Schwester Sisters

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

2010-08-06T07:54:00.004+02:00

As the Schwester Sisters say good bye, we want to express our gratitude to the missionaries with whom we have served and our friends we have left behind in East Germany. We hope, along with the flavor and color we have shared, you have enjoyed the spirit and love we have felt. This has been an incredible journey for us. Our lives have been changed and greatly enriched. The joy of loving and serving our brothers and sisters in Germany has filled our hearts to overflowing. To quote our father, "Our cup runneth over". To quote Alma, " (we) have experienced a mighty change of heart and...have felt to sing the song of redeeming love."

Our prayer is that you have felt this too and that you, like us, will come to know that, "In the Strength of the Lord We Can Do All Things".

WELCOME HOME !

2010-08-05T21:16:00.009+02:00

We had a long flight with a long layover in New York. Our plane was late, but at almost midnight, most family members were there to greet us. It was a grand and glorious reunion, after all we had been gone for two years.

Tyler needed to be introduced since we had not met him, yet, (it was too late for him to care).

We were glad Elder Fenton was with us all the way. He helped us with our luggage and made us feel safe. Although he was one of the new Elders who came in from the Hamburg Mission, we grew to love him.

Jo Jo found his own special place to check us out.

Roxy is the newest addition to Sister Well's family, born on Mother's Day

Sister Well's Neighbors gave us a warm Welcome

OPEN HOUSE IN SPRINGVILLE UTAH

OPEN HOUSE IN CHANDLER ARIZONA

Thanks to all our family, friends and returned missionaries who welcomed us home.

FAREWELL TO THE MISSION

2010-08-05T20:44:00.011+02:00

FINALIZERS COMING TOGETHER

There were fifteen missionaries in our group who reported to the Mission Office the day before we left. We each had to be processed and have our final interview with President Pimentel.

For us, the hardest part of this "processing" was weighing our bags, re-distributing our "stuff" and deciding what to leave behind.

A Mission Tradition

.

Just as we began our mission by visiting a place where the Berlin Wall had been, we were again taken there and each of us walked to a secluded spot and re-dedicated our lives to serving the Lord with all our hearts as we returned home.

Elder Felsing read excerpts from the prayer President Uchtdorf' gave when he was here and dedicated Germany for missionary work

Elders in Our Group

We were the only Sisters in this group

GOING OUT TO EAT

There were two new mission vans that took us where we needed to go

This was a favorite Italian Restaurant of the Pimentels where we had our "last supper" in Germany

FINAL INSTRUCTION IN THE MISSION HOME

We were then taken to the Pimentel's home where we lined up for pictures.....

Elders Breckenridge, Hanks, Siegmiller, Gilbert, Burns, Lersch
Kersavge, Ashley, Givens, Fenton, Moysh, Felsing
Sisters Wells, Gill, Schwartz, Liboschik

...and received our last council and advice from President Pimentel

SAYING GOODBYE

2010-08-05T19:37:00.013+02:00

The Gruese Family hosted us for a farewell evening of wonderful food and visiting.

Jasmin, Sybille and Romy traveled from Magdeburg in very hot weather to tell us goodbye.

Ian, who came to Berlin to say goodbye, invited us to his "mum's" home for a cup of "English" tea and sandwiches (it was too hot for tea)

Of course, there is always music.

Good bye Ian and mother.

Last Family Home Evening at the Berlin Center

Ian, entertains us once again as only he can.

He has the missionaries singing our favorite hymns.

Last Group Picture Together

LAST P-DAY WITH THE MISSIONARIES

In Front of the Restaurant

We enjoyed a wonderful buffet with colorful tasty food but the best part was being together.

Sister Wells loved this patriotic cow ( I think it is her favorite color)

Here's the Baby!

LAST ZONE CONFERENCE IN BERLIN

Elder Naumann

Elder Graham

At our first Zone Conference after the Berlin and Hamburg Missions were combined, Sister Bangerter and her brother enjoyed a wonderful reunion. Elder Bangerter, the assistant to the President in Hamburg, continued as assistant to President Pimentel. These two outstanding missionaries have one more transfer before they will return home together on Elder Bangerter's birthday.

Jena Sisters together for the last time. We miss you Sister Hadfield.

Last Picture with our beloved President and Sister Pimentel

We have been blessed to serve in four wonderful cities, Dresden, Magdeburg, Jena and Berlin. Each holds a special place in our hearts. It has been a treat to finish up in Berlin and soak up as much, as time would allow, the history, beauty and charm of this area, which is the center and heart of our mission. We hope you enjoy it with us.

You will need to click on the "older post" to see the rest of the story.

POTSDAM P-DAY WITH THE MISSIONARIES

2010-08-05T07:18:00.006+02:00

Potsdam is a beautiful small city near Berlin and has a rich history. We visited here briefly earlier but were able to spend more time in the Sanssouci Palace Park this trip.

Enjoy!

The Super Poke Pets are not part of the blog. Click on the x to remove the advertisement.

MISSIONARY BREAKFASTS

2010-08-05T06:40:00.005+02:00

District Meeting at the Church

Before our District meeting the Elders made crepes

The Sisters Watched

We All Enjoyed!

