Photos from the Mission

OUR FIRST DISTRICT

senior couples - Lagan - Holts, McDowells, McBrides

mom at Belfast castle -- cavehill ward just below

climbing the cavehill with YSA - fall 2010

Missionary Report

Our dear family and Friends,

Slante' and may the roof on yer hoose niver fall in and may those under it niver fall out. It is a beautiful day in the lovely Emerald Isle, but then again, everyday is beautiful. Spring has sprung -- the crocus has been raising its head for a number of weeks, the daffodils are a bright array of yellow, the bluebells are becoming a beautiful carpet of blue and the trees are sprouting their green buds. Easter eggs are adorning the stores shelves and we are so very excited to welcome Karen, Tim and 4 of our grandchildren coming to visit in early April -- we think we will just spoil them with these big Delicious Easter eggs !! Saturday last, we were returning from an appointment in Randalstown and were driving along the shores of Lough Neigh -- the UK's largest body of inland fresh water. We noticed a sign " Shanes Castle " and thought we might take a peek. We are constantly amazed at the history that surrounds us at every turn and some we did not know before. The castle had an interesting history with all its cannons intact and pointing out towards the lough. It is quite something to go from from one appointment to another and view a great historical site on the way. The sheep are all lambing in the fields and are a great reminder to us as missionaries to " feed my sheep " We love the work and the dear friends we make each day.

This report is a little late as we have had a very eventful last few weeks and not much spare time. We are trying to juggle covering 2 branches that are about 40 miles apart -- Antrim and Coleraine with each of them having several other towns surrounding them and members spread out in each of those towns. In addition to getting to know the members in Coleraine, where Elder McBride went to school as a boy, we attend the branch councils of each branch, missionary correlation and other meetings and 2 Sundays of each month in each branch which includes often speaking or lesson assignments. A few Sundays ago it was 5th Sunday and the branch President ask us ( just 5 minutes ) before to take the entire time to discuss with both Priesthood and the Sisters regarding the new pass a long cards. Yes, no advance warning, it is simply expected of missionaries to respond. Well, we made it fun and hopefully informative and inspirational as we involved everyone in several role plays to illustrate how they might be used. Then we shared some stories ( yes, that's the Irish way ) and concluded with our testimonies. The time flew in and no rocks were thrown at us !!! There are wonderful stalwarts in this Coleraine branch and will be a source of strength in identifying those we can teach. They have the vision of this great missionary work and in Proverbs we read " Without vision the people perish " We have learned 3 great words on this mission and their deep and enduring meaning : - VISION --- DESIRE ---- BELIEF.

Our great friends Elder and Sister Neely, another senior missionary couple visited with us for a few days. Elder Neely served here as a young man in the early 60's. They are presently serving in CORK ( not far from Blarney castle, the home of the famous Blarney Stone ) which Elder McBride kissed a very long time ago and there is a story to tell, but I will share that again sometime. We had a wonderful few days taking them around many of the places he served so many years ago. The Mount ( which is now gone ) The old mission home, " REDHILL " that we all visited in those early days and loved. We even got a tour of the inside and walked the beautiful grounds and down to the lake. The old bank building downtown where all the missionaries conducted street meetings. On the street was a wee old Irishman playing Irish music -- Danny Boy, I'll take you home again Kathleen, Kitty of Coleraine ( and Billy from Ballymoney, only kidding !! ) --- it was a trip down memory lane for Elder Neely and also included a mini miracle --- we went down Sandy Row near Belfast City centre and where Sister McBride was raised. She had been given a name several weeks ago of a good friend who joined the church at the same time she did in 1964. Her name was Margaret Cousins and Sister McBride was told that Margaret may still be living in Sandy Row. As we sat in our car recalling fond memories and members we knew from that era, a car drove up across the street. A prompting came to me to Have Sister McBride approach the lady getting out of her car and ask if she knew a Margaret Cousins. As she was asking the question, to her delight and amazement this lady turned out to be the same Margaret she knew so well those many years ago. She has been less active all of those years. Of the thousands of people who lived in that community what would be the chances !!! True to form with a fast Irish wit Margaret says in her thick Belfast accent, " You have 6 children , I'm gobsmacked !!! -- no TV, love !! ( a term of endearment here )

It was a GRAND reunion, but the story does not end there --- Margaret recognized Elder Neely -- " You were the one with the Buddy Holly glasses !! " and they embraced. As stories of old were shared her husband appeared on the scene, he is not a member and we have a commitment to visit them both. God works in mysterious ways, his wonders to perform and these are the experiences we are blessed with almost on a daily basis.

As we reflect on our call to serve in the land of our birth and when we were completing our papers -- we said that we were prepared to serve anywhere in the world where the brethern wished to place us, little did we know that we would be experiencing these daily miracles that penetrate so deeply into our hearts and build our sure testimony that our Heavenly Father knows best and we do love and worship him and his only begotten son Jesus Christ. This account like many others is among Heavenly Father's tender mercies to us.

