Learning about the Church in Africa

We took the couple we replaced to the airport this morning. We got home without getting lost or getting into an accident. We counted that as a small victory. We are 16 steps away from the temple when we exit our front door. This evening we did sealings. The first counselor in the temple presidency, Sono Koree,was standing in front of the temple doors when we stepped from our apartment building. The man at the front desk was one of our area missionaries (from Colorado). All other temple workers, including our sealer, tonight were from Africa. It was a special experience. The names we were working on were mostly from Cote D'Ivoire and very challenging. The sealer, probably in his seventies was gracious and to me, very impressive. To see him and the two men next to him were reminders of the impact the revelation that all worthy males may hold the priesthood can have on a country and a continent.

I am learning the basics of my position. There is a tremendous administrative burden that I am trying to master. We received a thick stack of patriarchal blessings from one of our patriarchs yesterday. I asked the Area President what he wanted done with them. He told me to read them and see if they appeared appropriate. I'll start that task in the morning. It has been a special experience to work with three general authorities on a daily basis. They are all strong willed, competent men who are truly living by the spirit. Once a month, all the mission couples assigned to the area have a family home evening at the home of one of the presidency. President Snow, the Area President hosted us on Monday. He told of efforts they are taking and challenges they encounter as they discover how the Church needs to work in a developing area such as Africa. One of the Stakes here in Accra is a test area. When people come to Church, not only do they sit as families in Sacrament meeting but in Sunday school as well. Lessons come from "Preach My Gospel". All the priesthood holders, regardless of age, meet together for Priesthood and all the women, young and old meet for Relief Society. There are no YM or YW organizations. There are a number of neighborhood "pods" with priesthood leaders called for that part of the ward. They watch out for and nurture the members of that group. Literacy classes are held during Church to teach English.The Twelve are watching closely. Other wards may differ according to their needs. There are three high counselors at present. What occurs here may be a precursor for the flexibility needed in other areas when they open--China, etc.
- Elder Shipley