This year has been very special for us. While we miss our family and friends at home, it was lovely to see how Christmas is celebrated here and experience greetings of “Happy Christmas” everywhere we go. The mayor turned on the lights of the village, 28 November and the whole town is decked out. It is so refreshing to see the town, churches and residents come together to celebrate Christmas, without apology.

Warwick Regency Christmas Ball

For us, Christmas celebration planning began when Butch took a walking tour of Warwick in April. The tour guide took the group all over town centre, including a stop at the courthouse which was built in the 1720’s. The guide explained that the two-story historic building houses the town council chamber, the Yeomanry Museum, visitor centre and a ballroom upstairs which is used for many civic functions – one being a Christmas Regency Ball where guest wear 17-18^th century dress like what you would see in a Jane Austin movie and participate in time-period dancing to live music.

So, what better way to learn about the history and culture of where we are living than to go to a ball! I mean really, who doesn’t want to step back in time to a scene from Pride and Prejudice? When tickets went on sale, we were fortunate to pick up tickets for this experience of a lifetime. We put the word out to our family that we had two extra tickets and soon Kelli and Bert began making plans to come to Warwick.

I’ll share all the details about the ball in the next blog post.

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High Tea in Shakespeare Country

Kelli and Bert arrived in early December. This first thing we did was to go to Stratford upon Avon for High Tea at the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Rooftop Restaurant on the bank of the river Avon. The lights were amazing, and it was beautiful to walk in town centre. I think it was at high tea where Kelli (like her dad) got hooked on clotted cream and scones. She has been talking about them ever since. However, I think that we all agreed that while the finger sandwiches were tasty, we could pass on mince pies and Christmas cakes

They brought a suitcase full of presents and creature comforts with them from home, complete with Christmas jammies, Miracle Whip and ElPato. The pyjamas (yes that is how they spell it in Britain) Kasey got us are so soft, I have been wearing them all month and every time I Face Time Kelli, she is wearing hers too😊.

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Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
The next day we took the train to Birmingham to check out an authentic German Christmas market. Of course, the first thing we did was to get a foot-long bratwurst and share it on the spot. That was the beginning of our food tour that day which included roasted chestnuts, mini-pancakes, candied nuts and more. We were on the search for a nativity, but didn’t find much although Milletts picked up a few gifts.
It started pouring rain, so we ducked into the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the timing couldn’t have been better as Leo Turner, a classical guitarist, was scheduled to perform in the rotunda. He was amazing and it was so special to sit in this room and enjoy his talents. We also thought about how much Micah would have appreciated it, so we bought him a CD but still need to send it to him, lol!

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Warwick Village Walking Tour

Anyone who comes to see us will get a personal tour given by the best tour guide I know, Elder Bodine.

The tour includes a walk in Saint Nicholas Park next to the river Avon, a stroll down Smith Street and High Street with all the shops and restaurants, selected historical spots, town square and Saint Mary’s church. This time breakfast at the Rose and Crown was also on the menu complete with a full English Breakfast, eggs benedict and hot chocolate.

A visit to the castle and historic Saint Mary’s is a must. The church was hosting the Festival of Trees and was fully decked out. Also, while we were there, choir practise was taking place. It was such a treat to listen in. The acoustics from the organ and choir in the nave were amazing.

It was really funny, while we walked around the inside of the church, Butch shared information and a woman started following us. She finally asked him if he was a tour guide, and that if he was, he needed to register at the front desk. He explained that he lived here and always takes our visitors here. I think she wanted him to sign up to be a volunteer guide.

We ended our tour by climbing the church tower and seeing a spectacular view of Warwick and the surrounding villages.

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Warwick Branch and Coventry Carol Concert
It was lovely to introduce Kelli and Bert to our friends at the Warwick Branch. They pitched right in by setting up chairs and playing the piano for Sacrament Meeting. This was also the first day that our branch choir sang, and our pianist had a dead battery in her car and couldn’t make it, so Kelli also accompanied the special number “If I Were at the Manger.” I directed the choir and Butch and Bert sang.

It was so wonderful to see new and long-time branch members, missionaries and Primary children sing Christmas praises, regardless of their skill or ability. The children were soloists on the verses and truly brought the spirit of Christmas to the meeting. We also got to sing the song again that evening at a Carol Concert hosted by the Coventry Stake and local rotary. It was very tender and special.

Christmas in London

On Monday we caught a train to London to go to see “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. It did not disappoint at the Old Vic. The theatre was set up in the round and made us feel like we were part of the story. The lead was incredible. We all felt the tragedy of Scrooge’s life and the joy of his redemption which brought tears and laughter. The cast, music and special effects (snow and food) engaged the audience and left us feeling sadness and delight. It was overall magical! I’m pretty sure that seeing a version of this play is going to become an annual occurrence.