We have information on how to stay in " Redhill " if there are any former missionaries interested. It is now a trust home and satellite campus for John Brown University. They will take small groups for certain times of the year ( part in summer ) for the nominal sum of 14 pounds per night ( food extra ) Wouldn't that be a fantastic thing to do -- imagine staying in the home and taking time to meditate on the lake shore and watching the swans. Should you want information please email us. We can put you directly in touch with the managers.

A little more " NORN IRON " to share -- we will have you all conversant before we complete our mission !!!

S is for SPAKE --- as in " shut up and let me spake '

T is for TAE ---- as in " put the kette on and gie me a wee cup o tae "

W is for WEE --- every single Northern Irish person uses this word - a wee this or that -- a wee biscuit - a wee dance -- even when it's a big deal - it's a " wee " deal.

Y is for YOUSE --- as in " youses keep the noise down, I'm trying to sleep "

Observations : -

Visiting with Sister Newcombe in Coleraine ( stalwart member ) discussing some less actives : " he's up and down like a fiddlers elbow " or " she hasn't been out since pussy was a kitten " --- also in Ballymoney ( Elder McBrides old home town )

with Sister Riley, " they have a wee wheen o weans jaist oot o nappies " ( try to figure that one out and let us know how you do ? ) --- " a wee prezzie fer ye -- jaist a wee bookmark frae the auld toon "

How did you do with the old ULLAN tongue -- the ULSTER SCOTS. Let us know, we will see if you got close. As we travel in all of these towns the dialect can change literally within a few miles so it take a lot of listening but most times it all comes back and we find ready acceptance. We love it and love them. They are such great members of the church and with strong testimonies. Wish we had time to share some of their testimonies with you. They do build your faith. Sister Riley knew Elder Paul Heninger ( from Calgary ) well and he enjoyed hot soody farls right off the griddle with Sister Rileys mother ( Walker )

Senior Couples get to attend the odd dance from time to time -- it was Valentines day and we attended Holywood Road ( where we met 45 years ago ) The concluding number at every NORN IRELAND church dance is " I'll tell me Ma " an old Belfast song about the beautiful girls from Belfast and loved by all ---- " she is the belle of Belfast City " , and that's my lovely Carol.

Now the last item for this email is a commemoration celebration of the CAVEHILL CHAPEL which will have special significance to President Covey and all former missionaries to Ireland, but especially those who served in the 1960's.

This meeting was held on Sunday February 20th 2011 at 7.00pm -- the exact day and time that the building was officially opened 45 years ago. Sister McBride and I were members of that ward as young marrieds in the late 60's - our first son Stephen was blessed there and there are very fond memories of times spent in that building.

We attended on Sunday evening past and share the following : -

Cavehill building was built for 69,000 pounds -- it is a beautiful building - can you relate that to our costs today ? In some comparison our first home in York Park, Belfast was 1,200 pounds. Bro Crawford was the Branch President then and he conducted in 2011 -- Bishop today is Bp Boyd. Other leadership at the time was Albert McCracken, Frank Hillis, Drew Patterson and Clement McDonald.

LOUGHVIEW house stood on the property, in the shadows of Belfast Castle and had a commanding view of the entire lough at that time.

Groundbreaking was held 19th July 1963 and the first sod was turned by President Stephen R. Covey. From groundbreaking to dedication it took 3 years 10 months and 4 days to dedication which took place in June 1967 and was built mostly by building missionaries and local members. The square footage was 9000 sq. ft. Palm trees graced the exterior and still do. Elder Mark E Peterson presided at the dedication. Opening prayer for that service was Bro. John Beattie ( who became the Belfast Stake Patriach and held that position for 22 years -- John is a dear friend of ours and he offered the opening prayer at the commemoration service last Sunday.)

Many faithful and devoted members sacrificed much to erect this wonderful building and we are greatly indebted to them, many of who are our dear friends. As we reflected on times spent there so long ago two, come to mind that are indelibly etched in our minds : -

1. The great baptism services held every Thursday evening under the leadership of President Covey, where the saints and the missionaries gathered to witness the baptisms of new members of the church from all over Belfast city. It became " the gathering place " each Thursday evening for the saints and will always be remembered as a spiritual feast by all who attended.

2. We personally recall walking up Fortwilliam Park to our building several times a week and twice on Sundays pushing Stephen in his pram. It was about 3 miles there and back and mostly uphill, but then the return portion was always downhill -- that was a bonus. Sister McBride was Young Women's President and I worked with the District Presidency. When we were emigrating in 1970 to Canada they held a farewell party for us and it was sad leaving our forever friends but today through an inspired call we get to associate with them for a season. President Summerhays arrived as Mission President just the day before this party and he came and played " Danny Boy " on the SAW. I believe there was not a dry eye in the building and he immediately endeared himself to the Irish people. We realize some of you may not know the above names, building, etc, and we ask your forgiveness for indulging our personal thoughts and feelings upon you. There may be others that the thoughts might bring some rich remembrance and we are so very grateful for all you dedicated missionaries who sacrificed to come to the beautiful Emerald Isle to bring the powerful message of the restoration. May God bless each of you abundantly.

