Mann's In Mexico

One of the unique parts of my calling is the opportunity to chat with each missionary before he has an interview with my husband  - once every six weeks.  I usually sit in another classroom at the church building and talk with one missionary, while his/her companion is in with my husband.  It has been delightful and inspirational to get to know each of these remarkable young people! I am so impressed with the strength of character, spiritual sensitivity, faith in Jesus Christ and courage of each of these missionaries!  Many are pioneers - first member  of the Church- first missionary in their families.  Perhaps I can share one example... We have an elder from South America who is the youngest of three boys in his family.  Their family began listening to the missionaries message and he, at age 16, was the first to be baptized in his family.  His mother and step-father were baptized sometime later.  He is from a tiny branch with perhaps onl...

SINGING HYMNS, PRAYERS AND TESTIMONY MEETINGS HYMNS- I have come to appreciate the reverence of the Mexican members of the Church.  They are an inspiration to me...and a reminder to  me to be as reverent as they are. I don't know why but most chapels have very few hymn books.  At the beginning of Sacrament Meeting there are a few hymnals stacked on the side of the podium for audience members.  However, many members bring their own hymnal or use their smart phones while singing.  Very few congregations have a pianist.  Most meetings the chorister either sings the first line of the hymn by himself/herself or says "1,2,3" for the audience to begin singing.  The members love to sing.  I have not been to a single meeting they conduct where they sang less than all the verses of the hymn!  They really enjoy singing.  It is not half-hearted or dragging whatsoever - they sing because they enjoy it and it brings the Spirit. In nearly eve...