to be taught by the missionaries!
The photo and experience of a life time for Elders Halavaka and Losalu who are now serving on the island of Niue!

Christmas Mission Conference!

2010-12-17T22:46:00.000-08:00

The Halo Family presented quite a beautiful and delicious lunch for our Christmas Mission Conference!
We were blessed to have President and Sister Callister with us! They enlightened us about the beauty and magesty of the Atonement!
They are such a blessing to the Pacific Area!
I am afraid that this is a bit of a "finding waldo"---in this event---find your missionary!

We began our lunch program with a performance from the Aussies!
They sang Jingle Bells--Aussie style!
Very unique!
Gotta love those Aussies!
Next performance was from the Samoans!
Wow! Now the Samoans have "Got Talent!"
Who would have thought that Elder Tia could lead a group and sing a solo so amazingly! Hidden talent!
Bravo Samoans!
Now enters the Tongans!
With another fabulous performance, Tongan style!
Fo Lo Fo La is one of my favorite Tongan hymns! What a treat!
Then came the flavor at the end---
a bit of a HAKA!
All the missionaries received packages from Santa's elves! Elders White, Cushing, Jeppesen and Walker were pretty excited! It was a great conference---having the mission together was a powerful experience and the Spirit was strong!

A great new group!

2010-12-17T22:07:00.000-08:00

It was a wonderful and large intake and we are thrilled to have them!
Elder Jibas will be trained by Elder Snow!
Elder Huang is training Elder Stewart!
I just included this one of Sister Naidu (new missionary) and Sister Kamal because I think it is wonderful that we are getting missionaries of Indian descent because of our rising Indian population here in New Zealand! They are everywhere---God knows and sends them missionaries to teach them also---we now have three Sisters of Indian descent, Sister George is missing from this picture!
Elder Thomas is being trained by Elder Heslop!
Elder Andros will train Elder Russo!
Sister Nalesoni will train Sister Funaki!
Sister Pasiaka is being trained by two Sisters--Alatini and Feao!
Sister Vea will be trained by Sister Mafi!
Elder Desmarias is being trained by Elder Chandler!
Sister Joost will be trained by Sister Mahas!
Elder Tham will train Elder Tautuiaki!
Elder Russell will be trained by Elder Kitchen!
Sister Naidu is being trained by Sister Kapalu!
Sister Clark will be trained by Sister Shumway!

Our loss is your gain!

2010-12-17T21:56:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, even at this time of year we have to say goodbye, so that you can have your sons and daughters with you this Christmas! Left to right: Sisters Fotu and Ulu'ave, Sister and President Porter and Elder Burr! We didn't get a photo of Elder Larsen who left a few days earlier so that he and his brother could be together for a few days before his brother left on his mission to Mexico! Oh, missions are so amazing! I just must include that in our final testimony two of these missionaries said something similar that had a lasting impact on me! One said, "I know God and Jesus Christ so much better than I did 18 months ago!" (Sorry, that kind of gives you more of a clue about who it might be, doesn't it!) Another said, "The real miracle was getting to know Heavenly Father!" How much would parents pay to have their child have this experience----missions are priceless! Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ in all their wisdom and knowledge and mercy allow us to think that we are sacrificing, when in reality, we come out receiving the greater reward! God is GREAT!

Sisters' Training!

2010-12-12T13:15:00.000-08:00

President often says "Sometimes the best man for the job is a woman!" Wacky or not---they know how to get it done!
Our Sisters are certainly no exception--they are a blessing to this mission in a big way!
We love these Sisters, everyone is unique and wonderful!

We're Dreaming of a White Christmas!

2010-12-12T12:59:00.000-08:00

Mission Leadership!
All Zone Leaders and District Leaders!
We invite all to have a white christmas!
Baptism is the best gift!

December Zone Leader Council!

2010-11-21T14:19:00.002-08:00

Elders Cooper, Rezel,and Sessions are taking pictures of the "Dear John" board! The missionaries love to call it the "wall of shame", but we look at it as the "wall of fame"---the less distractions from home, the better the missionary!
Elders Collette, Pre and Bresee take a look at the NZAM Baptism Wall of Fame! Pictures of baptisms from all who send pictures in. It has stretched to 3 doors and a cork board, covered!!!
Elders Brown, Whitrod and Burr getting warm at lunchtime!
Elders Alldridge, Witt, Handy, Larsen and Smith livin' the life at lunch!
Elder Stucki peers through!
Elders Greening and Smith keep up their Maori connections!