( Note - President Covey -- please send this email to your grandson. He served in and loved the Cavehill Ward and they loved him. Please extend our warmest regards to him )

To our dear family and you, our forever friends ------ we are humbled by your prayers of faith in our behalf. We feel them daily and we love you all SO VERY MUCH. Thank you for your cards and emails of encouragement. May we share a scripture we love :- 1st. NEPHI 18 V 3

That great prophet and mighty young man who was filled with courage , obedience and so many other wonderful virtues, was commanded to build a ship. He did so exactly as the Lord instructed him. He had vision, desire and belief. Please note he went to the mount oft. Do we go to " our mount " oft ? He did pray oft to the Lord. Do we pray oft as he prayed ? Do we pray as the Lord prayed, for example, before calling his apostles, he prayed all through the night to his Heavenly Father. After our prayers the Lord has promised that he will " show great things "

He has to us as missionaries and we believe his words. Our Saviour, Jesus Christ lives - we know he lives. Our Heavenly Father loves all his children, we know that. We are all part of this wonderful Gospel -- it is indeed good news and we love it with all our hearts. Thank you for your constant support and we love you all very deeply,

Elder and Sister McBride --- mom and dad.

Scotland / Ireland Mission.

Missionary Report 1st January 2011

Our dear family and friends,

LE GACH DEA-GHUI' i GCONHAIR NA H-ATHBHLIANA

Your Irish greeting for the new year ---- in English --- WITH ALL GOOD WISHES FOR THE NEW YEAR. It is a magnificent morning in the " auld sod " The sun is shining brightly, the fields are green, the birds are singing and it is very mild. Please click on the following to get your Irish blessing for the new year : -

http:// www.andiesisle/thisblessingisforyou.html

Witness for yourselves the beautiful, captivating and mystical Emerald Isle -- makes you want to serve a mission here !!!! Try to find the leprechauns dancing merrily through the verdant valleys and the leafy glens. May each of you have a wonderful new year and may the skin o' a gooseberry cover all yer troubles.

We had snow on Christmas day which was beautiful but Boxing day it started to rain and now it is all completely gone. We attended Midnight Mass on Christmas eve with Sister McBride's sister, in the Church of Ireland. As we stood outside about 11.30 pm it was one of the most picturesque scenes we have ever witnessed in our lifetime. A scene like the most beautiful Christmas card you have ever seen,try to picture this as I write. The old church was built in 1629 and was bathed in a full moon with just a hint of Irish mist surrounding it, the church bells were pealing, calling all from the little country village and surrounding farms to come, the evening was still and mild, trees were covered with a light dusting of pure white snow and the crystals glistened from the moonlight, the stars seemed to be dancing, highlighted by a clear midnight blue sky. We stood in awe for some time before entering the church through the quaint archway.

Now the service was an experience all in itself. Church of Ireland resembles the Catholic church very closely but as you might imagine in Ireland it is keen on ensuring that the Protestant ties will always remain. The feeling inside did not reflect in any way what we had experienced outside, but did serve to strengthen our testimonies that we indeed belong to Christ's true church. The prayers were all vain repetitions or vain oblations and were read from a prayer book with sections detailing prayers that are given for certain religious occasions during the year, Christmas eve mass being one. I have often wondered why the Priest does not simply say # 5 or 2 or whatever ? Candles were everywhere and the officiant read from the Book of Luke ( International Translation ) It was entirely impersonal, without feeling and the name of Jesus Christ was mentioned but a very few times. Communion was given to those who professed faith in the Holy Catholic Church ( again, this is Ireland and therefore not to be confused with the Roman Catholic church ) Shortly thereafter the donations are collected by 2 wardens of the church and escorted to the head officiant, flanked by 4 " guards " and 2 at the front with " spears " We found this very interesting as with all the flowing robes, etc of the Priests. We are so very grateful for this restored message which we carry. The simplicity and beauty of the teachings of Christ as we know them. The true doctrines of the kingdom restored exactly as they were practised in ancient times. We have indeed everything and our hearts rejoice daily in these truths. To live in this time is a very great privilege. We could only sit and wish we could have the opportunity to share what we know of the Gospel of Jesus Christ with these sincere people, who are God's children.

17th Dec 2010 -- got a call from our President in Scotland. We were due to have an all Ireland mission conference in Dublin next day and it had been snowing very " heavy " that day and as snow is very rare here, everything was grinding to a halt and roads for the drivers here who are not accustomed to it were too hazardous to drive on, plus there was one mountain pass. As he said, " Elder McBride, you are the expert in driving on this, would you consider driving the mission transit van to Dublin " The van was packed with " move ' suitcases and valuable possessions, " all the Christmas boxes for missionaries from overseas " We got the Elders and Sisters all organized and got them on a train very early in the morning to Dublin and I seen the driving as a possible adventure, which I have always had fun with. Off we went as Elder and Sister Claus, got safely there, and presents delivered to many thankful Elders and Sisters. These are great young men and women and it really is a treat to serve with them. We had some training, but this was mostly a festive occasion where local members served a delicious turkey dinner and we were all presented with mission ties for the Elders and mission scarves for the sisters -- with the crest of the Scotland / Ireland mission on them. All arrived home safely and the snow has been long gone.

