Charles' Blog

The Stars Have To Eat!

2012-02-08T16:28:00.001+02:00

Filming can be quite exhausting, so some soup is required to revive the stars of the show. Oops! Sorry about the big saucepan on the table.

Happy Times.

2012-02-08T16:25:00.000+02:00

From left to right we have Elder and Sister Maxwell, Elder and Sister Davis, Elder and Sister Clark, Elder and Sister Collier, Elder and Sister Mower and President and Sister Charles. We were filmed by Elder Mower extolling the virtues of serving a mission in our senior years. This film will be sent to our own home Stake in Crawley.

You've Gotta Pick a Pocket Or Two....

2012-02-08T16:18:00.000+02:00

Elder Mower can be seen with his hands in his pockets. He had to explain picking a pocket without using his hands. President Charles then showed us a clip from the musical Oliver, when Fagin 'role plays' with the other boys, to show Oliver how to pick a pocket. He then spoke about the value in our missionary efforts of remembering to role play every day.

During Conference and Just Finished.

2012-02-08T16:08:00.000+02:00

After Conference.

2012-02-08T16:04:00.000+02:00

Zone Leaders.

2012-02-08T16:02:00.000+02:00

Elders Cook and Stevens are the Athens Zone Leaders. They provide for us all a great example of righteous living, we are happy to follow their inspired direction.

How fast the time has flown.

2012-02-08T15:53:00.000+02:00

Sisters Braaksma and Gallagher, Elders Loynes, Woodger and Cook. President Charles asked these dear ones to stand before the zone to thank them for their service in the Greece Athens Mission. Next month they will fly home to loved ones. They will always remain with us in our hearts.

Happy Birthday!

2012-02-08T15:44:00.000+02:00

Happy birthday to Elders Leit and Held who have celebrated birthdays recently, and for Elder Davis this month.

Thank you!

2012-02-08T15:41:00.000+02:00

Thank you once again to Elder and Sister Davis for providing the food for zone conference.. The sloppy Joe's were absolutely scrumptious, and the coleslaw and bread rolls were freshly made this morning.

Wow!

2012-02-08T15:35:00.000+02:00

Watching the rainwater race down the street.

Stormy Night.

2012-02-08T15:31:00.000+02:00

Elder Leit trying to capture that perfect picture of the storm.

Time for Refreshments!

2012-02-08T15:26:00.001+02:00

After council meeting we had some refreshments. It is wonderful to have so many willing helpers. It is true what they say, many hands do make light work. Our hearts are always happy when we are able to mingle with such beloved souls.

Mission Council in Athens.

2012-02-08T15:19:00.000+02:00

We had a great meeting with the leaders in Athens. So many ideas and valuable counsel to move the work forward. Who do you think those slippered feet belong to? The rain fell from the heavens and cascaded down the street outside the mission home. Hence the change of footwear. Thank you Elders Stelter and Nicholls for helping in the kitchen.

Holy Temples, Hallowed Walls.

2012-02-05T14:01:00.000+02:00

Julianna from the Halandri Branch in Athens was able to attend the Frankfurt Temple in January. She is seen here with Elder And Sister Dracocardos. They had until very recently, served in the Greece Athens Mission and had returned home to England. It was a joyful reunion for them, made all the sweeter by being together in the House of the Lord.

Mama and Papa Antonopoulos,

2012-02-05T13:49:00.000+02:00

President Charles was able to meet up with the parents of Elder Antonopoulos who serves here in the Greece Athens Mission. He was in Vienna for a Priesthood Leadership Meeting. Elder Wondra who is their home teacher arranged this beautiful surprise. On returning home President Charles told me about this lovely opportunity, and remarked that Elder Antonopoulos had 'angel' parents.

Greek Language Class.

2012-02-02T16:09:00.000+02:00

Elders Antonopoulos and Held are very patient with us as they teach us more of the Greek language. Do you think Sister Maxwell looks as if she is saying, "Stop picking on me, ask my husband". We look forward to these lessons, and enjoy learning together.

History in the Making!

2012-02-02T16:02:00.000+02:00

Sister Davis has prepared the history for the Greece Athens Mission 2011. Sister Davis is a joy to be around as she serves with such a cheerful heart. We all love her very much.