Challenged to be the Secret Weapon!

2010-11-21T14:19:00.001-08:00

The challenge has been given!
Their leadership is required!
The Mission's Secret Weapon is the task!
They are terrific Tongans!
They are sensational Samoans! They can do this with the Lord's help!

Mission Conference! What a treat!

2010-11-21T14:19:00.000-08:00

We are still pinching ourselves, wondering how we could be so fortunate as to be able to have Elder Hinckley and his wife, Elder Hamula and his wife, Elder Nielson and his wife visit the mission and share some inspirational messages with us! It truly was a spiritual feast for all of us!
Petty cousins meet at the conference!
Some of our lovely senior couple missionaries!
Random lunch photos! Actually ended up to be more of a linder due to our fasting during the conference!

President Armstrong on the left and President Ball on the right! We love our mission presidency!
Elder Hamula said that clean cars were a sign of obedient missionaries! They are gleeming!
Elder Tham!
Sister Mahas and Jones!
Sister George and Elder Handy!
Our Christchurch missionaries -left to right - Elders Petty, Trainor, Sister Kamal and Elder Seauga!
Sisters Ashcraft, Leu, Sitthidamrong and Shumway!
Sisters Auva'a, Siilata, Elisaia and Fu'e!
Tongan Elders!
Sisters Elisaia and Fu'e practicing for the "Joy to the World" campaign!

Zone Leader Council -- We are at war with the Satan!

2010-11-10T17:13:00.000-08:00

Elders Davidson, Brown and Stucki represented the forces of evil! One of the comments was: "They made it seem enticing---just like Satan does!
Elders Handy, Collette and Aldridge were the determined missionaries with the task to capture the Title of Liberty (which was actually, the Title of Tamaki, Tamaki Zone had made), while the forces of evil shot their fiery darts at them! They had to start over if they got shot!
Elders Greening, Whitrod, and Smith were used as barriers in the mission which Elder Aldridge utilized quite nicely in his sneak attempt to capture the Title of Liberty!
Elder Aldridge goes for it!
Elders Handy and Collette used the barriers well!
Elder Aldridge makes yet another attempt---determined thing isn't he!
Here is Elder Handy's go at it!
Oh, here comes Elder Collette!
Elder Collette make his defence! The determined missionaries were successful at getting the Title of Liberty and getting home safely; they both had equal amounts of ammo but those representing Satan had to remain in the corner because they don't have a body! It was a good experiencial learning activity in the middle of our discussion about the fact that WE ARE AT WAR WITH SATAN for the souls of mankind! We discussed how we can recognize his tactics and ways to encourage the missionaries to fight hard! All the answers came from the scriptures of course!
Assistant's, Elders Cline and Sevey teach about the Recognizing and Responding to the Spirit!
Anyone who fell asleep---got shot!
Elder Whitrod fell asleep!
Successful Conquerers of Satan!

Welcome, Welcome seven missionaries!

2010-11-05T22:30:00.000-07:00

Seven enthusiastic new missionaries that are ready to serve! We are thrilled to have them!
Left to right: Elders Nelson, Naicker, Leetham, Daniels and President--front, left to right, Sisters Engebretsen, me, Leu and Fu'a!
Both at the airport and at One Tree Hill, these missionaries were exposed to rich Maori traditions; Haka to welcome family members home to New Zealand at the airport, and a religious leader gathering at One Tree Hill!
Elder Nipko will train Elder Nelson!
Elder Leetham is being training by Elder Moody!
Sister Elisaia is training Sister Fu'e!
Elder Saunders will be training Elder Naicker!
Sister Engebretsen is being trained by Sister Kapalu!
Elder McKinley is training Elder Daniels!
Sister Leu will be trained by Sister Ashcraft!
Elders Bresee and Magelby are Zone Leaders over a newly created Zone, actually the combining of two areas---it will be known as, the Rotorua/Tauranga Zone!
Are these Sisters cute or what? Left to right: Sisters Sitthidamrong, Siilata, Teaupa, Avauli, Auva'a and Masoe! We are blessed to have 31 Sisters serving in this mission! Next transfer we get 5 more Sisters with only 2 going home, so that will make 34 Sisters total! As President always says, "Sometimes the best man for the job, is a woman!" In this case, a Sister! When the Elders say it can't be done, we send in the Sisters and low and behold--things start happening! We are the Lord's secret weapon for a reason!
More secret weapons --Left to right: Sisters Chen, Mahas and Kamal!
I think Elders Handy and Smith just wanted to be photographed, but they are newly assigned Zone Leaders in Manakau Zone!

