Returned Missionaries from the West Indies Mission

Accessing All the Slide Shows

2010-11-24T16:16:00.000-08:00

If you want to take a trip down memory lane and see all of the slide shows during your mission, just click on the following links and away you go.

December 2007 "Somebody Said This Day Would Come"

January 2008 "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas"

February 2008 "It's A Chance to Change for the Better"

April 2008 "Singing in the Rain"

June 2008 "I am a Child of God"

July 2008 "I am a Child of God"

September 2008 "Mac Book Air?"

October 2008 "Oh Israel"

December 2008 "John the Baptist"

2008 Miracle! "When you dream, dream big"

January 2009 "2 years"

February 2009 "Oh, Mr. Sun"

April 2009 "I want to be baptized"

June 2009 "Incline My Heart"

Senior Couples "I am trying to be like Jesus"

Suriname Record Baptism Day

2010-11-01T16:09:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, October 30, 2010, the Suriname zone had a record number of baptisms for one day. What an exciting moment!

A Sweet Message From Guyana

2010-10-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

I received this wonderful email from Trevor LeBaron (pictured above) last week. He gave me permission to share it.

Sister Robison,

I wanted to let you know I had the opportunity to read some of your
newer posts on the mission blog. One in particular stood out to me that
I'd like to comment on and take the time to thank you for such a
special thought. That post I'm speaking of is, 'For such a time as
this.' During my mission I served two transfers in Chaguanas before
being moved to Antigua where I also spent two transfers. For the
remaining eighteen months of my mission I served in Guyana. The people
of Trinidad and Antigua are very special to me, but because of the
time I spent in Guyana and my many great experiences there, Guyanese
are slightly nearer to my heart. While in Guyana I served in Kitty,
Rosignol, Eccles, Bush Lot, and a more brief 3 weeks in Albouystown.
Needless to say I got around while there. And I LOVED IT! As I got
around, I got to know and come close to each member of the Branches I
served. But because of the length of my stay, I also came close to
members in other branches I didn't serve. That includes members in
Georgetown Branches and Canje Branches. I love keeping in contact with
many of the people I taught and baptized but also those "long-time"
members. The point I'm getting to is this: There are young brethren
that my companions and I taught and baptized that are amongst those
serving missions and preparing to now. That's very special and
incredible to me. I also want to mention a few other things. Most of
these young men serving and preparing I may not have taught and
baptized but I got to know them personally throughout the eighteen
months I spent there. I came very close to them whether or not I
served in their branch. These are mighty young men and it's so
humbling to know that they have came to a dead stop in their lives to
take time to serve the Lord as His soldiers! I love the people of
Guyana and the impact those future WIRM's will bring to the
members(and non-members) is amazing. I know it will be a great impact
for the missionary work in that country as well. The future is truly
bright there. I read that post aloud to Angie and as we pondered it
together there was an amazing Spirit that filled our living room.
Thanks again for sharing it. You have no idea the impact that thought
has on me since I consider these wonderful people more than just
friends and acquaintances, but family I hold very close. I was blessed
to spend a year and a half with them and I'm so grateful for the
things I learned from them as i taught them. I hope all is well with
you and President. Tell him I say hello. I still keep you both in my
prayers. Also, I'm happy to hear of your new calling. It sounds like a
fun one. Take Care Sister!

With love,

Elder LeBaron

Real Men Don't Use Notes

2010-10-18T16:31:00.000-07:00

This afternoon, we received a "payday" text message from Brett Hamilton.

He and other members of his group (those who finished their missions last month) made the trip to Ogden to hear Brian Green report to his home ward about his mission. We were unable to attend, because we were in charge of our 10 month old twins while our son and his wife spoke in church. To brag a little - we kept them in sacrament meeting the entire hour - a previously unattained feat. (our secret - Sister Robison's dangly jewelry)

You can imagine our delight in receiving this text this afternoon, stating that every missionary in Elder Hamilton's group spoke to their home ward without using notes. They prepared well and then let the Spirit direct their thoughts once they were at the podium. This is something we emphasized our entire mission using scriptures like these:

Neither take ye thought beforehand what ye shall say; but treasure up in your minds continually the words of life, and it shall be given you in the very hour that portion that shall be meted unto every man.
D&C 84: 85

Here's what we taught to members and missionaries during our mission: Study deeply, make an outline, and gather materials. Then, when starting to speak or teach, take a moment to look into the eyes of those you are going to teach, say a prayer in your heart to know - not what you need to say, but what Heavenly Father wants these people to learn - and then have the courage to walk away from your notes and teach by the Spirit. We've found that often the the prepared material is interwoven with other thoughts and words that come in that very moment.

Wherefore, I the Lord ask you this question—unto what were ye ordained?

To preach my gospel by the Spirit, even the Comforter which was sent forth to teach the truth.
(D&C 50:13-14)

Our son and his wife spoke without notes as well, by the way.

So it was a good day!

Elder Marshall's Homecoming

2010-10-16T16:34:00.000-07:00

(My husband and I, and WIRMs Green, Marshall, Moala, and Hamilton)

Last Sunday we were able to attend Elder Marshall's homecoming scarament meeting talk in Orem, Utah.

As all West Indies missionaries do - he spoke from the heart without notes.

He walked up to the podium, holding only his Book of Mormon and his missionary plaque and gave an amazing talk just full of wonderful teachings and stories about the West Indies Mission.

I loved it!

After church, we were gathered at the Marshall's beautiful home.

We Thank Thee Oh God For A Prophet

2010-09-23T16:11:00.000-07:00

Note from Elder Vaea on September 23, 2010
"This is the successful day for me that I ever had,,, since we
start put me for diagnosis in every problems....they do the allergy
test and I found it all related to all my sickness,,,,,so we went down
from the 3rd floor to the 1st and I sat beside the labs to wait for
blood test....while I am sitting there a strong feeling come up,,,, is
to check if I had my name tag on me,,,,so I check and it was not
there,,,,,I felt uncomfortable,,,, so I touch my pocket and it was
there,,,,I had it on my t-shirt,,,,while I am sitting there,,,,I was
praying so hard to god to show me if this is right treatments,,,,,so
tears start come down from eyes,,,and while this feelings was on
me,,,,I saw the prophet came out from a room with his doctor so I was
shocked,,,,,and the only things that come up to my mind first my
prayer is answering right now by showing me the servant of the
lord,,,,,,I stand up and walk to him,,,,and I didn't face to him,,,,
but he look towards me and say are you are missionary ,,,,,than I say
yes sir,,,,, so we hug each other on that time and I told him that I
finish my mission from the west indies mission and I am here for
medical than after that I will go home,,,,than he ask me where,,,,than
I reply,,,I am from tonga,,,,than he say Malo e lelei,,its means
hello,,we both look happy so I ask,,,,, did you have the same
appointments with me ??????,,,,than he was smiling,,,,however mele
ask If we take a picture than he reply with an,,,, exciting
face,,,,say yes..yes..yes,,,,,.so we took a picture and this is the
same picture that mele send to you,,,,,,however,,,right after we took
the pictures the prophet left,,,, a great and a firm testimony that I
received from god about the treatments for the sufferings that I had
in five days ago....." Hurrah for Israel!

This would probably be a good time to share the story of Elder Vaea's trainer, Elder Falatau's trip home from his mission. Missionary travel could not route him through the States because of visa problems to return to Tonga, so he was routed through Equador, Chile, Austrailia and finally Tonga. In his exit interview, he asked me what he should do with all of that layover time? I suggested he read the Book of Mormon. So after flying through the night from Trinidad to Central America and on to Chile, he was sitting in the airport for a 10 hour layover and a lady walked up to him and asked him if he was a "Jehovah Witness." Startled, he straightened up stiffly, opened up his coat and showed her his missionary tag. Soothingly, the nice lady said she was just joking and wanted him to meet her husband, Elder Dallin H. Oaks. For the next 30 minutes, Elder and Sister Oaks sat with Elder Falatau and asked him about his mission to the West Indies.