At The Mission Office.

2012-02-02T15:58:00.000+02:00

It's Wednesday again when various meetings take place at the office. It was a cold and snowy day, and Elder and Sister Clark warmed us all with some delicious home-made soup .

My Sister In Athens.

2012-01-27T13:21:00.000+02:00

Here is my sister Betty visiting from home. It was a sweet reunion as we haven't seen each other for over 2 and a half years.

Sister Hick's { Relief Society President ,Halandri} Observations On The Greece Athens Mission Conference.

2012-01-23T17:20:00.005+02:00

The Frost family meet Elder Fingerle just before the meeting.

This weekend has been a spiritual feast! As we met in the shadow of the mighty Acropolis of Ancient Greece the great strength in our membership could be felt. What a joy it was to see the room filled full of warm and loving members and to be in the presence of the spiritual giant- Elder Fingerle of the Seventy. Our nationalities are many but our hearts are one.
It was a delight to see Elder Marvin and Sister Grace Smith again. They are serving their fifth mission, this time in Cyprus. (They had previously been the office couple in Athens). They are such strong and faithful members! I was so surprised to see them on Saturday.
Sister Charles gave such a beautiful talk - half in Greek and we were all so impressed with how well she is speaking Greek! President Charles helped us all see the importance of the "Preach My Gospel" book and how it can make a difference in the work here. We're amazed by his enthusiasm and how he preaches with such power!
Juliana did an excellent job, talking about her amazing experience in the temple. And, Nancy's talk - delivered by her husband was equally as beautiful. (Nancy-we're sorry you were ill and couldn't be with us).
On Saturday Nancy directed the music and on Sunday Alyson did so. I played the organ for both sessions. The missionary choir was so uplifting and their song "Making Greece a Zion's Land" has been running through my mind since Saturday's rehearsal.
Sister and Elder Davis coordinated a delicious dinner on Saturday night. The soups were all terrific. Thanks to the Maxwells, Davises and others who made them. (Sorry, I'm not sure who to give the credit to.)
The Mowers were so kind to take care of our son and Pavlo during the Saturday night sessions. Caleb had a nice time with them.
Each and every talk and hymn was uplifting. It really is incredible to see the strength of the Greece Athens Mission. What really added to that strength was the presence of so many fine missionaries. Each and every one of them adds their light to the fire. They are truly an inspiration to us all!
We don't know exactly how many investigators were with us but we saw one man that Joe knows from the Embassy. His name is Christos and he was touched by the meetings and wants to come again.
We are part of something great! Let's keep our faith and numbers growing and soon we'll need a larger chapel.

At The Office.

2012-01-18T16:32:00.001+02:00

Getting the key indicators on the computer. It's nice to get a clear shot of Sister Clark , only seconds before, she was head down and beavering away.

The Assistants!

2012-01-18T16:25:00.000+02:00

Here we have Elders Antonopoulos and Held with President Charles. They are very faithful missionaries who rejoice in the work of the Lord. They are firm in their focus, but there are times of smiles and laughter. We look forward to our closer association with them over this transfer.

Getting Ready!

2012-01-12T18:16:00.000+02:00

Elders Baret and Demeyere met Peter in a park, a place he had not visited for over a year. They began to teach him and within a month he was ready to be baptised. The Lord guides His missionaries to find those who have 'ears to hear'.

Baptism In Limassol.

2012-01-12T18:15:00.001+02:00

Peter was baptised by Elder Baret on Saturday 31st December. Elders Leit and Demeyere were the witnesses for this sacred occasion.
Peter said, "What a beautiful start, to get baptised the last day of the year 2011, to begin a new life in a new year 2012".

Put On The Armour.

2012-01-09T17:58:00.000+02:00

Elder Kopischke who is the District Leader of Cyprus South District, is pictured with his armour clad companion, Elder Reading. Elder Kopischke used the armour to depict the 'perfect' missionary. The breastplate was for obedience, the helmet for revelation, faith was the shield and the sword was their companion. The shoes that you cannot see, remind missionaries that they need to walk with the members. In the District meeting Alma Chapter 48 verses 11-13 and verse 17 were read. In verse 17, put our own names in the place of Moroni, and set our hearts free.

Baptisms in Nicosia.