While we were in London, we also took the opportunity to go to Saint Paul’s Cathedral where Prince Charles and Diana were married in 1981. It was kind of cool, just like at York Minster they didn’t charge us or our guests’ admission because we are missionaries. We all climbed the 550 steps to the top of the dome where we could see the city and the Thames river.

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That afternoon, Kelli and I went to the National Gallery to see paintings by masters such as Vermeer, Cezanne, Monet, Van Dyck, Bellini, Rembrandt, Raphael, da Vinci and van Gogh. It was especially moving to see so many pieces that portrayed the Holy Family. My favourite was a larger than life painting by Guido Reni titled “Adoration of the Shepherds.”

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Before we left, we had scones and clotted cream in the gallery café. On the way out of the gallery which sits on Trafalgar Square we perused through a second Christmas Market and listened to carollers on the square.

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That evening, we went to a concert at Royal Albert Hall featuring The Royal Coral Society, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and a military fanfare band led by Richard Cooke. It was nothing short of spectacular! Every time the brass fanfare came in. I thought about Lucas every time the brass played and got my phone out to capture it.

They also had plenty of songs that the audience was invited to join in which everyone did. It was inspiring to hear so many people singing Christmas carols together. The British people sure know how to do Christmas and it was a great way to conclude the lovely visit we had with Bert and Kelli. The time we spent with them will be forever treasured and remembered each Christmas season.

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B01q8MnDU5XnZjFMS2lmaWM0R0hoLVNORzR6ZFd0R3ZIZjZn

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B01q8MnDU5XnbFQ4bnJ3WkNMc0NpSWRqSDQxZE1SYlRDNUpR

Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Nutcracker

In mid-December, I attended a performance of the Nutcracker by the Birmingham Royal Ballet at the Birmingham Hippodrome with three other ladies from our branch (Sue Bleach, Kath Turpin and Kathy Taylor). Sue had just moved to the seaside and even made the long trip back for the ballet. We all dressed up, caught the train and went to the show. It was purely magical. The dancers and the special effects were amazing, and I am still wondering how they made it snow on stage. We had so much fun, truly a memorable evening.

Christmas with the Missionaries

Early Christmas Eve, the sisters and I went to the crib service at St. Mary’s. The church was packed with families and children as they performed a simple version of the nativity. Any child in the audience could participate and it was quite lovely.

There is something special about having favourite family recipes on the menu for Christmas brunch. Lol, you know it’s good when all of your children are having the same thing at their Christmas brunch!

But, even more special, is sharing a meal with the young full-time missionaries who you work with in the branch. They bring joy and light wherever they go, and we had a lovely Christmas morning together eating, sharing Christmas memories and playing a game of five crowns. I am so grateful for these men and women who are a shining example of what it means to follow Christ.

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Mission Home for Christmas

Because our office reports to the Church’s Area Communication Department in Frankfurt, we don’t often have the chance to interact with other senior missionary couples in the mission we are assigned to. So, we were delighted to have Christmas dinner with the full-time senior missionaries and Birmingham Mission Office assistants and office elders. It was wonderful to share common experiences and learn about the work that others are engaged in. We were both strengthened to get to know them and are inspired at selfless devotion they show to Saviour. Sister Bartholomew, thank you for inviting us.

Remembrance Day is held on the second Sunday of November and is similar in purpose to the United States Veterans Day. This United Kingdom nationwide event began after World War I in recognition of Armistice Day, or the day World War I ended.

After World War II, Rememberance Day grew into recognition of all those who died in wars or conflict.

Church services, ceremonies such as placing poppy wreaths at a cenotaph (empty tomb) and parades are held in comemmoration and include a two-minute period of silence to be observed throughout the country at 11 am, representing the 11th hour.

I was asked by leadership of our local Church branch to represent our congregation in a town-wide ceremony and place the poppy wreath at a cenotaph outside of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church following a commemerative service which included a processional of local dignitaries and leaders from Saint Mary’s, readings, choir numbers and congregational hymns. Those who attended the service wore black, military dress uniforms and any personal or family medals. For Delynn, she thought of her father who served in the Navy in WWII in the Pacific theatre and also her two great uncles who were pilots stationed in Britain, and went down in the North Sea of the coast of Holland.

As we exited the church, the streets were lined with hundreds of people who turned for the wreath laying ceremony. As we quickly tried to get to where I was supposed to be, we had a hard time getting through the crowds, and the program began. So I gradually made my way to the designated spot for wreath layers.

The choir sang, colours were posted, taps were played, and additional readings shared. After the ceremony there was a procession down the street by different military and youth groups. It was a very somber and patriotic day. What an honour to be involved.

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We had the chance to attend an annual Mop Fair in Warwick, a national event that dates back to the 1350’s.

