Fry Guys/ Mission at Home!!

Elder Tilgner returns Home

2011-06-21T02:26:00.001-07:00

Elder Tilgner returns home to Germany. Thank you for your service!

We will miss you! We love you and appreciate your parents for sharing you with us!

Elder Tilgner and the Assistants, Elder Ryser and Elder Petersen.

Our Wonderful Senior Couples

2011-06-21T02:04:00.000-07:00

Vladimir(our wonderful driver that we could not have survived without him), Elder and Sister Hatch(our wonderful office couple - the back bone of the mission), Elder and Sister Aagard( our wonderful couple in Sumy the farthest away little branch. They are the glue for that branch!), Elder and Sister Burr(our wonderful humanitarin couple and the country directors for employment. They have helped our members prepare to find jobs and worked with many agencies for humanitarin work). All of our couples also help with missionaries and are a part of a district of missionaries. They help and participate in the Branches as well. We love and appreciate all of their sacrifices to be here in the mission. They contribute so much to the mission and they are so valuable to us in helping and supporting us.

Our first gathering as couples since Elder and Sister Hatch had arrived in Feb. and I guess the last gathering for us. We really love these couples!! Thank you to their families for sharing them with us!!!

The Burrs, the Frys, the Hatchs, and the Aagards. It has been a pleasure to work with all of you!!

Kharkov Members say Good-bye June 2011

2011-06-21T00:03:00.001-07:00

Our last night in Kharkov, we visited the Vasiliva's. They fed us yummy Ukrainian food!!! Lena, Mama, Costic, President, Me, and Sveta. They are awesome!!

President, Me, Tanya and Sergey. A wonderful couple. It is very hard to say good-bye!!

Sister Savakone(Kharkov District Historian), Me, President, and President Kotusov and his wife Lena. We love you and will miss you!!

President and I with Alena. She gave us these Ukrainian hats we are wearing. Aren't we adorable in them?

The group that came to our fireside. We love these members in Kharkov. They will always be in our hearts!! We challenged them to stay strong and true to the faith. We will truly miss them!!!

Two cute little girls in Ukraine with their beautiful moms!

2011-06-02T07:23:00.001-07:00

Polena with her mom, Ulya. Polena is 3. She was just a baby when we first got here. She's a little shy but oh so cute!!! When we first came here I would hold her and bare my testimony in Russian to her. It was the only Russian I knew. She didn't seem to mind and it was good practice for me.

Here she is again! Little girls are the same all over the world. They giggle and pose for pictures!

Olya and Masha. Masha is 14 months old and really tall for her age. (Her daddy is really tall).

She jabbers up a storm and I think that's why she doesn't mind that I don't speak Russain very well. We both have our own language!!

She was having a lot of fun in the park today. Her mom was here to do a closing on a Humanitarin project done in this park(new playground equipment). She wandered around while I took some pictures of her enjoying the new equipment. What a great day for all!!!

Zone Leader's Council

2011-06-02T06:50:00.000-07:00

Our Last Zone Leader's Council, May 31, 2011. From left to right top row: Elders Finneran, McArthur, McCallson, Winchester, Demyonov, Clarkstone, Duke, Schoen, and Ryser. Kneeling in front : Elders Kofoed and Petersen and standing in front: Elder Beck. A great group of young men! We have so many great leaders in the mission! It has been a wonderful experience watching all of our missionaries grow! We love them all so much. It is such a bitter sweet feeling. One minute I'm crying that I've missed my grandchildren growing up and the next I'm crying that I'm going to miss watching the rest of the missionaries grow and change. Thank you so much Mom's and Dad's for raising these great young men and women that serve in the Ukraine Donetsk Mission! We love you!!!

New Missionaries May 2011

2011-05-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

We had quite a big group this time! Seven new missionaries!!!

Elder DeMille is from Cedar City, Utah. He is # 9 in his family of 3 brothers and 6 sisters. His trainer is Elder Solin and they are serving in Obedinyoni (in the Donetsk area).

Elder Frandsen is from South Jordan, Utah. He is the oldest in his family of 2 brothers and 1 sister. His trainer is Elder Perry and they are serving in Alexsavka (Kharkov area).

Elder Berger is from Medina, Ohio. He is the youngest in his family with an older brother and sister. His trainer is Elder Nielsen and they are serving in Petrosky (Donetsk Area).

Elder Arrington is from Coweta, Ok. He is the 2nd youngest in the family of 4 with an older sister and brother and 1 younger sister. His trainer is Elder T. Young and they are serving in North Saltivka (Kharkov area).

Elder J. Smith is from Chino, Calif. He is 3rd in his family with an older brother and sister and 1 younger sister. His trainer is Elder Ostler and they are serving in Mariupol (on the Azoff Sea).

Elder Taylor is from Syracuse, Ut. He is from a family of 6 sisters and 1 brother and he is right in the middle. His trainer is Elder Noren and they are serving in Obedinyoni (Donetsk Area).

Elder Mironchenko is from Dayville, CT. He is the youngest in his family of a brother and a sister. His trainer is Elder Shorthill and they are serving in Mariupol (most southern part of mission).

Yummy pancakes for breakfast! Yeah!! No more MTC food!

Top row: New Missionaries: Elders Berger, DeMille, Smith, Taylor, Mironchenko, Frandsen and Berger. Bottom row: Elders Finneran & Duke (Zone Leaders), Elder Jensen (Office Elder), Elder Ryser (Assistant) and Elder Barton (Office Elder). Sharp looking Missionaries!!!!!!!!!!!

Missionaries Leave May 2011

2011-05-15T11:25:00.000-07:00

Elder Moon and Elder Rader with us the night before they leave.
Two great young men! Elder Moon returns to Idaho and Elder Rader returns to Missouri.
They taught President Fry how to super-kone-tikki!
Elder Ryser and President Fry are making the most of it.
Super-Kone-tikki involves a cookie called super-kone-tikki and some milk.
You bite the ends of the cookie just a little then put one end into the milk and sip through it like a straw. You get cookie chocolate milk and then you eat the cookie and it is basically like dipping your cookie in milk. Hmmmmmmmmmmmm sssooooooooooooo gooooooooooood!!!!!!!!!!!!
I think this is one special treat you can only get in Ukraine!
I think they really liked this stuff. They look happy and content!
WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU ELDER RADER AND ELDER MOON! GOOD JOB AND WELL DONE THOU GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANTS!

Zone Leaders Council May 2011

2011-05-06T02:28:00.001-07:00

Zone Leaders Council - we start out with breakfast. President Fry whips up some pancake mix and syrup and the Assistants do the cooking. In the picture is (left to right) Elder Duke, Elder Kofoed, Elder Clarkstone, Elder Schoen and Elder Demyanov. I love these guys!!!

From left to right is Elder Rader, Elder McArthur, Elder Winchester, Elder Petersen and Elder Finneran. I love these guys too!! After breakfast, we start the meeting with a hymn and a prayer. President Fry gives opening remarks and then I go over any health issues that the Zone Leaders pass on to all the missionaries. Then we talk about concerns of missionaries and members and council on helping those concerns. The Assistants go into teaching from the lessons and then everyone practices giving committments and teaching. President Fry wraps things up and sometimes I do teaching also. We then have a late lunch early dinner. It has been great to see the growth of each missionary.

Our wonderful Assistants - Elder Moon and Elder Ryser. I love these two also! They are kept busy helping relay President Fry's messages to the members in leadership positions and to the missionaries. They arrange for any meetings with President Fry and they always help with set up and clean up. We could not do this without them. Our language skills are not there yet - as much as we try. They are also involved in much of the behind the scenes. Sometimes I think their load is very heavy because they also need to keep up the missionary work in their area. They are to be the example in leading the way of missionary work.

Here they are with matching ties and all - the 3 cooks! Great leaders!!! The one on the left is my companion! Getting matching ties here is something the missionaries do for their districts or companionships. I think it's awesome!

Our Zone Leaders & Assistant(sorry - Elder Ryser and Elder Winchester left for a lesson quickly and we weren't fast enough.) They are all such hard working missionaries and leaders. I regret that I didn't take more pictures at all the Zone Leader's Councils. Each set of Zone Leaders are responsible for about 12 to 14 missionaries in teaching them, helping them, encouraging them and giving them guidiance. They attend district meetings and go on splits to have 1 on 1 with them to help them find and teach people. The Assistants are over all the missionaries but they concentrate on helping the Zone Leaders. It is great to be associated with these young men as well as all the missionaries.

Easter in Ukraine

2011-04-26T01:22:00.001-07:00

I found these at a nearby store. They are cream puffs. They reminded me of something American for Easter. The frosting is a little melted because I transported them in the car.

A painted wooden egg. It has the Provislavic Temple painted on it. Sorry it isn't a good picture.

A wooden egg with beads. It has a picture of Christ(they call the picture an icon).

They use these cloths to cover their baskets. In the basket is bread like cake(Easter tradition) and eggs and (as President Fry calls it) "Spirits"(alcohol). They take these to their church and the Priest blesses it with holy water. The writing is "Kristos Vos-kres" which means "Christ is Risen". People say that here and you reply with "V-eestin-new Vos-kres" which means " Truly Risen."

These are painted wooden eggs I found in the Reenok(out door shopping kind of like a swap meet). They are so beautiful!

More wooden eggs up close.

These are really eggs(middle goo blown out) and painted a special way. They use bees wax and a small tool. They put a design on using the wax then dip it in dye then more design with wax and dip it again with another color. Any way it takes hours to make. You don't find these eggs any more. I was very lucky to have Sister Browning and Sister Burr looking for some. They gave me these eggs!

Here are more of the real eggs. They are very delicate and the designs are very intricate!

More of the real eggs wrapped in the tradition cloth and in a basket!

The cake like bread they make. It isn't real tasty. It smells good and looks good but very dry. President Fry said they were good with chocolate ice cream!

New Missionaries Arrive! March 30, 2011

2011-04-07T01:32:00.001-07:00

Elder Harvey is from Glendale, Az. He has 1 brother and 3 sisters. He enjoys football and basketball and being a missionary. His goal is to bring others unto Christ. We love him and are grateful to have him in our mission. His trainer is Elder Neal and they are serving in Novie Doma which is in the Kharkov area.

Elder Klestrup is from Soborg, Denmark. He has 2 brothers and 1 sister. He enjoys European football and basketball. His goal is to be the best missionary he can be. We love him and are grateful to have him here in our mission. His trainer is Elder Jahnert and they are serving in Makeevka which is close to Donetsk.

Mission Tour March 2011

2011-03-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

President & Sister Fry with President and Sister Schwitzer. Yes it was a wonderful mission tour! Yes it is cold! Yes we have a frozen smile!!!

Missionaries Leave March 2011

2011-03-23T11:01:00.001-07:00

Elder Stout and Elder Goodfellow. Two great misionaries head home. Good Luck and we miss you!!

Elder Stout is from Salt Lake City. He shared his talents here in the mission of playing the piano. We are very grateful to him.

Elder Goodfellow is from Virginia. We are grateful to him for serving here in the mission. Thanks for all your help in Sumy!

Lugansk and Sumy Branch Conferences

2011-03-09T07:17:00.000-08:00

Elder and Sister Aagard are serving in Sumy. They've done a lot to help strengthen the branch. After the branch conference they had prepared food for a linger-longer. The members really loved it and I think it helps bring unity to the branch. Elder and Sister Aagard - you're the best!!
A visit to the Kupets family with Elders Thomas and Goodfellow. We have become quite close to this family over the last almost 3 years. We love them and are grateful for them and their service in the branch.
Natasha and her mom, Ludmilla. It has been so fun to get to know them also. They are a great asset to the branch.
Elder Thomas with the Kupets children.
Elder Goodfellow and the Kupets children.
Elder Stout and Elder Belyeu are also serving in the Sumy Branch. Elder Belyeu is putting his talents to use by being the branch clerk and Elder Stout adds so much to the branch with his musical abilities. Good job Elders!!
Lugansk is another little branch in the mission. The members are so wonderful! The missionaries are so valuable to these small branches. We love all our missionaries and the time and dedication to the responsibilities of missionary work. They are awesome!!!!

Zone Leaders Council

2011-03-09T06:51:00.001-08:00

Our Assistants Elder Ryser and Elder Moon. They help so much with Zone Leaders Council. They fix breakfast for the zone leaders, they do clean up(dishes) prepare an agenda, conduct, teach, and support President Fry and I. Great leaders!!!

Elder Jahnert is serving in Gorlevka and Elder Schoen is serving in Petrosky. Notice the tie. We just finished eating when I took the picture.

Elder Schoen, Elder Barton(serving in Donetsk Center) and Elder Finneran(serving in Donetsk Center). This zone leaders council was awesome. We discussed where the mission was going and what President Fry's vision is. Lots of really good comments and the spirit was really strong.

Elder Kofoed is serving in Petrosky and Elder Petersen is serving in Gorlevka. Two young zone leaders that have stepped up to the plate and are doing a great job with their zones.

Elder Jensen and Elder Rader are serving in Kharkov B zone in the XTZ and Novie Doma area. Their maturity in the mission adds a lot to the council. We are grateful for them.

Elder Neal and Elder Clarkstone are serving in Kharkov A zone which is in the center of town in Kharkov. They both brought a great spirit to the council. Super Elders!!!

This is the awesome group! We love them so much and appreciate all their hard work. The mission could not function without our leaders. Thanks for your great example Elders!!!

New Missionaries in Feb 2011

2011-02-23T05:52:00.000-08:00

Elder Cummings is from Chesapeake, Va. He enjoys rock climing, martial arts and scuba diving. He has 3 brothers and 2 sisters. We are really glad he chose to go on a mission!! And that he is here in our mission!

Elder Antamanov is from Krasnoyarsk Russia(Novosibirsk Mission). He has 2 older brothers and he is the only member in his family. He enjoys reading and playing soccer. He knows English very well and we are thrilled to have him be a part of our mission!!