2012-01-09T17:30:00.001+02:00

It is Christmas Eve and Nicosia Branch had the joy of welcoming 3 new people into the fold. Here we have Moses who was taught by Elders Antonopoulos and Baake. Moses was baptised by President Poudel who serves as the Branch President. Two other converts, mother and son, who were taught by Sisters Virkamaki and Hambrock were also baptised today by Elder Niebuhr.

Athens Zone Activity.

2011-12-27T15:39:00.001+02:00

We got together on Boxing day to play Nerf games. It was good fun, lots of exercise and some strategic planning. We rescued the prince/princess and defused the explosive devise. Then we ran around the car park Nerf guns a blazin! Time for food and a movie. It was wonderful to spend time together this Christmas season. Hope to get more photos of this activity.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-27T15:30:00.000+02:00

Kala Xristouyenna!

2011-12-27T15:24:00.000+02:00

Xronia Polla!

2011-12-27T15:17:00.000+02:00

Thank you Sister Davis.

2011-12-27T15:15:00.001+02:00

Sister Davis coordinated this wonderful feast for Christmas Day. Under her direction we served turkey, potatoes, stuffing, green beans, gravy and homemade rolls. There was a choice of many delicious cakes. All of the senior couples provided the food, and the younger missionaries brought a variety of juices and fizzy pop. This sweet service was given with such love and generosity.

Getting Food to the Tables.

2011-12-27T15:01:00.000+02:00

Elder Smith is moving so fast he's almost a blur.

More Food Arrives.

2011-12-27T14:57:00.000+02:00

Pre-lunch Carol Concert.

2011-12-27T14:54:00.000+02:00

They sang with the voices of many angels, a beautiful way to begin our Christmas meal.

Many Hands and Happy Hearts.

2011-12-27T14:51:00.000+02:00

Everyone worked happily and willingly. The younger missionaries waited till everyone had been served, before sitting down to eat.

Setting Tables.

2011-12-27T14:44:00.000+02:00

All of the missionaries were involved in setting up, and serving a meal, to all those who wished to join us on Christmas Day.

When We're Helping....

2011-12-27T14:39:00.000+02:00

Acropoli Young Single Adults.

2011-12-27T14:37:00.000+02:00

The young Single Adults surprised us with a lovely rendition of We wish you a Merry Christmas.

Thank you Santa!

2011-12-27T14:19:00.000+02:00

Santa Time!

2011-12-27T14:15:00.000+02:00

So Talented!

2011-12-27T12:57:00.000+02:00

These we drew with the paper on a hymn book balanced on our heads. Is there no end to the talent displayed by the Greece Athens Mission??

More Trees!

2011-12-27T12:51:00.001+02:00

Sister Braaksma enjoying the artistic creation of Sister Gallaghers tree. Elder Yates that looks like a great egg timer!

O Christmas Tree!

2011-12-27T12:49:00.000+02:00

We had the piece of paper behind our backs and had to tear it into the shape of a christmas tree. Some of them are absolutely amazing!

Reindeer at Play!

2011-12-27T12:45:00.000+02:00

We were sorted into teams and had to create a sturdy pair of antlers using tights and balloons. Very funny!

Christmas Eve Missionary Party.

2011-12-27T12:42:00.001+02:00

We had a training session just before the party. We watched the driving video and had words of counsel from President Charles. Here we are are waiting to start the white elephant game.

Xronia Polla!

2011-12-27T12:34:00.000+02:00

Elders Woodger, Brandenburg and Cook are celebrating birthdays this month in Athens. Also a special Xronia Polla to you Elder Andros for the 26th of December.

Elder and Sister Maxwell in Athens!

2011-12-27T12:29:00.000+02:00

We love having Elder and Sister Maxwell in Athens and enjoyed introducing them to Souvlaki Kifissia.

Turkey Time!

2011-12-21T20:32:00.000+02:00

Thank you Elder Held for preparing such a delicious turkey.

Christmas Party Food.

2011-12-21T20:28:00.000+02:00

Everyone provided food for the party, Elder Held at the end of the table preparing a place for the turkey.

Happy Birthday Baba!

2011-12-21T19:23:00.000+02:00

Merry Christmas From Cyprus!

2011-12-21T18:43:00.000+02:00

We Wish You A Merry Christmas...