Following the plague, or Black Death, there was a shortage of laborers. In an effort to address issues that came from the shortage, King Edward III and the English Parliament at the time, enacted the Statute of Labourers which prohibited workers from demanding a higher wage, or leave their homes to find better work. Later in 1563, a subsequent law was passed and a day was established when the mayor or high constables of the village would declare pay rates and conditions of employment for the following year. Employers and laborers would gather in the town centre to hear the rates, and this quickly turned into the equivalent of a job fair.

Workers would be hired on the spot, sealing the deal with a shilling. The first week was a trial period. The next week another fair was scheduled called Runaway Mop. During that week if the labourer and the employer didn’t get along, they could “run away” from their employment agreement and be back at the fair looking for new employers and workers.

With all these people gathered in the town it became natural for vendors to start selling their wares and entertainers enticing the newly hired to spend some of their newfound wealth. This quickly turned into what we would call a carnival with food, games and rides.

More than 700 years later, the Mayor of Warwick officially opened the Mop at noon supported by the town crier and representatives of the council. After they parade to the town square in their traditional attire the Mop Charter is read aloud and then the mayor takes a tour of the fair granting free rides to anyone present at the time.

Warwick Mop is perhaps the village’s oldest tradition predating the Saturday market, the Victorian Evening and Warwick Folk Festival.

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As always, we enjoyed getting to know the people, tradition and culture in this beautiful place we call home.

Driving in the United Kingdom is quite an experience, but necessary to get where we need to go.

In addition to driving on the left, most of the roads are narrow, single lanes, but are used as double lanes; winding with a lot of oddly shaped roundabouts.

Pedestrian, bicycle and equestrian crossings are not that straight forward either. They are named for birds and animals such as the pelican, puffin, toucan, zebra and others.

Unusual markings cover the road; double lines, single lines, short dash lines, long and medium dash lines, curb markings, arrows, boxes, rectangles, bike lanes, diagonal stripes, triangles, yellow, red and white lines, bar markings, chevrons, green, red, amber and white reflectors, hashmarks, zigzag lines, and solid lines.

Road signs are also extensive. Here are just some of the signs you need to know to drive in the United Kingdom.

The UK driver’s licence test is one of most demanding in the world. It has a failure rate of about 53% and if you ask the average Brit who has been driving for some time, they may say they couldn’t pass the test if they had to take it today.

When arriving in the UK you can legally drive with your current USA licence for 12 months. After that time it is legally required that you get your own UK drivers licence.

So, about a month after we got here we started the process of getting a licence, knowing that it might take some time to pass. You would think that it wouldn’t be a problem, because between both of us we have been driving for more than 90 years, but we figured that if we both went for it, odds were at least one of us would be successful. We went online and applied for a provisional (tempory UK) drivers licence and began studying for the tests. This was beginning of a very humbling experience and our empathy for new young drivers has really grown.

The test consists of three parts:

First, a written 50 question theory test that covers everything from insurance coverage, first aid, vehicle mechanical operation to road signs and general road rules. If you don’t pass – pay again and try later.

Next is the hazard perception test which is a video simulation of driving along streets that may have a hazard. It assesses how fast you recognize a potential hazard and how rapidly you respond to that hazard. The quicker you recognize and respond to the hazard the higher your score is. But don’t select the perceived hazard too often or it will be rejected and you won’t receive credit for your answer. If you pass both the theory and the hazard test, then you can pay another fee and schedule a date for the practical driving exam.

Finally, the practical driving exam is taken with an examiner in your vehicle. It takes approximately 40 minutes; driving on various road and traffic conditions.

We purchased two books; one with road signs and rules, the other with possible test questions. We spent hours taking hundreds of practice test questions from the book. Next we secured a local library card with allowed us to go online and take dozens and dozens of practise questions and watch hazard perception videos.

As soon as we could, we scheduled our first two exams. We took them back to back on on a Friday in August at the testing centre in Stratford. Gratefully we both passed with similiar scores.

Now on to the practical exam. When possible, we got behind the wheel and practised what we had learned such as looking in your rear and side view mirrors about every 8-10 seconds and navigating the dreaded roundabout. We also learned that for the test, if you take a wrong turn, just keep going because driving isn’t about where you are going, but that you are going there safely.

In addition, we spent hours watching YouTube tutorials, which were very helpful. Delynn also paid for a few driving lessons to learn some of the nuances of the road and the exam.

There are 5 parts to the practicle driving test:
1. Eyesight check – self-explanatory
2. ‘Show me, Tell me’ vehicle safety questions – before, during or after driving, the examiner can ask you any of the following questions. You’d think these would be easy…..