Sister Hudson is from Calgary Alberta Canada. She has 2 older sisters, 1 older brother and 1 younger sister. She was studying to be a nurse and took a break to come and serve the Lord. We are so happy she is here!!

Elder Cummins is from No. Ogden Utah. He has 1 younger sister and 2 younger brothers. He enjoys all sports but mostly biking and running. We are so grateful he is here serving with us!!

Our wonderful Feb. Missionaries!! As we have visited with these new missionaries, we have found a great spirit about them. They have strong testimonies and are anxious to share them. We love them and thank their parents for sharing them with us.

Missionaries Return to Donetsk Mission

2011-02-23T05:35:00.000-08:00

Sister Mezinets returns home from the Yekaterinburg Mission. She is from Makeevka and her brother, sister, mom and the Branch President that sent her out are in this picture. More people came to see her also. She will be a great asset to her branch just as she was to her mission.

Sister Tanadychuk is from Mariupol and she returns home from the Novosibirsk Mission. Her Branch President and young women leader came to welcome her home along with some other people as well. She also will be a great strength to the branch.

Missionaries Leave Feb 2011

2011-02-17T10:06:00.001-08:00

Elder and Sister Reed served as our CES couple in Kharkov. As you can see - they were very active and had as much energy and more than those they served!! They were perfect for the young adults and youth. We are missing them already. They were from California but are going to reside now in Colorado Springs, Co.
Elder Dietrich(left) is from Bluffdale, Utah. His last area that he served in was Lugansk with Elder Belyeu(right). We really are going to miss this Elder!!!
Elder Hess is from Alpine, Utah. We appreciate his service and are grateful we had the opportunity to serve with him. Yep his red hair matches his personality!! Lot's of Spirit!
Elder Young(right) is from O Fallon, Ill. He served with Elder Petersen(left) his last transfer in Donetsk Center. We are grateful for his service and know he will do well. We miss you!!
What a great group!! Thanks for all your service and hard work. You are blessed for your service! We miss you all!!

New Missionaries Arrive Jan 2011

2011-01-07T05:45:00.001-08:00

Sister Vasiliva is from Kharkov and she is serving a mini-mission as a trainer. She served a mission in Romania. She has been so awesome to help us out from time to time when we are shorthanded! We love and appreciate her so much!!!

Elder Loveridge is from American Fork Utah. He loves horses and he plays the drums. We are so excited to have him serving here in our mission!

Elder Stradling is from Mesa Arizona. He loves music and plays the guitar, harmonica, piano, djembe drum & ukulele. We are so grateful he has come to our mission!

Sister Haymond is from Manti Utah. She is the oldest in her family and she enjoys snowboarding, drawing and reading. It has been a pleasure, this last week, to have her in our home. We are so glad she is here!

Sister Watts is from Sandy, Utah. She is the oldest in her family. She enjoys all sports especially tennis. We have felt her warm sweet spirit this week in our home. We are grateful to have her in our mission.

Sister Ward is from Laguna Hills California. She enjoys kick boxing, cooking and plays the piano. We have been blessed to get to know her this week as she stayed in our home. We are very happy to have her in our mission!

The Assistants, Elder Moon & Elder Hess, our new Elders, Elder Stradling & Elder Loveridge. What great Elders we have!!

The sisters have really brought a wonderful spirit to our home while they stayed here. It will be a great experience to watch them grow and progress.

Elder Thornburg(office), Elder Kofoed(just returned from having surgery in the states) Elder McCallson(office), Elder Loveridge & Elder Stradling. I think we wore the new Elders out this day!

These are beautiful young women to share the gospel here in Ukraine!

And here they all are. This group has a definite special spirit about them. It has been such a blessing to get to know them this week. President Fry and I just kept saying, "what a wonderful feeling there has been with this group." Thank you parents for raising such great young men and women!!!!

Sister Krivulya finishes her Mission

2010-12-27T03:52:00.001-08:00

Sister Krivulya returns to the Ekaterinburg mission. We appreciate her service and dedication to the mission. We love and miss her.

December Missionaires go Home

2010-12-18T05:45:00.001-08:00

What a great group of missionaries!!! Sister Burke from Georgia, Sister Khilova from Ukraine, Elder Shipp from Arizonia, Elder Tillotson from South Carolina and Elder Hyer from Nevada.

Elder Hyer's family came to pick him up from his mission. His brother Jared(Elder Hyer must be the brother of Jared then, Ha Ha) and his parents. It was wonderful to meet them! (They brought over the mission calendars for us, thank you thank you!)

Sister Burke and Sister Khilova. Two angels sent to us. It was a pleasure to have you in the mission. We love you and miss you!

Elder Shipp, Elder Hyer, Elder Tillotson - great dedicated young men. We love you and miss you too!!

Visiting Petrosky Primary

2010-12-18T05:38:00.001-08:00

It was so fun to visit this Primary class in Petrosky. They have one of the more larger Primarys in the mission - about 10-15. They acted out the first Christmas and it was adorable!

The children loved acting this out. It was fun to watch and observe!

Family Home Evening with the Tecamerov Family

2010-12-18T05:14:00.000-08:00

The Tecamerov Family has 5 boys. We had family home evening with them and had a blast! Elders Hyer & Hess interrupted and Elder Ostler was there helping also. During dinner we talked about Christmas traditions. They celebrate Christmas like we do on the 25th of December. People in Ukraine celebrate on January 7th but because they are members of the Church, they have chosen to celebrate it when the majority of the church does. Sometimes this means that their children go to school on Christmas day. They enjoy caroling to the widowed in their branch on Christmas Eve then returning home and playing games. They also exchange gifts on Christmas morning. They read from Luke in the Bible about Christ's birth as well. After dinner the Elders gave a lesson and then President Tecamerov(he is the District President in Donetsk) told us a funny story. There is a certain food here called hol-i-dets and it is made with pig fat and other things and it is a traditional food that the members love. They always try to feed it to the missionaries and the missionaries don't like it. Well these 2 missionaries were at a members house and was served a large portion of holidets. When the member left the room, they noticed an open window so they took the food and threw it out the window only to discover that the 2nd window was closed! So all this food was dripping down the window. They paniced and quickly closed the drapes! Well needless to say they thanked the people for the food and needed to be on there way. They never ate at their house again! We were laughing so hard as he told this story - we didn't even need interruptation. His acting it out was all the interruptation we needed!!!

A VISIT FROM THE SISTERS

2010-12-18T05:08:00.000-08:00

Back row: Sister Ludmilla, myself, Sister Khilova, Sister Howell, Sister Krivulya, Sister Kartoshova & Sister Burke. We got together and they fixed lunch. It was great to visit with them. I love them tons!!!!

New Missionaries November 2010

2010-11-29T02:11:00.000-08:00

It is always a happy day to receive New Missionaires! They have such a great spirit about them!

Elder Young is from Springville Utah. He enjoys skiing, running, soccer, mountain biking, playing the piano and his mom's cooking! Elder Young is the 3rd Elder Young in our mission! We are very happy to have him here with us serving in Ukraine! His trainer is Elder Duke and they are serving in Cold Mountain(Kharkov area).

Elder Smith is from Houston, Texas. He enjoys baseball, football and basketball. His trainer is Elder Hazen(also from Texas) and they are serving in Mariupol. Mariupol is south of Donetsk on the Azoff Sea. We are grateful to have Elder Smith in our mission and we are grateful for the talents he will share.

Elder Bangerter is from Melba Idaho(near Bosie). He enjoys hunting, fishing, camping, skiing and all kinds of sports. We welcome him into the mission and know that he will be a great assset to the mission. His trainer is Elder Rice and they are serving in Alexsavka(Kharkov area).

Elder Noren is from Houston, Texas. We now have 4 Elders from Texas! It is so interesting to see so many missionaries from all over come to us. Elder Noren loves to wake board and to play basketball. He will also contribute so much to the mission. We are excited to have him here.! His trainer is Elder Winchester and they are serving in Gorlevka just outside of Donetsk.

At the Temple

2010-11-24T08:10:00.000-08:00

We had a Mission President's Seminar in Kiev and we had the opportunity to go to the Temple! It was such a highlight to our seminar!
We enjoyed all that we learned at the seminar and we loved to see all the other Mission President couples. It was great to share our feelings and testimonies as this was our last one.
Three Mission Presidents Couples that served in the Ukraine Donetsk Mission (Pres. & Sis. Manchos 1996-1999, Pres. & Sis. Fry 2008-2011, Sis. & Pres. Christiansen 2002-2005).
The day after the seminar, we met Olya and Vitaly and Masha at the temple. It was a beautiful day to have a family sealed in the temple! They are such a special family to us. They were so grateful and happy to have this experience and we are grateful to have shared in their joy.
Elder and Sister Mead(humanitarin couple), joined Olya, Vitaly, Masha and us at the temple. Olya is the Mead's interruptor. When the Kinghorns served - they hired Olya and shared the gospel with her. They have kept in touch and I know they were here with us in spirit.

Missionaries Leave November 2010

2010-11-17T06:27:00.000-08:00

This has been a wonderfull group to have worked with in the mission. They are all valiant servants of the Lord. Good byes are always so hard. Good job - well done!

Elder Smith goes home to Meza Az. Elder Moore goes to a new home(parents moved) in Frankfort Germany. Elder Hansen goes home to Cear Hills, Utah. Best to you all!

Elder Richardson goes home to Wilmete, Ill. Elder Walton goes home to Provo, Utah. We miss you already!

Elder Allred goes home to Mapleton, Utah. Elder Stirling goes home to Gilbert, Az. Good luck to all of you!

Along with our Elders, we send home a wonderful couple, Elder and Sister Mead. Thanks to all the wonderful projects you did as our humanitarian couple. The people here love you and we are so grateful you served here with us. You've touched many lives and made a huge difference!

New Missionaries in September 2010

2010-10-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

Our New Missionaries arrived on September 1st. They are Elders Mendoza, Brimley, Nielsen and Petterson. We enjoy having them here with us!!!

Elder Brimley is from Cedar Hills Utah. He enjoys football and running and he ran the St. George Marathon. His trainer is Elder Mueller and they are serving in Petrosky(Donetsk area).

Elder Nielsen is from Salt Lake City Utah. He enjoys tennis, reading and wake boarding. His trainer is Elder Jensen and they are serving in XTZ(Kharkov area).

Elder Petterson is from Ogden Utah. He enjoys music and sports. His trainer is Elder Neil and they are serving in Makeevka(Donetsk area).

Elder Mendoza is from Roy Utah. He enjoys sports, reading and computors. His trainer is Elder Prince and they are serving in Cold Mountain(Kharkov area).

Kyiv Temple Dedication August 29, 2010

2010-08-31T06:17:00.000-07:00

The Kyiv Temple Dedication on August 29, 2010. They came by the bus loads!!!

They walked and walked and walked.

They came to listen to a Prophet's voice and hear the word of God.

They came to feel the spirit and witness this choice event.
This was a great gathering. The cultural event the night before was spactacular! Many of the members went and participated and it was exciting to see them do so.
The youth enjoyed the Dedication also. It has been a great experience to get to know these young women.
Elder Richardson taking a picture of Elder Clarkstone, Elder Lott and some members in their branch that came to the Dedication.
It was so wonderful to see the faces of the Saints as they came out of the first session of the Dedication. They are so happy to have a Temple here in Ukraine!! Their lives are being so blessed! We really love the people and it was so touching to be with them on this happy occasion!

August Missionaries Return Home

2010-08-31T05:53:00.000-07:00

From left to right: Elder Kearsley, Elder Duffy, Elder Jones, Elder Valverde, Elder Howard. We love you and will miss you! Thanks for a mission well served!

Elder Duffy and Elder Jones.

Elder Valverde and Elder Kearsley.

Last meal in Ukraine!!!

Elder Howard eating the yummy ice cream they make here.

Zone Conferences August 2010

2010-08-15T08:40:00.000-07:00

Baptism in Petrosky - Elder Mueller and Elder Johnson with a member, Evaugh baptising Sergey on August 7th.

NEW EMPHASIS FROM PREACH MY GOSPEL!!! We have been given 8 lessons from Preach My Gospel to teach the missionaries in leadership training sessions. For zone conference we began lesson 1. "THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST - THE MISSIONARY PURPOSE." President Fry presented this in Zone Leaders Council and he did a great job in zone conference too. These are some points he stressed using the scriptures. The true doctrine of Christ is: faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost and enduring to the end. He instructed the missionaries to teach with: boldness, plainness, by their language and understanding, be on their level, follow the Son with full purpose of heart, authority and power. We are working with other's eternal salvation. The Holy Ghost is a gift - obtain it, teach with it, and maintain it. Love for the work - have a desire - love for those we teach. Love the Lord - love thy neighbor. We must have love in order to teach the people. Forget your inadequacies - love the people - they will feel your love for them! Five things to remember when teaching: 1. Teach people not lessons 2. Ask inspired questions - thought provoking 3. LISTEN 4. Discern what the spirit tells you 5. Teach doctrine. We did our skills practicing and the assistants, zone leaders, President and I went around and helped out. Since this was presented in Zone Leaders Council (4 weeks ago) the zone leaders have been busy teaching in the districts and the results have been amazing! The missionaries seem to really enjoy this and they are having great success. Four weeks ago, we had 7 on date for baptism and now we have 39!!!! People are very excited and the missionaries are very busy teaching them and getting them ready to be baptised!! President had a dream a few weeks ago that he didn't have enough baptismal clothing to go around and he was frantically hunting some down! Maybe his dream will come true.

New Missionaries Arrive July 2010

2010-08-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

Elder Zsembery, Elder Duffy(an assistant) Elder Solin and Elder Pulsipher. We are so grateful they are here in our mission!!

Elder Solin is from St. Petersburg Russia. He likes swimming , Kayaking and he is learning to play the piano(he plays by ear). His Trainer is Elder Ryser and they are serving in Alexsavka.