I think it is great that Elder Vaea finished off his mission in similar fashion as he is also enroute to Tonga. We love our Tongan missionaries in the West Indies!

Come To The West Indies Mission Reunion

2010-09-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to welcome so many West Indies Returned Missionaries back home. It has now been almost a year and a half since we returned, so most of the elders and couples we knew have returned.

Our third (semi-annual) mission reunion will be held at 6:30 p.m. until 9 p.m. in the Garden Terrace of the Wilkinson Center on the BYU campus. Food assignments have been posted on the event page of Face Book. (If your last name begins with A-Q please bring a snack or dessert to share. If it begins with R-Z, please bring drinks.)

The returned missionaries who will have traveled the greatest distance to be at the reunion are: Elder Hooson and his wife Gemma from England and Elder Vaea from Tonga.

From September 2010

Elder McGhie - The Car Czar

2010-08-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

Brent Elmoine McGhie
February 27, 1931 ~ August 10, 2010
Hometown: Provo, UT

Brent Elmoine McGhie, 79, died of pancreatic cancer at his home in Provo, Utah on August 10, 2010.

He was born in Salt Lake City on February 27, 1931 to John LeRoy McGhie and Sigrid Rosalia Johnson McGhie.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jean Gay McGregor McGhie; 2 daughters and 3 sons: Shaunna McGhie, Orem, UT, Ronald Brent McGhie (Alice), Taipei, Taiwan, Kenneth Scot McGhie (Jean), Kent, WA, Matthew Daren McGhie (Angela), Laurel, MD, and Christy Annette McGhie Niles (Jeffrey), Puyallup, WA; 15 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters and 2 brothers: Bonnie Rockwood, Durham, CA; Claron McGhie, Roseville, CA; Verlie Hansen, Las Vegas, NV; and Marlen McGhie, St. George, UT.

Brent was preceded in death by 3 sisters and 2 brothers: Verona Rudelick, Arlene Roberts, Farrell McGhie, Duane McGhie, and Joy McGhie (age 2).

Brent graduated from East High School in Salt Lake City in 1948 and from the University of Utah in 1952, and later received an MBA from Stanford University.

He married Jean McGregor in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on August 15, 1952.

He worked in the grocery business to put himself through school. He worked as an administrator for Shell Chemical Company, Torrance, for Alpha Beta Supermarkets, La Habra, and for North American Aviation, Anaheim and Downey, CA. In 1973, Brent moved to Santa Rosa, CA, where he purchased a wholesale food business, which he sold in 1993.

In 1999, he and Jean moved to Provo, UT. Brent served in numerous LDS Church callings, including the Young Men’s program, and as Elders’ Quorum President, Scoutmaster, Ward Mission Leader, and Ward Clerk. He and his wife served two LDS missions together in Tbilisi, Georgia, 2000-01, and in Trinidad, West Indies, 2007-08. He served as a temple ordinance worker in the Provo Temple.

Brent enjoyed all sports, especially golf, basketball, and square dancing.

Brent loves people and tells many stories of friends and events from past years. He is especially good at finding connections to people he meets.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 14, 2010, in the Lakeview LDS Chapel, 2876 W 1390 North (west of Geneva Rd), Provo.

Viewings will be held from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, August 13, and at 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. before the funeral service at the same chapel.

Elder Lockhart

2010-07-14T17:10:00.000-07:00

A loving, fun and talented West Indies senior missionary passed away last Saturday from cancer. Here is a link to his obituary.

Today was his funeral and it was one of the most beautiful and uplifting service I have ever attended. The West Indies RMs in attendance were privileged to honor him by singing "Called to Serve"

"Chuck" and his amazing wife Lynne served in the West Indies from October 2006 to April 2008. They spent the first part of their mission in Guyana and then finished in Trinidad. Elder Lockhart served as a counselor in the mission presidency.

Here is just a small pictorial glimpse at the impact Chuck had on the members and missionaries of the West Indies

We were blessed to spend a few hours with the Lockharts just a week and a half ago. Chuck's heartfelt expression of gratitude for life and love for his family is something I will never forget.

I have no doubt he is still serving and loving - maybe even in the West Indies

Elder Findlay's Homecoming

2010-05-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

(Elders Hamilton, Palmer, Findlay, and Duncan)

Here is a photo taken today at Elder Findlay's homecoming. I am so grateful for the association of great missionaries such as these four, who are friends forever. (May 30, 2010)

Elder Palmer's Homecoming

2010-03-30T18:09:00.000-07:00

Elder Palmer's former companions at his homecoming
Hamilton- Parowan
Mundy- South Jordan
Lloyd- Kearns
Marshall- Orem
Westover- Cornona, California

January 2010 Missionaries Return Home

2010-02-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

Shown here with the Gamiettes, are Elders Daines, Cotton-betteridge, and Hickenlooper as well as the Myers. All of the these wonderful missionaries returned home in late January.

Not pictured is Elder Pence who left a couple of weeks early to get into school and Elder Anihia who returns home today.

Elder Harding came out with Elder Pence. He did not need to get into school right away, so agreed to an extension of a couple of weeks. His homecoming was yesterday, February 14th and he was greeted by Elder Tholen (just returned from a camping trip and had not found his razor and Elder Sorber).

Youth of Guyana

2010-02-07T16:17:00.000-08:00

Here's a wonderful story on the new LDS youth website about Seminary in Guyana.

A Quick Visit From Some Returned Missionaries

2010-02-02T16:19:00.000-08:00

We got to share a meal and spend a little time with some of the fine WIRMs last week.

They stopped by on their way home from a visit to some of their 'brothers' up in Idaho.

JJ Williams, Spencer McDonald, Burke Williamson, Brett Hamilton, Eric Davis, David Hyde

There's nothing we like more than spending time with 'our' missionaries.

Oh wait - maybe there is.

We LOVE it when they bring their 'friends' along to meet us!!!

Thanks David Hyde!!!

December 2009 Departing Elders Group

2009-12-26T22:46:00.000-08:00

Can you believe those two years are over already? From left to right are: Elders Muse, Kinghorn, Bowen, Ash, Biver, Williams and Worthington (surrounding President and Sister Gamiette and a new missionary couple).

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T16:25:00.000-08:00

To those following the progress of the fabulous West Indies Missionaries:

It's been a wonderfully busy crazy time for us, as we enjoy our first family Christmas in three years.

I think we've forgotten how to do this!

Christmas cards are late and neighborhood gifts are unmade.

But we did create a digital Christmas greeting.

Click here to see what we've been up to this year.

Merry Christmas!

October Group Completes Mission

2009-11-02T13:14:00.000-08:00

For the past two transfers, there has not been a group photo taken of the newest return missionaries. This past week one was taken and here they are:

Back row left to right: Elders Stebbing, Cronin, Payne, Packer, Ison and Silvester.
Front row left to right kneeling are: Elders Carlson, Tevero, McNeal and Stratton.
Also included in the photo are Sister and President Gamiette (standing, right side).

Congratulations on a mission well-done!

WIRM Gatherings

2009-10-05T16:35:00.000-07:00

Provo is a great place to live. We get to see 'our boys' all the time around town and on BYU campus where President Robison is now working.

So - we decided to have a pot luck gathering about once a month and, of course, mission reunions every six months (we just love to see those WIRMs!).

We gathered on September 20th for a pot luck and on October 2nd for our reunion.

Our first WIRM pot luck:

Don't they look great in their white shirts and ties (even on a Sunday night)

Plenty of food, good friends - what more do we need?

