It is Tuesday, April 21st, and President Patrick Wong set us apart this morning as Temple Missionaries for the Hong Kong China Temple. I don't recall all that he said, but I do know he gave us the following blessings: to be respected, to understand the language of the temple ordinances, to find joy, to love the culture and customs of the Chinese people, to fulfill this mission.
President and Sister Wong comes across as people of great faith and humility. They have made us feel very welcomed and needed here, and we look forward to serving under their leadership and direction and fulfilling any assignments they give.
The Balls have been assigned to be our trainers and I believe we are in good hands since they were ordinance workers for quite some time prior to coming to Hong Kong.
The layout of this temple is unlike any we have been in before. The ground level, 3rd, 4th, 5th levels and basement are part of the temple. The 1st and 2nd floors are not. The first floor is a chapel and locker and dressing rooms. The second floor is housing for the temple and mission presidents and APs to the mission president. There are three elevators and each are for certain areas of the temple. It has been a bet confusing as to which we are to use depending upon whether we are helping in the Baptistry, Initiatory, Sealings, or having lunch. I am sure with time, we will get it all straight in our heads.
Sister Wong asked me to introduce myself to the other sisters in our Prayer Meeting. One of the sisters translated for me, and I will not forget the reaction of the Chinese sisters when I mentioned I have seven children. They all gasped and one sister's eyes looked the size of quarters because she opened them so wide. They found it so hard to believe.
I had the opportunity to assist Melissa M. Purity, a young woman from Africa receiving her own endowment. This was a first for me. I have not helped with New Endowments before because that is reserved for the Temple Matron and her assistants, or the coordinators. But, because this woman speaks English, I was asked to help her in initiatory. It was a special experience and joyful.
Gary met a man from India who had come 9 hours to attend the temple. He also learned of a man who saved seven years to come to the temple.
He assisted a man who did not speak English and somehow it worked out.
Even though we have been told not to be concerned about learning the language, it is obvious that we can be of greater service if we do. So, we will continue to study and learn the temple ordinances in Cantonese.
By the end of the day, we were able to do all that was asked of us. We love being here.
It has been a nice way to celebrate our Meagan's 30th birthday!
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