Tonight, the Branch Presidency hosted a Branch Family Home Evening to allow Kevin Wu to announce where he is going for his full-time missionary service. About a week earlier, knowledge that he had received his mission call kept everyone in suspense. Finally this evening, all would learn about his mission call. Over 60 folks crowded in the Relief Society room of the Kentlands chapel, including members of the Kentlands Ward, Kevin's friends, and, of course, members of the Montgomery Chinese Branch. From 6:30pm to 7:30pm, Kevin's parents grilled chicken, hot dogs, kielbasa, and skewered vegetables on a stick. There was also congee, salad, and lots of other delicious food. At 7:30pm, Brother Da Zhao conducted a fireside. We sang a glorious round of "Called to Serve" to start the Family Home Evening. Brother Benjamin Tsai was invited to say a few words about Kevin's conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Then Brother John Harding, Kentlands Ward Young Men's President, thanked Kevin for his wonderful example, especially at the Young Men's high adventure experience this year in New Hampshire. The most touching remarks came from Kevin's Mom, as Kevin stood by her side with his arms around her. She spoke of how grateful she was to see the marvelous changes in Kevin after he joined the church. At one time, Kevin choked up in tears during his translation. The fourth speaker was Kevin's Dad. With Kevin translating again, his father thanked the church members for accepting and helping Kevin.
After the speakers, Brother Zhao solicited guesses for where Kevin will serve. Responses ranged widely from California and Utah to Little Rock, Arkansas, to New York City and Boston and Newark, New Jersey. After the white board was completed filled, Brother Zhao invited Kevin to read his mission call. With lots of emotion, Kevin read his official mission call, assigning him to the Boston Massachusetts Mandarin speaking Mission. He will report to his mission on Wednesday, October 23, 2019. Everyone clapped with joy upon hearing of his mission call. Finally, Brother John Harding took a group photo of everyone who attended. (See photo above)
We are so thrilled for Kevin receiving his mission call to Boston. We wish him success and growth and joy as he prepares for and serves his mission. May the Spirit of the Lord attend him on his mission. Kevin will become the 13th member from the Montgomery Chinese Branch to serve a full-time mission representing the Branch. Congratulations, Kevin, on this great milestone in your life and in the history of the Montgomery Branch.
Photo credit: John Harding
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