Leprechauns --- we were out on a wee country road a few days ago and noticed a wee sign --- " Please slow down, Leprechauns crossing " -- please remind me to tell you about the the little folk.

One of the greats blessings of being here is that we regularly get to visit Elder McBride's handicapped brother. His central nervous system was crushed by forceps at birth and he thinks as a 2 - 3 year old. He is full of love and it warms our hearts each time we visit. We sing primary songs to him, read the scriptures and pray.We communicate in a sign language that he and I understand and always leave him knowing that he is very close to Heavenly Father and we have greatly benefited from the visit.

Christmas time in Ireland --- we attended a lot ward events that we had been invited to and of course had incredible meals at both Elder McBrides sister and also Sister McBrides family --- also other dear friends --- frankly we have eaten enough to last us the remainder of our mission. Some people ( not members of our church !! ) were telling us they left GUINNESS and cookies out for Santa on Christmas eve --- only in Ireland !!!!!

We attended a ward event in the Holywood Rd chapel and a sister talked with Sister McBride --- she was so excited when she was explained that Sister McBride had taught her in Primary 45 years ago and she loved her and remembered her lessons.

FIRST FOOTING -- an ancient Irish / Scots tradition --- Elder McBride was asked twice to first foot this new year. A dark haired handsome man ( he does not have to be handsome, I just added that for fun ) has to be the first to cross your threshold with a lump of coal and a piece of bread in his hand -- NO ONE is allowed to enter the home until he has arrived, after midnight on the 31st Dec, and crossed the threshold. The coal is symbolic of warmth in your fire and the bread - food on your table -- during the new year. The dark haired man brings you luck -- the luck o' the Irish. Please note the mission has not turned Elder McBrides hair grey yet but the boot polish here is very good !!!!! Both of them are not members -- yet -- but we have something much more powerful than the luck o' the Irish.

We have enjoyed a very wonderful season in the mission field and have felt very blessed. The members and non members are all so very kind to us and we have enjoyed bringing the true Christmas spirit into their homes through song and sharing this powerful message that we have. Possibly in the next email we can share some experiences with you. Much of our work is " sowing seeds " and through the spirit persuading God's children to have a desire to change and embrace the Gospel fully. Please read Mosiah 18 : 8 - 11 --- they were " desirous to come into the fold of God -- their willingness to be a witness -- the desire of their heart, their determination. They clapped their hands for joy and exclaimed " This is the desire of our hearts " ------ our dear friends and our loving family, may we all be joyful, clap our hands and may our desire be great in trying to follow in the footsteps of our Saviour. May we constantly be filled with this enthusiasm because we have EVERYTHING to be joyful about.

We love each of you very much and may God's richest blessing attend you this coming year.

Elder and Sister McBride.

Scotland / Ireland Mission

Missionary Report Mid December 2010

----------------------------------------- NULLIG HUNA GWITH -----------------------------------------

------------------------------------------ MERRY CHRISTMAS ------------------------------------------

NULLIG HUNA GWITH ---- Merry Christmas in IRISH --- the ancient Gaelic tongue. We wrote it as it sounds and if you are trying, you need to pronounce the last word with an " ugh " --- NULLIG = Christmas / HUNA = best wishes and GWITH = the verb, with you.

Our dear family and friends, we do indeed wish you all a lovely Christmas and of course we will be looking forward to hearing from our family on Christmas day. If the weather forecasts can be relied upon, the prediction is that we will be having a white Christmas in the beautiful green Emerald Isle. We have never been to Ireland at Christmas time since we left Erin's lovely shores and that has been over 40 years. Before that time we do not ever recall having a white Christmas, so this will be very unique for us. However today we had some business in Belfast's city centre and it was so mild that we had a bit of barnbrack at a sidewalk cafe near city hall -- we sat outside and enjoyed the festive spirit and a few free giveaways at the bakery.

We go carol singing, with our district tomorrow and have persuaded one of the less active sisters we are working with to bring her keyboard --- you see the branch needs an organist and slowly but surely we hope to get her active enough, so that the Branch President can extend a call. We look forward to going house to house bringing the true spirit of Christmas and also having some musical backing. We also have a little family from Romania we have been working with -- the 2 little children are so lovely -- they have so very little of material posessions and live in such humble circumstances -- the area they live in is rough and a few weeks ago a gang jumped him coming home from work and wanted him to purchase alcohol, he refused and they beat him. His young wife is so talented with her hands and we have had her make special Romanian hats for our grandchildren. -- we hope to brighten their day and have worked on a few ideas to accomplish this. We do love this part of the work.