Time for Transfer Pictures

Our District
Elders Ellsworth, Merrill, Kersavage, Givens, Hatch, Hamilton
Sisters, Wells, McCall, Gill, Bangerter

Our Tiergarten Missionaries

Early Morning Breakfast at Our Place

Sister Bangerter Loves to Serve

P-DAY ON THE RIVER

2010-08-05T05:25:00.008+02:00

We wanted to cruise down the Elbe River in Dresden and Magdeburg and the Saale in Jena. Finally it happened in Berlin and we enjoyed an afternoon of sightseeing on the Spree.

Be sure to click the x to get rid of the Super Poke Pets advertisement.

BERLIN CENTER FOR YOUNG ADULTS

2010-08-05T01:02:00.005+02:00

Institute Closing Social

Program and Awarding Institute Certificates

Brother Gruese, CES Director and Institute Teacher

What an honor to serve with this man...

...and this awesome couple, Brother and Sister Rakow.

They enjoyed a BBQ and dancing.

ACTIVITIES

World Cup Scores

We kept good track of the scores as we watched the games on the big screen with the Young Adults and others. It was fun to watch the USA progress further than expected and Germany ending up in 3rd place.

Sports Night

Kicker is a popular game.

Everyone takes a turn in the kitchen....

...enjoys eating together..

...washes their own dish...

...and makes us happy.

SIGHTSEEING IN BERLIN

2010-08-03T18:08:00.018+02:00

AROUND THE CITY

On this day we got on the bus to go to the grocery store, realized it was headed the wrong way and decided to have an adventure. We got off at Alexanderplatz.

In front of us was the Fernsehturm, the famous TV Tower.

We went in, stood in a long line, bought our tickets, went to the top and enjoyed a beautiful panoramic view of Berlin from the revolving restaurant. We had a delightful lunch.

As we stood in line we enjoyed another Buddy Bear

View From the Top

The west part of Berlin. Notice Tiergarten (park) in the upper left.

A close up of the river. See the two trains passing each other.

The east side of Berlin lacks color.

This close up of Tiergarten shows the Brandenberg Gate and the Victory Column. The Church and our apartment were on the edge of this large garden.

SIGHTS CLOSE TO OUR HOME

The Bus We Rode

The Victory Column in Tiergarten

Shopping for Scarves in the open....everyone wears them.

Kaiser Wilhelm Church (The Old, after the war, and the New)

Inside the Old

Inside the New

Berlin is famous for Currywurst. Once was enough for us.

Inside Kardstadt, a Large Fancy Department Store

The Chocolate is Incredible

There is always some kind of entertainment in this area. This is a drum and brass band from Denmark

This man-child was dancing on skateboards to music. He was performing with a group of break dancers.

This green man is a symbol of Berlin

A Jaguar in front of our apartment. We were impressed.

The World Cup Buddy Bear....actually they call it Football.

Because of all the time we spent watching the World Cup Games we felt it appropriate to take our pictures with this bear.

Alexanderplatz World Clock

TOURING WITH BEN AND HIS MOTHER

Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam

The Courtyard

One of Two Gazebos

Colorful Entertainment

Palace Rooms

On The Way to the Pergamon Museum in Berlin

Berlin has many interesting statues...

...churches, people...

...and street entertainment. His music was amazing. We bought his CD

Here We Are

This is the actual Zeus Alter (180BC-160 BC) which has been reconstructed and is so large it has a huge room all to itself.

This frieze took over 20 years to reassemble from thousands of fragments uncovered in modern-day Bergama, Turkey. It depicts the struggle of the Olympian gods against the Titans and it is strikingly life-like, with figures that project as much as a foot from the background.

The Ishtar Gate (Assyrian: ܕܵܪܘܲܐܙܲܐ ܕܥܵܐܫܬܲܪ translit: Darwaza D'Ishtar, Arabic:بوابة عشتار) was the eighth gate to the inner city of Babylon. It was constructed in about 575 BC by order of King Nebuchadnezzar II. Originally the gate, being part of the Walls of Babylon, was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the world until, in the 6th century AD, it was replaced by the Lighthouse of Alexandria.

A reconstruction of the Ishtar Gate and Processional Way was built at the Pergamon Museum in Berlin out of material excavated by Robert Koldewey and finished in the 1930s. It stands 47 feet high and 100 feet wide (14 meters by 30 meters). The excavation ran from 1902-1914 and during that time 45 feet of the foundation of the gate was uncovered. The gate was in fact a double-gate.

The part that is shown in the Pergamon Museum today is only the smaller frontal part, while the larger back part was considered too large to fit into the constraints of the structure of the museum. It is in storage.

Dedicated to the Babylonian goddess Ishtar, the Gate was constructed of blue glazed tiles with alternating rows of bas-relief sirrush (dragons) and aurochs. The roof and doors of the gate were of cedar, according to the dedication plaque. Through the gate ran the Processional Way which was lined with walls covered in lions on glazed bricks (about 120 of them).

One of the Pergamon Lions

One More Vase

Walking Around Berlin We See These Statues of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels

Ben and the Bear

The U.S. Embassy In the Left Corner by the Brandenburg Gate

An Old Watchtower on the East Side By the Wall

East Side of the Berlin Wall

Many Things Were Written on the West Side of the Wall. This one was meaningful to Sister Wells

One of Many Messages Written on the Wall

THE CHURCH AND CENTER FOR YOUNG ADULTS

2010-06-21T00:09:00.007+02:00

On the way to the church we pass by several Embassies.

Do you know which countries these are?

We walk by these bears (they are our High School colors)...

...across the double street (see the church)...

...to the front door...

...and into the foyer.

