Transfer week I give much thought to the privilege it is that I have to be serving in this great mission.  What a privilege just being a member of the church and the great opportunities that come to each of us that choose to serve.  A thought came to my mind, "When we become a part of where we serve, where we serve becomes a part of us."  It is such a sweet experience to hear the testimonies of the missionaries that are leaving.  They have given their hearts to our Savior, to those seeking to find the Savior, to the members, and to each other.   There is such an excitement to be reunited with their families, yet their hearts ache as they leave behind the beautiful Washington Tacoma Mission and those they have come to love so dearly.   Some of the thoughts shared at transfer meeting were "Attitude equals gratitude."  "Those who only look to the past and the present miss the future."  "Live in the moment.  Be obedient.  It is worth it."  "The challenges that are before us are never as powerful as the Spirit behind us."  One Elder shared John 17:3 in his testimony   "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."  The greatest gift that comes to each of us through service is the blessing of coming to know the only true God, and our Savior Jesus Christ.  May our Heavenly Father bless these great young sons and daughters as they return home.  May we each choose to always find ways to serve.

New missionaries - and their Trainers

Early Wednesday morning all the new missionaries were introduced to their trainers.

Transfer Meeting May 23, 2012

The days and weeks pass quickly.  Soon it is months, then years.  Our new missionaries have arrived, and here is another group ready to return.  Time just passes.  As one of our great parents said, "All we have is two years (or 18 months) to serve.  Then we have the rest of our lives to think about how we served."  What a great thought we should take into each day.

 As the home bound missionaries entered the chapel, there was such a sweet reverence.  The sacredness of this occasion is beautiful.  What a beautiful morning.  It is a day of a great deal of emotion, gratitude and love.

This great group of missionaries are ready to share their testimonies, say good-bye to dear friends, and board a plane for home.  How we love them. 

We match!

Love you!

Welcome back!

Off to the airport!  We love you.  May the Lord Bless You.

After transfer meeting some need to pick up a few things. 

Our new missionary from Poland has the opportunity to be a on Bike.   He is Awesome, and has a great companion.

Our new Spanish Elder and his great companion.  Awesome

Our great Office Elders.  Thank you

Tacoma Community College states our purpose perfectly.

Sharing a little Wa-Tac Love

Our New Missionaries arrived May 22nd, 2012

Our new missionaries coming from the MTC arrived at the Sea-Tac Airport about 20 minutes early.  We are always so excited to have them arrive.  They were in great spirits, didn't even seem that tired. What a great group of missionaries.  They each have a deep desire to serve our Heavenly Father.  We felt the a great friendship between them.  They were really happy to be in the great Wa-Tac Mission. 

We are so excited!!!!