Elder Benard's Family Reunited!

2010-11-05T22:13:00.000-07:00

New Zealand is so isolated that we rarely get family picking up missionaries--so it was nice to be able to see a family reunited!
First hugs went to Elder Benard's mom!
Next came his Dad!
Finally, grandma got in on the action!
Fun to see this part of completing mission service!
They all drove off in a fire engine red sports car! Dad you drive---I will navigate!

Goodbye to some incredibly amazing missionaries!

2010-11-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

This is a missionary version of a pyramid--Bottom left to right: Elders DuMont,Benard, Preston, and President! Second level up left to right: Elders Sorensen, Su'a, and Southwick! Next level up left to right: Elders Rea and Felton! Cherry on top: Sister Selfaison and me!
Sister Simeon's visa from Papua New Guinea ran out a few days before the transfer so she had to leave the country by herself---what an amazing young woman, who will be a true blessing to her country! We love and miss her!

Golf! The New Sport for Preparation Day with the Assistants!

2010-11-04T20:15:00.000-07:00

Elder Davidson is the pro! The event was hitting a bucket of balls!
He then passes it on to President!
Along with a bit of instruction!
It made for a fun time! It was the request of Elder Davidson before he gets assigned to work as a Zone Leader over the biggest Zone before he heads home!
Working up quite an appetite! Left to right: President Porter, Elders Davidson, Sevey and Cline!

An Ocean Baptism!

2010-10-31T01:51:00.000-07:00

It began with two faithful, hardworking Elders! Elders Haight and Su'a!
That met a wonderful family outside of Wellsford, their new area!
The branch has no font, so an ocean baptism was scheduled! Despite the stormy weather, the family was baptized!
The family and the Elders were very happy!

Random Shots from Interviews!

2010-10-28T20:23:00.000-07:00

Elders McKinley, Davis, Sisters Shumway and Sitthidamrong, Elders AsaAsa and Nu'usila!
Sisters Avauli, Teaupa, President, Elders Palaiti and Tonga!
Elders Mose, Fanguna, Sisters Elisaia, Auva'a, President, Elders Felton and Sateki!
The bike patrol! Eders Cunniffe, Finau, Porter and Bernard!
Elder Porter popping his wheelies!

More Random shots from Interviews!

2010-10-28T19:38:00.000-07:00

Elders Gardner, Hehepoto, Papalii, Apelu and President!
Sisters Alatini and Nalesoni, Elders Jenkins, Whitrod, Cushing, Curtis, President, Elders Cameron and Elder Leong!
Elders Shepard, Whitrod, Belk, Sisters Mahas and Kamal, Elders Utai, Heslop, Tia, President, Elder Cameron and Hoko!
Elders Manu, Kaufusi, Tokelau, Kimball, Christiansen, Mutton, Baraniko with Sister Feao and Fotu! Isn't it a great drawing of missionaries in the background! A party for a return missionary that we took advantage of!
Elder Seuga checks out the scales while new Elder Penaia looks on!
Elders Burton, Seuga, Pre and Keyes!
Elders Smith, Bake, Walk Moss and Ioasa admire Elder Long's part---truly one of a kind! The only one we have ever seen on him!
Sisters Ulu'ave and Mafi with Elder Haight and Su'a and the New Curriculum Study Guide and the Halloween treat basket!

A sweet experience!

2010-10-08T19:27:00.000-07:00

On October 9th, President Porter was asked to baptize Carolyne Wightman! The Elders were kind enough to pass on the opportunity of baptizing her when she asked if President Porter could perform her baptism! Thank you Elder Keyes and Elder Jeppesen!
The last minute clarification on the proper name! What a blessing for them both!

Elder Potts!

2010-10-08T19:19:00.000-07:00

We have a new missionary assigned to the New Zealand Auckland Mission! His name is Elder Potts! He didn't ask for much just a small part of the vineyard to tend!
He pretty much just sits around all day and reminds us that the Lord has a work for all of us to do!

October Leadership Training!

2010-10-08T00:44:00.000-07:00

We are now fully under way with our new curriculum from the brethren and we are seeing the blessings of following the prophets! We have had more sets in the last two months than we have ever seen in this mission for a very long time! Satan is also working double time on us---but we will prevail!!

October Zone Leader Council!