We have attended so many events during this wonderful season and it has been fun associating with many dear friends -- a highlight was the Christmas devotional by the First Presidency and the Tabernacle choir. We have always loved that and found that it is the ideal way to begin the Christmas season. This Saturday we have an all Ireland missionary dinner and meetings in Dublins fair city and we will be with Sister McBrides family Christmas Eve -- a special midnight service ( Church of Ireland ) and then a Christmas day " feast " at Elder McBrides sisters home, in the cottage by the sea. It will, as always, be a traditional Irish feast with turkey fresh from their farm. It has been fun to be invited to a number of wards events, Sister McBride is so popular and I just tag along. Remember I was just a wee country boy and she sung in the Stranmillis quartet who accompanied and were trained by the Mormonaries, way back in the 60,s.

Just a few observations --- approx 40% of Irish Christmas cards have Robins on them. The Robin here is a tiny bird with a bright red breast -- it is said that is a symbol of Christs crucifixion and the blood he spilt. We were out walking a few days ago by the river and there were scores of them along the river side in the holly bushes. There are quite tame and will come right into your hands when you crumble up a little bread. A real Christmas sight and we got some good pics. The Robin in North America is much larger.

We spoke in Omagh last Sunday and fortunately no one threw petrol bombs at us !!! They are a great little branch with a great Branch President ( President Brophy ) who has a fast Irish wit. We had dinner at their home with all the family and the stories started. Of course, everyone started and they assumed, as most people do, that we are American -- so Elder McBride commenced making up a few of his own and was able to tag them along for quite some time, with a straight face of course until one of the sons said " Hey, where are you from ? " ----- to that son I finished it off with, " I never forget a face, but in you're case I'll make an exception " ---- the game was up and the craic was good ( craic = good natured Irish banter )

Went to visit one of our less actives in the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast. Sister Law was going through brain surgery and it was my privilige to use my Priesthood to give her a blessing. It is a huge hospital and is situated between bitter protestant and Catholic communities. The doctors were telling us that it is the leading medical institution in the world for gunshot wounds !!!! -- not surprizing. Sister Law's surgery was so successful that she has already been released and we recognize the great power of God through his Holy Preisthood. I was asked by the President to interview a young man for baptism -- he had a very " colorful " background with paramilitary organizations, the travellors ( gypsies ) petty crime, serious crime, etc . It was a rather extensive interview and we have come to rely so very heavily on the great influence and power of the Holy Ghost. He is now ready and has a great desire to change and embrace God's commandments. It is wonderful to realize that we are indeed offspring of deity and the greatness of God's love for his children -- also the miracle of the atonement and how it can work in each of our lives. As we met the words kept repeating in my mind " though thy sins be as scarlet, they can be as white as snow " Yes, 7 times 70 is figurative and we know of a surety that our Saviour continues to love us and invites us constantly to " come follow me " We love him and know he lives.

Now for a wee bit o' humor --- there always has to be a wee bit to keep us all sane !!

We were meeting with a Bishopic here and you need to understand " football " here is a religion. I seen that the Bishop and one of his counsellors were wearing Liverpool ties and being a Man. U. fan ( their great rival ) since I toddled -- I could not resist a few juicy little comments -- pretending of course that as I am a " foreigner " that I just would not know -- so I said brethern, " I see that you support that wee prod amatuer club Linfield Football Club -- ( now those are fighting words and the Irish know about fighting ) So back they came with a few cute remarks and I must admit I was able as a " foreigner " to lead them along for some time, until ---- I mentioned my affection for Man. U ----- then the fun really started. Well, we did manage to leave on good terms as I invited them to follow a good team - so next will require a wee bit more creativity !!!!! Relief Society in our little branch were having a Christmas party a few nights ago and I had another meeting to attend in the building. I went in at the end ( really, to see if there was any refreshments left !! ) and we had one of our less actives attending. Sister McBride and I have been doing some service for her in preparing and wallpapering her living room. All the sisters were standing around when she said, " Elder McBride is coming over tomorrow to strip for me !!!! " Well, everyone stopped talking very quickly and laughing heartily ---- the poor sister turned a dozen shades of red as she realized what she had said, when she should have said " strip the old wallpaper " Well everyone, including Sister Gittons have that great Irish sense of humor and a good laugh was had by all --- but there were no refreshments left !!!!!!

We are loving this mission ---- it is really not ours, it is the Lords and we are on his errand. The work is varied and both full of challenges and joy. We testify of his love for all his children and his tender mercies extended to all. We love him with all our hearts. Jesus Christ is at the head of this church. We love the Christmas story and will indeed miss the warm feeling we had experienced with our family each Christmas eve and we met in family home evening and read from Luke --- that beautiful account of the Saviours birth that warms all our hearts. He did come to earth and showed the way, culminating in giving his precious life -- THAT WE MIGHT LIVE. We try hard to follow him and recognize that as hard as we might try we have to rely on his grace and love for us to become the advocate with our father. What a miracle this is to each of us. Each day we breathe it is a miracle. Thank you for your goodness and example.

