Thursday, June 25, 2009

Michael's Mission 2009

Yes, Michael is only 16 and yes, he went on a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints - for the period of one week! Along with everyone else, he and another youth were paried up with 2 full time missionaries and lived and taught as missioaries for 7 days. Michael was a little nervous knowing he would be teaching and tracting, but when we picked him up a week later, he was wanting to stay longer! He loved it so much! They worked hard everyday, ate crappy food (his words) walked a ton, and didn't get much sleep, but the rewards he felt within his spirit, the things he learned and the experiences he had were worth it all! Now he can't wait to go on his own mission. He will get to do this a few more times before he actually goes. I am so grateful to our stake leaders for their inspiration in this program. The impact is immeasurable! I've included a few pictures below.
"Before"
"After"
Even though it was only a week between the 2 pictures I saw a difference in him. I dont' know how to explain it other than he was glowing.....

Everyone who participated in the "mini mission" experience. This is our future and I am so excited for it!



3 comments:

Natalie said...

what a neat thing for your stake to do! i think every stake should do that... it would get the boys all geared up and excited to go on their own missions. he looks so dapper and handsome in his suit too. can't wait to see you guys!

Anonymous said...

WOW! That is amazing!!! How neat to let the kids know that it's a lot of work and a lot of fun! I bet he was the best 'mini-missionary' out there!!!!

Braden said...

what a great thing. it does change people. i am a testament to that! hahaha. i wish i could have done one (long story short i asked the mission president and he said no, then changed his mind 3 months later, fun).