President Monteiro told us in April that we would probably be transferred to Campo Largo. We would be member and leadership support there, in a very large, active ward with a new bishop. They needed help with music, helping men learn priesthood responsibilities, and preparing several couples to go to the temple. First, the apartment needed re-painting and repairs done. Four Elders had recently vacated the apartment, and were transferred, leaving just four Elders to serve in the expansive city of 110,000. We announced our transfer to people in Bocaiúva right after returning from our trip to the States for Darin's graduation from medical school. After losing two of the four Elders, and now with our being transferred elsewhere, there were feelings of abandonment, because we had "promised" to remain in Bocaiúva for our entire mission. Even the Casio keyboard--the Grupo's only musical instrument--would be returned to the Mission Office, since no one in Bocaiúva could play it or be responsible for it. It was hard for us to leave the Grupo with such a situation.
On Monday morning, June 8, Elder Farrer and Elder Maionez and driver Moisés came with the mission van and a small moving van, packed our stuff and moved us to our apartment in Campo Largo. Elder Hinckley (Indiana), Elder Alvarado, Eduardo, Sandra and their two girls also helped with the move. Leaving Sandra and Eduardo's family and our "sons" Elders Alvarado and Hinckley in Bocaiúva was harder than I thought it would be. | Lesson learned: Moving a senior missionary couple is a MUCH BIGGER DEAL than Elders packing up, leaving in a car on Transfer Days! | These are dedicated servants of the Lord. |