2010-10-08T00:27:00.000-07:00

Zone Leader Council---what can I say---what an absolutely amazing collection of the Lord's leaders! We are honored to work with such quality Elders! You can be proud of your sons, they do heaps of good and work very hard bringing to pass much righteousness!
Another one of Sister Porter's object lessons gone a bit crazy! We began with a challenge---President Porter lifting the dining room wooden table that seats 12 to eye level! He tried but was unable to do it---then Elder Greening took on the challenge---the other Elders agreed that he was the strongest among them! Alas, he too was stumped! They then stood side by side around the table and placed one hand under it and lifted! It was easy as "butter" (kind of an inside joke)! We then asked if just one finger from each Elder could lift the table---again, easy as butter! Truly amazing! That is when having President sit on the table and lift them came up---again, with one hand it was a piece of cake when everyone did their part! It was related to President Uchtdorf's talk on "Lift where you stand" with his quote about the stripling warriors--"they accomplished together what none of them could have accomplished alone!" These are the Elders who will lead this mission to the doubling of our baptisms as we follow the call of two prophets!

Specialized Training - Sept.- Oct. 2010

2010-10-03T00:22:00.000-07:00

President Porter likened this opportunity that we have in this mission to "double our baptisms" and follow the charge of the Lord through two prophets, President Hinckley and President Monson's "Save Souls," to a game of baseball in which we have just 3 more swings till the year is ended! Sister Alatini is ready to give a leg!
Elder Kauhenga has a powerful enough swing with one hand!
Elder Walk is determined to make it happen for the Chinese!
Elder Ales will do it!
Fairly new, Elder Jeppesen, has the determination!
Henderson/Harbour Zone!
Tamaki Zone!
Chinese Program Elders!
Mt. Roskill Zone!

A great new group of missionaries!

2010-09-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful group of Elders and Sister have joined the New Zealand Auckland Mission! They developed a spirit of unity and love amongst themselves in just a few days that we had them for training! We're excited about their influence on the mission!
Elder Rehak is being trained by Elder Fakahau!
Elder Sorensen will train Elder Falepapalangi!
Elder Devey is being trained by Elder Atkin!
Elder Eckery will be training Elder Sorensen!
Sister Sitthidamrong will be trained by Sister Shumway!
Elder Beckstead is being trained by Elder Tham!
Elder Kitchen will be training Elder Afa!
Elder Penaia is being trained by Elder Whaaga!
Elder Baraniko will train Elder Mose!
Elder Losalu is being trained by Elder Gonda!
Happy Tongan Sisters at transfer meeting!

We feel the loss!

2010-09-23T22:33:00.000-07:00

Once again---the most difficult part of this call is the routine departure of our missionaries and our friends!
Elders Adams, Christensen, Hayes, Mahoney, Stevenson-Haumono, Tulia and Sister Tupuola will certainly be missed!
Keep on following Dan Jones example and "convert the whole town", Elders and Sisters!
Elder Tau and Sister Perona had to leave a few days early due to visa issues! We love them all dearly! For once in her life, Sister Perona is the tallest in the picture!

Basketball with President!

2010-09-23T17:02:00.000-07:00

Every so often on preparation day Elders will challenge President to a basketball game!
President's turn around jump shot is hard to beat, even for Elder DuMont!
Hey, he can jump with the best of them---that helps with the old ego!
You may notice that these are all shots in which the President looks really good---hey, I am no dummy!
I sent all the other ones where the Elders schooled the President to their emails! That way everyone is happy!
I believe President thinks he is getting prepared for the day that he can take on Elder Zylstra again---he, you've got to give a man his dreams!
In the mission field, even U of U and BYU get along! Unity! It's all about unity!
The basketball challenge is over and all are happy! Elders Aldridge, Brown, DuMont, Hussain, Kauhenga and Molisi--did you notice that I even alphabetized the Elders names? Now that is compulsive or politically correct---you choose!

Elder Hibbard---we are ready for you!