Elder Pulsipher is from Denver, Co. He likes playing tennis and and was a tennis instructor. He is the oldest in his family. His trainer is Elder Jahnert and they are serving in Alexsavka.

Elder Zsembery is from New York. He likes to work on cars and bicycles. He is 1 of 12 children and four of his siblings were adopted from Latvia. His trainer is Elder McCallson and they are serving in Novia Doma.

Missionaries Departed in July

2010-08-13T08:49:00.000-07:00

Sister Ward - We love you and miss you! Thank you for your awesome service!!!!!

Elder Waldsworth - One Terrific Missionary!! We love and miss you!

Elder Beus - We are barely surviving without you!!! We love you and miss you!

Hard working successful Missionaries. Good luck in all you do. Thank you for your service!!

Couples Conference, New Couples, New Sister Missionary

2010-07-06T11:05:00.000-07:00

We had a blast at our couple's conference! We enjoyed staying at the mission home and being more relaxed. We had a good session of planning and reviewing. We visited parks and the new Soccer Stadium that will host teams for the Euro Cup in 2012. We attended an ARP meeting put on by the Meads(our Humanitarin couple in Donetsk). Also attending the conference was our driver Vladimir and his wife, Galena, and son, Max. Vladimir has been vital to us for without him, we could not get around the mission as easily. He is a Branch President and we attended his branch on Sunday. He is a great asset to the mission and district. Olya(our Russian tutor and the Meads interruptor) and her husband, Vitally, and their 3 month old daughter, Masha, attended as well. They also have been a great asset to the mission and we could not accomplish much without their help. All in all we had a wonderful conference and accomplished much!

Our newest couple is the Burrs. They are from Orem Utah and are serving in Kharkov as the Unemployment Specialist Directors for Ukraine and Humanitarian couple for Kharkov area. We are so excited to have them in the mission. We love them and they are a great asset!

Elder and Sister Aagard are from Burlington Wy. They started out as a proselyting couple in Kharkov but we asked them to be our office couple when we didn't have a replacement for the Salomonsons. They are doing a great job and we love and appreciate them so much!

Sister Kartashova finally arrives in the mission. She was to come here in Feb. but could not get a visa so she started her mission in the Moscow West Mission. We are so grateful to finally have her here with us. She is from the St. Petersburg Mission.

Donetsk Zone Conference

2010-06-24T08:12:00.000-07:00

WOW!! This has been the a very powerful zone conference!! Last time it was on the HEART and this time it was on the SPIRIT. Soften the HEART and let the SPIRIT into the HEART. E. Moore & E. Howard: Teach the things that the SPIRIT puts in your HEART. We are not the true teachers - the SPIRIT is. We prepare the way - we are the instruments in the Lord's hands. E. Richardson & E. Valverde: Change of HEART when we put the Lord's desires before our own - then we are ready for the SPIRIT. We are like a catalyst when we are teachers. We help make the reaction possible between the HEART & the SPIRIT. E. Hess & E. Jones: Be believing and pray - the SPIRIT is given by the prayer of faith. Create an atmosphere were the SPIRIT can preside. Then the SPIRIT edifies what is being taught is true. E. Beus & E. Duffy: Sometimes we don't see things the way they really are but the SPIRIT does. Help our investigators to feel the SPIRIT and then help them to act on it. Pres. Fry: The SPIRIT yields fruits. Know what to do. Have the capacity to carry out what the SPIRIT has instructed you to do. Put forth the effort to magnify your calling. (THIS NEXT PART IS THE MOST POWERFUL ADDRESS I'VE HEARD PRESIDENT FRY GIVE. THE SPIRIT WAS VERY STRONG AND HE WAS VERY BOLD IN DELIVERING WHAT THE SPIRIT DIRECTED!!!) He talked about Moses delivering the HIGHER LAW and the Israelites were not ready. He proposed a "HIGHER LAW" for those who are ready. He discussed the white handbook and the promise at the beginning from the Prophet and the Apostles that if we follow these standards they will help us magnify our calling and protect us physically and spiritually. Then he went over Mission Policy that has been put into place to: 1. help the missionaries bring others unto Christ and 2. help the members stand on their own to become a Stake(they rely heavily on the missionaries for everything). He quickly went over the policies and most of these are in the white hand book - some are mission policy to help missionaries use time more effectively and for members to help each other more. Now I'm sure you are wondering what is the HIGHER LAW - it is taking these policies and standards to a higher level if they choose. The Zone Leaders & Assistants discussed theses in Zone Leader's Council and were so positive and excited about them.(They totally opened up and it was the first time that everyone agreed and talked so positively - giving more suggestions etc. The SPIRIT was so strong there too!). - OK what is the "HIGHER LAW?" 1. Only listen to Tabernacle Choir Music to invite the SPIRIT more. 2. Emails to President Fry every week. Two of the zone leaders immediately(after zone leaders council a week and a half ago) started living the HIGHER LAW and in one day they handed out 35 Books of Mormon, taught 42 lessons on the street, received 19 contacts and 2 referrals! That is more than some do in a whole transfer!!! They were so excited and reported their success right away. Now when President presented this in zone conference he gave them a very powerful promise which is - if they live the HIGHER LAW - they will have the success they've wanted and their Baptisms would increase. They will be so busy they won't know what to do, their families lives will be blessed because of their service and they will have the SPIRIT brought into their HEARTS and will be taught by it daily. They will flow with the language and those being taught will feel of the SPIRIT also. They will be brought to a higher level of commitment to serve the Lord the rest of their lives. If they choose not to follow the HIGHER LAW they will have no promise. Now that seems simple and in reality it is but the whole purpose is to help the missionaries learn to serve the Master - to live the white hand book and be obedient and sacrifice, which brings humility and then the miracle within them happens! They feel and want to live the HIGHER LAW in every aspect of the gospel. They put the Lord first and serve Him and their fellowman instead of serving themselves. The HIGHER LAW is living by the SPIRIT of the law having experienced the letter of the law and knowing the difference. I'm so excited to work harder to live the HIGHER LAW in all my doings. I've got to re- think my goals so that I'm serving others and trying to make a difference in their lives instead of just trying to make a difference in my own life. It's hard to express the feelings I felt during the meeting and convey them to you because I was really overwhelmed with the spirit. I know what I felt and what I need to do to make a change in my heart. I bare my testimony that the work here is the Lord's and I recommit myself to doing His will. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

New Missionary June 2010

2010-06-18T07:45:00.001-07:00

Elder Thornburg is from Coto de Caza( Orange Co. ) Calif. He likes mountain biking, wake-boarding, snow boarding and backpacking. He also likes computers and he was a web designer. We are happy he is serving here with us in Ukraine.

Missionaries Leave June 2010

2010-06-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

The very first group we met at the airport in 2008. We also met them at the MTC. This was a hard group to say goodbye to. Elder Beus(with the phone) will not go home until July but we miss you Elders Brinton, Williams, Steele and Whitehead!!!!!

Elder Whitehead's parents came to pick him up. They live in our Stake in St. George UT. although we did not meet them until Elder Whitehead got his call. We went to his farewell and his setting apart. We appreciate all the support Brother and Sister Whitehead and all of our parents have given to us. We love you all!!!

Elder Steele goes home to Preston Idaho. We miss you and wish you the best!!

Elder Whitehead goes home to St. George, Utah. Say Hi! to everyone for us.

Elder Williams goes home to Draper Utah. We are grateful for his service here in Ukraine. We love you!

Elder Brinton goes home to Fremont Calif. We love you and appreciate your service here in Ukraine.

Even hard working missionaries need a nap every now and then.

Ukrainian eggs. A lady in Sumy makes these and does an excellent job!! Many Elders take these home as souvenirs.

Yoo-Dachie-vam! Good Luck and thank you for all the great work you've done here in Ukraine! We love you!!!

Donetsk and Kharkov Zone Conferences

2010-05-27T03:57:00.000-07:00

The Zone Conferences were SUPERB!!! The subject was HEART: all of the zone leaders did such a great job!! I was so inspired and uplifted. I'll try to keep it short but how can I when it is all so good?Elders Allred and Goodfellow talked about "A MIGHTY CHANGE OF HEART". We cannot progress without a change of heart. We have a divine identity and who we are is always greater than our circumstance. Faith, Repentance and a desire to not do evil. We need to make committments and having a real intent to do what we've committed to do. Elders Jones and Howard talked about "LOCK YOUR HEART". We agreed to sarifice and leave things behind when we wrote our acceptance letter to come on a mission. What do we lock our hearts from - the world, girls, disobedience, gossip and music. We need to stay focused and keep from becoming casual. It is a mission effort. It's like a castle - we all have walls that build a castle - satan looks for our weaknesses to weaken the castle. It affects everyone when our walls are weakened. We need to stay loyal to God and to each other by keeping our walls strong. Elders Williams and Steele talked about "HOW CAN HAVING A RIGHTEOUS HEART HELP MISSIONARY WORK?" Having a righteous heart is being one with God. One heart and one mind. We need to build a fortress of righteousness with faith , hope, patience, obedience, knowledge, humility and charity. Chariety is a driving force. It fuels the heart like fuel to our engine. Elders Smith and Hess talked about a broken heart and a contrite spirit. "NEW HEART"and "NEW SPIRIT." Faith in Christ and applying the Atonement will help us continue to have a change of heart and a desire to continue to change. Elder Duffy and Elder Shipp says ,"THE HEART IS THE CENTER OF EVERYTHING WE DO."The heart produces the desire. The center of our heart is "to love God with all our heart, soul and mind." We should do His work in His way by His power. Where your heart is - is shown by your actions. Elders Beus & Whitehead talked about the DANGERS. Hardening your hearts is a danger - the I don't care attitudes, lack of desire, disobedience, being comfortable and being casual can all be like a snake biting us. To avoid dangers - read the WHITE HANDBOOK. They compared the heart that beats and keeps us alive as God and the arteries being Pres. Fry and all of the missionaries as the capilaires. Not doing what Pres. Fry tells us to do is like telling the arteries that we don't want anymore blood - cutting ourselves off and dieing!! President Fry says,"HOW DO YOU KNOW YOU'VE HAD A CHANGE OF HEART?" 1. Have you been spiritually born of God? 2. Have you received His image in your countenances? 3. Do you exercise faith in the redemption of him who created you?How can we expect our investigatiors to have a change of heart if we are not willing to either?Knit your hearts together with your companion and God. Turn your life over to God thru a broken heart and contrite spirit, humility and meekness. If you lose your life to God - you will find ETERNAL LIFE!

Elder and Sister Salomonson

2010-05-24T10:48:00.001-07:00

Elder and Sister Salomonson have served faithfully as our Office Couple. They have been the backbone of the mission. We love and appreciate their service and we all miss them!!

Some members from Makevka Branch saying good-bye to the Salomonson's.

Sister Lydia works in the office and is a wonderful cook. It always smells so good in there!

The Salomonson's are from Salt Lake City Valley in South Jordan. When they got married, their goal was to serve a mission. All the Missionaries and the members here in the Ukraine Donetsk Mission have appreciated their serve and have really enjoyed getting to know them. They will always be remembered here. We love you!!!!

The missionaries say hello and that they love and miss you!! Well done thy "Good and Faithful Servant!" Spa-cee-ba Vam!!!!

Missionaries Depart, New Missionaries, Transfer Day

2010-05-08T05:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry it took so long to post this time. I went home for my sons wedding. I appreicate Sister Salomonson for taking pictures for me. I feel bad that I missed so much but grateful to be able to be with my son on his wedding day.

These young men came into the mission 1 week before we got here. We met them in the MTC.

Elder Payton Thompson from Carbondale, Ill. Thanks for your service!!

Elder Jacob LaMarr from Loveland Co. Thanks for your service!!

Elder A. Thompson, Elder LaMarr, and Elder P. Thompson. We love you guys!!

Elder Avery Thompson from Kahuku, HI. Thank you for your service!!

We will truly miss you. You've been great examples and keep up the good work!

NEW MISSIONARIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Elder Armstrong is from BC Canada. Welcome! He is serving with Elder Clarkstone in XTZ.

Elder Duke is from Hurricane, Ut. Welcome! He is serving with Elder Thomas in Makeevka.

Elder Hazen is from Austin, TX. Welcome! He is serving with Elder Moon in Makeevka.

Elder Petersen is from Cokeville, Wy. Welcome! He is serving with Elder Valverde in Cold Mountain.

Elder Kontsedaylo is from Australia but originally he is from Ukraine. Welcome! He is serving with Elder Barton in Obedinyoni.

Elder Kofoed is from Spanish Fork, Ut. Welcome! He is serving with Elder Wadsworth in Alexsavka.

Elder Sokolovsky is a mini-missionary and is from Donetsk. He is serving with Elder Jensen in Saltivka.

TRANSFER DAY!

Elder Stirling is now serving in Sumy as the 2nd counselor in the Branch Presidency. His companion is Elder Kearsley.

Elder Johnson and Elder Rallison. Elder Johnson heads to Mariupol to be with Elder Dietrich and Elder Rallison heads to Novie Doma to be with Elder Ryser.

Elder Brady and Elder Beck are off to Lugansk to serve together.

Sister Krivulya and Sister Ward will serve in Obedinyoni.

Elder Winchester is off to Mariupol to serve with Elder Jahnert, Elder Moon is a trainer serving with Elder Hazen in Makeevka, Elder Gardner is off to Saltivka to serve with Elder McArthur.

Our new missionaries: Elder Kofoed, Elder Petersen, Elder Armstrong and Elder Kontsedaylo.

Elder Brinton is off to Center Donestk to serve with Elder Cullen. Elder Rice heads to Lugansk to serve with Elder Walton.

Elder Howard heads to Gorlevka to serve with Elder Jones, Elder Allred stays in Donetsk Central to serve with Elder Goodfellow and our mini-missionary, Elder Sokolovsky off to Saltivka to serve with Elder Jensen.