To the left is the chapel where we attend Sacrament Meeting with the Tiergarten Ward.

There is a nice gym where the YSA enjoy sports every Friday night.

This is a lovely kitchen to work in.

The Hallway to The Center for Young Adults.
Sister Gill is busy organizing the reception/office area.

She has finished.

We love order.

Looking out from the reception area

The Center Area

A Small Classroom Where Institute Classes are Taught

Brother Gruese's (CES Director) Office

The Large Meeting Room

This is where we meet for opening exercises for Institute (we have 4 classes), Singles Ward ( all YSA meet 4 times a year for Sacrament meeting and testimonies and a dinner), and CES Firesides, Movies and Soccer games are shown on a big screen.

The Library

The Lounge where Family Home Evening and other meeting are held.

VARIOUS AND ASSORTED ACTIVITIES IN BERLIN

2010-06-20T21:59:00.010+02:00

Teaching the Gospel

A couple from China whom we helped to teach. They could not speak German or English. It was interesting how we were able to communicate. We showed them "The Restoration" in Chinese. They are coming back for another appointment this week.

Another Adventure in Berlin

One of our favorite Elders, who has been home for awhile, called us Saturday with the unexpected news that he was in Berlin. Since he was on a tight schedule we agreed to meet him at the Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station). We had to ride the S-Bahn to get there. This was the first we had done it alone.

We Arrived at the Station in Good Time

We had a nice visit with Taylor and were so happy to see him again.

An Interesting thing Happened on the Way Home

Our Bus stopped and we were told to get off. We were tying to figure out what was going on when several other buses pulled up and did the same thing. We checked our map and decided we could walk home. As we got closer to our neighborhood the ground began to rumble and we heard very loud music and drums. As we approached the church we were in shock with what we saw. A very nice man explained to us...in English that this was an event that happened every year when the Gay and Lesbians from San Francisco joined others in Berlin. We took a couple of quick pictures before we averted our eyes, worked our way through the crowd, crossed the street and walked the short block to our apartment. We had no sooner closed our door and windows and curtains when the phone rang. The Sisters were several buses behind us and had walked close enough to hear the noise and feel the rumble. They wondered if we knew what was going on. We let them know what to expect and they were able to get through the crowd and cross the street to get to their apartment without incident, keeping their eyes down.

The Fence in Front of the Church

The Police monitor these events carefully, especially with a crowd this size. When the noise stopped, and we walked back to the church for a scheduled meeting, we found the street and area trashed with bottles and various other things. It was interesting to watch the many city trucks and workers who were washing the streets and cleaning up the debris. In a short time it appeared as if nothing had happened.

The Wold Cup Soccer Games

Sister Gill is Ready for the Game

A Few of Our Spectators

The Large Screen

Missionaries

Sharing Lunch with our Tiergarten Missionaries

Sister Wells, Elder Merrill, Elder Hamilton, Sister Gill, Sister McCall, Sister Bangerter

English Class

This is Christiana a German World Traveler and Lydia from Bulgaria. We are working with them in an advanced English Class. We also have Mohamad from the Middle East, Jerome from Spain, and Maxim a German who plans on doing an internship in Park city for the Sundance Film Festival. None are members and we enjoy sharing our different experiences.

SPORT

Yoga Together on P-Day

OUR SISTERS LOVE US

One day our Sisters came to our apartment, sang us a beautiful song, rubbed our feet and made us happy. We love them too.

A Sign for Roxy

OUR JENA FRIENDS

2010-06-20T21:25:00.004+02:00

OUR FARWELL FROM JENA BRANCH

2010-06-18T20:00:00.012+02:00

We received another one of those"are you sitting down" calls from Our Mission President the middle of May. More changes were in store for us. Because the Germany Mission boundaries were being changed as of July 1st, Jena would become part of the Frankfurt Mission. Since we would be leaving in July and Frankfurt had a couple ready, would it be possible to bring them in early. Of course, this was an answer to prayer, so we cleaned, packed and told the wonderful friends in Jena, goodbye. We would be serving in Berlin for our last few weeks in Germany.

Our Branch Choir Sings Our Favorite Hymns in German

Sister Jensen and Sister Hadfield sing "Each Life That Touches Ours for Good" in English

Wir haben euch lieb.

Ian Sings 50s and 60s songs with a little adjustment on the lyrics

Eleen, Mirka, Ian and Ralph singing "Heilig ist der Herr"

We were to meet with the sisters to help teach Jasmin on Saturday at 5:00. When we walked into the church there were many people standing around this table to give us hugs. It was a total surprise! We sat down to dessert and visiting.

We had Abendbrot a few hours later and then Ian presented the program. It was a very nice evening and we felt loved. We will miss this wonderful Branch.

LAST JENA ACTIVITIES

2010-06-18T11:03:00.010+02:00

Last Zone Conference in Leipzig

Senior Sisters
Sister Muhlstein, Sister Wells, Sister Gill, Sister Dable, Sister Hegawald

The Sisters in Erfurt and Leipzig Zones plus Sister Weidmann, wife of our Area Authority and Sister Pimentel, wife of our Mission President.

Last Times to Host in our Home

Film Evening with the JAEs, Missionaries and Investigators
We watched Legacy

Sunday Dinner with Missionaries and JAEs

Last P-Days

Eating out on Sister Wells Favorite Street

Elder Speelman and Elder Fock helped us get the equipment to shampoo our carpet.

They moved the furniture out.