2010-09-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

To Elder Keith Hibbard and every other missionary who has been called to the New Zealand Auckland Mission! We are ready and excited to receive you! Here are a few things we ask of you in the 4 months before you come:
1) Read the Book of Mormon –yes, 4 months is plenty of time!
2) Pray about it and get a burning testimony of it!
3) Study Preach My Gospel- going through all the scripture references!
4) Re-memorize your scripture mastery scriptures!
5) Go out with the full-time missionaries in your area as many times as you can!
6) Work hard and save money, if not for your mission, then for your return!
Then, thank your family for raising a great young man, kiss your girlfriend goodbye (that means a peck, Elder) and say goodbye to your fears!
When you get here---be prepared to work harder than you have ever worked before; be prepared to exercise your faith as a principle of action and power; be ready to be exactly obedient to the mission rules and your leaders; and be prepared to follow the Spirit always!
Be prepared to be amazed-----at what God can do with a teenage boy----the result----MIRACLES!!!
We love you, even before you have arrived---we love you for your willingness to serve, we love you for your worthiness to serve and we know we will have a wonderful experience together!
Aroha nui, President and Sister Porter

More Specialized Training!

2010-09-14T18:02:00.001-07:00

We had the good pleasure of meeting with the Manurewa/Papakura Zone for Specialized Training regarding faith and obedience! Oh, how we love these missionaries!

Random Auckland City photos!

2010-09-14T17:59:00.001-07:00

The weather here in New Zealand has been cloudy and rainy!
All the missionaries are ready for the warmer weather that is ahead!

Favorite----Zone Conference at the Temple!

2010-09-14T16:57:00.000-07:00

The weather was rainy so we took pictures inside around the Christus! Kaikohe, Whangarei, Henderson, Harbour, Mt. Roskill, Manukau and Papatoetoe Zones!
Another set of cousins in the New Zealand Auckland Mission---Elder Fafai and Elder Papalii, one raised in Samoa, the other in America. They have seen each other 3 times in their lives, once in Samoa and twice of the mission!
Panmure, Waterview, Tamaki, Manurewa, and Papakura Zones!
We noticed something interesting as we were standing for a picture in front of the temple!
Missionaries are in God's Hands! We see that evidence each and every day of this mission!
Tuesday and Wednesday we had to pack a lunch!
Not quite as nice as the meals provided by our Missionary Mums but it will have to do!
Missionaries are quite flexible, as long as it is filling!
These were the lucky Zones that got the Missionary Mum's meal; these are Glenview, Hamilton, Templeview, Tauranga, Rotorua and Gisborne Zones!

New! Specialized Training!

2010-09-14T14:52:00.000-07:00

Another new direction from the missionary department is to have "specialized training" with our missionaries. This training can be small or large groups or with a single companionship---it can be just a few hours or a few days. Tauranga Zone was the first one scheduled and there are many more of these to occur every month. It is great to be able to meet with the missionaries in smaller groups and get to know the missionaries a bit better. This particular zone has been setting the standard for our mission---each companionship has baptized every month for the past several months! These wonderful missionaries are Elders Magelby, Allred, Gonda, Battsagaan, Haight, Cannon; Sisters Kapalu and Jones!

New Leadership Training Meeting!

2010-09-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

As directed by the missionary department as of July 2010; we are to hold Leadership Training meetings every other month. Initially we are to teach the "Simplified Curriculum" which includes marvelous lessons to help missionaries become better and more powerful teachers of the doctrine of Christ! The participants in this meeting include: assistants, zone leaders, district leaders and trainers--which is why you see sisters at the meeting! A wonderful spirit was in attendance as we taught these inspired lessons under the direction of the brethren!

Whangarei Zone Leader Council!

2010-09-07T14:40:00.000-07:00

We took an opportunity to learn from nature about leadership characteristics that are needed within a mission!
All were gathered at the carpark of the Kauri forest in Whangarei!
A brief walk over the suspension bridge brought us to the massive Kauri trees!
We compared the characteristics of the Kauri trees to the leadership characteristics of Captain Moroni!
Walking amongst the Kauri forest!
President stops for a bit to help the missionaries understand that these two years of their lives are like the rings of their tree, they can never be relived, make them count!
Just a close up of the rings of a trees life!
Elder Drake teaches us regarding keeping ourselves safe and above the evils and tempations of the world---and looking after the missionaries under our stewardship to help them see the clear way to safety!
There is always one who wants to get a closer look---sometimes that look can be deadly, spiritually as well as physically!
Elder Cline instructs us that staying in tune with the Spirit is of greatest worth, amidst the many noises of the world!
The peaceful pond lends itself well to this teaching, as it is in the middle of two forceful and noisy streams!
Elder Davidson teaches us about unity and focusing on our common cause as we could see...
This new stream coming into the larger stream, representing the new missionaries that join us each transfer! They bring with them energy and enthusiasm for the work that can build and help increase that unity!
Walking along the stream to the falls!
The great Whangarei Falls!
President taught us to be like Captain Moroni ,"who did labor exceedingly," in which it was said about him that "if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, behold, the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever:" (Alma 48:17)
Whangarei Falls!
Amazing stream from the falls!
We had a testimony under the tarp and thank heaven we had them because it rained throughout the testimony meeting!
A gust of wind picked up our tarp and sent it sailing. The weather turned and it was beautiful to break our fast and have a wonderful lunch!
Each was able to have a bit of a solo experience on the way back to the cars!