May each of you have a wonderful Christmas. May you feel your Heavenly Fathers love and the presence of the Saviour close by. May you be moved by the Holy Ghost to greater heights and may your days be filled with joy. We love each of you very much and pray for you always,

Elder and Sister McBride

( Bill and Carol - Mom and Dad. )

Scotland / Ireland Mission

# 6 - 216 Saintfield Drive

Belfast BT8 7HQ

Northern Ireland

UK.

Missionary Report

Our dear Family and Friends,


We trust you are all well and happy. We are sure that you are enjoying all the events leading up to the wonderful season of Christmas. It is a real honor and privelege to be wearing our name tags that bear the name of Jesus Christ, especially at this time of year. To belong to Christs true church and bear testimony that he lives and revelation still flows from the Heavens in our time, through a Prophet of God is not only a sacred responsability but a real joy. Today the Irish fields are not their usual green --- rather, WHITE and ready to harvest -- yes literally, dear old Ireland that rarely sees snow has had a dusting of the white stuff -- it is kind of like a teaspoonful of icing sugar over a big green cake. It came in from bonnie Scotland where both both the mainland UK and Scotland have been severly hit with heavy snow that has crippled their meagre snow moving resources. It is still reasonably warm but the natives are complaining about the cold.


Our weeks are flying past and we very busy with a number of different assignments including a new one our President wishes us to assume --- that of renegotiating all the missionary apartment leases in Northern Ireland. I believe he has heard that I like to deal and have some experience in real estate. I think that could be enjoyable and could save the mission considerable sums of money. Now that the Irish bailout deal has been completed maybe we will have some success !!!


We are enjoying our work with a number of less actives and realizing some success -- we had 5 to church recently that have not been there for many years and it is a small branch we work in, so 5 really gets some notice. We were driving back into the city a few days ago and decided to take a route we had not taken since being here -- that of passing our home on the Shore Road, where Elder McBride lived when he first moved to Belfast at 19 years of age. We spent a few minutes recollecting some great memories when we met. May we just mention one -- before getting married we made decorative flower pots to pay for our reception, etc. We collected sea shells from the sea shore, washed, dried and cleaned them -- then used a light cement base to apply them to the pots - then varnised and sprinkled with a silver glitter -- we sold enough of those pots, to stores, direct, etc, to pay for all the wedding expenses and more. That was in 1968 and they were happy days working together and now we get to labor 24 hours per day, together -- just as well we love each other -- it is indeed amazing how Sister McBride has put up with this guy and his crazy ideas all these years !!! These are some of the side benefits of serving in the land of our birth.


Yesterday we visited with some great members we knew well from long ago --- they lived in an older area near central Belfast and only had an outside toilet - not the kind of facility you would want to take Uncle Johns Bathroom Reader and spend some time in the middle of winter !!! We had forgotten, our first home was exactly the same in York Park, Belfast, where my first reno work included making that WC fit as an extension to the home.


A short while ago we had celebrated American Thanksgiving in Dublin with all the other Senior Missions serving on the Emerald Isle. The meal was great and we enjoyed visiting Trinity College Dublin and seeing the Book of Kells. In the old library ( one of the greatest in the world ) we had prearranged to see an original copy of The Book of Mormon, housed there. It was very interesting being allowed to very carefully leaf over it. It was presented to the college in 1972 by a Robert Dougan ( obviously an Irishman or Irish decent ) I, frankly, was disappointed in the anti- church attachments put in the front of the book. I also noticed in small print on the introductory page, the date 1829 -- interesting date ? When leaving central Dublin we all took a bus back to the Dublin Stake centre. It was quite interesting to me that all 8 couples went to the top of the double decker and found someone to share the Gospel with -- I dont think the other passengers knew what hit them !!! -- our contact at the back of the bus had been to the fishmongers and apologised for the smell of his 2 fish, cod and haddock -- I asked in jest if he had 5 loaves also !!! That became a good lead into Christ's miracles and we enjoyed a very pleasant conversation. Most think we are American here, until they hear a few stains of this, that and everything coming through in my accent -- I tell them I am simply a mongrel --- but it is quite advantageous and opens a lot of discussions.


Last email we taught you a little Norn Iron -- here is some more just for fun : -
E is for eejit --- An idiot -- as in you're an eejit.
F is for faffin --- Messing around -- as in stop faffin around and do some work.
Gis for Gub -- your mouth -- as in I've got a sore gub or shut yer gub.
H is for Hoak -- Rummaging -- as in " that wee laddie hoaks through the bins ( garbage ) "


That's all for now - more next time. We have so many humorous things to share with you. Missionary work is serious work but in dear old Ireland you have many laughs as you go about your work --- it is excellent for the endorfines. There are also accounts of exceeding faith here among the saints and our journals reflect these wonderful experiences shared with us. We love these dear stalwarts and it surely builds our testimonies. Here is a thought for your consideration --- just think about it, everyone on this earth at one time or another in their existence, knew the plan -- when we discuss this with them we are bringing it to their remembrance -- may each of this be observant to opportunities given to us each day to share.