Schaat, Hyde, Williamson and Hamilton

On the deck with JJ (grandson) and Dutch WIRMs Tholen and Jestice

Just look at these darling WIRM wives

Sisters Oaks, Brewer and Schaat

Our 'lost boys' are back - these two went to the Puerto Rico East Mission when our mission was divided

Hess and Love

There's something very special about mission friendships

Williamson and Hyde

Sisters Hatton and McGhie

Elder McGhie and President Robison

Clark, Fox and Young

Procter and Parrish

Howell (and friend), Barker and England

Willis and Hamilton

Les Francais

Garrett, McIntosh and McKibbin

McKibbin and Beck

The Dutch

Sorber, Tholen and Jestice

Thomas, Robinson and Beck

And the new married couples!

The Schaats

The Oaks

The Gibbys

The Marshes

The Brewers

The Hendersons

The Jacobsens

Our first WIRM reunion:

We met on BYU campus - not a great idea just before a football game. Traffic was crazy! But WIRMs know how to persist so they made it - eventually. We had about 100 returned couples and elders. It was wonderful!

The newest WIRMs!

Sturdevant, Moala, Marshall, Green and Hamilton

Bryan Green was able to tell all about his adventures in Guyana. He was there when the missionaries spent a day in the police station.

Mostly we ate and visited, but President Robison took a few minutes to share some thoughts

He invited a few special WIRMs to stand

Newly engaged

Hurrah for Matt Brown!

Married

Burtons, Gibbys and Brewers

Jeters, Smiths and Tycksens

And WIRM babies!

The Bates family

Some had quite a drive to get there, but it was worth it

The Woods, from Calgary and Brett Hamilton

The Owens from Arizona

The Larsons from Toole and the Larsons from Parowan - both couples (brothers) served in Guyana

The Stauffers from St George

The Dunns came down from Pocatello and the Farrers had a quick drive from Springville - I don't know how they managed to escape my camera.

We hadn't seen some of these wonderful couples since the mission field

And the young WIRMs - what can I say? They are great!

Palmer

Lloyd

Endemann

Parrish

Slade

Howell and friend

Lasker and Pack

Averett and Owens

Garrett and McIntosh

The Tycksens

The Brewers (with a baby girl on the way!)

What can I say to close?

It was a sweet experience to gather with such dear friends, but I couldn't help thinking about my brothers and sisters who live in the West Indies.

I miss them!

For Such A Time As This

2009-10-03T16:36:00.000-07:00

Esther 4:14)

Prospective missionaries at the April 2009 Guyana Zone Conference:

Just like Esther was specially prepared to save her people, about the 30-40 young men and women in Guyana have been prepared for such a time as this - when most foreign missionaries have been asked to leave the country.

At first I was worried about the work in Guyana, but now I am beginning to see that "no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing" (Standard of Truth). In fact, the expulsion of most foreign missionaries may turn out to be a great blessing to the Church in Guyana.

Here's why

During the time my husband and I were serving in the West Indies, there was a rapid increase in baptisms in Guyana. Many wonderful people embraced the Gospel and were baptized, including quite a few teenagers. In fact, President Robison asked each missionary to 'replace himself' before going home by baptizing a young man who would serve a mission. These young Guyanese men and women are now stepping up to replace the full-time missionaries who were expelled from the country. Fifteen of them will serve missions right away and others are preparing to serve as as soon as they are qualified. Special arrangements have been made to expedite the mission calls and to allow some to serve as 18 year olds. As they wait to serve officially, many are serving 'mini missions.'

President and Sister Hymas (he is first counselor in the mission presidency) have been serving in Guyana. Here is their description:

"It is pretty cool to see all these young men lined up at the doctor's office and dental clinics and passport offices etc. Many have never been to the doctor or dentist etc so all very new experience for everyone! Scary and profound all at the same time. None of them own more than 1 white shirt and tie. So getting shirts and ties and other stuff needed to serve has been nothing short of a miracle. The members here have all donated money and time and talents -- to purchase shirts, make pants, get what "their boys" need to serve the Lord. All the foreign missionaries who left Guyana left shirts and ties for those who would be coming to take their place. We had over 40 shirts and 80 ties donated by those missionaries who were forced to depart.

While those who were approved for calls have been getting ready to serve 15 other young men have been living and working with our missionaries so that the work will keep the moving forward in each of the areas.

As you drive around you see our "new companionships" -- one white guy and one Guyanese. We are still out in the streets on the Lord's errand! It is profound to see the local young men taking over for their "brothers" who had to leave. It is the Lord's work and as the scriptures poignantly remind us "...it is the work of men that are frustrated, not the work of God that is frustrated..." It is quite a testimony to be a part of such faithful young men and young women who have willing left jobs, family, friends to alleviate the crisis in the missionary effort in Guyana.

In addition, in three or four of the cases the young men who have answered the call to serve are a primary breadwinner in the family so their departure to serve means their family will take a 30 to 70 percent reduction in income. The sacrifice is huge!"

So this is what I am thinking

Can you imagine what will happen to the Church in Guyana in a few years with 30-40 returned missionaries??? They will bring incredible strength and begin a cycle of temple marriages and righteous families that will make a huge difference!

These young Guyanese Saints are wonderful. Every time we did a zone conference I was amazed at the number and personal strength of the young prospective missionaries who attended. One young man came to a zone conference just a few days after he was baptized. I remember the look excitement on his face when he received his own copy of Preach my Gospel.

Now I am beginning to see why so many strong young people were led to join the Church in Guyana.

It was - for such a time as this.

Making The Transition

2009-10-01T16:38:00.000-07:00

One of the most difficult things about serving a mission is the transition one makes upon returning home. Being away for three years and rubbing shoulders with Heavenly Father's choicest souls in foreign lands makes life feel meaningful and then returning to the "real world" and adjusting to the regular routine is a challenge (except for being with family). I believe one of the things that will help Sister Robison with the adjustment is her new assignment as a member of the Young Women's Board. There is not a day that goes by where we do not think about and pray for the Saints and missionaries in the West Indies.

Another thing that will really help is getting to hug the returned missionaries at our first missionary reunion Friday night (October 2) at the WSC on BYU's campus from 5 to 7 p.m. We are excited.

Robison Interview on LDS Radio about the West Indies

2009-09-29T16:39:00.000-07:00

Check out our interview about the West Indies on the new Mormon Channel. The podcast is now available at http://feeds.lds.org/LDSIntoAllTheWorld

Guyana - Salt Lake Tribune

2009-09-11T16:41:00.000-07:00

Today's Salt Lake Tribune article

There are a couple of inaccuracies: there are not 100 missionaries in Guyana (there's 60 including couples) and none of them serve in the interior.

West Indies Mission Update - JJ Williams

2009-09-09T16:43:00.000-07:00

"Utah Utes football: Williams now on a mission to tackle"

JJ Williams is playing football for the University of Utah this year. The Deseret News featured him in this article last month.

Here's an interesting quote:

"Some returned missionaries lose their killer instinct while preaching religion for two years and not playing sports, but that wasn't the case for Williams.

'I think the mission helped that,' he says. 'Two years without hitting anybody, I was hungry when I first got back. I can't wait until the season starts.' "

The funny thing is, I can't think of a kinder, gentler missionary. So I guess the quote is right - he saved it all up for the football field.