When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen? When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen? When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d switch on your dipped headlights? When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d set the rear demister?
When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d operate the horn?
When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d demist the front windscreen?
Tell me how you’d check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Tell me where you’d find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
Tell me how you’d check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
Tell me how you’d check that the headlights and tail lights are working.
Tell me how you’d know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.
Tell me how you’d check the direction indicators are working.
Tell me how you’d check the brake lights are working on this car.
Tell me how you’d check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
Tell me how you’d switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you’d use it/them.
Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you’d know the main beam is on.
Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has sufficient oil.
Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.
Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

3. General driving ability

4. Manoeuvre: (Only one) Reverse into a parking space, pull forward into a parking space, parallel park, reverse on right side of road.

5. Independent driving – using sat nav (satellite navigation)or following road signs

Once again we scheduled the test for the same day, back to back. While we were both nervous, I took the approach that if I passed, I passed. Delynn was much more responsible and she took it rather seriously.

As luck would have it, I passed that day and she fell into the 53% that got to take it over again. Three weeks later she opted for a 7 am Monday morning exam and passed as well.

We couldn’t be happier that this part of being in the UK is over!

Stacey Dooley is a popular TV celebrity in Britain. She and her film crew recently produced a series about family life, parenting and culture. Six different families with varied backgrounds were featured, hosting Stacy as a house guest for the weekend. She participated in all aspects of family life and also provided a running commentary during the show about her experience.

Mark and Lindsey Preston and their three sons were selected to share what it is like raising children as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They live near Preston and attend the Ashton Ward. Stacey attended; a Church youth dance, football game, suit shopping for the oldest son’s pending his mission call, interacted with full-time missionaries who were street contacting, a family barbecue, Sunday worship service, munch and mingle, and early morning seminary.

Because of Church aspects related to the episode, our director Malcolm was heavily involved liaising with the show’s producers and crew as well as providing support and guidance at all levels. BTW – It is great working for such a talented professional like Malcolm.

Our responsibilities included logistical and media support for Church members (leaders, adults and youth) who may interact with Stacy or the crew. We briefed them on what would be taking place, confirmed that appropriate release forms were signed and answered any questions that they might have. Mostly encouraging them to be themselves and enjoy the

The Dance
The first night of the sleepover Stacy attended a Church youth dance in nearby Huddersfield. It had been literally decades since we had been to a youth dance, and weren’t really sure what to expect, especially in Britain with a celebrity in attendance. It didn’t disappoint. Teenage youth in Britain who belong to the Church genuinely enjoy getting together to socialise and dance.

We arrived well in advance to meet up with the film crew. What a great group! They were glad to be there and quite amazed to hear that more than 150 youth would be at the dance. They posted filming signage and set up near the entrance so that they could answer any questions and have those who wished to, sign release forms.

One of our jobs was to help the film crew identify those who’s parents gave permission for them to be filmed. Those who had permission, wore a special coloured wrist band, which isn’t easy to see on a darkened dance floor. With 150 kids. I was so glad that I had met a few of the youth from the ward because they knew each other and helped me “gather” those with the wrist bands.

Orientation
The next day we went to the flat of a single mum who was on the list of people who may be interviewed after Church. We were warmly welcomed by her and her three daughters. They were all adorable and we hit it off right away. While we were there, we told her (and the two younger girls) what to expect and shared ways to answer tough questions and share the message that she wanted to share.

It was amazing what happened next! While teaching the skill of bridging (acknowledge the question, insert transition, share your message) we asked the 11-year-old daughter if she would like to pracitse.

Question: What did you have for breakfast?
Answer: I had porridge, but what is most important is that I had breakfast with my family.
Flawless! She could have a career in media:)

Munch and Mingle
On a mission, you are often asked to use your skills to get the job done. Following church, the ward hosted a munch and mingle, similar to a potluck where everyone brings food to share. As most church gatherings like this, it was held in the recreation hall, with tables of food in the centre and chairs around the outside. Parents were talking to each other and kids were running around the hall and on the stage.

The problem was that the film crew decided to do interviews in this noisy environment. At one point the kids were romping on the stage, which created a audio issue for the video capture. As media support, Malcolm asked us multiple times to see if we could quiet things down. So, I went to the stage and asked the kids to go find their parents. Five minutes later they were back having a great time and making lots of noise. It was then Butch’s turn. He cleared the stage once again and sent kids back to their parents.

Not sure that it was a good idea to send the children back to their parents. Next they started running through the hall, under the tables and through the legs of the people being interviewed on camera. It was time to pull out all the stops.

I pointed to Butch across the chaos and told him that it was time to tell the kids a story. He said, “Oh, who’s telling the story?” I replied, “You are, now! Let’s gather the kids on the stage.” Let’s be real, that is where they wanted to be all along anyway:)

So we gathered the kids, (hope their parents were okay with this, although I don’t think they noticed) went to the stage and Butch began telling stories. For those who know him, know that this is one of his gifts. Within seconds he had the attention of all the kids and for the first time during munch and mingle they were quiet.

Wow, by the time that was over we were exhausted. What a way to spend our 41st wedding anniversary! All in the day of a life on a mission.