We are loving our experiences. Our Heavenly Father is so very kind to us, his tender mercies are extended to each of us in wonderous ways. He loves us and we are indeed his children. We love our Saviour and his supreme sacrifice. We teach mainly from " Another Testament of Jesus Christ " and we feel good everything time we leaf through these wonderful pages -- IT IS TRUE and we know it. The doctrines are plain and we feel so very blessed to have received these true principles and precepts in the very land that we serve 45 years later. We get to bear our testimonies often and at least several times a day. Our hearts are touched as we bear them and we feel they are penetrating others hearts.


We love each of you and we miss you, especially at this time of year. May God bless each of you in adundance and please be assured that we pray for you daily. We thank you for your prayers in our behalf.


Elder and Sister McBride


( Bill and Carol --- Mom and Dad. )

Missionary Report

To our lovely family and our dear, dear friends in the US may you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and may you all enjoy your great turkey dinners. We will be in Dublin's fair city to enjoy our Irish turkey dinner with all the senior couples. We are also doing something interesting. We will be visiting that famous old university, Trinity College Dublin to see the Book of Kells, this is the original document translated in the 9th century by Irish monks, of the 4 Gospels. We had seen it before and it is fascinating --- we have also arranged to see an original copy of the Book of Mormon, housed in the old library and brought out with prior arrangement.

We understand that it is -30 degrees in Alberta and snowing, also snowing in Utah. Thought we might let you know that here in the sunny Emerald Isle -- it is beautiful this morning -- early, Elder McBride went for his power walk along the river in his Tshirt -- we know it is unfair to tell you this but any of you who may be our age and that is plenty nine, you could consider putting away your snow shovels ( the Irish do not know what snow shovels are ) and come serve and have some fun. It can be such a marvellous experience and you will not have to worry about the flurries, warming your car up in the morning, block heaters and scraping the ice off the windshields.

Pday this week we went through downtown Belfast -- it is looking very Christmassy. Sister McBride loved the Continental market place set up on the city hall grounds -- foods from all over Europe and also crafts for Christmas, etc. Many of the streets in the city have colorful lights and the city hall is spectacular dressed in lights with a huge Christmas tree and waterfall lights glittering under the dome. One thing is very noticable that made us very happy --- they do not seem to have to cater to the " political correct " and Merry Christmas displays are everywhere instead of the " happy holiday " ones that are becoming all too familiar in North America. In many of the smaller towns and villages christmas trees are erected in the town squares. There are a very large number of events being held, such as concerts, early 1900 carol singing at museums, folk parks,etc and ceremonies in each location for the turning on of the lights. We are very impressed with the effort put into remembering that Christ is the most important part of Christmas.

We are trying to be very creative in our missionary labors in holding cottage meetings, teaching family home evenings, birthday cards, hand delivered to members, teaching member/missionary stategy, teaching members how to find using their spere of influence, etc. A number of these ideas have been successful for us and this past Sunday we had 5 less actives to church. The cottage meetings are working well -- we show a short video and then teach from the scriptures, engaging them with questions and encouraging discussion. This latter part we do not prepare for and simply rely on the spirit. Mini miracles occur each time we hold these -- last night one of the sisters asked a question regarding baptism and John the Baptist -- it was no coincidence that was precisely the scripture that I had turned to minutes earlier and her answer came right from God's word. We hold these in homes and have the members invite less actives and non member friends. We prefer small gatherings where it can be very personal. Each time we testify we know the angels are rejoicing -- we love our Saviour so very much.

It is getting late and we have a very busy schedule tomorrow. We will share some more experiences in the next email.

We are so very thankful for each of you. You are all great latter day saints and we admire, respect and love each of you. God loves each of us so very much that he gave his only begotten son --- just for you and me . I love the pleading song with the words " Earnestly, tenderly Jesus is calling -- calling for you and for me " I learned it as a boy. We testify each day of him, that he lives and his church has indeed been reestablished upon the earth. He is at the head and we worship him. We love Heavenly Fathers tender mercies. We do have a living prophet, just as in times of old and he receives revelation directly from above for each of us. Yes, we are extremely grateful.

Sunday we speak at a fireside in Coleraine, where Elder McBride went to school and there will be several members attending from the little town where he joined the church and there were only two members then -- my sister and I. There are now about 80 active members in Coleraine, so we look forward to that visit after 45 years. Just some of the joys of going back to your native land to preach the Gospel. Sister McBride has enjoyed some rich experiences also with people she remembered from years gone by.

Until next time, stay healthy, be happy and remember life can be a " perfect brightness of hope.

Elder and Sister McBride

Scotland / Ireland Mission

Missionary Report

Our dear family and friends,

First things first and most important --- WE LOVE EACH OF YOU AND MISS YOU.

