Corona Free Week

Conner with his companion Elder Mauga

Conner, Elder Matakaiongo, Elder Crippen & Elder Mauga

Conner was able to call today.  Ghana has shut down the boarders not allowing anyone in to help stop the spread of the Coronavirus.  The missionaries have been instructed to not shake hands and to be prepared by having some food on hand etc.,  Ghana has canceled all public gatherings such as church and funerals.  It is easy to let one's mind start to worry. However, I know Conner is where he needs to be at this time.  I know our Church and his leaders are taking good care of the missionaries. 

Lately, the words of a hymn have come to my mind.  "Fear not, I am with thee: oh, be not dismayed, for I am thy God and will still give thee aid.  I'll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand, Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand."

As a sign in my hallway states,  "I will trust and not be afraid."

Conner's email this week:

This last week we had my mission father Elder Matakaiongo go home, Coronavirus cancel church, and had a trio work 2 areas. Things have been a little crazy. As far as my safety goes with the Coronavirus, I am fine. We do have to pack e-bags and get food storage, but I am not worried yet. There are only 6 cases in Ghana so far, and most people that I have talked to either don't believe that it is a real thing or that it will make it into Ghana. So there is more than enough toilet paper here. I will be buying a lot today though.

Not having church yesterday stunk, but we are figuring things out. The saints here in Ghana don't have to look back too far to remember a time that was similar. From 1989 to 1990 they had the government shut down churches that had ties to America. They felt like the CIA was using them as a front to begin to stage a cue. This included the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They were not allowed to go to church buildings or worship in large gatherings. They had no idea when the government would lift the restrictions. They had the sacrament in their homes in small groups. Everyone I have talked to from that time has said what a blessing it was for them in the end. May we look at their example of faith and try to make this time meaningful in our lives each and every Sunday. It is no coincidence that the church put out a brand new home study program last year. I feel confident that these challenges can have a positive impact on the future. I hope you all have a great Corona free week. God bless us.

Elder Conner Garrison