The stake choir here traditionally performs a concert to begin the holiday season, entitled "Season of Hope." Performances were this weekend. It's an incredible choir, led by a conductor who mesmerizes with his body language. Poetry in motion is an apt description.
The program consists of military salutes and patriotic songs, rollicking spirituals, and beautifully arranged hymns. The culmination is when the choir begins singing a version of "Army of Helaman," and the missionaries file in and sing with them. The ASL sisters are signing, and many eyes are wet. It was such an emotional experience on Friday that I returned last night to watch it again. This time President and Sister Lewis were in the congregation. When the missionaries walked to the front to join the choir, all of the seniors, including the Lewises, joined in. The closing hymn was "May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You." What an incredible kickoff to the holidays. It filled the void that would have been in me because of missing Draper's "Messiah." Among the many things I'm grateful for is that there are people with the talent and motivation to provide these experiences for those of us who are musically challenged.
There is a talent I'm developing on this mission, though, that I wouldn't have expected. I am often in contact with the missionaries...by texting! I'm no longer allowed to try to use correct fingering--thumbs are required, lest I be subject to ridicule. I should be pretty proficient by the time I return home.
Prior to transfers, missionaries are asked to fill out a transfer form and submit it, confidentially, to the President and his assistants. This helps determine changes that need to be made in companionships, etc. On Monday when I arrived at work, I found that such a form had been filled out for me by the office elders and left in my desk. I received high marks for obedience: "Won't allow us to play "no bones" or do anything fun that is against the rules." My score was slightly lower on charity because I "like to keep the elders' pride in check." My lowest score was on using time wisely: "She's never here on weekends!" Love this job.
No comments:
Post a Comment