Thanksgiving

Dear Family and Friends,

Last week of November and last week of "Rendezvous in Old Nauvoo."  This show has been running for 30 years. It is such a big part of Nauvoo for many people that is will be hard to say good-bye. However change is part of a living church. It will be interesting to see if there is a replacement. It may not be while we are serving , we haven't heard. It's surprising to see how many visitors are coming to see the last shows. Nauvoo will survive!

This week we are also preparing for the Christmas Walk. There will be the lighting ceremony of the huge Christmas tree in the Visitors' Center, a live Nativity scene, luminaries (300), wagon rides pulled by a tractor (still no horses!), stories told in 4 of the sites, and refreshments with music in the Family Living Center.  It's a community event. About 700 people attend not counting the missionaries.

There is also caroling at Carthage and "The Messiah" will be presented at the Catholic Church.  Many missionaries are singing in the musical performance. Again all of these are community events. The church works diligently to build good relationships with the people of this area. Many still have bitter attitudes against the Mormons.  Some, just because they know they are supposed to. So sad that this is still in today's world.  Love is the best healing tool anyone has.

Yesterday Elder Long and I went to his Aunt's home in Iowa for a late Thanksgiving Dinner with her and her children, Bob's cousins. It was such a warm and wonderful family gathering.

They are devote Catholics.  Aunt Carol expressed that she never understood why people were against the Mormons. She grew up in Nauvoo until she was 8.  It was refreshing to hear her opinion and they all said they want to visit Nauvoo in the next few months.  Aunt Carol said she wants to go with each group.  She loves the feeling in Nauvoo.
Sherman's family is still progressing toward baptism but the mom wants to be more included and understand what her children are doing.  That is actually good news.  Taking the time they need will insure they are supported in this big life change.  So we'll just continue to support and love them.

Thanksgiving Dinner here in the mission was 140 missionaries all gathered at the Pageant Building.  The food was superb and the company was excellent, however we missed our kids and grandkids.  My gratitude journal was comforting and helped me realize the multitude of blessings we enjoy.

Life is good and hopefully you are all well too.  We love and miss you all.

Sister and Elder Long