Of Cultures and of General Authorities

We are blessed to be surrounded by a culture different than our own.  Of course, things that are new to us cause challenges, as do some other things.  But we are guests here and are pleased to be serving in different rather than familiar surroundings.  The traditional crafts that are sold all around us are intriguing.  Look at the drums pictured below. 

Foods that we are familiar with are available.  But they can be pricey.  These strawberries, about 20 of them equaling 250 grams (a little under 9 ounces) cost the equivalent of $14.33!  We do not eat strawberries here.  LOL

Previously I mentioned that the people of West Africa are very religious.  Businesses are often given names relating to this orientation.  Look, for example, at the add below.

Because of this outlook, these people are seeking religious truth.  A consequence of this is the large number of converts coming unto Christ and into His Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  We attended another baptism this week, but it was of a child from a Latter-day Saint family.  But one of the young missionaries that was present introduced us to a woman that they were teaching, and in Sunday School we sat with a woman who seemed new.  We later learned that the young missionaries had another woman that they thought should be ready for baptism.  I am not sure if they are one and the same.

Last week was an interesting week for us.  One day five general authorities, including the Presiding Bishop Gerald Causse, and D. Todd Christofferson of the Council of the Twelve Apostles, dropped into our office.  They visited with Sister Emfield for a short time, but I was out on assignment and missed it.  Later in the week we attended a devotional at which Bishop Causse spoke, and still later we attended another at which Elder Christofferson spoke.  We do enjoy this aspect of our mission!

Elder Emfield