Elder Finneran remains in Makeevka and will be serving with Elder Neal where as Elder Stout moves to Gorlevka to serve with Elder Moore.

Elder Hansen remains in Petrosky serving with Elder Mueller, Elder Neal serving with Elder Finneran in Makeevka, Elder Prince is off to Kharkov Center to serve with Elder McCallson, Elder Tillotson is remaining in Obedinyoni with Elder Lott and Elder Tilgner heads to Gorlevka to serve with Elder Raider.

Other changes are: Elders Woolstenhulme and Richardson are in the Office, Elders Steele and Williams are Zone Leaders in Petrovsky, Elders Bell and Demyanov are in Sumy, Elders Duffy and Shipp are Zone Leaders in Kharkov Center, Elders Mikhailov and Belyeu are in Saltivka, Elders Hyer and Schoen are in Aleksevka, Elders Smith and Hess are Zone Leaders in Cold Mt., Sisters Belkina and Ziganshina are in Novie Doma and Elders Young and Calvert are in Novie Doma.

Just a quick note - I'm not sure who are district leaders or senior/junior companions but please know that being these or zone leaders or assistants is not done by senority. It is done by inspiration and what is needed for the time and situation. We have a very young mission and we use the older missionaries to help train the younger ones so if your missionary is now a junior companion or no longer a district or zone leader - it has nothing to do with disobedience but with helping this young mission grow and develop our younger missionaries. Also there is no line as far as junior comp. then senior comp. then trainer, district leader, zone leader etc. It is not done that way in our mission. Each position is looked at carefully and guided by the Holy Ghost in determining what is best for each missionary and circumstance. All of our missionaries are AWESOME!!! They each contribute to make our mission - each having their own set of talents and the Lord is guiding us to help them the best way possible. We love each missionary with all our hearts and hope their experience is one to remember and grow from. Please know they are where they need to be at this time. We thank you for all you do and for your support.

Zone Conferences April 2010

2010-04-13T09:38:00.000-07:00

Zone Conference this transfer was on Chapter 8 of Preach My Gospel "USING TIME WISELY." Both conferences were very informative. Elders Howard, Allred, Hess and Goodfellow talked about the "AREA BOOK" which is a record of investigators, in actives, and members being taught. President Fry had each companionship bring their area books and went thur it to organize them and learn how to effectively use them. That was very helpful.The area book is a great missionary tool and if we keep the record up to date it helps the next set of missionaries that come into the area. SETTING GOALS was also talked about by Elders Williams and Elder Jones. They said" Be specific and realistic when setting goals. Look at past goals and evaluate them. Make better goals. Goals help us to reach our full potential. Elders Steele, Shipp, Duffy and Smith talked about ACCOUNTABILITY. Some of their comments were: Be accountable to 1) self (moral agency - moral discipline - sometimes we do what is easy - not necessarily what is right. We are accountable for how we use our time. We can be a more affective missionary by using our time wisely.)2) leaders (called by a Prophet of God to be here. We are accountable to our leaders as we strive to improve and be more obedient.) 3) God. (He has given us our talents and this stewardship - we need to give Him an account daily). Elder Beus and Elder Whitehead talked about PLANNING DAILY and demonstrated a planning session. It incorporated the use of the area book also. They said," Good success in the mission is due to good planning. Make planning a revelatory experience." The spirit was strong and the leaders have great knowledge and respect of the Gospel.

IT'S BEEN A BUSY WEEK!!

2010-03-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

Elder Schoen is from Gravenhurst Ontario, Canada. He is our Newest Missionary and we are so happy to have him in the mission!!
Alexsay Baptised his brother Sergey. He also baptised his sister about a year ago. He was baptised a little over a year ago.

Elder Beus and Elder LaMarr taught Sergey.

The whole family. Mom is not a member yet, but she is very proud of her children.

It's time for Elder Balser to head home. At the airport to see him off are Elder Beus, Vladimir, and Elder LaMarr.

We will miss Elder Balser. We love you and thank you for your service!

Olya's baby shower! It is going to be a girl. She is due the end of March. We are very excited for her!

Leara is from the Makeevka Branch. We have developed a friendship. She has a sweet testimony.

The Mission Presidency. Pres. Fry, Pres. Koslov(he fell and broke his hip) and Pres. Pacilak. We hope Pres. Koslov gets out of the hospital soon. We took him some gifts from the Kinghorns. He is very appreciative and says "Thanks!" to the Kinghorns.

President Fry working hard on his bike. Way to go! Keep up the good work!!!

Zone Conferences for February

2010-03-12T03:05:00.000-08:00

Wow! The time has flown and I'm late again on posting. Sorry! Our Zone Conferences this time was on "Gaining the Trust of the Members." It was awesome!!! (I was in and out of the meetings because I fixed the food this time but I did catch some of what was said. Next time we will order Pizza so I'll get to be in the meeting more). We started out with talking about gaining the trust of your companion. Avoiding gossip, being forgiving, be a friend, serve your companion, make compromises, have fun, good sense of humor, be honest, have humility & charity. Missionary conduct at Church was also discussed: helping investigators feel comfortable, showing members how important investigators are and help them get accquainted with each other, help them have a good experience at Church. Strengthening the members was talked about also: inspire them, be happy while at Church , talk to every member, "Be ye doers of the word," participate in lessons in class. When visiting a members home: good quality lessons, be there for a purpose, help build faith, increase trust and uplift the members spiritually. Show members you are obedient, and be an example of the believers! Get members excited about the missionary work, involve them. President Fry has implemented visiting less actives once a week - missionaries and members together. Donetsk will do this on Thursday evenings and Kharkov on Friday evenings. (Everyone please pray for our success. The more we petition the Lord - the more success and blessings we receive. We are already getting reports back from Branch Presidents of the success they are having!!!) Finding people was discussed also during our meeting. It is quite intimidating to contact on the street but let me tell you - these missionaries are brave and bold! I'm so proud of them. Their attitudes are incredible! When we first got here, very few missionaries contacted while on public transportation. The people here, while on public transportation, act like they really don't want to be bothered but we've had success with this lately. Our missionaries are stepping it up and moving forward - making progress! There is no looking back now! The future looks bright and it's awesome! President Fry talked about seeking the Lord's guidiance to know where to contact. Praying to be led to those needing the gospel and wanting it in their lives. Time and time again a missionary will tell us of a prompting they had to contact in a certain area or tract in a certain apartment complex(we call them a dom) and how they were led to someone that listened and wanted to know more. The missionaries are finding more and more people to teach and we have close to 20 people on date for baptism! The work moves forth. It is an exciting time to be in Ukraine with the Temple being built. The members are so excited! It's a wonderful feeling. We've been having Branch and District Conferences and talking about preparing for the Temple, Rescuing those less-active, and the Atonement. It has been very uplifting and I have felt the spirit so strong. The Lord's work is awesome! The Gospel is touching the lives of the wonderful people here. I love the Lord, my Savior and Redeemer. The missionaries have been such an example to me. Thank you parents for raising wonderful young men and women and for sharing them with us and the people in Ukraine.

Lot's Happening in February 2010

2010-03-05T09:26:00.000-08:00

Sister Dyachenko leaves for the MTC. She is from Petrosky(near Donetsk) and she will serve in the Ukraine Neperpatrosk Mission.

Elder McCallson is from Salt Lake City, Utah and we are so glad he is here with us. He is the only missionary sent to us this time around. His trainer is Elder Walton and they are serving in Kharkov Center.

Elder Scrdmoukhov is a mini-missionary(we have mini-missionaries when we have an odd number of Elders or Sisters). He is from Gorlevka(about 40 min. outside of Donetsk). He is serving for 6 weeks and his trainer is Elder Barton. They are serving in Mariupol(south of Donetsk). We are grateful for his service!

Elder Hyer and Elder Belyeu doing service by shoveling snow in front of the Church in Kharkov Center. It was 2 to 3 inches of ice just starting to melt. Good job Elders!!!

The snow banks starting to break on a little river that runs through Kharkov. The ice has been treacherous this year all over the mission. The side walks have been pure ice! Many layers of ice! Sister Salomonson(office couple) fell and broke her elbow. She has healed and doing much better. Our other Senior couples have had a turn at falling also and have survived(thank heaven!) Our missionaries seem to have more balance than us older missionaries. The people here walk on the ice like it wasn't even there! Spiked high heels and all!!! It has been a very long cold winter compared to last winter. Things are finally starting to melt and under the ice is mud! Oh well - we'd rather have mud than ice! I hope spring will be here soon!!! The days are finally getting longer and people seem happier in general.

One Lone Missionary this Transfer!!!

2010-02-05T01:57:00.000-08:00

Elder LaMarr and our new missionary, Elder McCallison. He is from SLC Utah.

We are so glad to have him with us. His trainer will be Elder Walton and they will be serving in Kharkov Center.

Missionaries Depart Ukraine Feb. 2010

2010-02-02T09:44:00.000-08:00

Elder Green, Elder Eckersley, Elder Taylor and Elder McArthur.

The good-bye breakfast! Waffles, syrup, peanut butter and juice.
What more could we ask - a good breakfast with our fellow missionaries!!
I'm so full! Please don't make me eat more!!!! This was great. What a treat to have American Peanut Butter!!!!!
We are ready to go! Our last good byes at the airport!!!! Family - see you in a few!

Sumy Branch Conference 2010

2010-02-02T08:59:00.001-08:00

We finally made it to Sumy!!!! It is a long way from Donetsk.

The roads were a bit treacherous and we could 0nly go about 40 miles an hour.

We had a Branch Conference. This is the Mission Presidency. 1st Counselor, Pres. Koslov, Pres. Fry, then the 2nd Counselor, Pres. Pactelnyak and the Mission Secretary Brother Yurchenko. They spoke and gave a beautiful message.

Mission Presidency with their wives.

Out to dinner with the Mission Presidency and the Missionaries serving in Sumy. Each companionship in Sumy got 20 quality lessons during the week so we took them to dinner. Bro. & Sis. Yurchenko, Elder Mueller, Elder Howard, Sis. Ziganshina, Sis. Khilova, Pres. Fry and Pres. Pactlnyak.

Way to go Missionaries!! Good Job!!! Elder Rader, Elder ValVerde, Elder LaMarr, Elder Green, Pres. & Sister Koslov and Sister Pactelnyak.

Elder Rader and a member of the Sumy Branch. He is 9 years old and his name is Valentyne. Elder Rader is playing "I am a Child of God" and Valentyne is singing. They make a great combination!

The Relief Society sisters in Sumy. We had a good lesson with lots of participation. These sisters are so sweet. We have 2 sister missionaries serving here. They are Sister Khilova and Sister Ziganshina. The members love having sisters in Sumy!

President Fry and Dennis Kanika a member of 1 year. The Branch Conference was a success!! We love these members in Sumy. They love the gospel and are so willing to serve. Some of them hold 2 or 3 callings and more. They are truly dedicated!

Couples Conference in Kharkov 2010

2010-01-21T04:51:00.000-08:00

We began our conference on Friday January 15 in Kharkov. We had lunch and then each couple reported on the activities they were involved with over the last 6 months. Kharkov is still decorated with lots of festive lights because of all of the religious holidays throughout January. It is a beautiful site to see at night but oh so very cold!!!!!
On Saturday morning, after breakfast, we met and discussed the mission's goals for 2010. We also heard from each couple on an assigned topic such as: How to survive with the same companion without a transfer, How to keep the sun shinning when there ain't no sun. How to communicate when your companion doesn't speak your language and How to make companionship study fun. It was great fun to listen to all the new ideas and the great sense of humor each couple has. Saturday afternoon we took a tour of Kharkov and it's rich history.
Saturday Night we were invited to a "Ball" that the CES put on for the older generation. Everyone was dressed so nice! The youth performed a dance, then some of the older generation performed, then the ladies performed. We had other talent performed also. It was really nice and relaxing to get a taste of Ukrainian culture!!
Sunday we all attended a different branch. Then we met at the Reed's and they fed us a tasty dinner. We really enjoyed getting together and just talking. We closed with a testimony meeting that was very touching. We could not function without these wonderful couples! They each play an important role in helping the mission to progress and move forward. We are very grateful for our driver, Vladimir. He has helped all of us with our calling here in Ukraine and we could not do this without him.
Left to right: Sister & Elder Reed, President & Sister Fry, Sister & Elder Mead, Elder & Sister Salomonson. And Vladimir is taking the picture.

Happy New Beginings in Kharkov 2010

2010-01-20T09:47:00.000-08:00

Zone Conference in Kharkov went much like Donetsk - FANTASTIC!!!! The Zone Leaders are amazing and did a great job. Here is some of what they talked about: ELDER T. MCARTHUR talked about setting GOALS - It's like a compass - you know exactly where you are and where you are going. We come up with the goals and the SPIRIT confirms it. ELDER STEELE on planning: it is a skill we need to develop our WHOLE LIFE. Planning keeps us ORGANIZED and increases our FAITH. SISTER and ELDER REED also spoke: SISTER REED: Cultivate desire to know the SAVOIR - how can you serve Him if you don't know Him. Pray for a greater DESIRE to know the Savior. OBEDIENCE - pray for a stronger committment. EFFORT - pray with all your heart, might mind and strength. ELDER REED: To teach by the spirit you must SEARCH the scriptures DILIGENTLY, PRAY and FAST. Elder Williams: go 2 by 2 and teach by way of the COMFORTER and work in UNITY with your companion. Pray and study together. Elder Beus: Pay attention to what your companion says - back him up and INSPIRE people to action. SERVE your companion and follow the spirit by listening and yielding to your companion. Plan more EFFECTIVELY - be on the same page. ELDER LAMARR : be finding PEOPLE where ever you are at. Finding by the spirit takes ACTION - pay attention to ideas, feelings and thoughts. ELDER GREEN: committing people thru the spirit. SPEAK with the tongue of angels, SPEAK with the Spirit of God. Have faith that YOU can do it. They were very inspiring presentations and I felt the spirit so strong that I had a hard time writing and keeping up with all they said!