And thoroughly cleaned the carpet.
Thank you Elders for your wonderful service!

Kimmy put together a tour of Jena for our last P Day together. This is our first stop.

We went to the top of Jena Tower
It was a wet, windy day.

This is a view (from the tower) of our apartment, the Goethe Galerie, and the University.

Skipping Stones

Hanging Out Under the Bridge to Get Out of the Rain

There was only one umbrella amongst us. Thank you Elder Speelman.

Another Refuge From the Rain

A Different View of the Jena Tower on the Way Back

Elder Speelman Demonstrates How to Make Pizza and Toss the Dough

His father owns the "Pizza Factory" in Idaho

He knows how to make it and we all know how to eat it. Yum....

At the end of the day Ian sings a goodbye to Sister Jensen, who is being transferred.

Last Night Together

Sister Jensen is going to Rostock.

We All Come to See Her Off

Once again the Elders come to the aid of the Sisters.

Sister Hadfield will go as far as Berlin with Sister Jensen to pick up her new "golden" companion fresh from the Preston MTC.

She returns with Sister Jovero.

We Loose One and Gain One

Every transfer we take new pictures of our District. We use the Kicker table to line up all the cameras on timers so we all can be in the picture. This happens quite often

Success!!
Elder Barrus, Elder Friedrich, Elder Fock, Elder Speelman, Elder Allenbach, Elder Ulrich
Sister Hadfield, Sister Wells, Sister Jovero, Sister Gill

WE MOVE OUT

2010-06-16T18:02:00.005+02:00

We moved into the Steigenberger Esplanade Hotel for a few days to be available for Elder and Sister Williams as they move into our apartment.

If you look closely at this view from our hotel room you will see the building we moved out of on the top right.

Welcome Elder and Sister Williams. We are glad you are here to care and nurture all the people we love in Jena especially our JAEs.

Our Last Institute Night

After Institute our JAEs surprised us with a special program. We watched a slide presentation of our whole mission put together by Kimmy. We cried through the whole thing.

We were presented with gifts...

...including these Jena T-shirts.

As far as we are concerned, Kimmy walks on water. Thank you Kimmy, Antje and all the others.

GOODBYE JENA

2010-06-16T17:33:00.004+02:00

It is time to leave.

Ian Helps

Here we go again with only six 50# suitcases.

Ian sings a farewell song with Elder Speelman's help.

Goodbye, we love you and will miss you.

HELLO BERLIN

2010-06-16T15:03:00.008+02:00

We are finally in Berlin, home of the famous "Buddy Bears" and much more.

We received a warm welcome from Sister McCall and Sister Bangerter. We served with them in Jena and are happy to be together again.

Our First P-Day in Berlin

Riding the U-Bahn to meet the Elders

We celebrated the birthdays of two Elders at a restaurant which is legendary with the Berlin Missionaries for...

... their 'Meter" pizza.
It took two to carry it in...

..a big knife to cut it ...

...and many hungry people to eat it.

The Sisters in Alexander Platz. This is where "Bourne Identity" was filmed. The U in the back ground stands for the U Bahn (underground train)

The S Bahn (above ground train) Passing Over the Strassenbahn (street train)

Our First Day Out Alone

Berlin is a big city. Coming from the small city of Jena we are a bit overwhelmed with the large buildings, people and noises. We got our courage up and rode a bus to a commercial area looking for a favorite store we loved in Dresden. We were successful but before we could get on our bus to go home there was a loud commotion in the street. There must have been 1,000 young people marching with their signs, (wish we could understand them) loud music and megaphones. We are told that there are many demonstration here on a regular basis. We are impressed how the police monitor these and other activities. Because of the crowds, our bus did not come and we felt trapped in the city so we took the first bus that came. We wanted out and would figure out later how to get home. After riding for some time we decided we better get off and see where we were. When we got off and looked around. we realized that the cross streets were the streets of the church and our apartment. We walked around the corner and were home. Once again angels were watching over us and taking care of us.

LIVING IN BERLIN

2010-06-14T00:15:00.000+02:00

LUNCH WITH SISTER PIMENTEL AND SISTER THOMPSON

2010-06-13T21:49:00.002+02:00

After our first Sacrament meeting at the Berlin Tiergarten Ward, we were privileged to host the wives of two Germany Mission Presidents. Sister Pimentel (Berlin Mission) and Sister Thompson (Hamburg Mission), Their husbands, along with the Stake Presidents, were meeting with Area Authority Elder Weidmann.

We enjoyed a delightful lunch and visit together. These two had much to discuss since their missions will be combined as of July 1st. The Thompsons are being released and the Pimentels will take over both missions. We sent them off with hugs and prayers for their new challenges.

JASMINE'S BAPTISM

2010-05-20T14:15:00.006+02:00

Another Baptism in Erfurt

Jasmine and Elder Watkins, who baptized her...

...and the Sisters who taught her.

Antje and Jasmine, our two newest members, reflect happiness and joy.

BAPTISM

Mosiah 18:8–10

8. And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;

9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life— 10 Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?

HOLY GHOST

2 Nephi 31:13
...I know that if ye shall follow the Son, with full purpose of heart,...with real intent, repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father that ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ, by baptism--yea, by following your Lord and your Savior down into the water...behold, then shall ye receive the Holy Ghost; yea, then cometh the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost; and then can ye speak with the tongue of angels, and shout praises unto the Holy One of Israel.

Going home...

...on the Strassenbahn...

