Thursday, December 21, 2017

Christmas in Bethlehem!


The Phuthaditjhaba Zone Christmas event in Bethlehem!



 President Thompson's our family tradition of 12 Days of Christmas which inspired us to make this December to remember for our missionaries, as they embark on service for 12 Days leading to Christ! Each Zone will do a 4 hour service project of their choice, plus service for a member, investigator, family member, leader, and 12 days service for their companion! I explained that as they do these acts of service with purpose from their heart to leave an impact on someone, that this Christmas can be one of the best they will ever remember. 
I also had them write a gift to the Savior, roll it up and tie a ribbon around it. I asked them to open it on Christmas morning and read it, and possibly share it with their companion as something meaningful they wish to give to Jesus, since in many traditions, giving a gift for one's birthday is a loving gesture!


 Elder Bennett

 Elder Merritt

 Elder Hoopes writing his gift to the Savior

 Elder Hoopes and Elder Gehlbach writing their gift to the Savior!

 Elders Harp, Speranza, and Walker writing their gifts to the Savior

 Elders Zimunu, and Futter
 Elders Harp, Speranza, Walker, and Harris


 We were asked to bring a white elephant gift for 30 rand or less! (Sorry the photo is blurry, but our battery on the camera ran out, and we continued with photos from Presidents iPad)

 Elder and Sister Van Uitert provided today's lunch! We have such amazing couples that give up so much to serve a mission. I am in awe of all our Senior couples!
President Johns is also remarkable! He faithfully serves and does so much for the mission (he is President Thompson's counselor and lives in Ficksburg)





 This table looks amazing! Thank you to the Van Uiterts!

 Each missionary got a goody bag and peppermint tree! So fun and festive!


 Amazing meal provided by the Van Uiterts! 

 Elder Van Uitert

 Elder Wilson (ZL) conducted this meeting!

 Elder Isooba welcomes the holiday season!

 Elders Merritt, and Zimunu

 Elder Walker


 Elders Wilson and Lucas-Rafael

 Elders Brown and Futter

 Elders Speranze, Harris, Walker, Harp

 The Van Uiterts served as young missionaries in South Africa several years ago.

 Christmas activity is soccer!




 Elder Hoopes

 Elder Wilson (ZL), came to us as one of the seven Madagascar Elders who needed to be transferred because of the outbreak of plague in that country. We are blessed to have him. He grew up in Durban, but his family has moved to Johannesburg.

 Elder Gehlbach's team lost!

 President joined the game!

 Elder Isooba opening his gift

 Elder Hoopes opening his gift 

 Elder Bennett's gift

 Elder Speranza's family generously made a goodybag for this zone!

 Elder Brown loves his gift!

 We opened gifts after playing soccer. Elder Harp opens his!

Elder Gehlbach got a rubber ball and a can of soda!

Merry Christmas!

We are excited to hear, next month, all about your various service!

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