New Beginings - First Zone Conference for 2010!!!

2010-01-09T07:04:00.000-08:00

Our first Zone Conference for the New Year was fantastic!! We started out Monday night with a fireside to prepare for the conference. I worked on music with the missionaries - D&C sec 4 put to the Hymn "We are all Enlisted". It was fun and very interesting. I'd learned it long ago when I was a part of the Hill Cumorah Pageant one summer. Then PRESIDENT FRY gave an inspiring talk about AGENCY. It was very powerful and every missionary listened intently. Tuesday was Zone Conference and I introduced a way to make personal study and companionship study more in tune with the spirit, and more organized through out the mission. Two small book marks with a study schedule for the 4 standard works, the missionary library and Preach My Gospel were handed out. Then the Zone Leaders gave their presentations and wow what great leaders we have!ELDER TAYLOR and ELDER WHITEHEAD were so intune with each other that my mind and heart were filled to the brim! They talked about progressing and the only way to progress is thru REPENTANCE and the ATONEMENT every day of our lives. Having the eye of FAITH - seeing ourselves becoming and doing. A vision of what you can become and do - getting the strength thru the ATONEMENT and from the LOVE Christ has for us. Having the investigators visualize what it would be like to quit smoking and the blessings received from becoming a member. Having members visulize their friends accepting the gospel. Do our planning with the Lord's help - hope for a miracle and expect it will come!ELDER ROSEN and ELDER THOMPSON did an awesome job and talked about UNITY -working together by the SPIRIT. Listen to each other and RESPECT each other. Know your companion and DEVELOP unity. Do this in companionship study. If you both have the spirit - your investigators FEEL this and with the spirit you can do GREAT things. ELDER BALSER and ELDER ECKERSLEY talked about teaching by the spirit. They asked questions and some responses were: ELDER WADSWORTH - do all you can to PREPARE spiritually before the lesson and then LISTEN to the spirit as you teach. ELDER PRINCE - it is important to TEACH BY THE SPIRIT otherwise you can not teach what God wants you to teach. ELDER STIRLING - the spirit TEACHES and CONVERTS. ELDER BALSER - TRUE CONVERSION comes thru the spirit. ELDER ECKERSLEY - By turning to God we gain KNOWLEDGE and EXPERIENCE, a skill we need to continually REFINE and use and be better at. ELDER LAMARR spoke about finding people: Can the Lord TRUST us with His children? He tries us first - then we set goals - we go out with POWER(the spirit) and we find people with ACTION. If you are doing what everyone else has talked about - then LISTEN to those promptings! ELDER GREEN talked about the POWER of the HOLY GHOST: it is the will of the Lord that we speak by the power of the Holy Ghost. "Whether by my own voice or the voice of my servants - it is the same." PRESIDENT FRY talked about "SPIRITUAL CROCODILES" - they hide and wait and then they take your life. What are some of those? 1. MURMERING - against your leaders and the rules outlined in the MISSIONARY HANDBOOK. 2.Feeling above it all - PRIDE and UNTEACHABLE. 3. ENVY 4. MOCKING. We then went over Alma Chapter 5 thoroughly. It was very inspiring and very well done. Having Zone Conference at the begining of the month is a great way to start out the New Year.

Christmas in Donetsk

2009-12-31T09:14:00.000-08:00

We did about the same as Kharkov but let me fill you in on the gifts - calendars with pictures of the church buildings, missionaries, sites in the various cities, quotes from Preach My Gospel & from General Conference. The missionaries loved it!!! The games we played helped to build unity in the missionary districts. Each district built a tower out of spagetti and gum drops. It was so fun to see what they did. We gave them 30 minutes to do it. They all started out well but some began to tople over. After the aloted time, we then shook the tables to see which one would stand the earthquake. Then we talked about working together and buiding strong bonds in our districts as well as strong testimonies that could with stand anything. The next game - we created a thunderstorm. That was really awesome - with the rubbing our hands together, then snapping our fingers, then patting our legs and then jumping. Again we talked about working together to make the thunderstorm work. Then we play egg, chicken, dinasour and leader. It's a game of challenging each other to rock, paper, sissors. When you work up to be a leader then you help others to become a leader. It was really interesting to see some immediately help others to work up to be a leader and some leaders band together and just watch. We talked about how good leaders help others become leaders. These all were so fun to do and watch and I feel that we all learned something. The last thing we did was to make up jinggles for our districts. That was hilarious and so clever! It was great fun and I think all in all it was a great day!

Christmas in Kharkov

2009-12-21T07:19:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Christmas in Kharkov with the Missionaries this last week. I could hardly wait to post but I needed to wait until after p-day came to an end so no one in Donetsk would peek and see what we did in Kharkov and that way it would be a surprise to them. We had so much fun!!!! Wednesday evening was our Christmas Eve. We had a yummy dinner of chili and homemade rolls all the way from Donetsk(Sister Lydia made them). Then we ate pumpkin cake and well you can't get canned pumpkin here so when I was home, I bought some and had it shipped here!The look on the missionaries faces was pure joy to me. We had a wonderful fireside. I told a little about the traditions of each country that our missionaries are from. It was fun to learn about them. We have missionaries from Germany, Sweden, Russia, Canada, England, Armenia, Ukraine and the United States. We then heard from Elder and Sister Reed(CES couple serving in Kharkov) and they are so wonderful. They do a lot for the missionaries in Kharkov. Then President Pacilliyac(the 2ND counselor in the mission presidency)spoke. He and his wife are very wonderful and they are from Kharkov. We communicate pretty well thru what little English they know, what little Russian we know and lots of sign language! President spoke and all of the messages were great!! I will tell in my next post what we(mission couples) gave the missionaries(just in case we have some peeking on my blog). Then the next morning, which was our Christmas, we met at the Church and played some awesome games. It was so fun(thanks to my daughter Denise for sending the ideas for the games. She is a teacher of French in the Cinn. area and attends a leadership conference with the students. She gave me games for last year too! Oh by the way, Denise if you read this - the CES couple is anxious to use these games for the young adults too!) Anyway I will go into detail on the games in the next post. We had lunch - yummy barbeque sandwiches, cake(from a cake mix which is a lot lighter) and frosting(from a can which you can not get here) sent from my home(missionaries loved it) and cabbage salad that Sister Lydia made. We were as stuffed as Sister Phebe(President's family joke - mom and dad, if you read this, thought you'd get a kick out of it). We boarded a bus and off we went to an orphanage. We went there last year too and what a great experience. We got there and it was bitter cold! Inside the children gathered in a room. We were told we could not visit the other rooms because of the flu quarantine. Bummer!!! I had many of the children that have been my favorites upstairs! Well we or rather (I) convinced myself to be flexible (which is hard for me to do sometimes) and instead of playing and coloring with the children(I brought coloring books) we thought of any song we could sing in Russian and sang it. I was so proud of our missionaries! I have challenged them to memorize a certain hymn in Russian every 6 weeks and they remembered them!!!! We also sang children's Christmas songs in English and the children sang some of their songs. We sat with them(as the care givers did not want them to be wound up because it takes too long to calm them down) and taught them rock, paper, scissors. For some they could not do it but then these wonderful missionaries taught them to pile their hands, one after another with their hands, then touch their head on top of the hands and then let go with a whoopee! So simple and yet it thrilled the children to know end. Some of the children just wanted us to hold their hand and to feel of our warmth. Well they didn't want us to stay too long and so we left and it didn't even seem cold outside any more. We love these missionaries and their time, talent and energy in serving others. It has truly been a full filling 2 days! Isn't Christmas wonderful and no matter when or how you celebrate it, all that matters is that you have the Christmas spirit!! And in what better way than in serving others?

December Missionaries Going Home

2009-12-20T08:31:00.000-08:00

Elder Tsaturyan, Elder Shumway, Elder Summerhays, Elder Huckstep, Elder Ketchum. These men have added a great deal to the mission and we will miss them. A job well done! Thanks for your service.

The Last Donetsk & Kharkov Zone Conference for 2009

2009-12-09T06:08:00.000-08:00

Our Zone Conference this time was on making and keeping commitments. We recapped on last months of finding people. Here are some of our wonderful Missionaries from Sumy. Back Row: Elder Howard, Elder Mueller, Elder Valverde, Elder Rader. Front row: Sister Khilova, President Fry, Sister Fry, Sister Ziganshina.

Elder Beus and Elder Gardner. One of the other talks were given by Elder Whitehead. He talked about testimony, knowledge and belief and how studying the scriptures and feeling the spirit helps us gain these. When investigators feel our sincerety and the spirit - they become more ready to make commitments.

Elder Richardson. His work is never done. Elder Shumway also spoke and he touched on follow up and planning. Know the needs of your investigator so you could help them. Plan out every single contact you have with your investigator and have a commitment planned.

Sister Ward and Sister Burke and Elder Rice. We had yummy chicken and rice for lunch!

Elder Lott, Elder Allred and Elder Jones. Many comments were made by other missionaries. The participation was great!

Elder Williams and Elder Thompson. And time for picture taking!

Elder Demyonov, Sister Ziganshina and Sister Khilova. Writing our transfer goals is really important too!

Elder Rader, Elder Moon, Elder Hyer, and Elder Richardson. President Fry talked about how keeping commitments begin with us. You can't expect investigators to accept and keep commitments if we don't do like wise. The strength of your own moral character is felt by our investigators. Your own personal life does matter. By understanding the doctrine - helps us understand the "Why" of keeping commitments and covenants with God. It will also helps to strengthen us.

Elder Mueller and Elder Howard. Our "treats for the road" are greatly needed after a couple of hours of absorbing the knowledge and spirit.

Elder McArthur gave a talk on commitment. "Making commitments is a process of repentance. If your investigators aren't keeping commitments - look at your self first. What keeps us from making commitments - excuses. Act do not be acted upon. Persuade do not force - lovingly - kindness - help them to keep commitments.

Elder Beus and Elder Tillotson in the back and Elder Prince and Elder Steele in the front. Elder Steele gave a talk on "Boldness".( I don't have any quotes from him because I had to leave and take care of the food. Sorry)

Elder Allred, Elder Hess and Elder Prince.

Elder Ketchum and Elder Huckstep sporting their hats they bought to take home. They leave next week!!

The sisters separated to have our own discussion for about 20 minutes. It is so wonderful to get to know these sisters a little more. They are definitely the "HEART" of the mission!! Aren't they so pretty!! Sis. Ziganshina, Sis. Khilova, Sis. Reed, Sis. Fry, Sis. Burke and Sis. Ward.

Elder Demyonov, Elder Huckstep, Elder Rader and Elder Mueller. Elder Green spoke about purifying ourselves and to help investigators do the same. Success is measured by our commitment and they have their free agency to choose.

Sister Belkina taking a moment to write down her goals.
Our three Armanians! Elder Nersisyan, Elder Mikhaylov and Elder Tsaturyan. They are so awesome!!
Elder Thompson, Elder Dietrich, Elder Eckersley, Elder Kearsley and Sister Salomonson. Elder Taylor gave a talk about how commitment is the path to repentance and invites others to come unto Christ thru repentance. Giving commitments helps people to repent.
Elder Beck, Elder Tilgner and Elder Balser. Lunch is so good. We love the chicken and rice with the rich creamy gravy!! Elder Balser talked about David and Goliath and how David was bold. He knew the gospel and he did not shy away. If we will be bold with the gospel of Jesus Christ - we will help others come unto Christ.
Elder Valverde, Elder Hansen, and Elder Shipp. And here's to you! Zone conference has been great thus far. Elder Summerhays spoke on promising people blessings( with the right spirit of course) gives them a reason to want to change - it gives them motivation. Always bear testimony!
Elder Mead, Elder Belyeu, Elder Stirling and Elder Rosen.
Elder Cullen, Elder Bell and Elder Putnam.
Elder Balser, Elder Thompson, Elder Dietrich, Elder Eckersley, Elder Kearsley and Sister Salomonson. Elder Thompson talked about following up is an act of love. Tell them you will follow up on their commitments and will call and encourage them and then do it. Talk to them daily - help them.
Elder Putnam, Elder Eckersley, Elder Shipp and Elder Bell. Elder Eckersley talked about explaining to our investigators what happens at church with Scarament Meeting, Sunday School etc. Preparing them for the experience at church and come to church with a prayer asking for the Lord's help.
Elder Thompson, Elder Balser and Elder Duffy. Elder LaMarr talked about a "code for action". Be devasted when commitments are not kept. This is life eternal - the most important work and pick them up when they fall. When you assign a Chapter - next lesson should enclude that chapter. Tactfully ask why commitments weren't kept.
Elder Tsaturyan and Elder Nersisyan. Elder Tsaturyan talked about faith and hope are the building blocks of commitment. He quoted the Apostle Paul"Go Boldly - proclaim the gospel with the spirit."
Vlademir, Elder Thompson and Elder Eckersley. President Fry recapped the David and Goliath story. David picked up 5 stones but he knew he only needed one. He was prepared. We can take down the barriers that keep our investigators from making commitments with one stone at a time. If one stone doesn't help them make a commitment - you have 4 other ones to try with.
Our wonderful sisters in the Donetsk Area: Sister Vinicurava(serving until she can get her visa to go to the MTC) Sister Tsaprova( as mini missionary from Donetsk) Sister Krivulya and Sister Belkina. We talked about how important a Sister's touch can be to the mission. What wonderful examples they are and how proud and grateful we are to have them in the mission. We studied from the white handbook on how the Prophet has promised us safety both spiritually and physically as we follow it. Aren't they just beautiful!!
Elder Tilgner, Elder Thompson, Elder Balser, Elder Duffy, Elder Jahnert and Elder Smith. These are our Elders serving in Petrosky just next to Donetsk.