Elder Williams with his mission brothers in French Guiana

Guyana - Sunday Update

2009-09-06T16:49:00.000-07:00

The Guyana visa issue seems to have died down in the local news but Guyana is still hotly debating:

Stabroek News editorial

Guyana - Saturday Update

2009-09-05T16:51:00.000-07:00

Stabroek News - Guyana
Today's news
letter to the editor #1
letter to the editor #2

Guyana - Friday Update

2009-09-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of today's local news articles on the Guyana visa situation. It seems to have some political undertones:

Kaieteur News - Mormons Expelled from Guyana

Stabroek News - PNCR slams gov't over Mormon expulsions

The Guyana Situation

2009-09-03T16:53:00.000-07:00

was sad to hear that there are problems with missionary visas in Guyana. That was an ongoing challenge during our three years of service but we always keep things technically correct according to legal counsel - even though many of the visas were in process for long periods of time. The same thing is true right now. It is a firm policy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to support the laws of any land they are privileged to enter.

I'm sure the missionaries are fine and making the best of their challenges.

I'm no longer in the mission so I don't have any 'inside' information about this situation. However, I am keeping a close watch on the news feeds so I thought I would share some of the latest I've come across. I'll continue to keep this blog post updated.

Thursday Sept 3

KSL

Deseret News

Fox News
It's funny because the picture is of missionaries in French Guiana, not Guyana

MSNBC
I need to correct this statement: "About 100 of them [missionaries] are now in Guyana, many of them deep in the country's interior where the government has little presence." There are about 60 missionaries in Guyana and none of them are 'deep' in the interior. There is a humanitarian senior couple who has traveled to the interior as part of their service work but they live in Georgetown.

Stabroek News - Local Guyana Newspaper

Brett Hamilton's Homecoming

2009-09-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

Parowan, Utah is a special place.

My husbands mother was born here in this pretty and historic home:

Plus, we had the privilege of serving with some fine missionaries from Parowan - senior couple, Ronald and Linda Larsen plus young elders, Burke Williamson and Brett Hamilton. It's fun because Burke actually got to train Brett and they both served as assistants.

So - we were excited to visit Parowan last Sunday to attend Brett's homecoming. He gave a fabulous talk, full of stories of the West Indies. My husband was able to say a few words as well - about senior couples.

By the way - the mission really needs senior couples! Email me at dfrweb@gmail.com if you want information about serving in the West Indies.

After church we gathered at the Hamilton's home and got to spend some time with these fine WIRMs

Burke Williamson, Brett Hamilton, David Hyde, McKay Walker, and Ray Lauritzen

WIRM Update - The Tycksen Wedding

2009-09-01T14:55:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to figure out where to put pictures of W(est) I(ndies) R(eturned) M(issionaries) - WIRMs

My current blog isn't really about the mission so that didn't seem to be the right spot. And I hesitate to move this blog away from a record of our three years of missionary service - but I also hate to have this one die away. So maybe I'll try putting a few WIRM updates here and see how that works.

Let me know what you think.

So here is my first WIRM update:

We attended Parker Tycksen's wedding reception last Friday night. He married his sweetheart Megan. What a darling couple!

I think they were engaged within a few weeks of his homecoming.

The fun thing about attending a WIRM wedding reception is - you get to see lots of other WIRMs! This time we got to see some of the 'Frenchies'

Brycen Beck and Scott McIntosh

Greg Garrett and Tyson Gray

JJ Williams - looking much bigger and stronger as he prepares to play football this season for the University of Utah

Burke Williamson (and friend) - not officially a 'Frenchie' but he picked up a little French while serving as an assistant

and here's a glimpse of Chris Procter (sorry - not a great picture)

Rick Lines was there too - looking great in his short-sleeved white shirt and tie but I forgot to take a picture :(

Sister Robison's New Blog

2009-08-09T16:59:00.000-07:00

I got kind of attached to regular blogging during my mission. I plan to add things occasionally to this blog - and will continue the country by country information. But every day I have ideas that I want to share that aren't really suited to a mission blog.

So - I just created a new blog called 'Journeyings'. It's about living happy - spirtually, physically, intellectually and socially.

I would love to continue my online 'friendships'. I know that nothing will ever be as sweet and exciting as sharing images of missionary sons at work - but I think this will be fun.

Here's a story. Yesterday my husband and I were running errands and a women came up to us and said, "Hi, I recognized you from the blog" and we had a nice chat. Fun, eh? I felt like a 'blogger celeb' (not really). But I loved connecting with a friend I had never seen before.

I actually used to blog a bit before my mission. I created Granny Tech - for women of a 'certain age' trying to get into computers and technology as well as Granny Macs - for a friend who got her first mac computer. But I didn't do much with those blogs during the mission. Granny tech did become a venue for answering senior missionary's tech questions - but it wasn't very organized.

So now I'm going to create a new version of Granny Tech and start the new Journeyings blog. We'll see what happens!

Parker and Meghan to Wed in Aug

2009-06-25T05:11:00.000-07:00

It seems as if Parker was searching for a backdrop that reminded him of houses in the Caribbean.

Note, the Sunday best attire for Parker in the bottom photo. Make Sunday your favorite day!

Introducing the class of 2009

2009-06-25T02:34:00.000-07:00

Here are the latest group of WIRMs (West Indies Returned Missionaries)

(Left to right, back row: Elders Fillerup, McDaniel, Temarono, Clark, and Shakespear. Front row: Elders Ritchey, Jones, Sorber, Parrish, and Fisher. Not pictured: Elder Falutau)

Oh wait....we're going home too!

Joseph Clark Shows Engagement Photos

2009-06-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

And her name is April Graves!

Trevor LeBaron Prepares to Tie The Knot With Angie

2009-06-06T18:06:00.000-07:00

Trevor had Angie go on a unique scavenger hunt on a early morning hike over-looking Ogden in order to pop the question.

Parket Tycksen Gets Engaged to Meghan

2009-06-05T04:34:00.000-07:00

From WIRMs

Kade Richardson finds Stefanie

2009-06-04T15:43:00.001-07:00

From WIRMs

You can tell things are getting serious when Kade brings along his niece to inspect or chaparone.

Elder Catherine's Cartoon of the Lost Elders on Mount Pele

2009-06-04T15:19:00.000-07:00

From WIRMs

Ou Sont Tyson et Thomas? They are found!

2009-06-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

From WIRMs

Remember those two lost elders on Mount Pele in Martinique? They were lost from Monday to Thursday and captured the hearts and prayers of the world-wide Church, the Saints in Martinique, and the missionaries of the West Indies. Well, they both have completed their missions. Tyson Gray is living in Utah now and Thomas Swain is living in New Zealand. They managed to get together last week in Utah, during Thomas Swain's trip around the world that will take him to the States, St. Vincent, and France.

Memories from the French Side

2009-06-04T09:39:00.000-07:00

From WIRMs

Trying out for the U of U Cheerleader Squad?

From WIRMs

Elders Gray, Procter, Garrett, Tycksen, Williams, Lines, Bezzant, Beck, Hansen, and Swain

Jon Heslop is engaged to Jamie Erickson

2009-06-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

From WIRMs

French Cattle Drive

2009-05-25T04:49:00.001-07:00

Real men brand cattle. Here they are from the French side visiting Elder Hansen: From left to right are JJ Williams, Brycen Beck, Lundy McKibbon, Tyson Gray, Tom Swain and Landon Hansen.

Spencer Shidler and Camille are engaged!

2009-05-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

Elder Yves Verwey Visits the Booms

2009-05-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

Happily married Ruben and Millie Boom recently were counselors at Youth Conference in Holland and then last night were able to teach investigators with Elder Verwey from Suriname.

Andrew and Alyson Croft Wedding

2009-05-24T18:44:00.001-07:00

Eric and Stephanie Sabin were married March 13, 2009

2009-05-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

Ross Webb & Briony to Wed August 15th

2009-05-18T06:49:00.001-07:00

Burke Sets Pace With New Trend

2009-05-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

Recently returned missionary Burke Williamson had a typical shocking readjustment to the real world. When it came time to say goodbye at the end of a first date, he was frustrated. He could not kiss the girl. He could not shake her hand. So using split-second thinking, he high-fived her. Yes, he really did. Spencer Shidler and his date sat in the truck watching this all unfold. By the next day, Burke was known as the "high-five" kid.

