Letter from South African MTC

Greetings from South Africa

 

We are so delighted to tell you that your Elder has arrived safely here at the MTC.  He was tired from the travel experience, but we did our best to keep him up and busy so that the adjustment to the new time would come easier.  President Collins interviewed him then I got him to fill out all of the necessary papers.  We fed him and had our first spiritual meeting with his group.  I can tell already that he is going to be a great missionary.

 

We feel so blessed to be able to serve with your Elder.  We already love him and we will be sure to take good care of him and prepare him for his field of service.

 

With love,

President and Sister Collins 

First Letter Home: After 28 Hours of Travel

Hey My Dear Family,

 

I only have 30 minutes so I probably cannot answer all questions right now.  I made the trip and guess what, I Survived! It was incredible how seeing a bunch of young men in suits can lift a heart.

 

I made it! I am now in the MTC. I have a companion but I either do not know his name or can't yet pronounce it...so stay tuned. The feelings of fear left when the group of young men showed up. Having companions makes a world of difference. But I know I wasn't alone at all during this big stepping stone. And I never will be.

 

On the way to London, there really wasn't anyone to talk to because the flight was pretty empty. On the way to Johannasburg I sat next to a couple of girls who spoke German (I think) so I wasn't going to get far. But when we landed here in JoeBurg we had a lady who was waiting behind me in line who asked if we were Mormons. With a pretty cool accent. And I was able to talk to her about why we were there and what we were doing. It was a pretty cool thing. She was able to know who we were because of our white shirts. I love how we stand out!!

 

Also I got my name tag, and boy does that make me feel special. It is amazing to think that this time has come. A moment in my life that I have been waiting for practically forever. I am humbled and honored to know this is where my Heavenly Father wants me to be. 

 

I love you so much and I am grateful for all of your emails. Keep them up. I don't know how often I will be able to give detailed stories, but I am working on my journal writing skills and my non tourist looking picture taking skills. I will do the best I can. 

 

Just so you know I have got a great group of Elders here, so I should be fine. And tell Bro Monroe that I have met Pres and Sister Collins.  He will be happy to hear that.  Thank you for your emails and your notes in my luggage. And for your prayers.  It is thundering outside, hot and humid. 

I love you!!! Miss you!  I will talk to you soon.

 

As far as pictures go - try and imagine a tag that says Elder Pennington and a good looking group of Missionaries.  I hope the girls are feeling better, I didn't have any major plane sickness or anything, I just had a weird feeling sleepy arm.  30 minutes fly by when you are having fun.  It was great talking to you! This is an exciting time for all of us. I looking forward to living it with you.

 

Love,

Elder Pennington

Bold as a Lion!

Final Farewell Hug

Elder Pennington Leaves for South Africa

Tuesday, Jan 21st 2014.