...singing,with Ian (and his mother).

ASSORTED ACTIVITIES

2010-05-16T22:18:00.012+02:00

One Fine Sunday

Maren returns with her family to visit the Branch

Welcome back to Jena

The Primary put on a little program for the missionaries...

...presented by Jenni and Jessi.

Alejandro and his new wife, Ada, were honored on their return from Florida.

We welcome Britt and his new wife, Mandy

We are happy to see him again.

Britt came with his parents, sisters, brother in law and two cute little ones.

Leuchtenburg Castle

Queen of the Saale Valley
1899 postcard for the Hotel

It was P-Day and as usual for our P-Days lately it was foggy and cold. This medieval castle is close to Jena, high on a hill, with a beautiful view.

This was our Beautiful View

We climbed the highest tower and it didn't get any better...

...so we scanned this picture for you.

A Medieval Dog on the wall!?

Medieval People?

This rifle had beautiful mother of pearl inlaid in it.

Leuchtenburg means "Shining Castle".

1221 First mentioned in records as the ancestral castle of the Lord of Lobdeburg-Leuchtenburg
1333 Sold to the Earls of Schwarzburg
1392 Captured by the Wettin Landgraves
1396-1700 Political Center for surrounding Villages
1700-1800 Prison, Poor House and Lunatic Asylum
1873 Hotel
1921 Youth Hostel and a Center for the Youth Movement
1997 Closed The museum and castle remain open for tours.

The Dungeon

There was a beautiful Porcelain Museum where we dared not go because it was presented with photographs of nude women.

As we leave the fog begins to clear.

The Taxi Took Us to the Train

Waiting for the Train Home

Mother's Day

The Missionaries honored us by bring along chairs to sit in while waiting for the Strassenbahn

Ian invited his mother and all the missionaries for a yummy meal.
He gave the Mother's Day talk in Church and paid a special tribute to his non-member mother.

Our Mother's Day Baskets From Ian and His Mother

The "Food Fairy" Strikes Again....and Again

Eight different times in two weeks we found bags like this at our door.

The first week was before Sister Wells birthday and the next week was before Mother's Day. We hope this woman gets counseling soon. Our cupboards are overflowing. We have been feeding the JAEs, the missionaries and the Branch members.

Another Gathering at Ian's

Ian is a good member missionary. He invites his non member friends and the missionaries to his home for "tea" and fun.

Happy Birthday Sabrina

We love you.

Joseph, our former District Leader in Magdeburg, visits us from Holland

He brought his girlfriend, Angelika, with him. We have a special relationship with this young man.

Happy Birthday Sister Wells

This was really a surprise!

Thank you Sisters and Elders for the beautiful sweater and scarf.

Benjamin entertains us as we eat the birthday cake.

A Visit From Jennie

We served with Jennie in Magdeburg. She returned for a visit via France.

She loves us!

How many can you get in one small kitchen?

Friends Forever

Dancing is required with Jennie

Heading Home
This is easier??

ANTJE GOES TO THE TEMPLE

2010-05-16T21:55:00.003+02:00

Our Favorite Temple

The Freiberg Temple will always hold a special place in our hearts. We were happy to be able to go with Ralph and Anjte on her first visit to do baptisms. This was two weeks after her baptism.

Antje felt the spirit of the temple and radiated pure joy the entire day. Two weeks later she was able to go again.

Sister Meiser and her companion, Sister Singer are serving in Freiberg and met us there for hugs and a quick visit.

TRANSFERS AGAIN

2010-04-23T18:28:00.005+02:00

A Musical Farewell

Sister Monson and Sister McCall will be leaving Jena.

"God Be With You Till We Meet Again"

The Sisters Leave

Our Last Picture Together in Jena

The Train is Late

We Had a Wonderful Transfer Together

These two have known each other for several years. It is hard to say goodbye.

Auf Wiedersehen

The Elders Arrive

Because the train was late for the Sisters, we were late getting to the other train station to pick up Elder Foch. We found him in the City Center looking for us.

Up the Stairs Again

We went back to the Train Station to welcome his new companion.

He was not on the train.

We wait an hour for the next train

Elder Speelman Arrives!

Together At Last!

Oh, no, The Stairs Again!

We are happy that we have Elders back in Jena.

OUR BRANCH PRESIDENT MOVES

2010-04-22T21:45:00.006+02:00

The Branch turns out to help President Moeller and family move to Gotha

We tape...

...paint...

...load the truck...

...and eat.

The Next Day

Jena Branch Conference

Our District Presidency and other leaders came to our Branch Conference, released President Moeller and sustained President Tandetsky as our new Branch President. After the meeting, the Senior Sisters served a meal that they had prepared the night before.

The Moeller Family

We will miss these beautiful children. Notice the knife and fork. They learn how to eat European style early here.

Our Newest Member and Our New President

President Tandetsky. He has been a member for four years, two of that serving a mission in England. He will do a great job!

After dinner, President Schumann (our District President) played a tune.

Sister McCall and Sister Gill practice for a missionary fireside held later that day.

Goodbye dear President Moeller and Daniela. Thank you for your love and service.

MIXED ACTIVITIES

2010-04-22T17:07:00.009+02:00

A HEART ATTACK !

We came home one evening to a heart attack created by our four young Sisters who had "borrowed" our keys to use the copy machine at the church.

There were scriptures written on some of the hearts and sweet messages of love.

We continued to find them in our scriptures, bathroom, pencil case and even the computer. We felt loved!