Pictured with his date Mandi, Burke demonstrates what he did that first night when it came time to say goodbye.

The May 13th Transfer Group Included 4 new returned missionaries

2009-05-14T06:42:00.000-07:00

Elders Jackson, Catherine, and Tycksen climbed a tree yesterday in the backyard of the missionhome to give a creative West Indies Mission goodby. (Elder Pahio was unable to attend the farewell devotional)

Elder Nethercott has been married since April 10th

2009-05-13T14:35:00.000-07:00

Here is the wedding photo of Britany and Aaron Nethercott. She was dazzled by that powerful tenor voice of his. See what good counsel it was for him to join the choir at BYU Idaho?

We are in Linden? Already?

2009-05-13T07:10:00.000-07:00

When did Linden open? Actually, it has only been open two transfers. We do not have a branch there, but we have 62 members and last Sunday we had 70 at Church. When we have five Mel Priesthood men, we will apply to have a branch. This past transfer, we had Elder Powers (a new elder), Elder Harris, Elder Tupou and Elder Fillerup serving there with Elder and Sister Leishman. Today being transfer day, sees Elders Sorber, Jestice, and McDaniel going to join the Leishmans, and Elders Powers, Harris and Fillerup.

The people of Linden are ready for the gospel.

New Look-Alikes Arrive In the Mission

2009-05-13T07:03:00.000-07:00

Here's something that is kind of fun:

We think there are a few interesting 'look-a-likes' in this new group

Elder Jones and Elder Scott (both have the same dad/trainer - Elder McNeal by the way)

Elder Lish and Elder Hoosen (both French speakers)

This final pair is what got this thinking started - everyone that sees Elders Linton thinks Elder Heslop is back!

What Makes Elder Hyde Smile?

2009-05-13T05:44:00.000-07:00

Answer: Melissa makes David Hyde Smile. None of the West Indies Missionaries could. (Just Kidding)

French RM's Stick Together

2009-05-11T15:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend Haedrien Garotta, Pitchu Doumbia and David Busson hung out in France. Rumor has it David is getting close to announcing an engagement. (On the other side of the pond, David Hyde has taken the girl home to meet the parents. Sounds serious.)

David Hooson to Wed

2009-05-10T18:53:00.001-07:00

Gemma Parnell-Smith and David Hooson will be married civilly in the Hyde Park chapel in
London on 29 December this year before being sealed in the London Temple later that day.

Older News But Still Fun from Elder Webb

2009-05-09T08:41:00.000-07:00

Ross Webb and Briony have chosen August 15th for their wedding date in the London Temple.

Elder Nielsen Has Big News

2009-05-09T08:37:00.001-07:00

On March 28th, Chance Nielsen and Karissa Lott became engaged. They will likely marry on July 17 or 18 in the Ogden Temple.

Elder Ray Popped the Question

2009-05-09T08:25:00.001-07:00

Abrahm Ray is now engaged to Sadie Hafer and they will be getting married on the 23rd of May. They got engaged the 27th of December and do enjoy the same interests as you can tell from the photos.

Elder Burton Proposed in the BYU Bell Tower

2009-05-09T08:10:00.001-07:00

Yes, Tina is from Stephan Burton's math class. They will be married the first week in June in the Wasington D. C. Temple.

Elder Heslop Proposed on Feb. 22nd

2009-05-09T08:00:00.001-07:00

We are anxious to hear the wedding date of Jonathan Heslop and Jamie Erickson. (A friend of Jamie's is close friends to Elder Brian Green - small world.)

Elder Bishop Is Engaged!

2009-05-09T07:52:00.000-07:00

Aaron Bishop and Tanya Mills will soon be kneeling at the alter in the Reno Temple in September.

Elder Crouet Gets Engaged!

2009-05-08T19:36:00.000-07:00

Her name is DANA ROTTERMANN and Pierre and Danna will get married on October 24th in the Temple in Switzerland

Elder Gibby Gets Married Today!

2009-05-08T18:33:00.000-07:00

Her name was Ashley Vincent. She is from Texas and is an extraordinary singer according to Colton Fox, who was there. Lucky Devon Gibby. We will have Sister Gibby sing at reunions.

Georgetown Guyana Prepares for Stakehood

2009-04-19T11:43:00.000-07:00

The new district Presidency as pictured here is: District President Collin Goodluck (second from left); First counselor President Sanjay Pooran, far left; and Second Counselor President Dellon Murray, second from right. The executive secretary is Brother Cardin MacKenzie, pictured on the far right. All four men are returned missionaries! (Three served in the West Indies, and President Murray served in Jamaica.)

This past Thursday evening, the branch presidents and district presidency of the Georgetown, Guyana District gathered for training. What an exciting group of leaders they were. They have worked hard to prepare for a stake and it is very likely one will be created later this year. All of the qualifications to become a stake have been met. They have enough members, they have enough worthy Priesthood Holders, they have enough attendance at Church and they have a complete district organization. Now they need to be consistent. They need to continue growing and maturing at their present rate and they will have a stake.

April 4th Transfer - New Returned Missionaries

2009-04-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

sadly - fourteen (three missing from the picture) well worn experienced elders departed

You would think that after almost three years, this process would come easy - but it doesn't. It's hard to say goodbye to such good friends.

They also had a fine dinner prepared by the senior couples

and a whiteboard discussion of pressing concerns

but their issues were a little different from the new elder's

for the first time, they were encouraged to start thinking about what lies ahead - after the mission

They will be great WIRMS (West Indies Returned Missionaries)

Just check out their power!

Elders YoungYen and Ficklin missed the photo session

and Elder Proctor didn't come to Trinidad for farewell gathering

We will miss these fine missionaries

Church News Coverage of Trinidad Stake

2009-04-19T05:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to this week's Church News article on the creation of the Port of Spain, Trinidad Stake:

http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/56717/Worth-the-wait-in-Trinidad--Tobago.html

It's History! We have a Stake!

2009-04-19T05:19:00.001-07:00

About 750 Latter-day Saints and friends of the Church in Trinidad gathered together at 9 a.m. this morning (Sunday, March 1, 2009) in the Cascadia Hotel Conference Center for the creation of the first stake in the West Indies Mission (first English-speaking Stake in the Caribbean).

The approval to create the stake was given on February 12, 2009 in a meeting of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Elder Neil L. Andersen (Senior President of the Presidency of the Seventy) and Elder Francisco J. Vinas (First Counselor in the Caribbean Area Presidency) were assigned by the Brethren to create the stake.

Elder Neil L. Andersen

Emrol Gould, who was baptized February 12, 1989, was called to be the first stake president. Christopher Danzell was selected to be the first counselor and Michael Rupa was chosen to be the second counselor.

President Danzell (1st counselor), President Gould (president), President Rupa (2nd counselor)

President Emrol Gould

Elder Andersen invited Nicholas Victor to tell the story of how he introduced President Danzell to the church. Both of these fine men served with us as missionaries in the West Indies Mission - what a privilege it was to work with them!

Elder Vinas (1st counselor in the Caribbean Area Presidency) gave counsel in the Saturday night priesthood meeting

There will be six wards and two branches in the new stake. The following are the new bishops:

Arima - Bishop Ali
Couva - Bishop Vishel Patel
Curepe - Bishop Alleyne
Port of Spain - Bishop Hooker
San Fernando - Bishop Ramdeen
Sangre Grande - Bishop Suepaul

The branches of Siparia, Point Fortin and Tobago are not in the Port of Spain, Trinidad Stake but rather are mission dependent branches.