The Show
The episode was broadcast three times last week on the W channel on Sky TV. All props go to Lindsey, Mark and their family. They taught Stacey to pray, shared the eternal perspective of families and helped viewers know more about our faith and why we live it.
We even got a cameo in the church scene of the episode. Who knew we would make it on British TV?

Sometimes it’s more pleasure than work, and that is exactly what Scotland was for us. It was a day’s drive to Newcastle-upon-Tyne to lead a training for a few members of the Sunderland area. Since Newcastle-upon-Tyne is just south of the Scottish border, we decided to take a few days to see that area of the UK, and also meet up with our friends the Dransfields. They oversee ambassador outreach for our office. As always, we stopped to see churches and sites that hold special meaning.

The training in Newcastle was to help those who attended answer questions that could arise about The Book of Mormon Musical, which will be showing in Sunderland at the end of August. We had a great time, and hope that it was time well spent for all.

Holy Island

Following the training, our first stop was Holy Island of Lindisfarne which is an island about a mile off the mainland in the North Sea. There are two things that make it unique.

First, it is cut off from the mainland twice a day as the tides rush in totally covering the causeway to the island. If you don‘t want to get stuck on the island for the night, you must make sure you know what the tide schedule is. Those who know me, know that I can be a bit anxious and kept rushing our visit because I didn’t want to spend the night on a tiny island surrounded by ocean.

Second, some say it is the birthplace of Christendom in northern Britain because an Irish monk, named Saint Aidan established a monastary here 635 AD. Later the work of other saints (Cuthbert, Eadfrith and Eadberht) also contributed to the work that took place on the island.

The priory on the island was led by a prior, who oversaw the work of monks, bound by religious vows. A prior is a title for a superior, usually lower in rank than an abbot.

As you can see, the weathered walls of the abandoned priory are worn with age and give it an unusual sculptured effect.

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It was interesting to learn that meals were served only once a day in winter and twice in summer. The monks were also required to be silent while eating, so they developed a sign language during meal times. Maybe we should have tried that when we were raising our six kids!

Dalkeith Ward

The next day we attended Sunday worship service (Sacrament meeting) in the Dalkeith Ward, and were reminded once again how the gospel of Christ unites us all. It was a great meeting, with messages that we needed to hear.

We were also reminded how small the world is. On our way in, we met the Bullocks, another missionary couple we have worked with in London. We also met the couple who supports the Scotland/Ireland mission president and learned that they are close friends with the new missionaries who are assigned to our office in Warwick beginning in January.

Rosslyn Chapel

By happen chance, we saw road signs pointing to Rosslyn Chapel, and since we are big fans of Dan Brown we had to go see the chapel that was featured in his novel, The DaVinci Code. It is interesting to note that this ancient church, while highly ornate and unusual in design, never came into prominence until the book was published in 2003. It had some interesting stories associated with its sculptures and carvings.

Green Men’ are believed to be a symbol of rebirth or fertility. ‘Green men’ are faces with foliage sprouting from their mouths and are a common in many medieval churches, and even in buildings since Roman times. There are said to be around 100 green men inside and outside Rosslyn Chapel

Apprentice Pillar (on the left) is an intricately carved spiral stone column carved by a masons apprentice. When the Master mason (Masters pillar on the right) returned from his journey and saw the elaborate column by his apprentice, he became so enraged with envy to be outdone by an apprentice that he killed him.

The grave of Robert Francis St Clair-Erskine outside the Chapel is highly decorated with statues, spires, and angels holding banners with the words, Love, Courage, Hope, Patience, Faith and Truth.

Edinburgh

Greyfriars Bobby

In the centre of Edinburgh is a statue of a small terrier called Bobby. It is a custom to touch the dogs’ nose for good luck and you can see, it is well worn. So we also had to give it a try!

Greyfriars Bobby is the story (some call it a myth) of a small Skye Terrier in Edinburgh from 1858 to 1872 who was so devoted to his master that after his master’s passing the dog remained by his grave everyday… The little dog became a celebrity in the area and was even immortalized by a wonderful Walt Disney movie called Greyfriars Bobby in 1961. The story is about two Scottish men who compete for the affection of the dog.

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One researcher said of the person propagating the dog story that, “After five years of research, I believe he was an unwitting impostor who made use of the sentimental notions of how a dog should behave to get a good life for himself”. I along with many others don’t really care if the story is factual or not. It is a wonderful story of devotion.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is located in downtown Edinburgh and has a particular significance for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was here that an early apostle of the restored church, Orson Pratt, would often climb this rocky crag and pour out his heart to God. In one of his prayers, he pled that hearts would be open and that he would see 200 people join the Church. His prayers were answered and in time he saw the Church grow in Scottland.

We found that it is still a popular climb for visitors and residents of Edinburgh.