Another epistle from the Isle of Erin ( no it's not Patmos, much greener )

It has been a wonderful few weeks in the mission field. We baptized 4 new members in our little branch on Saturday evening and it was indeed great to play a little role in helping to prepare these good souls. We had the Stake YSA choir come and sing ( just a little side benefit of having worked with them for the first 5 months of our mission ) It was a spiritual feast and it had been such a long time since this little branch has seen a baptism. One of those baptized is from Portugal and spoke very little English. As I conducted the baptismal interview I had to have an interpreter with me and that was an interesting experience as this sister was less active, but I believed that would be a good experience for her also. As I explained to her, at the beginning, the great need for confidentiality, I felt the spirit whispering to her heart and it did indeed touch her very much as she explained her feelings to me afterward. Our God does indeed work in mysterious ways, his wonders to perform. We love him with all our hearts and we love his tender mercies, extended continually.

We have finally seen and felt the rain and in great abundance. For the past 2 days it has come down in buckets, just a constant torrent -- we had forgotten how it can rain here and why it is always so very green. However, this morning it is back to a blue sky and it is PDAY and a welcome rest from a busy period. The fall is now in full swing but there are many leaves still on the trees --- we are reminded of President Hinckleys comment a number of years ago -- " I feel like the last leaf on the tree and the wind is blowing " How we all love and miss him, and his tremendous wit.

A week ago the branch held a little social and they called it " Cowboy Night " -- of course being from Calgary, they had us perform. It never ceases to amaze us how missionaries are expected to be able to perform, regardless of the function. So we had a campfire and the 2 young Elders, Sister McBride and I sat on the hay bales and belted out " Home, home on the Range " -- Red River Valley and a number of other fun songs. They had a guy play the banjo and then a sister led the line dancing. At least they had a laugh at Elder McBrides line dancing antics.

Are we having fun yet !!!!!!!!

A short time ago the clocks changed --- with no TV, radio or other forms of communication we had missed the change and arrived at church 1 1/2 hours early -- we were so surprized that no one was at church as we opened the building, etc !!!!! Then a young couple arrived with their children. They are Romanian. There are a lot of eastern European here and Belfast has become quite cosmopolitan, as has Dublin.

We had a fun time getting to know them and hearing their conversion story. The told us about the time change but they come from a neighboring town and had to catch trains at a certain time. We admire their devotion.

Coming along the motorway a few days ago -- the back of a passing lorry ( truck ) --- " HORSE WAGON " ----- and in small print at the bottom " and the odd donkey " --- just a wee bit o Oirish wit.

In the previous email we explained that there are 4 languages spoken here -- English, Gaelic, Ullan and Norn Iron -- the first 2 you know, the latter ( Ullan ) is the Ulster/ Scots dialect which Elder McBride can speak and understand -- Lastly Norn Iron -- now let us teach you a little bit o this dialect : -

ACH --- usually at the start of a sentence as in --- ach go on wi ye -- or ach , ye no

BOUT YE ---- a greeting, how are you -- bout ye big laddie, let's go fer a swall --( lets get a drink together )

CATCH YERSEL ON --- meaning get a hold of yourself or wise up

CRAIC --- fun, have a good time --- as in " the craics mighty, the guiness is in ( usually beer has something to do with it !!! )

DEAD ON --- decent, good, alright -- as in " I like Elder McBride, he's dead on " ( just thought I would add my name for fun. )

There are lots more if you have an interest.

Elder Ockeys email -- I enjoyed the comments on the RASTIFARIAN --- we get simliar things happening here with a lot of strange viewpoints on life, religion and culture. We feel sometimes that certain individuals swallowed the Blarney Stone rather than just kissed it. We wonder when they are going to come up for breath. " Listening " is a word that we have become very familiar with and on occasion we have been told " that we are quiet " --- Imagine that " Elder McBride quiet !!!!! " -- possibly sweet, kind, compassionate Sister McBride.

We spoke at a Stake Single Adults fireside last evening -- Sister McBride spoke on " good cheer " and I addressed " the love of God for his children and miracles in our lives " No one threw any petrol bombs at us -- just kidding -- A sister was in the congregation who was the wife of Sister McBrides first Branch President, some 46 years ago and two brethern who were the sons of a couple who sang at our wedding reception in 1969. I was telling them this afterwards and the song was " If I were the only girl in the world and you were the only boy " What wonderful experiences we are enjoying here with the saints. Some of these stalwarts have since passed on but we get to lives these great experiences thtough their spouses or children and grandchildren on occasion.

In speaking to them we wanted to give them a message of hope and we had earnestly prayed that we might touch someones heart. God always answers prayers as an older man we did not know explaned to us afterwards that he had been experiencing turmoil in his life and had met with his Bishop that very day -- he felt that what he heard had help rise him to the plateau that his Bishop spoke of.

God loves you all very much, with him nothing is impossible. Miracles do happen today and they happen to each of us, almost on a daily basis. Please read MATTHEW 17 : 20 AND 21. We love the Gospel of Jesus Christ, he is the master, the SON of GOD , he lives, we know it and this is his church. We love our prophet and the constant flow of revelation that comes through him. It is all true and we are so very thankful to have received this message, so many years ago in this land, from faithful missionaries. We bless their names.

Keep the faith, we love each of you and may God bless you abundantly,

Elder and Sister McBride.

( Mom and Dad to our lovely children and Bill and Carol