District Conference in Kharkov & Trainng in Sumy

2009-11-25T06:19:00.001-08:00

Elder Mead with the Presiding Authority -Elder Manchenko(from Moscow)
Sister Katusov(on the right) the District President's wife and another sister that fixed a meal for us after District Conference.
President Katusov and one of his daughters, Sonya.
Counselors in the District Presidency in Kharkov.
Second Counselor in the Mission Presidency, Pres. & Sister Pacilliyak.
Another daughter of the District President, Dasha, and Sister Mead.
Some training I did with some sisters in the Sumy Branch.

11 New Missionaries! That's a New Record!

2009-11-20T04:07:00.000-08:00

Elder Clarkstone is from Niagara Falls, On. Canada. He is a pianist and percussionist. He was involved in many clubs in High School and the community including a translator of French-English. He received many recognitions and scholarships including the Top Grade 12 Student Award. He also held many leadership positions in the Church and received his Duty to God as a Deacon, Teacher & Priest.
His trainer is Elder Hyer and they are serving in the Kharkov area.

Elder Demyanov is from Chelyabinsk, Russia the Yekaterinburg Mission. He served as a Missionary Coordinator, Librarian, and First Councilor in the Elders Quorm. He also served a mini mission as well. He has had a great desire to serve a mission since he was baptized. He enjoys art, music, ceremics, karate and he worked for 1 year designing advertisements. His trainer is Elder Tillotson and they are serving in the Kharkov area.

Elder Finneran is from Kaysville, Ut. He enjoys choir, soccer, tennis and oil painting. He plays the Native American Flute and the Cello. He has been involved in various school organizations and charity work. He has received many awards for his flute playing and oil paintings. He has held various Church callings as well. His trainer is Elder Wadsworth and they are serving in Gorlevka.

Elder Jahnert is from Zwickau, Germany. He is the 6th of 7 children. He enjoys sports, computors, metal and wood technology. He has served as a Ward Missionary, Counselor in the Elders Quorum Presidency and Secretary to the Stake Young Men Presidency. His trainer is Elder Duffy and they are serving in Petrosky.

Elder Jensen is from Kaysville, Utah. He enjoys golf, debate, piano, guitar, music composition and communication. He has held various Church callings including Gospel Doctrine and Gospel Principles instructor. He also worked as a judge for the debate tournaments. His trainer is Elder Brinton and they are serving in Lugonstk.

Elder Mueller is from Redmond, Wash. He enjoyed playing soccer at a high level for 6 years. He also enjoyed playing the clarinet in the High School Band. He is a hard worker and enjoyed serving as Ward Missionary. His trainer is Elder Howard and they are serving in Sumy.

Elder Prince is from Las Vegas Nev. He participated in the Ward Choir and is an Eagle Scout. He also participated and placed 3rd in State Health & Science Competitions. He also was involved in leadership positions in the community and state organizations. He was an instructor for Elder's Quorum. His trainer is Elder Beus and they are serving in the Kharkov area.

Elder Rice is from West Jordan, Ut. He is a Utah endorsed medical assisstant, a math tutor and a volunteer with disabled children. He participated in the
Ward Choir and is an Eagle Scout. He has held various ward callings. He also plays the piano. His trainer is Elder Richardson and they are serving in Soltivka which is just an area in Kharkov.

Elder Thomas is from Magnolia, Tx. He enjoys sports and was on the football team and soccer team in High School. He loves exercising. He was also the Senoir Class Vice President. He also served in various Church callings suchas the secretary in the Elders Quorum Presidency. He is a very hard worker. His trainer is Elder Jones and they are serving in Kharkov area.

Elder Tilgner is from Wulfen, Germany. He enjoys all sports. He also enjoys auto mechanics. He has served as a Primary teacher and a counselor in the Elders Quorum Presidency. He is talented in organizing and motivating and is very creative. His trainer is Elder Smith and they are serving in Petrosky.

Sister Ziganshina is from Valdivostak, Russia. She has served in various callings suchas the Gospel Principles Teacher, a Branch Missionary and a Primary President. She enjoys teaching children and has been an active member of the youth organization commitee. She enjoys making jewelry, croucheting and badminton. Her trainer is Sister Khilova and they are serving in Sumy.

Goodbyes to some of the Greatest!!

2009-11-20T02:23:00.000-08:00

We sadly said goodbye to these great young men! But we know that parents wait anxiously to greet them. From lft to rt: Elders McKinney, Greener, Misirenko, Wright, Kerr, Woodhead, Stevens, Crowther & Miganov. Missing is Elder Badrusev that left earlier on a train.

Elder Kerr, Elder Misirenko, Elder Crowther. They have been fed well this night.

Eldser Greener, Elder Miganov, Elder Wright. Don't they look happy!

Elder Crowther, Elder Stevens, Elder McKinney - their last meal in Ukraine!

Elder Woodhead and Elder Greener. Let's get this show on the road!

Elder Misirenko's brother and mom. His brother just finshed his mission to Russia a few months ago. They planned to be gone the same time so they'd only be a part for 2 years. It was very nice to meet them. It's great to see the missionaries with their families!

Elder Crowther's parents came to get him. It was so nice to meet them. The Meads, our Humanitarian couple, helped in the district that Elder Crowther served in and they became close. What a great family!

Members in Donetsk Centrally Branch Open House

2009-11-15T07:57:00.000-08:00

I can't remember her name but she was just released as the Primary President, Sister Koslov and Onya.

Nastya and Marina

The Ladies in charge of family history.(sorry can't remember names)

Lillian the Librarian.

Natalya - she was the Relief Society President but she has been put in as the new Primary President.

Representing the Priesthood for the Open House is Marina's brother, Onya's son and Sasha.

Elder and Sister Mead(Humanitarian) and Olya their interruptor.

Elder Tsaturyan( from Armenia) and Sister Nastya( a minni missionary from Donetsk) greeting people as they come in.

President and Sister Gooshen(Branch President in Mariupol) came to visit the open house.

President Victor Koslov( 1st counselor in the Mission Presidency).

The kitchen help from the Donetsk Centrally Branch. I promise they are happy!
Masha and a new convert of almost 1 year(sorry I'm not the best with names)
Olya - the Meads interrpetor and our tutor. She has been helping President with a talk he is giving in Russian for Kharkov District Conference.
Ludmilla, Julia and Masha. Great helpers in the kitchen.
Katya and Katya and Sister Seachova - our intertainment. They provide the most beautiful violin and piano music!

I'm Back in Ukraine!!

2009-11-06T10:21:00.000-08:00

I went home for some surgery and everything went very well. The most wonderful experiences has been visiting with my family. I've posted some slide shows of my children and grandchildren. We've had some great talks and sharing our experiences and feelings along the way. I've been able to share about our mission in Church and Family Home Evening. That has been very exciting. I've gotten to know some people I sat by on the plane and shared the gospel. It was a great feeling. I had a wonderful blessing before my surgery from my son and son-in-law and all went well and I recovered very quickly. I visited with my in laws and gave them the low down on the mission. It felt so good to share experiences. I now know how the Kinghorns feel, being at home, and sharing about their mission. It is the most exhilerating feeling and I enjoyed every minute!I have worried about my husband while I was in St. George but the missionaries and couples rallied around him and he was well taken care of. I'm excited to be here and to get back on my schedule. I still get worn out and have to take things easy but I'm ready to go. We have 3 busy weeks ahead of us. I love and miss my family but I know that this is where I'm suppose to be. I'm grateful for this opportunity to serve the people of Ukraine and these great young men & women, our missionaries. I look forward to the next 20 months!!!

Missionaries Arriving in September 2009

2009-11-05T11:06:00.000-08:00

Here they are! Five Elders and One Sister!!!

Elder Barton has lived in Kenya, Bolivia, Nepal, Peru and Egypt! He enjoys tennis, ultimate frisbee, and is an Eagle Scout. He speaks Spanish fluently and he completed a Duty to God project at a Leper Colony in Egypt. We are glad he is here with us now.

Elder Belyeu is from Alabama but worked for a year in Texas before coming on a mission. He enjoys fencing, automotive maintenance and is an Eagle Scout. He recently served as a Branch Mission Leader and Assistant Clerk. We are happy he is in our mission.

Elder Ryser is from Sandy Utah. He is an Eagle Scout and is certified in CPR and First Aid. He enjoys sports, snowboarding, wakebarding, music and friends. He worked as a life guard for 3 years. We are certainly glad he is in our mission and grateful for his CPR and first aid skills!

Elder Lott is from South Carolina. He enjoys cross country, track, scouting, computers and friends. He participated in the Student advisory council, Beta Club, National Honors Society and Student Ambassador. He worked at ICareKits.com for 2 years and Coldstone Creamery for 2 years. Welcome to the mission. We are glad to have you here with us.

Elder Beck is from Oregon. He is an Eagle Scout and enjoys cross country, track, choir, work, reading and snow boarding. He worked in various Priesthood callings in his ward and worked on a farm. We are so grateful to have him in our mission.

Sister Burke is from Georgia. She was a part of the Marching Band, Color Guard, National Latin Honors Society in High School. She also enjoyed playing the clarinet, reading, writin, cooking and being in Young Woman's. She recently served as a Relief Society President in her student ward and worked as a resident assistant for 2 semesters. We are always so grateful to have Sisters serve with us in the mission.

Yummmmmy Breakfast!!!!!

Goooooood food!!!

The assistants, office Elders and our new Missionaries enjoying breakfast together!

We are always happy to eat!

Soooooooooooo Glad to be here!

President's Seminar in Estonia 2009

2009-09-28T11:46:00.000-07:00

I really looked forward to our annual seminar. I wanted to be spiritually fed and I was! I had been preparing myself for some time. Elder Perry, Elder Rasband and the Area Presidency spoke! They focused on "The Rescue" of our less active members. They discussed that those that are brought back bring with them family that want to hear the the gospel and be baptized. We are seeing that in our mission. As our missionaries reach out to the less active -they are coming back and are being welcomed by their old friends. Their children or relatives are being taught the gospel and are entering the waters of baptism. We have passed the number of baptisms we had last year and there is a different feel in the mission. It is so AWESOME!

We were able to attend the Helsinki Temple and what a great experience. We looked forward to this and could hardly wait to attend. We felt so spiritually fed in the temple. I soaked up every word as if it were for the first time attending and yet I felt like I was home. My Eternal Home. I never have had all my senses come so alive before. It was wonderful, wonderful to me. I love my Savior and I am eternally indebted to him.

Angel Moroni gets his place!

2009-09-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

It was a great day in Kiev last week when the Angel Moroni gets his new home! It was cloudy and threatened to rain but the members kept saying "It will clear up as soon as he's in place!"

Yes it started to clear up. The Saints have great faith and they are so excited to have the Temple here.

And there you have it!!! A beautiful day!!! All over Ukraine the members are preparing for the opening of the Temple. They are having open houses at their meeting houses to let members and non members be prepared to visit the Temple Open House. We are already seeing the blessings from the Temple here in the Donetsk Mission.

Our New CES Couple - Elder and Sister Reed

2009-09-28T10:50:00.001-07:00

Elder and Sister Reed are from Southern California - Santa Margarita area. They are converts to the Church. They have 3 daughters that are married and have children. Elder Reed worked in oil and gas drilling, then an Engineering firm and as a construction inspectioner as well as a seminary teacher. They have served a CES mission in the Mission Viejo Stake. Sister Reed has been an Elementary teacher for about 26 years. They are very excited - ready to get to work in Kharkov. We are so glad to have them!

Elder Reed was looking on line about other CES programs when he discovered the Europe East Area. They fell in love with Ukraine and wanted to serve here to help the youth prepare to go to the Temple! They wanted to be here and they got their wish!!! We are so grateful!

Goodbye to 2 of our Great Couples!

2009-09-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

Elder and Sister Crittenden have been serving as our CES Couple. They served in Kharkov and their next assignment was Idaho with family!!! Boy do we miss them! The CES program is working with the young single adults 18 and up and the seminary. They had more energy then all the young adults put together! Not only did they work with CES but they helped with the missionaries as well - feeding them, having them over for district meetings and keeping up with them when it comes to contacting on the street. They never let the language barrier bother them. They found a way to communicate! They taught English and Spiritual English and held numerous family home evenings during the week. Their biggest group was a group of Africans in Kharkov for school. Some have joined the Church. They love the Crittenden's as do we!

Elder and Sister Mark has sadly left the mission due to some health issues, however they have been reassigned to the Salt Lake South Mission and are doing great! They did so much for the mission in the 5 months that they were here. English lessons, visiting branches, working with the members, Elders and even their own pool of investigators. They too fed the never ending empty stomachs of the missionaries! Elder Mark served as the 2nd councilor in the mission. They hated to leave and we hated to see them go. We all sure love and miss them! Salt Lake is one lucky mission to have them!!!

New Missionaries August 2009

2009-09-15T08:32:00.001-07:00

Elder Gardner is from Peoria Az. He loves sports and played varsity for 3 sports. He served as a Quorum President, Home Teacher and FHE Father. We are grateful for his willingness to serve!
Sister Krivulya is from the Russia Yekaterinburg Mission. She speaks English very well and joined the Church, here in Ukraine, while going to school. She lived 5 hours from her branch in Russia and it was a great sacrifice for her to attend but she is a faithful member despite of that. She has a strong desire to serve and we are grateful for her faithfulness.
Elder Woolstenhulme is from Pleasant Grove Utah. He enjoyed drama, track and field and choir in high school. He also enjoys hiking and taking photographs. He has earned his Eagle Scout award and has been a leader in his Quorum's as well as an Elder's Quorum Instructor. We are also grateful he is here serving with us.
Three great New Missionaries!!!

Sending two more Missionaries to the MTC

2009-09-09T10:33:00.000-07:00

Lubov and Yanna both left for the MTC

Lubov and friends say goodbye

Yanna, accompanied by her mom and sister, came from Mariupol ( 2 hours south of Donetsk). Yanna will serve in the Russia, Novasabertsk Mission. Her mom and sister are not members. President Fry set Yanna apart and you could tell that the spirit had touched them both. Yanna's sister said she'd never heard such beautiful words before. She is now meeting with the missionaries.