Ian's Birthday

Ian invited his band members and other non member friends and made sure that there were enough missionaries to visit with them.

We sang several songs with him. He loves to sing!

His friends entertained us too.

P-Day in Jena

We had planned to have a picnic on the Saale River but it rained, so here we are in the Gemeinde (Church). Instead of sandwiches, we had Taco Salad.

We ate, emailed ...

...and shared stories.

Ian happened by and we twisted his arm to entertain us.

Spieleabend

JAE (Young Single Adults) Game Night at the Senior Sisters

Playing UNO

Sabrina's horse got a little frisky.

Antje's Baptism

2010-04-08T14:15:00.005+02:00

All the Sisters who Taught Her and Love Her
Antje will be a wonderful asset to our Branch.

Our Branch Mission Leader Ralph (Who Has a Vested Interest In her) and Elder Watkins Who Found Her

The program was wonderful!

Antje and Sister McCall Sing "When I Am Baptized"

Everyone loves Antje and Sister Boseman.

Group Hug

Copenhagen, Denmark

2010-04-06T22:44:00.016+02:00

We were given special permission by our Mission President to go to Copenhagen to attend the Temple wedding of one of our Young Adults. Our friends from Gera offered to take us

After a few hours sleep in Gera, we left at midnight and traveled six hours to catch the Ferry. You can see the sun coming up if you look closely.

Because of the generosity and love of Stephan and Madlen we were able to travel to Copenhagen and enjoy the wedding, the Temple and sightseeing.

Inside the Ferry

Getting Ready to Leave the Ferry
Notice that the road is not level with the Ferry yet.

The First "Sign" That We Were Getting Close

Approaching the Church and Temple

The Sign on The Church

This is a six story building directly behind the Temple. This building also houses a Distribution Center and a small hostel where we spent the night. We shared the space with families from Iceland who come once a year to attend the Temple. This was a sweet experience for us (and they spoke English) We are sorry we did not get a picture of this building.

The Sign on the Temple

The Copenhagen Denmark Temple

The Wedding

Marcus and Celeste found each other on the internet. Both are returned missionaries, love to travel and speak English (their common language since he is from Germany and she is from Denmark). The wedding ceremony was conducted in three languages. The first part was given in Danish with a German interpreter and the sealing was done in English.

Both Families

All the Girls

A Danish Wedding Tradition

Several times during the wedding dinner the guests would begin to tap on their plates with their knives until the bride and groom stood on their chairs and kissed. They would then stomp their feet until the couple got under the table and kissed again.

This was a most delicious wedding cake!

Sightseeing Before We Head Back to Germany

We love the colors.

Would you believe we saw not one, but many 7-Elevens in this city?

A Park By the Copenhagen Harbor

As in Germany, the children are put on wheels at an early age.

Somewhere in this harbor is the resting place of the "Little Mermaid" but they had sent her to China on a good will tour.

The Amalienborg Palace

The Palace is in Frederiksstaden, the oldest section of Copenhagen's inner city.

One of the Palace Guards

The Statue in the Middle of the Palace Courtyard

This area is dominated by the dome of the "Marble Church". It was originally Catholic but now is Protestant.

The Front Alter

Looking Up Into the Dome
Can you see the Twelve Apostles?

The Old Organ...

...and the New Organ

Another Interesting Church We Passed

We finally found the church where the original "Christus" stands but could not get close because they were having a service. We took this from the foyer.

The New Underground Subway

Bicycles Everywhere
Thirty six percent of all citizens commute to work by bicycle.

The McDonalds Where We Ate Lunch

This is the trash container in McDonalds and is the one Danish word we know, "Thank you"

We didn't know Denmark had windmills.

Back into the Ferry to return to Germany

A Solemn Remembrance

2010-04-06T16:00:00.012+02:00

Buchenwald Concentration Camp

Another memorable P-Day with some of the Missionaries of our Zone. This time we went to a concentration camp near Weimar. Many of the buildings were closed but we saw enough. It's hard to think about what happened during those war years and in this camp. How can man be so cruel and inhumane.

Watch Tower

Then...

...and Now

One of Many Cement Stones Placed Around the Grounds for Memorials

Little Camp Memorial

Read this to understand why this particular area of the camp was an especially moving experience.

The architect of this memorial was a former prisoner of "Little Camp"and is now living in the USA. His name and number are written on a plaque.

The Back of the Camp

The Road the Guards Patrolled.

One side is where the prisoners were kept and the other side is the mass graveyard.

This is the graveyard where the remains of thousands are buried. Look closely for the metal poles which are the memorials.

There are no names, only numbers.

There were fresh flowers at the base of this cross.

The Crematorium

This building was open.

The Ovens

The Back of the Ovens Where the Ashes Were Removed and Taken to the Graveyard

It was in the cellar of this building where we saw the large hooks around the wall. They would hang the prisoners until they strangled. This method was used mostly for the young. At this point we were so distressed we could not take any more pictures.

To Cheer Us Up

We went to Weimar, (one of the places where Goethe and Schiller lived) to enjoy ...

...Ice Cream...

...and the Mall.

JAE Activities

2010-04-05T22:42:00.004+02:00

Fireside With Elder Christian

Elder Christian, a retired professor who spent time at the BYU Jeruselem Center, gave a wonderful presentation about the last days of Jesus Christ and the Holy Land.

We all enjoyed this special evening.

