Young Single Adult Activity

On the evening of December 30 at the home of President Shen, a Young Single Adult activity was held, in which about ten people attended.  After the opening prayer, we ate pizza, chatted, and played UNO.  Throughout this very interesting activity, everybody was full of laughter.  During the games, everyone not only drew closer but also learned to know each other better.  So I am glad I chose to participate in this activity.  Finally, I would recommend that the young single adults in our branch take part in all of the branch activities, because we can meet and learn to know more people around us.

Ya-Chih Chang

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Youth Temple Trip

 Twenty-four members from our branch participated in the temple trip on the evening of Wednesday, December 29.  Seven young women and three young men, along with 3 single adults, served as patrons, while eight brothers and three sisters assisted in the ordinances.  Beginning at 6:30pm, each patron participated in ordinances for five persons.  Before we left the temple, Sister Tingey, the temple matron, came to speak to us about vicarious ordinances and the joy from this type of service.  Afterwards, we gathered at the fountain to take a group photo.  We are so grateful for a temple so close and for the spiritual experiences we felt tonight.

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Youth Caroling

The few youths who braved the cold wintry night to share the Christmas spirit through voice are to be commended for singing to half a dozen families on Sunday evening at dusk on December 19.  At each home, they sang two Christmas carols and gave them a bag of homemade cookies baked by Jess and Ashley Theodore.  The cookies were most delicious, since they had the chance to sample the leftovers.  The audience they served applauded, gave thanks, offered hot chocolate, and even gave us a recommendation to make a recording.  For the 5 youths and the 3 adults who attended, they certainly warmed the souls of those who opened doors.  That made it most worthwhile.

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Christmas Party

This year under the direction of Brother Da Zhao, the Branch Christmas Party took place on Saturday, December 19 at the Kentlands Chapel.  To start the program, our emcees this year, Brother Mike Cunningham and Sister Ellen Li, welcomed everyone with a stirring dialogue introducing the meaning of Christmas.  As a surprise and delight to all of us, Ellen spoke in English, with Mike responding in Chinese.  President Shen offered a few words of welcome.  After the blessing on the food, over 100 people lined up at three rectangular, featuring some most delicious cuisine, including salad, soup, and a wonderful assortment of desserts.  We even caught a glimpse of the branch presidency, all dressed appropriately in red aprons and red Christmas hats, carving and serving the ham and turkey. (See photos for proof.)  Sister Bing Xia and one of her students favored us with a rendition of the Christmas carol on the guzheng.  The Primary sang four 4 songs.  One of the songs was accompanied by Elder Kerby's solo.  At the end of the 4th song, "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," a familiar visitor came ringing bells and greeting everyone.  He took his rightful place in his chair.  Then each child, one by one, came to sit on Santa's lap and talked with Santa before receiving a special treat.

This evening was a special time to meet old friends and new acquaintances.  Tonight we enjoyed great food and the Christmas spirit.  It was an occasion to celebrate the birth of our Savior and what he has done for each of us.  We are deeply appreciative of all those who made it possible.




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Primary Christmas Activity

All of the children enjoyed the Primary Christmas Part held on the morning of December 11, 2010.  No wonder they liked it.  They were able to create delicious and cute little nativity creches out of gingerbread and candy.  Then they had fun competing in a Christmas scripture chase.  Of course, they were happy to receive goody bags, well deserved for learning the Articles of Faith.  It sounded like a fun but meaningful activity for all who came.

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2010 December Newsletter

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New Baby for Rodgers

Bennett Daniel Rodgers was born on December 2, weighing in at 7 lbs 14 oz and measuring 20 inches tall.  The baby is reported as "very content.  Baby and momma are doing well."  Congratulations to the Rodgers for Number 4!

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