2011-12-21T18:41:00.001+02:00

The lovely lady in the top right hand picture was moved to tears as she listened to the carols. Many listened with smiles on their faces, one lady clapping in time, and others quietly reflective.

Words of Comfort and Good Cheer.

2011-12-21T18:34:00.000+02:00

Many of the residents were so happy to meet such delightful young people.

A Carolling We Go....

2011-12-21T18:29:00.000+02:00

Here we are on our way to visit some of the elderly in Nicosia. The sun shone brightly which matched the warm spirit in our hearts.

Vasseilios Meets Santa Claus.

2011-12-21T18:06:00.000+02:00

I wonder what Santa had in his sack for this wonderful member of the Halandri Branch.

Smiling in Anticipation.

2011-12-21T18:01:00.000+02:00

Santa's Sack is Always Full.

2011-12-21T17:59:00.000+02:00

Elder Stelter is doing some translating as Santa left his Greek dictionary back on the sleigh!

Santa Comes to Athens.

2011-12-21T17:53:00.001+02:00

Does Santa look vaguely familiar? By the way, has anyone seen Elder Mower lately?

Acropoli and Halandri Christmas Party.

2011-12-21T17:51:00.000+02:00

Many hands make light work so they say. Missionaries and members served over 140 people at this Christmas gathering. How blessed we are to be able to gather together this way.

Christmas Party!

2011-12-21T17:46:00.000+02:00

Acropoli and Halandri Branches combined for a Christmas party, which was held at the Acropoli Chapel.

A Happy Group.

2011-12-21T17:37:00.000+02:00

Sisters Roberts and Kusseling taught the gospel to Julie Millan Cabotaje. She was baptised on the 17th December by Elder Cook. Sister Julie is from the Phillipines.

Baptism In Athens.

2011-12-21T17:27:00.000+02:00

Mina Martin Ang was baptised by Elder Mower on the 17th December 2011. Mina who comes from the Philippines was taught by Elders Stevens and Jensen. What a wonderful way to approach Christmas by following the example of the Saviour.

Cable car adventure with Rachael.

2011-12-14T18:12:00.001+02:00

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At the Airport.

2011-12-11T16:10:00.000+02:00

Saying goodbye is never easy, but we are happy for family back home who wait with joy in their hearts.

Choosing the Leonidas Statue.

2011-12-11T16:05:00.000+02:00

Leonidas Lunch.

2011-12-11T16:00:00.000+02:00

Sharing a meal with those you love is always a pleasure.

Happy Birthday!

2011-12-11T15:55:00.000+02:00

Elder Woodger makes a wish, and then carries on with the work of the day. Missionaries are mighty miracles.

Elder and Sister Dracocardos.

2011-12-11T15:48:00.000+02:00

We gather together at Acropoli to have a meal with Elder and Sister Dracocardos. They leave for home on the 10th December, but will always be in our hearts.

Hurrah!

2011-12-08T11:08:00.001+02:00

We are glad to report that Elder and Sister Christensen have arrived safely in Cyprus. They were met by the senior couples there, and warmly welcomed to the Greece Athens Mission. We look forward to hugging them in person very soon.

Gifts of Love From Fillmore, Utah.

2011-12-02T13:44:00.002+02:00

Thank you For Sharing.

2011-12-02T13:02:00.003+02:00

Thank you to all the Young Women from the Fillmore Utah Young Women Girls Camp 2011. The gifts were so beautifully made, we were so impressed with the care that had been taken. Thank you for sharing your testimonies with us in the Greece Athens Mission. God bless you for being such bright lights in the world .

Farewell.

2011-12-02T12:53:00.001+02:00

Farewell for now, but forever in our hearts.

At The Airport.

2011-12-02T12:51:00.002+02:00

We wish you well Elder Walker.

Leaving The Mission Office Bright and Early.

2011-12-02T12:50:00.001+02:00

Leonidas Joins The Group.

2011-12-02T12:35:00.001+02:00

Saying Goodbye!

2011-12-02T12:30:00.000+02:00

Elder Walker is leaving us for pastures new. He will be missed by those who have got to know him.

Leonidas Lunch.

