Sunday afternoon, December 21, 49 people from our little Grupo at Bocaiúva Do Sul--including 12 investigators--boarded a bus arranged by the missionaries, and traveled 1 1/2 hour to the Curitiba Temple. The bus was provided at no charge by the municipal government (?), plus some money to pay for the driver's time. At the temple, we were joined by five more people from the Grupo--54 people!! Most had never seen the temple before.
We walked around the temple grounds, enjoyed its peace and beauty, took many pictures, asked and answered many questions. Dennis and I spent most time with Ilda and José (recently-baptized) and Dieniffer (now the Primária president), who have become dear friends. When the temple president, his counselor, and the mission president's wife Sister Monteiro arrived, we went into a large room in an adjoining building. All three spoke to us about the temple; then I spoke about 5 minutes (in very broken Portuguese) about two experiences I've had while doing work in temples. Although I was prepared, I abandoned my notes and relied on people to help when I needed help with words and verb conjugation. It was a wonderful experience for all. Since then, several new members have expressed desire to do baptisms for family members who have died. Dieniffer has had dreams of her deceased brother, telling her that he needs her help. | |