Serving at the COB (and we're not talking about corn)

May 6, 2013 was the day we were supposed to fly to Brazil, but instead, we began serving at the CHURCH OFFICE BUILDING,( better known as the COB) because our Visas hadn't come yet.  We both began on the 3rd floor in the Missionary Department, but the department heads were having a difficult time keeping me (Lynne) busy, whereas, Kent was extra busy screening incoming Missionary applications for physical red flags.  He also spends time fielding calls from Mission Presidents about sick Missionaries all over the world.  It's been fascinating to watch the entire Missionary process-----from screening pictures of perspective Missionaries to correcting spelling errors on Missionary applications before they reach the computer of the Apostles.  These applications pass through many hands before the Missionary receives their assignment.

May 20th, I began Hosting in the COB.  It's so much fun meeting folks from all over the world and giving them a tour of this gorgeous building.  Going up to the 26th floor and scanning the entire valley is amazing to share with others.  The Hosting Dept. even asked Kent if he would like to guide tours if he finishes his work before I am finished.  He was excited!  Imagine that!  He LOVES everything about what he's doing.

Today, there was a Devotional at the Conference Center for all the full-time Missionaries serving in the Temple Square area.  Elder Richard G. Scott spoke to us. What a spiritual uplift!!! One of the perks of being right here at Temple Square.  We are loving this experience.  There are 1,400 Missionaries in the Salt Lake City Mission.  Incredible!  Funny, but we aren't part of that Mission.  We feel a bit displaced, but still at peace with all that is happening to us.  It's all good!

We ran into Sister Alisa Winterton from Roosevelt at the MTC last week and again this week.  She's going to the Ukraine!!  Now she joins the amazing force of beautiful Young Women at the MTC.  Kent thinks all these YW are driving the Elders at the MTC nuts!  Could be!!!!