Arrivals

Receiving new missionaries is one of the most fun aspects of our calling. In February we welcomed 17 new ones to the Baltic Mission - our second largest group ever. When arrivals come in, we take them to the mission office for orientation by the staff there. Then it's off to the mission home, where Russ interviews all of them. We feed them dinner, show them the New Missionary Orientation powerpoint presentation, introduce them to their new companions, and then put them to bed. Sounds simple, but it's quite the operation. 17 people coming for 1 1/2 to 2 years, means a LOT of luggage, so we have them leave most of it at the mission office, and just bring overnight bags to the mission home. And 17 new arrivals plus their 17 companions means dinner for about 40, including Russ and I and the Assistants to the President. I do the cooking, with help from the young people, who are eager to pitch in. It's a good time for me to get to know them in the relaxed atmosphere of my own kitchen. Interviewing 17 missionaries and seeking inspiration as to who serves with whom leaves Russ a little drained. We keep the new sister missionaries in the guest room in our apartment for the night, and the new Elders sleep in the bunk room next door in the Assistants' apartment. We send them off the next morning with their companions, and then I tackle the mountains of laundry (sheets and towels) that that many people generate. Thanks goodness for automatic washers and dryers....