Lubov and her family. Lubov means "love" in Russian. Her family are members of the Church. They are from Makevka. Lubov will serve in the Ykatrineburg Mission in Russia. Makevka is about a half an hour from Donetsk. Lubov's mom is the Young Women's District President. We have become good friends. She is an excellent seamstress and has done some sewing for me.

Lubov's family and friends that came to the setting apart.

ESTONIA

2009-09-09T06:15:00.000-07:00

I really looked forward to our annual seminar. I wanted to be spiritually fed and I was! I had been preparing myself for some time. Elder Perry, Elder Rasband and the Area Presidency spoke! They focused on "The Rescue" of our less active members. They discussed how as those that are brought back bring with them family that want to hear the gospel and be baptized. We are seeing that in the mission. As our missionaries reach out to the less active - they are coming back and are being welcomed by their old friends. Their children or relatives are being taught the gospel and are entering the waters of baptism. We have passed the number of baptisms we had last year and there is a different feel in the mission. It is so AWESOME!

We were able to attend the Helsinki Temple and what a great experience. We looked forward to this and could hardly wait to attend. We felt so spiritually fed in the temple. I soaked up every word as if it were for the first time attending and yet I felt like I was at home. My Eternal Home. I never have had all my senses come so alive before. It was wonderful, wonderful to me. I love my Savior and I am eternally indebted to him.

OUR TIME WITH JEFF

2009-09-09T05:44:00.000-07:00

Our son Jeff, came to visit us in July and stayed until August 4th. It was great to have a bit of home with us. He was here for 4 weeks and we took him to all the meetings. He gave us so many helpful hints for the mission. He served in Peru, Lima North Mission. His mission has been established a lot longer than our mission here. It takes time to establish and organize a mission in such a way that some of the older missions are. There aren't that many things to see but he got to see all of the major cities that we have missionaries in. The sunflower fields were in full bloom and that in itself is awesome to see. There are a few historical sites in Kharkov that we saw and we ventured into a salt mine that actually was quite facinating. We also went to Slavanogorist which is very beautiful and quite the hike up the hill(no mountains in this part of Ukraine). I would have to say that the countryside in our mission is breath taking at times throughout the year. Jeff helped fill the gap for we truly have been empty nesters in a far away place. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute he was here. He and Vladimir ( our driver) hit it off and it was fun to watch them tease each other. President Fry and Jeff did their normal thing of hiding from each other and then jumping out and scaring one another. It has been a great release for us to have him here. All and all it was great to have him be here. We hated to say goodbye. As soon as he got on the plane - I missed him already!

August Group Departs

2009-08-13T05:56:00.000-07:00

Our goodbye dinner at 3 Fat Guys. The Assistants, our Son Jeff, Sister Howard, and Elders Oldroyd, Dorman, Norman.
Wow the time went too fast! Look how happy they are and I say boo hoo!!
Elder Norman and Elder Dorman.
Elder Dorman and Elder Tsaturyan. They both served in Sumy at the same time.
Elder Wright and Elder Norman. Elder Norman leaves and Elder Wright doesn't leave until Nov. Elder Norman has reached out to many while on his mission.
What a great looking group!! Elders Olroyd, Norman and Dorman were in the MTC together. Sister Howard came in with another group but goes home with this group. That' how it is for the sisters because their service is only 18 months.
Elder Dorman has great memories of his service.
Elder Olryod has had some great experiences.
Sister Howard has touched many lives here in Ukraine. We miss you all! Thanks for you service!

Donetsk Zone Conference

2009-08-11T09:32:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to all of you!!!!

Setting goals for the next 6 weeks.

Zone Leaders working on goals.

Elder Salomonson and Jeff.

Our wonderful sisters: Sister Khilova, Sister Ward, Sister Howard, Sister Belkina.

Our great and wise Assistants: Elder Wright, Elder McKinney, Elder Tsaturyan, and Elder Norman.

Still working on our goals.

Elder Oldroyd and Elder Huckstep.

Elder Noyes and Elder Stevens gave a great presentation on the Liahona. They talked about the story of Nephi and his bow. There are always trials in our life and do we complain or murmur or do we remain strong. Follow the word of Christ found in Alma 37:43-45. Following the words of Christ is like following the Liahona, Mission President etc.

What's up? Elder Huckstep, Elder Oldroyd and Elder Williams.

Elder Shumway and Elder Kerr.

Elder Dorman and Elder Woodhead

Elder Kearsley and Elder Cullen

Elder Mikhilov, Sister Belkina, Sister Ward and Elder Tsaturyan.

Elder Crowther, Elder Norman and Jeff.

Elder McKinney and Elder Noyes.

Elder Thompson, Elder Thompson again and Elder Tillotson

Elder Allred, Elder LaMarr and Elder Dorman

Elder Shumway and Elder Valverde

Elder Young, Elder Kerr and Elder Hess.

Elder Woodhead

Sister and Elder Mead

Elder Moon, Elder Balser, Elder Williams, and Elder Stevens. Elder Balser gave a great presentation on Pride and Humility. Mosiah 3:19 - Put off the natural man and be submissive - be humble. Pride is of the natural man "I know better than others and my leaders". Pride is a false sense of trying to make us feel better to justify our actions. Humility is a long lasting feeling of joy and happiness.

Many of our missionaries have musical talents. This is Elder Taylor and we appreciate him and his talents.

Elder Martineau studying.

President Fry looking over his notes during lunch. President Fry touched on how Nephi went thru the right line of Priesthood Authority when he made a new bow and wanted to know where to go and hunt. He talked about the Holy Ghost and how he can help us recall all things to our rememberance. He talked about a talk Pres. Monson gave in the Priesthood session - Pray fervently, Study diligently and Live righteously. He gave an inspiring message.

Sister Ward, Sister Howard and Sister Belkina.

Part of President's presentation - he had someone play the left hand on the piano to a hymn and asked if anyone knew the hymn. Then the right hand and asked the same question. Then both hands and yet the song is not complete without the words being sung. He and his assistants sang the song. He compared this in teaching by the spirit. Our lessons are not complete unless we invite the spirit. Our companionships are not complete unless we invite the spirit etc. It turned out to be very inspirational with the way he tied it in. Thanks to our son Jeff for the idea.

Elders Thompson, McArthur, Dorman, Cullen, and Moon.

A send off to Elder Dorman.

Girls Camp for the Donetsk District

2009-07-29T03:28:00.000-07:00

Donetsk District Girls Camp. These are girls from 9 Branches, their leaders and Priesthood leaders.

The Priesthood leaders put together a skit.

A light thunder storm cools us off.

This is Masha and she is from Donetsk Centrally Branch.

The Young Women District President Sister Lynna in the back.

Yanna a leader from Obedyonni Branch and Nastya from Donetsk Centrally Branch.

President Fry with some of the girls.

Onna is from Donetsk Centrally Branch and Ka-sue-sha, a leader, is also from Centrally.

Lilya is a leader from Petrosky Branch and she served as a mini missionary last fall. In order to serve a mini mission they have to be 18 years and older.

Something's brewing over the fire!

Vladimir and Jeff cooled off in the lake. As a missionary President Fry doesn't go swimming.

This is where they camped. It is really pretty and the lake is gorgious!!

The girls are learning a lot and having a great time.

Marina. She is such a character. She is loved by all and is a great example to all the girls in the district. She is from Donetsk Centrally Branch also.

Sister Fry, Sister Lynna (Young Women's President of the District, which is like a stake only smaller)and Yanna. Sister Lynna is an excellent seamstress and has made some of mine and President's shirts shorter selves. She also made some of the drapes in the mission home. Yanna is excellent at hair and goes to the homes of people to do their hair. I've just started using her and Sister and Elder Mead use her too. I feel so much better after my hair is done by her!!!

Sister Natalya cuttting the cake. The other 2 girls I can't remember their names.

The water looks so good!! These girls have been a delight to visit. I feel at home at girls camp!

What a sweet face! And her hair looks so cute!! (They had a hair contest and they all did each others hair!

Look what I can do!! Look what I can do!!

We are loving camp!! And the water! It is hot, oh so hot!

Girls camp is the greatest!!!

The camp theme this year was Temples "Choosing Righteously". This is the Jerusalem Temple. Look at all the little extras like trees, a pond and bench. It is way cute!!!

This is the the Kiev Temple.

This is a different view of the Jersalem Temple.

Another Temple ( I can't remember which one) but notice the path to it is straight and narrow!

This is "Zion's Temple" as they call it, or the Salt Lake Temple.

Masha, Sister Fry and Jeff. Masha is from Centrally and always gives me a hug when I'm there.

Everyone sitting around the table studying and discussing the gospel.

Donetsk Centrally Service Project

2009-07-29T03:19:00.000-07:00

The Centrally Branch in Donetsk(which is the Branch that we live in) had a service project that lasted for several Saturdays. It was painting a fence around a school. This is the RS President, Sister Natalya and one of the young women, Marina.

Another sister taking a break from the heat.

Ka-sue-sha - busy painting. She has just turned in her mission papers!

Ka-sue-sha in the back, Nastya and Elder Mead with his back to the picture.

Katya, Ka-sue-sha's sister. Both of them are very musically talented.

Sister Mead - busy at work and always smiling.

On the left - a recent returned missionary to the Branch. He is now the 2nd counselor in the Branch Presidency. Dema, one of the youth. He has been a member for a little over a year.

The Branch President - President See-scotch-a-kov(I think that is how to say his name).

Dema the Elder's Quorm President. No smiles yet from him. Sasha, Dema's younger brother. He joined the Church last November.

Elder Mead - hard at work!

Jeff (our son) and the younger Dema working hard.

Finally a smile from Dema!

This sister comes faithfully with her two children. She is very active in the Branch. She gave a very touching RS lesson about joy and happiness and expressed that the happiest day of her life is when she and her husband were sealed in the Temple. He has become inactive although he came to church the last time we visited the Branch.

Sister Ludmilla ( a recent convert since March). Her daughter joined the church in December and she had to see what it was that made her daughter change so much so she started coming to Church. You would have thought that she'd been a member all her life because she fit right in!

Sister Natalya again. She is so dedicated and a very strong member in the Branch.

Elder Mead. He and Sister Mead have joined right in to the activites in the Branch. It's great!

Nastya! She has served as a mini missionary and she is a great strength to the Church and Branch!

And her little sister Marina is as well. This is one of the many Branches we love!

Kharkov Zone Conference July 2009

2009-07-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

3 Very Important Men in my Life right now!!! - Vladimir - Our driver - he is a very important part of what makes the mission function properly. We are so grateful for him and his family for supporting him. When we go to Kharkov we are gone for a week and we know his family sacrifices for us. Jeff our son is visiting and has brought a bit of home with him. It has been so fun to have him here. And the most important man in my life - Moey Mooshj. He puts in long hours and puts his heart and soul into everything about this mission. He is dedicated to serving the Lord.
Elders Ehrisman, Greener, Ketchum, and Eckersley. What's up Elders?
Elders Dietrich, Howard and Green. Great smiles men! Keep up the good work! Zone Conference was wonderful. We talked about chapter 4 in Preach My Gospel - Teaching with the Spirit. As part of my presentation (at the beginning of the meeting) I talked about Pioneer Day and how every country the Church enters has their own "Pioneers." Ukraine is very much still in the Pioneer stages which means these missionaries are "Pioneer Missionaries!" I asked some of the missionaries from other countries to share Pioneer stories from their country or to tell their conversion story. It went great! Then I challenged everyone to memorize the song "Come, Come ye Saints" in Russian.
Elders Green and Howard. Yummy treat for the road!
A great group of Missionaries - Elders Dietrich, Summerhays, Miganov, Elder and Sister Crittenden and Elder Misiurenko. The Crittendens leave the end of August - Boo Hoo!!! Elder Misiurenko is from Kiev and he shared about the Church in Kiev in the 90's. He said the Saints there waited patiently for scriptures to be sent in Russian and when they came, there were not enough so the members took turns reading them. They were so excited when the Hymnals were finally sent too! When he was telling about this - I could just imagine the joy and excitement when the Saints received them. We sure take things for granted in the States!
Elder Stirling and Vladimir. Great looking ties and smiles!! Elder Stirling was adopted by an American family from Russia when he was 15. His family are members of the Church. He talked about his conversion story at Zone Conference. He has the sweetest spirit and he says the Gospel has changed his life and helped him overcome so much. He is so grateful to his family and talks about them with so much love. We too are grateful to his family for finding him, teaching him the Gospel and then sharing him with us!!!
Elders Wright, Tsaturyan and Hyer. I'm telling you - between the ties and the smiles - we've got the best looking missionaries out there!!
Elders Steele, Whitehead and Norman. Elder Norman leaves in August! Another boo Hoo!!!
Elders Richardson and Beus. Zone Conference was great!!! The spirit at this meeting was wonderful!
Elder Miganov, Sister Mark and Elder Mark.
Our son Jeff and Elder Whitehead. Two young men from St. George Utah!
Sister Crittenden, Elder Rosen and Elder Crittenden. Elder Rosen (he is from Sweden)shared about a man from his home town traveled to America, joined the church, met the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum, traveled to Salt Lake Valley and was called to serve a mission back in Sweden. He brought the church to Sweden, baptized, and was met with much opposition. A lot of the countries over here in this part of the world are still very young to the church and share much hardship as did the early Saints of the church. We appreciate Elder Rosen in sharing that with us. His message really added to our meeting.
Elder Rader and Elder Greener.
Elders Ketchum, Moore, Hyer and Shipp. Yes! We are as the Army of Helaman!
Elders Howard, Jones and Rosen. They all came out together and they will soon hit their year mark!
Elders Hansen, Putnam, Ehrisman, Miganov, and Nersisyan. Elder Nersisyan shared his family's conversion story. His grandmother joined first, then his father, himself and his mom. His grandmother had a friend that was a member and she could see something different in her friend's eyes and she wanted to know what that was. We talked about the Holy Ghost in this conference and the story fit right in. It was a very touching story and I could feel the spirit fill the room as he spoke.
I was taking a picture of the construction in Kharkov and ran into these fine looking missionaries.
"Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day." We are so blessed to have great young men in our mission that work hard and give it their all!!!We love our Missionaries!

