Elder and Sister Rigby returned home this week. We are sad to see them leave us, but we know they will be happy to be close to family and friends again. We cannot thank them enough for the service they have given to our mission over the last 18 months. Our little area of the Philippines has been greatly blessed - and so have the elders and sisters who dearly love them. I did not realize the importance of senior missionaries until President Tye and I were called to preside over a mission. We literally could not function without them. Each one brings with them a strong foundation of faith, dedication, and unconditional love. Senior couples are a great example to the missionaries and they each have unique talents that bless the areas to which they are assigned. When they go home - it always leaves an empty spot in our hearts!
Elder and Sister Rigby are writing on their tie, signing the quilt, and writing thank-you notes to some of the missionaries and members of their branch.
Elder Russell M. Nelson, in the October 2004 General Conference, said this: "When we think of missionaries, we generally picture in our minds young men with shirts and ties and young women dressed modestly. But along with them are marvelous senior missionaries who have answered the Pleadings of prophets and apostles for more missionary couples. I express gratitude for our senior missionaries. They are young in spirit, wise, and willing to work."
Thank you Elder and Sister Rigby!
Elder Atkinson has told us how special the Rigbys are to him. We are very Thankful for the Love & Care they showed him while he was in their area. We are very blessed to have them return here to our home city. We are looking forward to attending their homecoming.
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