In every group there are those with unusual stories and backgrounds. This group was not an exception. Elder Wilkosz is from Poland. He is a convert to the church and when he joined his parents virtually disowned him and he has no contact with them. He has asked that we do not communicate with them but rather with his mission president, who has tutored him and helped him prepare for a mission. He is an outstanding young man who will be serving in the London South Mission. I marvel at the courage and faith of these young men. They put many of us to shame. I have no doubt that the Lord has some great things in store for this young man. Yesterday he had his patriarchal blessing and was simply speechless when it was over. We have no idea what was said but whatever it was left him deeply humbled.
Sister Pallekonda (on the left) is from India. She is stunningly beautiful with thick black hair that looks like silk! Her family came into the church in stages. In 2005 her brother joined the church and then in 2007 her Hindu mother was converted. In 2009 she was baptized and that left her father who finally joined in 2011. Her decision to serve a mission came rather quickly after she joined the church but there were circumstances that prevented it. Her father did not wish her to go but wanted her to get an education, which she did, with a degree in Information Technology. After she received her call she would often awake in the morning and find her father sitting by her bed holding her hand and wiping the tears that were falling from his eyes. She was "daddy's little girl" and he was having a hard time saying goodbye. But she came and has never looked back. She has never been homesick, but rather rejoices in the privilege of serving. She is the first missionary to come from her branch and what a fabulous young woman she is. She is also going to London South.
And Elder Patten (on the right with his eyes closed) from Wales who grew up as only child and with a single mother. He never knew his father and has no contact with him. He was a pretty rough kid in his younger years and did not believe in God. But at some point he began to seek a better life and eventually became a Born Again Christian. He was devout in his religious pursuits and then met the missionaries and gained a testimony. He joined the church 2 years ago and at age 25 decided to serve a mission. He is so thrilled to be here and is doing all he can to prepare himself for what he considers will be the greatest experience of his yet young life! (and he is right!)
Also Elder Grachev on the left who is from Moscow, Russia. He is 22 years old and has a degree in Finance and Credit from a Moscow University. His mother and brother are members but not his father. His brother is currently serving in Tacoma, Washington. It is easy to see how the gospel is being spread across the earth!
Each missionary is here for a different reason. Many of them have struggled, repented, and made big changes in their lives. Others have always kept the steady course which has quite naturally brought them to this time. But each of them is here trying their best and investing all their heart, might, mind and strength into becoming what the Lord wants them to become.
And we love them all!
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