Friday Meetings - Never the Same

One of the exciting things about living in a small branch, is that you never know what to expect.

 Last week a window was left slightly open at the church and a bird came inside and built a nest in the window sill.  On Friday when we came in to the room the mother bird got all excited and tangled up in the curtain and couldn't get out.  Samaya scooped her up in the curtain and set her outside, flapping and squawking.  We started the meeting after she calmed down.

We wanted to show a video of a general conference talk, but we also knew that the handbook says no videos in Sacrament Meeting.  What should we do?  

After thinking and praying, Lynn came up with a solution--have opening prayer, song, sacrament and then close the meeting.  Then have Sunday School, show the video and have a discussion.  Perfect!  Everything went so well we couldn't believe it.  Lynn led the discussion after the video and Samah translated.  It was probably one of the best gospel discussions we've had in the branch since we've been here.  We think the members here really benefit from hearing the leaders of the Church and knowing what they are part of.

The former branch president attended again and participated with some very thoughtful comments.  Lynn had a good private discussion with him after the meeting and feels he wants to come back into the church.  What a great blessing it is to be able to repent, and be "washed clean."  We welcome him with open arms.