What was it like to be there?

What must hundreds of missionaries who have served in Trinidad be thinking on this glorious day?

The history of establishing the Church in Trinidad has been challenging. The first missionaries to come to Trinidad in 1976 were turned away, but midway through the following year, the first converts were baptized. Early pioneer names like Payne, Borde, Raphael, and Balfour will forever be recorded in the historical records of laying the foundation for this work. Pioneers like Bishops Alleyne, Ramdeen, Hooker and Suepaul each were leaders in the districts. The new stake president Emrol Gould has been carefully tutored as a district officer and an executive secretary in the mission presidency during his twenty years as a member. However, it took hard work from the Trinidad saints, many mission president tenures, as well as the tireless labors of couples and elders preaching the gospel to bring about this wonderful day. And, it took years to obtain authorization for legal missionary permits. Ten years after the first converts were baptized, a new member named Kelvin Diaz was able to begin efforts to secure this authorization. By the end of 1988, he was able to secure 18 missionary visa permits. Progress was made to obtain 35 a few years later and in 2007, the government allowed the mission to apply under two different associations (Trinidad and Tobago Association and West Indies Mission Association).

In 2005, the country was divided into two districts by the mission president Henk Dorenbosch: the San Fernando District and the Port of Spain District. In 2007, under the direction of the new area presidency, President Reid A. Robison requested to have the two districts merged back into one district in anticipation of qualifying to become a stake. Prior to the creation of the stake, the Port of Spain, Trinidad District consisted of eleven branches: Port of Spain, Curepe, Arima, Sangre Grande, Couva, San Fernando, Chaguanas, Princes Town, Siparia, Point Fortin and Tobago. During the four years prior to stakehood, the country had approximately 125 to 130 baptisms per year. In 2008, members joined with missionaries to introduce friends to the church and 234 people were baptized. At the time of the application to become a stake, there were 2130 members in the Trinidad District.

The increase in baptisms and membership was the result of focused efforts of goal-oriented missionaries, an increase in the number of couple missionaries, and the quality of the proselyting program introduced with the "Preach My Gospel" manual. For the past three years, members have adopted the Basic Unit Program as a practice and as a curriculum. New member and seasoned member alike, sat together as they learned from the Gospel Principles manual in Sunday School, the Latter-day Saint Woman in Relief Society, and Duties of the Priesthood for Priesthood.

First Stake in West Indies to Be Created March 1st

2009-02-15T01:37:00.000-08:00

This was the perfect finish to a great zone leader council.

As we were preparing for our final testimony meeting, President Robison received an important message:

The first stake in the West Indies was approved and will be formed in Trinidad on the weekend of February 28th!

Does he look happy, or what?

And how about those elders?

The amazing thing was - the entire conference was focused on establishing the church in the West Indies through baptism for enduring conversion and the elders set a goal to baptize the equivalent of a good strong stake in 2009.

So again...it was the prefect finish to a great council

Remembering 2008

2009-01-24T08:30:00.000-08:00

This is a tribute to every returned missionary of the West Indies. You each laid the groundwork to make 2008 a reality.

Closing out 2008 - Nov 26th and Jan 7th Departing Elders

2009-01-10T19:17:00.000-08:00

Elders Roberts, Bishop, Doumbia, Alexander, and Shideler leave the mission having set up the mission for a great finish. Then in January, Elders Richardson, Nielsen, and Beute toast in the New Year with orange juice having welcomed in 2008 (2012) baptisms.

Proposition 8 - Taking a Stand for Truth & Righteousness

2008-11-23T12:18:00.000-08:00

Fundamental Beliefs of Mormonism (Elder Neal A. Maxwell, 1978)

October 15th 2008 Group Bids Farewell

2008-10-17T08:33:00.001-07:00

It came quickly. They arrived, they played a large part in each one of the major milestones achieved by the mission since 2006 and now they are home. (Elders Lebaron, Richards, Kahaialii, Kell, and Dinge) Missing from the group was Elder Hyde who has extended for 30 days.

Note that the dinner was a Canadian Thanksgiving-type celebration for the departing elders. Not that there were any Canadians in the group, but it was a good excuse to eat turkey.

Now, Elder Kahaialii being Hawaiian demonstrated how to load a plate.

What a great spirit this group had about them. They will be missed.

Remember Liat?

2008-09-06T20:20:00.001-07:00

Liat has many, many nicknames. One of them is "Leave in any time." Are their planes well-looked after.

The title of this shot might well be: "Hurrah for Israel! We landed!"

Farewell - September 4th Group

2008-09-04T06:06:00.000-07:00

This morning we bid farewell to the last of three installments in the September 3rd Transfer group of departing elders. First, we said our goodbyes to Elder Dumouchel in Sint Maarten. He had to go home early to enroll in school mid-August. Second, we hosted Elders Kaspers and Robinson on August 18th in Trinidad. They too had to rush home for school. Lastly, we hosted Elders Snider, Walker, Lucero and Davis. They actually had quite fun trying to be unique about their departing photo. It seems as though the July 23rd group made quite an impression with their posing as if for a men's fashion magazine. Their contribution was a "staged" reenactment of a district meeting led by Elder Snider. True to form, Elder Davis was the "enforcer," as the group remembered what he was like 2 years ago in the MTC.

This band of brothers was in the mission for every major milestone accomplished since the barrier of 100 baptisms was first broken during the White Christmas of December 2006. Each time a group leaves, the mission is once again reminded of what an impact such powerful men have had upon the West Indies. September 4th is such a minder as has been each group who returned home.

Do Missionaries Remember?

2008-09-04T03:12:00.000-07:00

As I said goodbye at the crack of dawn to the June transfer group, the white van pulled over to the side of the road a few doors down from the house and each elder yelled out the window with one arm raised high in the air "Hurrah for Israel."

This morning at 5:30 a.m. I said goodbye to yet another group of new return missionaries. This time it was in three installments due to the start of school. First we had a farewell dinner and discussion with Elder Dumouchel in St. Maarten, then we hosted Elders Robinson and Kaspers mid-August in the mission home. All three elders had to get back in school. The final installment of goodbyes included Elders Snider, Lucero, Davis and Walker. It was painful to see them go as it is each time a group leaves. But the payday came as I walked back in the mission home and found a thank you note from the group with the words "it would not have done for me to not have been here."

Do they remember? Yes!

So Long to the July 23rd Transfer Group

2008-07-24T14:26:00.001-07:00

D
Do you remember when you returned home? Do you remember that nice dinner on china, followed by a candid discussion about all those "thorny issues" you listed on the white board? This particular group asked more dating questions than previous groups. Shown left to right are: Elders Heslop, Swain, Webb, Clark, Boom and Slade. They had fun pretending they were posing for some men's model magazine. This was the second day they wore their suits, the first being the day they arrived in the mission home.

This unique group is the first group we actually welcomed into the mission home after our arrival in late June of 2006.

Footnote: Elder Boom was engaged the Wednesday following his departure to a young lady in Provo, whom he had met twice before his mission.

Canje Wild Fire

2008-06-12T04:01:00.000-07:00

On the third Saturday in May, two elders on their third transfer in the mission who were companions (Elders Westover and Jones) baptized 17 people in Rose Hall. Two years ago, this was considered a very difficult area for baptisms. Today, average Sacrament meeting attendance is over 100 members. What an incredible memory for the these elders who were trained by Elders Mundy and Dayton, who are their zone leaders and helped them immensely in preparing these people for baptism. (The baptisms resulted in a series of referals from a 14 year old girl. As a result two families were baptized.)

"Who Will Ascend The Hill of the Lord?"