Singing and Playing with Ian

At his house

At Our House

An Evening in Brazil with Antje

As an exchange student in Brazil, Antje learned to love the people, food, traditions and music and enjoyed sharing them with us.

Jena Branch

2010-04-05T22:18:00.003+02:00

Jennica and Jessica discover the new white board before Primary. They love to draw.

Is there a likeness here?

Alejandro and Ralph say goodbye to Ronny as he is moving to another Branch.

Missionaries (continued)

2010-04-05T18:12:00.005+02:00

After all the changes we finally get a picture of our new District.

The missionaries enjoy the treats we bring to District meeting.

This is our Swiss Elder, who speaks French, wearing his favorite
BYU hat.

A Surprise Call

Before we had a chance to get acquainted with Sister Hadfield, Sister Monson got a call from President Pimentel. When the new missionaries arrived at the airport that morning, four sisters got off the plane instead of two. It seems these extra sisters were "fast tracked" because they already knew the language but someone forgot to notify the President. We had two very capable sisters and an apartment recently vacated by the Elders here in Jena. Sister McCall and Sister Jensen would be arriving late that evening to be trained by Sister Monson and Sister Hadfield. We all hustled to get two apartments cleaned, ready and show up at the train on time.

Sister Hadfield Welcomes Sister Jensen

Sister McCall is Welcomed by Sister Monson

Going home...

...their separate ways.

How did this happen?

Six Heads are Better Than One

A New District Picture is Taken

Sister McCall, Sister Hadfield, Sister Gill, Sister Monson, Sister Jensen, Sister Wells

Elder Foch, Elder Allenbach, Elder Killpack (our new District Leader), Elder Ulrich

P-Day at Wartburg Castle

2010-03-06T19:55:00.019+01:00

Legend has it that the first building on this site were erected in the years after 1067. The medieval castle that now stands there was started in 1156 and completed in 1172. It ranks among the best-preserved and beautiful secular buildings of the late Romanesque era this side of the Alps. This castle is unique because it's history is marked by peaceful events and not so much by battle and bloodshed. The charitable acts of Saint Elisabeth and Martin Luther's translation of the New Testament make it one of the most significant sights in the history of Protestantism.

The Oldest Drawing

"The Wartburg: what a host of memories this name evokes for every German! Where is the castle that is its equal in historical significance and poetic solemnity?" Hugo von Ritgen

P-Day with the missionaries, our first visit to a castle. We are excited!

It's up where?!!

Come on, you can do this.

With the strength of the Missionaries ....

....we can do hard things.

Eisenach

We are almost there.

Wartburg Castle, Eisenach, Thuringia

The Drawbridge

The Door Coming In

Looking Out From the Drawbridge

The Main Big Tower

The Smaller Lookout Tower with Outside Stairs

In the 1850s the Bergfried was built and was furnished as a grand-ducal residence and a museum. They created a granary and a knights' bath house. Today this is a cafe and a hotel.

Going Into the Castle

Knights' Hall

Dining Hall (The original table was five times this size)

Chapel

Organ concerts as well as Protestant and Catholic Services are held here today. They are held in memory of Saint Elisabeth and Martin Luther.

The Chapel Door

Saint Elisabeth

Elisabeth's Bower

The glass mosaic was installed in the last century.

The mosaic shows scenes from the life of the saintly Elisabeth of Hungary, the most remarkable woman in the history of Wartburg.

Elisabeth Gallery

In this gallery the painter, Moritz von Schwind, narrates the life of Saint Elisabeth and underlines her charitable role with the Seven Acts of Charity

These are two of the Seven

Hall of Minstrels

In the 13th Century Wartburg was considered the leading center of fine arts throughout Europe.

The legend of the contest of minstrels, portrayed here, is based on historic events.

Banquet Hall

This hall received it's contemporary look in the 19th Century when the trapezoidal paneled ceiling, which gives the room a remarkable acoustic, was added. The overall appearance of the banquet hall represents the 19th century perceptions of the Middle Ages and is one of the finest ensembles of the Historicism era.

In 1817 students from eleven universities met at the Wartburgfest. They commemorated the 300th anniversary of Reformation Day. In commemoration of this event, the flag of the first student fraternity in the city of Jena was hoisted on the middle chimney; its colors black-red-gold were later to become the German national flag.

For a number of decades the grand hall is has been used for concerts and numerous cultural events.

Graduation events are held here too.

The Royal Bedroom

The Museum

The Dragon Slayer

The Dragons

Thuringia Coat of Arms

Little Flute (about 4 inches)

Eating Utensils

Checkers anyone?

Hallway to the Area of the Castle where Martin Luther wrote sermons and translated the Bible while in seclusion.

Martin Luther was placed under Imperial ban and declared an outlaw along with all those who adhered to his teachings. It was not possible for him to return to Wittenberg so a sham attack was stage-managed by a local magistrate from Gotha. Luther was taken captive to Wartburg where arrangements had been made for "prison" accommodations worthy of a gentleman, where he spent the next ten months almost exclusively.

A Painting of Martin Luther

The Room Where He Wrote and Translated

His Notes From The Book of Samuel

His Copy of The New Testament

In order to remain incognito, Luther sprouted a beard, let his hair grow, wore worldly clothing and went by the name of "Junker Joerg".

Our Last Door as We Leave Luther's Room and the Castle

Back Down the Hill

It Was an Awesome Day!

Blitzes!

