1 Nephi Challenge

Our beloved Stake Presidency has set for us three goals: come unto Christ, be prepared, and go to the temple. In accordance with these three goals, I challenge each member of our branch who can read to read the whole book of 1 Nephi. Why 1 Nephi? Because it contains the history and revelations of the first family in the Book of Mormon. Lehi’s family was not much different from our families. His family was not perfect and included rebellious children, arguments, and sometimes lack of faith. We can learn much from reading about Lehi’s experiences. I ask each of you to read 1 Nephi and write down each verse that have to do with coming to Christ, being prepared, and going to the temple. I challenge you to do this by the end of the year, December 31. If you do so, I give you the same promise made by President Hinckley in 2005. “Without reservation I promise you that if each of you will observe this simple program, regardless of how many times you previously may have read the Book of Mormon, there will come into your lives and into your homes an added measure of the Spirit of the Lord, a strengthened resolution to walk in obedience to His commandments, and a stronger testimony of the living reality of the Son of God.” (President Hinckley, Ensign, August 2005) May God bless each of you as you strive to come to Christ.

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New baby boy for Kugler's

Kristy and Chris Kugler proudly announce that their new son, Jonas Timothy Kugler, was born on October 20, 2008, at 8:29 pm. He is a massive 9 pounds, 15 ounces, and 20 inches long. Both he and Kristy (and Chris) are healthy and doing well. Congratulations to the Kugler's for expanding their family!

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Visitor Center Fireside

On Friday evening, October 17, the sister missionaries planned a special musical fireside based on the theme of Jesus Christ, called Reflections of Christ. With Brother Adam Fugal, our branch mission leader, conducting, about 35 people attended the fireside. In the first half, we enjoyed a musical feast including the famous youth orchestra's rendition of "Rejoice, the Lord Is King" conducted by Sister Sylvia Reiff, the Young Women's choir singing "My Peace I give unto You," a harp/cello duet of "Be Still My Soul" by Sister Hamblin and Brother Vincent Li, "The Lord Is My Shepherd" played by the Youth Orchestra, and Sister Li-Fang Tsai singing "I Wonder When He Comes Again" on the guitar. We were then ushered to the Photo Exhibit room, where we were treated to a special display of photographs by Mark Maybry, called "Reflections of Christ," depicting the life of Christ, from His birth to His death. In the background, beautiful music set the mood for thoughtful viewing of the life of Christ. We could feel the spirit from this masterpiece. The last part of the program was started with a special duet of "Did You Think to Pray" by Sister Kwun and Hamblin. Finally, a special testimony meeting kicked off by Sister Yu concluded the evening. After the fireside, we enjoyed treats prepared by the sister missionaries. Overall, we were very lucky to come to the Visitor Center and enjoy this special time together.

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Whey are they now?

We are starting a new feature called "Where Are They Now?" on this blog site. Each month, we will feature articles reporting on one or two of our alumni. In this manner, we hope to continue to keep in touch with you on a grander scale. To accomplish this, we are soliciting articles written in the first person about yourself with some or all of the following information:

1. Who you are; when you were in our branch; were you a member or missionary?; if member, what callings did you have?; if missionary, who were your companions, and who was your mission president?

2.What are one or two of your memorable experiences in the branch?

3. What are you doing now? Studying? Working? Are you single or married? If married, how many children do you have?

4. If you have a web site or blog site, please let us know.

5. If you wish, please send one or more photos of you and your family.

Starting this month, we will post one or two articles each month. Look forward to hearing from you.

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