Saint Andrews-Home of Golf

My favourite part of the trip was going to St Andrews, the home of golf. I will confess that Delynn and I are not golfers, but we know that for many golfers, playing on this course is a pilgrimage to be accomplished in their lifetime.

Some interesting information: On March 6, 1457, James II’s Act of Parliament banned golf in Scotland. With dozens of “nobles” trying to maintain and dominate their little fiefdoms, most males over the age of 12 were required to have military training. It was soon discovered that many of these men and boys would rather play golf and football then practice archery. So, they made golf illegal.

Golf was also considered a dangerous, unprofitable nuisance because people often played in small public spaces, such as streets and churchyards and skipped church to do it. Apparently, the ban didn’t work so well because it was repeated in 1471 and 1491.

Even today St. Andrews offers free lessons for youth. The requirements to join the program are that boys and girls are between the ages of 5 to 16, must either live in St. Andrews or attend school in the town. Each student gets 50 golf balls at the driving range each week, one-on-one lessons with club professionals, free golf clubs and more.

The Dransfields and us played on the Himalaya course built as a private club for women in 1867. It is a nine-hole putting course open to the public that costs £1 to play. It was a thrill to play on one of the actual St. Andrews courses. Who won the course that day will be a long held secret, but who do you think is smiling the most?

All in all, we had a great time spending time with the Dransfields and seeing some beautiful sites in Scotland.

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We continued our assignment of capturing the experience of members who have been personally touched by the Book of Mormon, but this time it took us to the Netherlands.

We arrived a few days early to take in some of the Amsterdam culture; floating flower gardens, a city canal tour, cheese shops, chocolate shops, and an amazing botanical garden. More cattle than sheep, water drainage canals (approximately every 300 yards), and bikes, bikes, and more bikes. So we decided to do what Dutch people do, and the next day we took a long bike ride to a North Sea beach from where we were staying in Leiden. It was quite the journey. The hotel clerk said to go out in front of the hotel, turn left, then right, go straight and then we would run into the sea. It sure looked closer on Google Maps, and it was much warmer than we expected, but had a great time!

The next few days were all work. Delynn had done all the video pre-work, vetting people that would be featured and helping them tell their stories in less than one minute. The videographer for the project was Emily Crucy was amazing! She is a very skilled and talented woman who knows exactly what she needs and where to shoot to tell a compelling story, even

We also had the pleasure of also spending time with Chris Kleijweg, National Director of Public Affairs for the Netherlands, as he drove us in his personal vehicle to the various homes of individuals and families we were going to visit. Chris is a past stake president and area seventy, and an extremely humble and good man. We were most gracious for the three days he spent with us. He not only served as the interpreter (all the videos were in Dutch) but he (and his wife) took great care of all of us and packed food and drinks for us on our journey each day. We will never forget the kindness that he showed us.

We spent two full days driving around, going from home to home in various cities including Leiden, Spijkenisse, Zoetermeer (=sweet, water) and Harleem, recording the experiences of six individuals.

Each person had a unique life changing experience because of The Book of Mormon.

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One of the last videos we shot was rather fun. We were all at the Leiden church. A European looking church with clean lines, little carpet, very orderly and somewhat spartan. Michael’s story was to be captured there, but as we began to set up we noticed that his shirt had a logo on it that may not fit well with the video. So, we needed him to change, but he didn’t have any extra clothing with him. We happened to have our luggage with us so that we could catch a train after the shoot, so I took him downstairs, and dug a couple of shirts out of my suitcase that a I had worn for a few days earlier and handed them to him. He gladly peeled of his shirt and replaced it with mine. Remarkably, they fit him rather well. All the videos shot of him where in three of my shirts.

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It was powerful to hear everyone’s story of how The Book Mormon made them better people or change their lives. What an important book. It was also a wonderful experience to work so closely with Chris and feel his testimony about the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Holland was a beautiful place, but we missed our little town of Warwick England, with the green rolling hills. It was comforting to get back to our little flat.

We were both back in our element. Tasked with producing one-minute videos for upcoming campaigns, we have been on the road over the past few months capturing experiences from members of the Church – sacred times when they found strength in the Book of Mormon.

It has truly been a blessing to meet remarkable people who live their faith, even in times of struggle and trial. My role was to speak to individuals in advance and help them sort through and condense their stories within a one-minute time frame. I also set up the schedule and interviewed them during the filming. Butch captured a second angle on his camera and helped with logistics.

We have been inspired by each of these individuals and would like to share their stories.

Before we do, we would like to give a quick shout out to a talented filmmaker we had the privilege to work with in Manchester and Sunderland. Haydn Rushworth has unbounding passion for his craft and a remarkable gift to artfully tell a story.

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Ida is from Sweden. On weekends, she was a lead actor in versions of the Book of Mormon Musical for conventions. She had always been interested in religion, and even was on a pathway to become a priest. It was through this experience that she became curious and continued her journey of discovery and learned that the Book of Mormon was a real book, and that the Church of Jesus Christ was restored. Her story is remarkable as she went from being an actor to being a member of the Church.

