Wednesday, September 8, 2010

HE IS IN CHILE!!!!








Everyone:

Barbie and I received this EMAIL tonight from President and Sister Swensen with the pictures attached. He had an adventurous trip down to Chile. Once he got to Santiago, someone got a hold of his debit card and withdrew about $160 US from his account. Then he left his camera on the plane from Dallas to Santiago. Fortunately, he got his camera back but not the money. Considering that was the same day I was in Alaska and Grace almost had her toe amputated some people would be throwing their hands in the air. At our house we call that MONDAY!! Anyway, his P DAY is on Monday and so I'll be posting his EMAIL when I receive it. Thanks again for all of your prayers and support.

James and Barbie


Dear McConnells,

Attached are some photos of your son arriving safe and sound. We are so grateful his health is better and he's here at last. He's landed in a very sweet spot, with Elder Bustos from Colombia, working in the Camilo Olivarria sector of Coronel. Two other missionaries live in the house with them, one from Chile and the other from the U.S.

This mission extends from Talcahuano in the north to Loncoche in the south, about 5 hours by car. There are about 180 missionaries, a 50/50 mix of Latinos and Northamericans, plus some others from Europe and other areas of the world. The missionaries teach an average of 30 lessons a week and every companionship visits 10 inactive families each week, so they stay busy. The food and water are safe and the countryside magnificent.

There has never been a better time or place to serve a mission than right here right now. After the earthquake and the announcement of the temple here, the people have been prepared to receive the message of the Gospel brought to their door by your handsome son. It's a privilege to serve with him in this wonderful work of the Lord. Thank you for your support and prayers.

Sincerely,

President & Hermana Swenson