Edinburgh

Last week we sent 17 elders to Edinburgh Scotland. They had finished their MTC experience and were headed to their new field of labor -- the Ireland/Scotland Mission.

They were transported by bus, so at the invitation of the mission president, we boarded the bus with them and traveled to Scotland. As we drew closer the anticipation increased and when we finally pulled up to the mission home, they let out a cheer........their dream was becoming a reality. They were ready to go to work and convert the world!

As soon as they unloaded their bags we all reboarded the bus and went to Pratt's Hill. After a short and steep climb we were at the top of this historic hill that overlooks Edinburgh. It is on this spot that Orson Pratt dedicated the land of Scotland for the preaching of the gospel. President Griffiths, their mission president, gathered them around, told them the history of this spot and then gave them a few minutes to go off by themselves and commit themselves to the work. It was a sweet moment.

We had about a day and a half to see the beautiful city of Edinburgh. The royal mile is the main street that runs from the Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood House (where the Queen vacations)

Edinburgh is famous for it's summer festivals -- the most popular being the Tattoo! (no relation to body tattoos!). It is a pagentry of marching bands from all over the world. It is held in front of the castle so this becomes the back drop to these colorful and entertaining groups. Pictures do not do it justice (especially when they are fuzzy!)

The bleachers are portable and are put into place just for the festival. Ordinarily this is just a parking lot in front of the castle.

The Fringe festival is a street festival that is filled with street performers. They come from all over the world and perform wondrous feats -- magic, juggling, fire dancing, and you name it. Then they pass the hat! What a way to earn a living!!!!

Edinburgh is really one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen. And the mission home is probably the most beautiful mission home in the church. We had a delightful visit with President and Sister Griffiths and found that our paths had crossed in many ways in the past. It was especially fun to see missionaries that we had trained here. Now they are trainers themselves and are doing a great work. Such a program!!!