Manuel was orphaned years ago in Angola. He shared what it was like to never know what it was like to be loved. Because he found Christ through the Book of Mormon, he became a better husband and father.

Ruth is an engineering student at university. Even though she has an intense study schedule, she always finds time to read the Book of Mormon.

Robert is a a former mission training centre and temple president. He shared the conversion story of his father, and how the Book of Mormon changed the lives of their family forever. It also turns out that Robert and his family were in the same branch in Birkenhead at the same time Butch was when he was on his mission. Another unexpected wonderful connection for him.

Rachel is also a busy engineering student. She reads the Book of Mormon everyday and finds happiness and peace within its pages.

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Other personal stories shared include:

Debra who grieved the sudden loss of her mother and found herself struggling to cope. Her tender story reminds us that we can find hope in the examples of others found in the Book of Mormon.

Raechel struggled with depression as a teenager. She found comfort and hope in the Book of Mormon.

Gary did not believe in God. The Book of Mormon helped him know of God’s existence and feel His love for him.

Jemma, a mom of seven children wants to teach her children true principles in a world with so many messages to sort through. She does this through the Book of Mormon.

Through this experience we found that the Book of Mormon has the power to change lives. Thank you to all those who shared your personal stories and strengthening our faith, and the faith of others.

(If you’d like to see more videos, I’ll share them on my Facebook page over the coming months.)

It is the dream of most missionaries to return to where they served full-time missions as young men. Those two years of missionary service create bonds between companions and the people they served that will last a lifetime. It is a time of growth and establishing patterns in your life that will be used as a template in all aspects of school, marriage, work, church and community service.

It was 46 years to the month from when I returned home from my mission, that Delynn and I returned to the same mission area (now the England Manchester Mission) to lead missionary trainings. We were asked by the mission president to teach his missionaries how to answer tough questions about a secular play called “The Book of Mormon Musical” which was to open soon in Manchester. There were about 140 missionaries and we taught four sessions over two days. The first day was in Chorley at the stake centre near the Preston Temple and the second day was in Crewe. It was an extraordinary opportunity that flooded my memory with past missionary service. and that I will never forget.

Margaret and Gerry Bell, Nigel Reese, Sister Jackson, Ron and Lynn Hurst

Another aspect of our assignment included producing videos about how the Book Mormon changes lives. We went to town called Sunderland which is on the north east coast of England. Sunderland is very close to the town I served in 46 years ago called Consett. I spent almost 6 months there and it was a pivotal point in my mission. It was here as a young missionary that we taught and baptized two single people who after their baptism met each other at church and eventually married. Margaret Smith and Gerry Bell. We have kept in touch over the years so when I called Margaret explaining that we would be in the area and would love to come by to visit. Needless to say we were both very emotional and excited. We made a plan to meet at church on Sunday, and then to their home for lunch.

We pulled into the parking lot of the church and began walking into the front door. There waiting for us were Margaret and Gerry. We embraced and greeted each other. As we were speaking other people started coming through the door to speak to us.

I like many missionaries I never fully understood the significance, impact and the influence that we may have had on people during our mission. I met Sister Jackson whose husband (now deceased) took me on my one and only football game in England. Also, Lynn and Ronnie Hurst whose home I stayed at as a young missionary while our flat was being repaired from a fire.

It was very rewarding to see the small branch of approximately 20 people in Consett that used to worship out of large home called Shelby Hall, has now grown to an entire ward, and meets in a new church building in a nearby town called Stanley, with an attendance of about 150 people.

Just as I was getting ready to walk into the door a short gentleman approached me and said “do you know who I am?” I looked at him closely then said “Reese, Nigel Reese, you were my missionary companion!” I have not heard nor seen Nigel Reese in 45 years, and there he was in the Stanley branch. We embraced and said a few short words.

Finally, just before he moved into the chapel for the beginning of the sacrament service an older gentleman came up to me and introduced himself as Carr. Brother Carr was the branch president while I served in Consett and regularly fed the missionaries. Thank you brother and sister Carr for taking care of me when I was a young man. Brother Carr now is the stake patriarch.

I felt like Alma when he met up with the sons of Mosiah after many years apart. Like Alma we “did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren in the Lord; and what added more was, they were still his brethren in the Lord” (Alma 17:2).

After services were complete we drove to Gerry and Margaret’s where they provided Delynn and I a traditional English dinner. It was delicious! Gerry has now been retired from bus driving for many years and Margaret continues to express her talents with poetry. They both have served in leadership positions in the branch are now on a temple mission which requires them to live in Chorley at the temple workers housing two weeks at a time. They say they love serving there.