2008-06-12T03:40:00.000-07:00

Answer: He that hath clean hands and a pure heart. (Psalms 24:3-4) Pictured here are the zone leaders of the West Indies Mission in June of 2008. They have just climbed a mountain behind St. Benedict Monestery outside of Tuna Puna in Trinidad. The baptism goals set by the missionaries in each of the zones totals 272 for June. (This is how the mission sets a baptism objective - by totaling the companionship goals for the mission).

Working out the Wiggles

2008-06-12T03:36:00.000-07:00

Last Monday, June 9, the Trinidad North Zone met the President and his wife for sunrise at Maracas Beach. Here they pose for group photo after a game of soccer.

'See You in a Year:' June 2008 Departing Elders

2008-06-12T03:23:00.000-07:00

This is the group of missionaries who met President and Sister Robison in the MTC. Three are French elders (Elders Hansen, Bezzant, and Hooson). Also pictured are Elders Palmer, Jenkins, Johnston (Suriname), Balling, Gibby, Burton, Atwood and Nielsen. All of these names match the photo from left to right. As was the case with those who preceded them, they will be greatly missed.

Hurrah for Israel!

2008-05-06T18:33:00.001-07:00

When did it all start?

Apr-07 10 This is what the baptism rate in Canje looked like one year ago
May-07 14
Jun-07 9
Jul-07 28
Aug-07 27
Sep-07 21
Oct-07 29
Nov-07 16
Dec-07 57
Jan-08 41
Feb-08 39
Mar-08 69
Apr-08 22 This is how many baptisms came out of Berbice and Canje last month. In District Conference on May 2nd, there were 383 people and the Canje chapel was bursting at the seams. Last October, the District had 400 members. Today they have almost 900 members.

So Long April 2008 Team

2008-05-06T18:23:00.000-07:00

Elders Cornwell, Jest and Beck made the long voyage to the mission home for their farewell interviews, dinner, briefing, and devotional. Elder Beck's parents were able to attend the devotional. Note the new tooth Elder Cornwell picked up in Guyana. Seems he made friends with miners to travel frequently to the interior. From here on out any missionary returning home has only known the Robisons as their mission president couple.

The Waters of Mormon

2008-04-25T17:44:00.000-07:00

Last February, Zone Leader Council was held at Maracas Waterfall, just outside of Curepe. Together we learned about the Waters of Mormon and the 204 souls baptized by Alma. This became the quest for the mission at that zone conference. Previous highlight numbers we will all remember include: the White Christmas in December 2006 where over 100 we baptized (a first for the mission); a White Christmas in July 2007 where again over 100 were baptized; the pathway to 1000 in 2007 where over 175 were baptized in December 2007; and the most recent milestone: 218 baptisms in March of 2008.

You Never Know Who Will Be Baptized

2008-04-25T17:29:00.000-07:00

Last December, Elders Arbizo and Webster street contacted a man named Judith Francis just before the end of their mission. They did not get a chance to teach him. Their replacements, Elders Boyd and Busson taught Brother Francis the lessons and became a bit frustrated that he would not commit to baptism. Then Elder Boyd's mission ended and Elder Busson was transferred to Guadeloupe. Two weeks ago, I met Brother Francis at the Church in Cole Bay. He was a bit tearful and said that he wanted to be baptized. I interviewed him for baptism and found him to be worthy. I invited him to be baptized right after Church that day. He said that he wanted to wait until May. I told him we would talk after Church and invited Elder Tevero from Tahiti to discuss Mosiah 18 with him and invite him to be baptized. At the end of Church, Brother Francis told me he wanted to be baptized right then. So, the entire French branch walked to the sea in Marigot from their new building, and witness the baptism. The branch president baptized Brother Francis and the witnesses were Elders Hooson and Jest...it was their baptism and they had never met the man. (An interesting sidelight was that these two former zone leaders were transferred to St. Maarten to complete their missions with the challenge to find a place for the branch to meet in Marigot and to invite every member to come to Church. Their zone leaders were very concerned about their numbers and especially their lack of baptism dates for April, but the Lord provided and they had their April baptism.
One of the key lessons learned from this experience was the value of team work: imagine a contact by Elders Webster and Arbizo, a series of lessons taught by Elders Busson and Boyd, and the actual baptism taking place after these four elders had left and two different elders, Elders Hooson and Jest arrived. These baptisms are not ours. They are the Lord's.....and this is repeating itself over and over around the mission.

March 19,2008

2008-04-25T16:13:00.002-07:00

Farewell to the March Group.....

Elder Nethercott, Ray, and Taylor made the trek into Trinidad to stay in the mission home at the conclusion of their mission. Elder Boyd was also part of this group, but remained in Guadeloupe to greet his parents who came to pick him him. (Elder Nethercott finished in St. Vincent, whereas Elders Ray and Taylor ended their service in Suriname

2008-04-25T16:13:00.001-07:00

Doing It Right

2008-02-22T13:41:00.000-08:00

‘Nothing is more important than marrying the right person, at the right time, in the right place, and by the right authority.’ This is a favorite quote of President Monson as he reflects on his own marriage to Frances and attributes the quote to Elder Bruce R. McConkie.

Farewell to the February 6th Group

2008-02-06T05:47:00.000-08:00

It was Carnival in Trinidad! This made gathering together for one last farewell meeting very difficult. In fact, Elders McKibbin and Baksh returned home directly from Martinique and Guadeloupe respectively. Elder Morris and his parents set off for Kaietur Falls in Guyana, leaving the remaining six elders of the group to gather in the mission home for a farewell devotional and testimony meeting.

You remember the "informal questions" don't you? Here is what the February 6th transfer group asked:

- What kind of music is appropriate after the mission?
- How to get school loan or job
- How much money to make after the mission
- Where is the best place to find a wife?
- How do you make the transition back home?
- What is the best way to plan education, knowing the world has changed?
- Why go to St Lucia for a honeymoon and what is good to do there
- Rings – diamonds – how to do it?
- What should I get out of church every week?
- Tactful way to drop her
- How to use connections and get help
- How do you know if she is the right one?

We now have 84 returned missionaries since we arrived in the mission field 19 months ago. As we welcomed in 9 new elders this transfer, we realized they would all remain in the mission field for at least a half of a year after we complete our mission in July 2009.

December 28th Transfer - So Long Elders Arbizo and Webster

2008-02-06T05:37:00.001-08:00

Elders Webster and Arbizo were allowed to travel home prior to Christmas in time to be with their families. They both concluded their missions on the French-side of St. Maarten.

Remember When?

2007-12-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

Here is one way that missionaries legally are in the waters of the Caribbean during their missions. This baptism took place in Trinidad as Las Cuevas Beach in November, 2007. As you can see the wave caught them all completely off guard. (Elders Croft, Balling & Parish)

Newest West Indies Return Missionaries - November 2007 Group

2007-11-15T18:59:00.000-08:00

Today Elders Howell, Schaat, and Torres joined the ranks of West Indies Returned Missionaries. Elder Caldwell was also in this group and traveled to his home on Monday of this week. (You might not notice, but Elder Torres is 40 lbs lighter than when he arrived. His suit did not fit.) Elders Howell and Torres fly into Salt Lake City to greet their families whereas Elder Schaat returns to Portland, Oregon. Elder Schaat was looking forward to a deep dish pizza in Chicago when he changed planes.

October Departing Elders

2007-11-15T17:56:00.001-08:00

Because the mission split in July, many of our October elders were serving in the other mission. Only two Elders returned to their homes in October, 2007. Their suits still fit. They did manage a golf game against the some of the senior missionaries on their last preparation day. They lost by two strokes and have demanded a rematch in Idaho in 2008.