Prime Minister and Mayor visit the new MTC in Auckland!

2010-09-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

President Tad Callister hosts Prime Minister John Key for a visit at the new Mission Training Centre in Auckland!

A missionary choir sings New Zealand National Anthem to Prime Minister John Key!
He was delightfully charismatic with all the missionaries in the choir!

He entertains one more song from the choir!
He was presented with a lovely book of the workings of the church here in New Zealand!
He stopped for a photo with missionary bikes. The missionary icon!
Auckland Mayor Len Brown also visited the new MTC!
He graciously received a tour from Elder Greening and Elder Fafai!

New! New Zealand Missionary Training Centre!

2010-09-04T13:36:00.000-07:00

An Open House was held and youth were invited from all over the mission area to come and see!
Some came in buses!
They were gathered into groups and shown a slideshow in the chapel of missionaries and baptisms and quotes of all the prophets!
They entered the building enthusiastically!
Were greeted by the MTC President and his wife! The Marion's!
They were shown a video presentation of "A day in the life of a missionary!"
They were given an opportunity to experience street contacting in a friendly environment!
They were shown a brief clip of the first vision and challenged to gain a testimony of it all their own!
The best part of the tour was when they were able to ponder on the blessings of the Savior in their lives with these wonderful pictures depicting Christ's life as inspiration!
Elders Edlefsen and Luckhardt spent some time at the table display and referral desk!

They could place sticky dots where they had family members serving missions throughout the world!
President Tad Callister with many perspective missionaries!

Some of the Sisters that were involved in the MTC experience!

The hope and prayer was that they left with a determination to serve missions and be missionaries!

All are safely gathered in!

2010-09-03T11:13:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have heard about the 7.2 earthquake that occured in Christchurch, New Zealand and wondered if your missionaries are safe. The answer is YES! Christchurch is actually in the New Zealand Wellington Mission and we have spoken to the President of that mission and all is well. Be at peace, all are safely gathered in!

Welcome New Friends!

2010-08-21T13:05:00.000-07:00

Here they are trained by President and Sister Porter and the Assistants and now they are ready to meet their trainers!
After the airport, the first spot they visited was One Tree Hill!
Elder Wigginton is training Elder Kaufusi!
Elder Smith will train Elder Cushing!
Elder Moss will be trained by Elder Belk!
Elder Porter is training Elder Webb!
Elder Haight will train Elder Cannon!
Elder Allred is being trained by Elder Magleby!
Elder Parry will be training Elder White!
Elder Petty is being trained by Elder Christensen!
Elder Walker will be trained by Elder Brown!
Elder Aldridge will train Elder Hussain!
Elder Jeppesen is being trained by Elder Keyes!
Elder Tufuga will train Elder Apelu!
Elder Asaasa will be trained by Elder Papalii!
Elder Preston will train Elder Ulu'gia!

Farewell to faithful friends!

2010-08-16T02:36:00.001-07:00

What a wonderful group of faithful missionaries---we loved every one with their unique and valued contribution and loved the bond they felt throughout their missions! Left to right: Sisters Tofilau, Williams; Elders Lyman, Drake, Nelson, Cope, McClain, Watkins, Whyte, Ng, Fawson, Bridenstein, Bridge, Krauss!
Elder Mafua had visa issues that limited him from leaving with his group, so we had a small group departure meeting for him!
The Cook's who served before us, provided the great idea of having the missionaries write their names on a tablecloth when they leave the mission so that we have the names of all the missionaries who served with us! It will continue to be a treasure for us!

Many things require miracles! This was one of them!

2010-08-16T02:26:00.000-07:00

Elder Filimaua is a relatively new missionary to the field and when he came down with a stomach ache, the doctor thought it was indigestion---instead it ended up to be appendicitis! It went from bad to worse, requiring two surgeries and then a miracle! Finally, he only recovered almost instantly after a mission prayer and fast was called!
While in the hosptial, his companion had to take care of baptizing the many souls awaiting salvation!