We talked about the days when Gerry and Margaret were taught the missionary lessons and refreshed our memories about the excitement and feelings we had during that time. We also discussed another sister in the branch and her daughter we baptize shortly before I was transferred. That dear sister remained active in the ward until her death.

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When it came time to leave we went outside their bungalow and took a few pictures and then went back inside to say a prayer together. Emotions were on the surface and tears flowed as we prayed together.

Who would’ve thought that a very small out-of-the-way unknown town called Consett would be the place where I changed as a missionary and the place where people were waiting to hear the gospel taught to them by a young missionary. The people in Consett changed the rest of my life, and I had the opportunity to help change the lives of those who were baptized and their future generations. What an experience!

By car with Mark and Susan

Easter weekend we discovered the Cotswolds! It began with a call from the Dransfields, our friends/colleagues who serve in London. We had Good Friday off and neither of us had plans, so Susan suggested we take a tour of the Cotswolds. Before you knew it we were picking them up at the train station in Swindon and headed to a village called Lacock.

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Lacock is untouched and looks like it did many years ago. Because it is unique in this way, it has been the backdrop for movies/shows like Harry Potter, Pride and Prejudice (1995), Crawford and Downton Abbey. We especially enjoyed touring the abbey. In fact, by the looks of things, we were feeling quite at home here.

In order to find the town center in these villages we set the Sat Nav for the local church. It was an extra treat traveling Easter weekend as we got to see parishioners decorating their chapels with fresh flower arrangements and altar pieces. What a thoughtful act of devotion. Those who know me, know that I was secretly hoping that these church members would ask me to help them with the flowers:)

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In one church, two volunteers were placing a beautifully embroidered cover on the alter. Because of the size of the piece, it was really a job for three and Butch stepped into help. Next thing you know, the volunteer was thanking Butch and they started a conversation. Butch told him that we were serving a mission, and he asked which church. He said, “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” The parishioner, said, “I knew it! Your church is that only one who sends missionaries to England any more.”

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As we were walking out this same man pulled me aside and whispered, “You know what, I think we even have a Book of Mormon in our library.” So nice to know that people of faith can appreciate the good in all religions.

This was the start of many conversations along our way through the Cotswolds. We decided right then and there, it isn’t the sightseeing that counts but meeting the local people who live here in these unique towns.

Butch and Mark were in camera heaven, taking photos all weekend long. They captured some great shots that will remind us of this lovely weekend.

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On bikes with Whitney and Dave
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to ride a bike through a post card, a 32-mile long post card? Seriously that is exactly what we experienced when Whitney and David came to visit. We were looking for an adventure that would not be a typical tourist’s introduction to England. Although, in the spirit of full disclosure, the ride was much easier than it may appear thanks to the e-bikes which made the hills much easier to climb than they could have been.

So we put on our helmets and glow-in-the-dark vests – took a test run and started out in Burford, a picturesque town full of British charm. Our guide was Peter. He led the way and shared insightful information about the little towns and villages along our route. 

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We traveled the back roads along the Windrush river, through Little Barrington, Windrush and stopped for tea cakes (soft bagel shaped bread served with butter and jam) in Sherborne. We saw a beautiful churches in every small village that we went through on our way to the next stop, Bibury.

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Bibury is often called the most beautiful village in England. Here we stopped at the Trout Farm where we all had lunch which featured trout served in a variety of ways. Arlington Row was also a highlight in Bibury. It was built in 1380 as a monastic wool store and later converted into weaver cottages. Back in the day, cloth made here was sent to Arlington Mill. Perhaps this explains all the sheep we saw throughout the day on the countryside.  It is also our understanding that a photo of Arlington Row is featured on the inside cover of all UK passports.

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We are convinced that the views of the Cotswolds on bikes were some of the most beautiful we will ever see!

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After a long day on the bikes, we treated ourselves to dinner at The Mermaid back in Burford. What a lovely day!

Gadfield Elm

No visit to the Cotswolds is complete without a visit to Gadfiled Elm. As mentioned in an earlier post, it is the oldest existing chapel in the Church. In fact, we have visited the site five times in the past three months. At our most recent visit, Sister Haw (she and her husband are local missionaries and have overseen the site for 9-10 years) joked that she was going to give Butch and I a badge so that we could “officially” give tours.

Sister Haw was there when we were there with Dransfields. She shared information about the inspired events in the area and little known facts about the site. It helped understand the sacrifice and power of early missionaries of the Church at that time.

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When we were there with Kolstads, we came across Fred Woods, a BYU professor who specializes in 19th century Mormon history and a videographer colleague of his. He was at Gadfield Elm capturing footage for a project regarding more recent British Church history. When he found out that Butch served a mission here in the early ‘70’s he was intrigued with experiences Butch had with baptisms when the Osmonds were so popular in Britain. So he asked him a few questions on camera. Who knows where that will go, but if Butch ends up in a documentary, we’ll let you know.

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