2010-03-06T19:00:00.004+01:00

Sometimes there is a need to transfer missionaries with only a day's notice. This happened in Jena this week. It is very unusual for three missionaries in an area to be blitzed. This is the beginning of the changes President Uchtdorf talked about when he was here.

The Elders ( Zone Leaders) are Blitzed to Erfurt

President Pimentel came to Jena to speak at our Fireside. We had lunch and a nice visit with him and Sister Pimentel. They were here when we told the Elders goodbye.

Elder Wardell was blitzed to Neubrandenburg to be a Zone leader with Elder Brons and Elder Watkins to Erfurt as a Zone Leader with Elder Roden. It is hard to say goodbye when missionaries leave.

Stefen, one of their investigators, will now be turned over to the Sisters for teaching.

Sister Habermann is Blitzed to Berlin

Only Four Weeks Together

We had to do spilts. Sister Gill saw Sister Habermann off at Paradies Bahnhof.

Sister Wells went with Sister Monson to Jena West Bahnhof to send her to Chemnitz for a couple days to work with the Sisters there until her new companion arrived from Dresden.

Finally , Sister Hadfield arrives

Welcome to Jena !

German Hair

2010-03-06T18:06:00.007+01:00

We have been totally amazed at the colorful hair in Germany. It has been fun collecting these. I had to be creative in taking them. Some are not too clear because they were taken from a distance and then cropped. Only one caught me....can you find her? Have fun browsing.

Meeting With President Uchtdorf

2010-02-27T00:29:00.004+01:00

President Uchtdorf was in Germany for a Regional Conference for all German Speaking Stakes. Our Mission President, President Pimentel, was able to arrange a Mission Conference for the Berlin Mission. This was a once in a lifetime experience as we literally sat at his feet in the Berlin Stake Center. Here we are waiting for him. When he arrived he wanted to shake each missionary's hand. What a wonderful experience to be in his presence and feel his love.

Because of the recent consolidations of the German Speaking Missions the main theme of the conference was that the members would need be united in building up the kingdom here.

Elder Kopischke, Area President, and his counselor, Elder Teixiera also addressed us. It was noted that the European Area Presidency were all European Leaders. The other counselor, who was not there, is from France.

Josh, Andrea and Lily Come to Visit

2010-02-27T00:04:00.004+01:00

Who Visits Germany in the middle of Winter? One of our favorite Nephews, Josh and his wife Andrea with lively, little Lily.

The Freiberg Temple

So Happy Together

One Big Pile of Snow

An Adventure Going and Coming

Happy Baby

Several hundred more pictures of this visit are in Andrea's camera. As a side note we just got an email from Josh and he is in South Africa..this week.

Fasching (Kind of Like Mardi Gras)

2010-02-26T23:07:00.010+01:00

Shopping For a Costume

The Devil and Who?

Indian Father and Pioneer Mother and what do you get?

Homemade Animal Masks

Very Talented and Fun Twins

Fussball (Soccer) Fan and Elder Wardell?

Ping Pong Champion?

Pirates?

Cowboy Disc Jockey

Dancing

Watching

Eating

And More

Games

And Entertainment

Scenes While Shoppping

2010-02-26T21:44:00.012+01:00

Our assignment requires us to shop a lot and we thought we would share some interesting sights.

This picture was taken as we were going up the moving ramp in Kaufland

The produce here is abundant and beautiful. We spend a lot of time in this area.

They love their tea here. Most are fruit teas and very little black tea.

Flowers are very popular. We thought these bouquets were different.

Krampus is the scary guy that comes on December 5th if you have been naughty and whips you. If you have been good St. Nicolas will give you a gift.

Witches

Both sides are lined with many diverse seasoning packets. We don't spend much time here.

What variety of Ketchup would you like?

This is the best.....baby octopuses.

Missionary Activities

2010-02-25T20:30:00.009+01:00

Senior Sisters

We are even starting to think alike.

We celebrated Sister Gill's birthday with the Gottschald Family

BAYERN P-DAY

Sister Habermann's family sent food from her home in Bayern (Bavaria) so she could share with us a real Bayern Meal. The people from this part of Germany are very proud of their unique customs and food.

While we wait, we play games.....

....email home......

...and practice the organ.

Finally it is ready to be served.

Weisswurst (you must remove the skin), brezels and a tasty cheese (kaese) mixture. Yum...

The grand finale was this black cherry torte.....all prepared by Sister Habermann.

After dinner, we have a traditional Bayern story read to us.

Sharing Our Gifts of Food

We started finding bags of food anonymously left at our door in late November and have received many more since then. The first one was 30 chocolate Advent Calendars and 10 large Stollens (the traditional Christmas cake). We have shared the abundance of food with the Branch members, our Center for Young Adults and the Missionaries.

We have discovered it is a single sister in our Branch who wants us to know that East Germany has an abundance of food and to show her love. These pictures are a small sample of some of the things we have received.

One of the ways we have shared is to fix meals for the Missionaries and the JAEs.

Elder Watkins Birthday at our District Meeting

P-DAY At the Senior Sisters

Sister Habermann and Sister Monson patiently wait for the Senior Sisters to come home.

Elder Wardell relaxes...

and watches a church video.

Elder Watkins takes his turn emailing his family.

This is our corner kitchen with our counter top oven where we do all of our baking. Today we made chicken enchiladas, tacos and cheese enchiladas, thanks to Sister Monson's parents for sending the corn tortillas.

Sister Monson can check off her service for the day.