October 29th, 2017

Dear Family and Friends,

Last week we were able to attend the Mission Presidents Seminar in the Dominican Republic. It was wonderful to be with the other mission presidents and wives of the Caribbean. It was especially humbling to be able to meet and hear from the new mission president in Puerto Rico. As you may be aware, all of the missionaries were evacuated from that island, following the hurricane. Because of shortages with food, water and electricity there was no way to sustain the missionary force on the island.

As we had lunch with Elder and Sister Smart, the new Puerto Rico president and wife one day, it was very apparent that they are anxiously anticipating the return of their missionaries over the next few months. They said that when President Eyring came to tour the island and offer his support for the Saints, he promised them: "You will survive the physical hurricanes, but will you survive the spiritual hurricanes?" As their spirits were being tested and they were sleeping without air-conditioning, a hot shower and food and water in limited quanitites, Sister Smart said she took a moment to look up at the ceiling and realized how blessed she was to have a roof over her head. Our mission was very fortunate to have had no damage from the hurricanes, as they have been devastating other parts of the Caribbean. Thank you for your prayers!

We also wanted to share a story about some recent baptisms in Trinidad. About a month ago, Vanessa was baptized. Dad was able to do her baptismal interview and was very impressed with her knowledge and her conversion story. Following the baptismal interview, he wanted to demonstrate what she could expect with regard to protocol at her baptism. As he was demonstrating the proper procedure for the ordinance, the prayer that would be given and the things that she could expect to have happen at her baptismal service, her children, nieces and nephews looked on. After Dad did the baptism example for Vanessa, her children wanted him to show them too. Their baptisms were coming up and they wanted a turn. Dad demonstrated for Vanessa's 2 children and then their cousins excitedly said, "Can you show us too, we want to be baptized!" 

Vanessa was baptized that weekend and 3 weeks later her two children Jeremy and Mariella were baptized. She was asked to speak at her children's baptismal service and witnessed to all in attendance, "I have experienced the death of a sinful life, and the birth of a spiritual one. I have tasted the sweet peace of forgiveness!"

She did a wonderful job on her very first talk as a member of the church. She was very proud of her children and is looking forward to having them sealed to her someday.

I asked the sister missionaries why her husband did not attend the baptismal services. The sisters told me that her husband had been killed a little over a year ago, in an accident. Dad and I are so grateful to be part of these new converts lives. They have taught us so many valuable lessons about faith, despite unsurmountable personal challenges. 

Count your blessings!!

We love you,

Trini and Dad