2011-12-02T12:06:00.000+02:00

We enjoyed lunch together with Elder Walker, Elder Stevens, and Elders Yates and Cook. It was so good to be in each others company.

Decision Time !

2011-12-02T12:02:00.000+02:00

Which Leonidas statue will he choose?

Baptism In Limassol.

2011-12-01T18:48:00.001+02:00

On the 19th November Ronald was baptised by Elder Nicholls with Brother Godfred and Elder Radnoti as witnesses. How the heavens must rejoice to look down upon such a sacred moment.

Miracles!

2011-11-30T18:12:00.000+02:00

Elder Wilderspin and Elder Gibbons spoke to me about wanting to have a Christ centred transfer. They are focusing on the Saviour and what He would do, think or say in any given situation. They have set goals for miracles to happen, and at the end of each day they write a miracle or two in the little blue book. I was privileged to sit with them while they were waiting for an interview with President Charles. I came away uplifted and rejoicing. These two bright servants of the Lord are great miracles to me.

Lots of Practice Time!

2011-11-30T18:03:00.000+02:00

We enjoyed our opportunity to practice together. There are moments when we smile at some of the mistakes we make. But more often we smile through tears, because the Spirit whispers confirming truths to our souls.

2011-11-30T17:59:00.000+02:00

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Congratulations!

2011-11-30T17:54:00.002+02:00

This weekend at the Cyprus District Conference, Cameron was ordained to the office of Elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood .

Happy Birthday!

2011-11-30T17:47:00.002+02:00

We sang to Sister Maxwell who had a birthday in November. We love her strength and gentle ways, and are so happy to serve with her.

Fun Photo!

2011-11-30T17:44:00.000+02:00

I just had to have this picture when I saw the pose. Here we have Elder Niebuhr with some of the Young Adults in Nicosia.

Always a Surprise!

2011-11-30T17:40:00.000+02:00

When I attempt to take a picture I never know what will come out. I mean, what is Elder Radnoti waiting for? Why is Elder Gibbons saying aaaah? And all Elder Kopischke wants is a little peace.

After Conference.

2011-11-30T17:33:00.001+02:00

Photographs are precious memories. As we look on these in years to come our hearts will smile.

Packages From Home.

2011-11-30T17:28:00.000+02:00

Elder Leit gets packages from home, and always very generously shares his yummy Danish licquorice. Elder Kopischke and I are happy to be close by on this occasion.

Keep The Letters Coming.

2011-11-30T17:24:00.002+02:00

It was so funny watching Sister Virkamaki reading her letters. She would laugh out loud so many times that those sitting nearby just had to join in.

Halandri Branch Donation.

2011-11-30T15:59:00.002+02:00

Food was collected for Klimaka an NGO based in Athens which serves approximately 6,000 people. Every week nearly 300 people pass through the doors of the shelter. They are able to bathe, have something to eat, get first aid and some clean clothes.

The Assistants and Leonidas.

2011-11-22T08:58:00.000+02:00

We stopped off at Thermopylae as Elder Deeley had not been before. We spoke about the bravery of these soldiers as they fought against all odds.

Wonderful family.

2011-11-22T08:55:00.000+02:00

It was so good to see Elder Mortensen again, wonderful for his family to witness a baptism in the sea. He is so happy to be showing his family around his beloved Thessaloniki.

Baptism in Thessaloniki.

2011-11-22T08:50:00.002+02:00

Vyron Cani was baptised on the 20th November 2011 by Elder Greciano. He didn't want a photograph taken as he felt that it wouldn't do justice to the sacred occasion. Brother Cani was first contacted by Elders Gaillard and Greciano, he was taught further and prepared for baptism by Elders Leit and Brandenburg.
It was such a sunny day, and looking out on the sea was a delight, as the water sparkled like diamonds.

Yeah, We Finished!

2011-11-22T08:41:00.000+02:00

I Made One Too!

2011-11-22T08:38:00.002+02:00

We were all so pleased with our calendars and for the opportunity to be together. A sister would begin to sing a Christmas carol, and then others would join in. There was laughter and teasing and a sweet spirit. Sister Collier had worked hard to prepare everything for us, and was so encouraging to those of us who are not confident with craft making.

Look What I Made.

2011-11-22T08:32:00.002+02:00

Sister Manuela pleased with her work.