West Indies Mission Customs and Lingo

2007-10-05T12:08:00.000-07:00

Culture & Customs

Calling on a home – If a home has a fence, it is proper to advance only as far as the gate and then call “Inside”, three times with long pauses. If no one responds, the person is not at home or does not wish to be disturbed. (We do not peer inside with nose pressed against the glass and call out “hello, anyone home.”)

Good morning – or Good afternoon or Good evening – there is no substitute for not starting out a conversation in person or on the phone without saying one of these three phrases. If you do not do this, you set yourself up immediately as a stranger. Saying “hi” is just not an acceptable substitute.

Entertaining people – West Indies residents do not entertain inside of their homes. This is very important to consider when you wonder why you are not invited into the home. This has implications for the best way to conduct home and visiting teaching visits.

Extreme literalness in speech – if you go to a sales counter in a store and ask the salesperson at the perfume counter if she sells men’s belts, she will say “no.” If you ask “where in this town can I purchase a belt for a man”, she will point to the next counter.

Handsakes – according to the West Indian culture, a light handshake is in better form. Americans like their handshakes to be firm and are frequently surprised at the delicacy of the West Indian handshake (not unlike Mexico).

Interruptions – well-bred locals or even more rough West Indian characters never interrupt.

Names – in terms of respect for older people, they are addressed as Mr., Mrs., or Miss rather than by their first names.

Okay – it is customary to say “okay” as you walk away from someone. You will be in turn greeted by a chorus of “okays” from those you are leaving. If you do not do this, you are giving the impression or anger or rudeness.

Social Smile – Americans tend to wear a perpetual smile more often than Canadians or especially than the British. In the West Indies, the polite face to show strangers is the sober face. Smiles are reserved for something funny or someone well-known and liked. Don’t conclude that the native West Indian people are hostile or not friendly or have something against ‘white people.’

Touching – or back slapping or shoulder patting – is not considered appropriate nor is it enjoyed by the West Indian people.

Thank you – the most local of the residents of the West Indies would never use the expression “thank you.” Instead they use other expressions. When Americans say “you’re welcome” it is very confusing to some because “thank you” is already too much for them. This does not mean one should not say “thank you” or you’re welcome. Just be aware that the culture in the West Indies is different.

You are polite – means you have passed the test in the eyes of the public for being more that just well-spoken. It is used to describe those quiet of manner and speech, not over-tipping or showing off, not referring to advantages back home, not touching or patting or poking the person you are addressing and especially not giving off an aura of superiority. (A compliment even one step up from this is: “Don’t feel that way. You one of us, man!”) How to Live in the Caribbean by Sydney Hunt.

Expressions

A. Alight - How are you

A be dees deys in da right place - all of these people are in the right place

Acs – ask (I acsed him)

B. Beat back (nobody can beat she back when it come to lying) – Nobody can
outlie her

Beck en all - gossip or talk bad about a person

Benzine - rum

Bob - Quarter (only in the South Part of Trinidad) - as in 25 cents

C. Come across - come over

Come da boddy - come over

I’ll see you Friday coming – an expression of time (coming) – If you say I’ll see you next Friday, you are being less definite – some Friday or another Friday

Copper – a copper coin. (Give me a copper).

D. Don't Study She - Don't pay attention to her

E.

F. Fatigue – Doan gie me faiguem man or ah buss you mout – don’t ridicule me.
Don’t tire me.

For True - For Real?

Freeness (at the end of the meeting there will be a freeness) – means there
will be refreshments like food and drink

Front – is literally, a man’s front

G. Gaff - sit around talking

Gap – an opening into a yard, a road or a field

Give me a drop – this means a lift or a ride

Go call she - Go get her

Go call he - Go get him

Gon fo see baa – Going for a sea bath – pleasant conversation starter if you
are on your way to the beach

H. He takes she - they are getting married

I. Ideh - I'm doing good

Irie - Doing good

J. Jumbies - little devils

Just Cool - I'm doing good

Just Now - means 2 seconds or 2 years or in between

K.

L. Licks - snap fingers and say licks means you are going to spank your kids

Liming - Sitting around

M. Mader fader dey home - Are your mom and dad home?

Make – is to used age (How many years do you make?)

Mash – on the mainland is generally reserved for vegetables

Me de know fa dat - I don't know about that

Me no for do dat - I don't know how to do it

Medeh - I'm doing good

Mindin my picknies - raising my kids

Molest – means to tend the plants (has a mild meaning)

N. Next – another or second

No Blues - no pornography

Not te cuts ya - Listen to my story

O. OK - How are you

P. Pester – means to keep after a girl until she gives in

Picknies – children

Plugged out – generator plugged out – anything that can be plugged in can
be plugged out

Q. Quite - really for

Quite so over - that direction over there a bit of ways off

R. Reach – (boat language) – means arrive, even for people

S. Scene Dred - What's up man

Script – means a written message. I will leave a script for you rather than a
note.”

She gone out to come back - she went out, but she is coming back soon

She is hard to sit with - They are busy or hard to get a hold of

She vexed - she's mad

Stupsing - something they do by closing their lips like when we roll our eyes in
disgust

T. Taking a sweat - Exercising

Take a 5 - Take a Break

Take a breeze - Take a Break

Take ya time - if you trip in front of someone or are arguing with someone

Team - theme

Till - closer - next street over

Till over so - that direction really close by

Ting – Thing

Title – means surname (what is your last name?)

Twin brother – good friend

Two of we went down road - means two of us

U. Use yuh kidney – use your head

Utes - Youth

V.

W. Wash my skin – means to wash oneself (very precise & literal)

Watch me know - Listen to my story

We all (talk) Trinidad /(Gaff ) Guyana - for we all are sitting around talking

We don't study girls - We don't pay attention to girls

What da scene - What's up

What nem boddy - what is happening

Woman – temporary tone, bottom of ladder – better to use lady

X.

Y. Ya dum no - Right one! That's what I'm talking about

Ya Storyam - you are lying

Z.

August Returned Missionaries from West Indies

2007-08-27T05:20:00.001-07:00

Here they are - the newest group of returned missionaries from the West Indies Mission. (Left to Right: Elders Lindberg, Northrup, Bradford, Wilcock, Pack, Moore, Crninch, Rasmussen, Hays, and Parker. During the months of July and August 2007, the mission said goodby to 25 missionaries who returned home with honor as well as 16 more who were given to the Puerto Rico San Juan East Mission. All of these missionaries are sorely missed.

Do you remember tracting this area?

2007-08-14T11:08:00.000-07:00

Remembering the photo used on the Christmas 2006 Key Chain that featured Elder Johansen and Elder Evans in Nevis, Elder Olaveson and Elder Howell found a tropic back drop while contacting in little villages behind Valsayn near Febeau in Trinidad.

Elder Evans' Engagement Shot

2007-08-14T08:47:00.000-07:00

Elder Evans searched far and wide for a returned missionary who speaks Spanish and found her. Now they are married and live happily ever after.

How Hard Did You Work On Your Mission?

2007-08-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

Elder Jacobsen seems to be settling into the life of an engaged West Indies Returned Missionary.

Remember the White Christmas Miracle last December?

2007-07-30T18:17:00.000-07:00

The mission split on July 1, 2007 and the missionaries responded with another White Christmas month--this time in July. 100 baptisms!

Remember the Dinner Table Discussion Your Last Evening in the Mission Field?

2007-07-29T13:38:00.001-07:00

July 2007 New Returned West Indies Missionaries

2007-07-27T07:15:00.000-07:00

Exciting Baptisms!

2007-06-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

Baptisms are always exciting! This was the last baptism I had on May 26, 2007. There was no water, and none in the tank. We waited and waited and waited for a water truck to show up. Three hours later it showed up, and filled up the font with a firehose in two minutes flat! Definitely a baptism to remember. I bet there are plenty other great baptism stories like that.