We had been in isolation for 4 weeks when we received word that all foreigners
would be sent home because of the coronavirus. The most urgent task was to get
our 8 Philippine missionaries home before the way was closed.
Last Saturday they quickly left their areas and hurried to the mission home.
We thought that they would fly out on Sunday. But, this was a week of patience.
Their flight didn't leave until Tuesday night!
They had lots of time to take pictures by the temple. . .
learn how to tie a tie so it's the right length . . .
and even relax!
Meanwhile,
Russ and others were frantically running back and forth to the airport.
Our 3 Brazilians had a 36 hour journey ahead of them through Qatar.
Others had a miracle flight that took them through Hawaii!
Sometimes it was an airport run for one . . .
but usually it took several vans to get bigger groups and their luggage to the airport.
Tuesday to Thursday 53 missionaries were sent home. (6 of our Philippine missionaries are in the Manila MTC where they will isolate for two weeks and wait to be reassigned.)
Our sweet Argentinian is still here waiting for the way to open for his return.
Hip, Hip, Hooray--5 with dual citizenship were allowed to stay!!
On Friday we sent 3 senior missionaries home.
We are really missing our missionaries. They left so suddenly and it feels very sad.
It left a hole in our hearts. God be with them 'til we meet again.
For the moment, we are a mission of 36 young missionaries.
We feel very fortunate, because some of the other Japanese missions
are left with less than half that number!
We are in the process of reorganizing.
Each companionship will cover 3 areas instead of one!
These are interesting times! One of our returning missionaries expressed it this way:
This is a time for inward discovery as we outwardly minister to others.
One thing is for sure,
NOTHING, not even the coronavirus, can stop God's Work from progressing!
Oh I am in awe! So hard but you are obedient yet flexible! Hope you can stay till July!
ReplyDeleteWe love and think of you two often! Ganbatte kudasai!!! Thank you for the update. We have seen the hand of the Lord in our lives and others' throughout this time.
ReplyDeleteHello McClures!! It is wonderful to see your smiling faces in this post, but sad to see the loss of so many of your missionaries. God bless you in your efforts.
ReplyDeleteWonderful update! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update. Leaving a mission is mentally & emotionally challenging. So proud of all the resilient missionaries as the roll with the punches. Love you guys!
ReplyDeleteWow. What an experience. I’m certain you have witnessed the Lord’s hand as this has developed. We pray for you and your missionaries. We know they are being watched over by a loving mission president and mother.
ReplyDeleteJack and Robynn
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI've been wondering what it's been like for you. Thanks for great update.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the update. All of these missionaries are so blessed to have both of you. Prayers for your health and safety
ReplyDeleteWe are praying for all the missionaries around the world. Such a crazy time. Hope you all stay safe and healthy.
ReplyDelete