President Gary L. Packer, Mission President of the
Democratic Republic of the Congo Lubumbashi Mission, after much research,
preparation and direction from the First Presidency of the Church, sent two
missionary couples and six young missionaries to begin to fulfill the pleas of
many who have been petitioning for the church to come to their area.
Attending this first Sacrament meeting in over 16 years,
were 8 members, who had joined the
church in other parts of Africa but awaiting the return of the church to
Burundi. There were also 37 friends of the church who were eagerly looking
forward to the opportunity to learn more and be baptized. (not all pictured)
At this one year anniversary, there
are now 194 members which are organized into two separate branches.
The truths of the gospel of Jesus
Christ are spreading quickly. Many neighboring areas are now pleading to have
the church established near them.
To celebrate this year mark of the presence of the church in
Burundi, Africa, the members of the Bujumbura 1 Branch organized to give
service at the nearby hospital, Prince Regent Charles.
The Executive committee of the branch planned and prepared
for the members to spend time with the sick and the needy. They shared food and gave personal items
along with words of hope in Jesus Christ, the words of Christ in scripture and
literature of the Restoration.
From broken arms to parentless infants, much love and concern was shared with all ages. Prayers were also offered and shared by many individuals.
Members were joyously enriched in giving and ministering as
the Savior exemplified.
And athese signs shall follow them that believe—in my name shall
they …lay chands on the
sick and they shall recover;
And whosoever shall believe
in my name, doubting nothing, unto him will I aconfirm all my words, even unto the ends of the earth.
Mormon 9:24-25
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Seems like it's been much longer than just a year. What wonderful things have taken place. We miss being there to see it all as you have. But will always treasure the amazing experience of Burundi.
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