Transfer Day! July 2009

2009-07-13T12:17:00.001-07:00

Jeff and his dad - the Mission President. Don't they look so happy!!!

Another successful transfer day! Elder Woodhead, Elder LaMarr and Elder Stevens.

The sisters are happy to see each other! Sister Khilova, Sister Ward, and Sister Howard.

Elder Brinton and Elder Badrusev. It's good to get together and hear how everyone is doing.

Elder McKinney(finally let's me take his picture) with Elder Noyes.

Elder Woodhead, Elder Wright and Elder Stevens all from the November group. Buds since the MTC!!!

Elder Thompson, Elder Tillotson, Elder Balser and Elder Hyer. Good looking young men with great looking ties, serving in Ukraine on a mission. We appreciate you guys!!!

Elder Richardson, Elder Tsaturyan and Vladimir. Great assets to the mission. Elder Richardson will help with records and such in the Sumy branch where Elder Tsaturyan served as Branch President last year. Elder Tsaturyan is now an Assistant to the President. Vladimir is our great friend, helper, a true servant of the Lord. We could not function very well without him!

Elder Martineau was Elder Beus's trainer and now Elder Beus becomes a trainer! Great missionaries!!!!! Yes right here in Ukraine Donetsk Mission!!!

Elder Moon and Elder Mikaylov! So glad to see my friend waiting here to greet me!

Elder Taylor, Elder Shumway, Elder Crowther and Elder Kerr. Great smiles! Keep up the good work!!!!

Elder Stout, Elder Bell, and Elder Rader. We made it! We are here in Ukraine at our first Transfer meeting!!!

Elder Hess, Elder Young and Elder Nersisyan. Hey it's great to meet up again! We are all doing great and loving the mission!

Our July New Missionaries!!!!!

2009-07-13T12:03:00.001-07:00

We are so excited to get these Missionaries. They are Sister Khilova, Elder Moon, Elder Bell, Elder Rader, and Elder Stout. Welcome to Ukraine Donetsk Mission.

Our son Jeff flew in with the new missionaries. We are so excited to see him! It's like he brought a little of our home with him.

Sister Khilova and Sister Belkina. They are serving together for a few days until Transfer Day.

Sister Khilova is from Nepervaprosk Ukraine. It is about 3 hours from Donetsk. She has been well prepared to be a missionary and we are so glad to have her here.

Elder Oldroyd, Elder Bell, Elder Dorman, Jeff and President Fry.

Sister Belkina, Sister Fry and Sister Khilova.

President Fry, Elder Stout and Sister Fry. President is pulling a fast one! He stands on his tippy toes to be taller than our missionaries!!! Elder Stout is from SLC, Utah. He is a member of the Quill and Scroll Society and participated on an academic team where he was the captain. He loves playing the piano and is very skilled at it. He has come to the right mission! We need piano players in many of the branches.

President Fry, Elder Moon and Sister Fry. Elder Moon is from Burley Idaho. He enjoys basketball and was player of the year 2 years in a row. He knows sign language and obtained the Presidential Scholarship at College of Southern Idaho. He has held various church callings as well. We are grateful to have him here.

President and Sister Fry with Sister Khilova. She is a sister of many talents. She has taken French, German, and Latin along with knowing English, Russian and Ukrainian. She has been very active in her branch and district and loves helping others. She is a great asset to us!

President and Sister Fry with Elder Bell. Elder Bell is from Arlington Texas. He enjoys tennis and was part of a tennis team. He is an Eagle Scout and a part of the National Honor Society. He has held various positions in the Church as well. He is needed here and we will put him to work!

President and Sister Fry with Elder Rader. He is from Reno, Nevada but his family recently moved to Kearney MO. He enjoys foreign languages such as: Arabic, Russian, German, Japanese, and Spanish. He also enjoys presenting and teaching history by portraying historical people.

Good-bye to July (Missionaries leave for Home)

2009-07-09T04:17:00.000-07:00

From right to left: Elders Johnson, Hammond, Rasmussen, Kailan, Barnum, Mitchell and our Sisters Glenn & Ellison. We wish you well and will miss you!!!!

True to each other thru and thru!

A job well done Sisters!!

Lots of Luggage for sure!!

Good-byes are the toughest!!!

Twins!!!!

2009-07-01T11:08:00.000-07:00

They are finally here! Born June 29, 2009 exactly one year to the date that we entered Donetsk Ukraine. Ava Shae and Mya Lee Garrett. Ava was 6lbs 8oz. and Mya was 5lbs 12oz. Both very healthy. Mom and Dad are doing great as well as big brother Lucas and big sister Kate and all Aunts and Uncles and cousins! Grandma and Grandpa are happy they have arrived safe and sound but so sad to not hold them. We are so grateful that all went well with the delivery and pregnancy. Two precious souls sent from heaven above bringing to earth lots of joy and love!

Kharkov Zone Conference June 2009

2009-06-21T11:20:00.000-07:00

It is so happy to see you! Zone Conferences give the Missionaries a chance to see those they haven't seen for a while. Elder Moore and Elder Putnam.

It also gives us an opportunity to meet each other. Elder Mark meets Elder Mead and they get to know one another. They both served in the Redlands Temple at the same time but met in Ukraine! It's a small world after all!(Elder Mead loves Disneyland)

It's always good to see smiling faces and when sisters in Zion get together that's what happens! Sister Mark and Sister Mead get acquainted. Both are from Southern California.

How are you? Great and you? I'm happy to welcome you to Zone Conference (Elder Misiurenko and Elder Walton).

Elder Ehrisman and Elder Wright are sporting their Ukrainian Ties! Great looking ones at that! One of the comments that Elder Ehrisman said during the conference concerning planning was: "Weekly planning helps us be more organized and more effective. Daily planning helps us get over the bumps. We are all good missionaries and want to do well." So true!!

Elder Dietrich and Elder Summerhays stop a moment and pose for a picture.

Elder Johnson, Elder Fedotov and Elder Miganov pose also. Elder Johnson talked in the conference about our strengths and weaknesses of the mission. He encouraged the missionaries to: do their morning and evening planning better(makes better use of time), get up on time, plan out P-days(preparation day)- everyday is the Lord's day, one of the things in the Donetsk zone conference was mentioned by Elder Kerr -"Plan the night before what you will study personally and with your companion. Study at a desk!"

Elders McKinney, Jones and Noyes. Elder McKinney talked about the importance of changing our water filters. Great looking ties men!!

Elders Putnam, Hansen and Moore. I don't know about this music thing. President challenged us to only listen to Mormon Tabernacle Choir music or no music(if that's what they choose)and he said if the whole mission will do this for the next 3 weeks - he will add other music to the list to listen to. Let's do it!!! Sister Fry has challenged us to learn a new hymn in Russian each 6 weeks. The hymn for the next six weeks is "I Am A Child of God" Just think if we do that we could have most of the hymns memorized in Russian! That would even help our Russian skills!

Elder Miganov and Elder Wadsworth. We hope everyone comes on board with the music. It will definitely unify the mission. What? There are Elders watching movies? Who has time?says Elders Miganov and Wadsworth.(movies are very cheap here as well as little DVD/TV devices and unfortunately it has been a big temptation) The white handbook states: watch only videos or DVDs that have been authorized by the Church or your Mission President and video/DVD equipment is prohibited.

President and I have a great love and concern for our missionaries and unfortunitly President has needed to put his foot down. He spends many restless nights worrying and I have seen the power of discernment that he was blessed with at his setting apart come to pass. He knows when one of our missionaries is struggling and he acts upon it. Sometimes they are not happy with the President calling them on the carpet but I assure you he always, always shows forth love after(they may not think so but in time they will know). We are so grateful for the Atonement in our own lives and the ability to repent daily. It is a process through out all of OUR lives. I love my Savior and what he did for me and ALL mankind.

Elder Mark and Elder Rosen. During zone conference the discussion came to the use of the Internet. The only Internet site CHURCH APPROVED is mylds.mail for the missionaries. They should only use the Internet to write their family and the Mission President. They may write letters to friends(snail-mail) and receive letters( which they absolutely love getting). All other websites and email sites are not approved. (taken from the missionary handbook). Elder Rosen made a really good comment "We only use this site because it keeps us focused. We are wasted if we visit other sites and think about what our friends and family are doing without us. We need to leave our personal life behind."

Elder McKinney and Elder Valverde. Again notice the ties and what great smiles!!

Elder Moore in the back, Elder Wadsworth, Elder Stirling and Elders Johnson and Eckersley in the front. Unity is definitely one of our strengths. Elder Johnson talked about relying on the Lord to help with self doubt, "Put our trust in the Lord, pray for strength to over come and He will make up for what we lack." "Don't let yesterday hold hostage for tomorrow" "Plow forward with hope". In Jesus the Christ it states: He knew " HIS" purpose. The challenge is to know "OUR" purpose. Together we can do it. Our strength is in Him and helping each other.

The mission has a lot of talent. Each missionary is unique and has brought his or her talents to the mission. Look at these young men - they have talent written all over their face.

A great group of young stripling warriors. Ready for the task before them. Elder Norman said" The Lord didn't call young men because they knew all - he called them because he knew they would turn to Him and rely on Him." Elders Jones, Whitehead, Howard, Valverde, Ehrisman.

The Birthdays for Kharkov missionaries. Happy, Happy Birthday! We love you!! Sister Fry is always in charge of the Birthdays & introducing new missionaries. That's the fun part! I also help with apartment checks and encouraging health and cleanliness. Many little things I present I take from the Missionary Handbook to remind the missionaries of what is appropriate and not. We encourage each companionship to read 5 pages a day together out of the handbook. It is actually very inspiring and at the front of the handbook (after it states that it is approved by the First Presidency and the Apostles) it says,"Follow these standards and they will help you magnify your calling and protect you PHYSICALLY and SPIRITUALLY. Those 2 words are our main focus with the missionaries. It also states the Mission President may adjust some of these standards as needed. We pray every day for their protection physically and spiritually. We love them so much and feel such a responsibility to the Lord and you as their parents. Thank you for all of your prayers as well. These are the finest of the finest sent here. Thanks parents!!!

Elder Kearsley, Elder Ketchum & Elder Badrusev working on their goal setting.
Elder Oldroyd(standing) Elders Wright and Misiurenko. It seems when one smiles at you - you smile back and so on. It's like the "Ripple Affect". We watched a video clip by President Eyring that showed him throwing a pebble into the lake and watching the ripple affect. Elder Dorman talked about this and how gossip spread in the mission has such an affect on us. Talking badly of others especially our leaders can destroy unity. He used the story of Alma the younger how he went about destroying the work of the Lord and then after he repented and was converted he went about doing good. There are so many ways we can use the ripple affect for good. Even as simple as a smile!
Elder Noyes played a beautiful piano solo "I Stand All Amazed". We are truly amazed and blessed to have these wonderful missionaries in our care. We are grateful for the Lord's call to serve him in this capacity and for the unconditional love He has for each one of His children.
Our fabulous four Assistants. We are truly grateful for their time, talents and willingness to serve the Lord. They have been great examples with strong testimonies. Moms and Dads - hats off to you for raising such fine young men. Elder Johnson, Elder Norman, Elder Oldroyd, Elder Dorman.

DONETSK ZONE CONFERENCE JUNE 2009

2009-06-10T07:23:00.000-07:00

ELDER NORMAN( HE LEAVES IN AUGUST)

ELDER DUFFY

ELDER BEUS & ELDER MARTINEAU

ELDER BRINTON

ELDER YOUNG & ELDER CULLEN

ELDER KALIAN(HE LEAVES IN JULY), ELDER TAYLOR AND ELDER MCARTHUR

ELDER SMITH, ELDER HYER, ELDER ALLRED

ELDER MITCHELL(HE LEAVES IN JULY)

ELDER BARNUM(HE LEAVES IN JULY), ELDER BALSER, ELDER WOODHEAD, ELDER STEVENS

ELDER STEVENS & ELDER HAMMOND(HE LEAVES IN JULY

ELDERLARMARR, ELDER DORMAN(HE LEAVES IN AUGUST), ELDER JOHNSON(LEAVES IN JULY), ELDER MITCHELL(LEAVES IN JULY) & ELDER BALSER.

ELDERS THOMPSON , OLDROYD & WILLIAMS

ELDER GREENER

ELDER RASMUSSEN(HE LEAVES IN JULY) & ELDER KERR

ELDERS KERR, SHUMWAY & HUCKSTEP

SISTER ELLISON(SHE LEAVES IN JULY) SISTER HOWARD(SHE LEAVES IN AUGUST) SISTER HELEYAN, SISTER WARD, SISTER GLENN(LEAVES IN JULY)

ELDER SMITH

ELDER CROWTHER & ELDER RICHARDSON

ELDER MIKAYLOV

SISTER BELKINA & ELDER THOMPSON

ELDER NERSISYAN, ELDER TSATURYAN & SISTER GLENN(SHE LEAVES IN JULY)

ELDER ALLRED AND ELDER HYER

CD-YOM RAZ-DEN-EE-YA TEB-YA!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!

WE HAVE 8 MISSIONARIES LEAVING NEXT TRANSFER. THEY ALL BORE THEIR TESTIMONIES AT ZONE CONFERENCE. IT WAS VERY TOUCHING. THEY HAVE ALL WORKED HARD AND HAVE BEEN A GREAT STRENGTH TO THE MISSION. IT IS ALWAYS SAD TO SEE THEM GO. WE LOVE THEM SO MUCH!!!