Fall Travel to Sweden YSA Meeting

We had the opportunity to travel to Gothenburg, Sweden earlier in the month for a special planning/training meeting for Nordic Institute leaders and Senior Missionaries who work with YSA and Institute programs. This kind of meeting is wonderful as we are able to see what is happening in other parts of Scandinavia, plus schedule special events that are held annually in the various Nordic regions:  Festinord (which was held in Denmark this past July), Golden Days in Copenhagen, Halloween in Gothenburg, Soul Night in Stockholm, Valentines in Gothenburg, etc.

These events are important for the many young adults in this part of Europe, as they are able to get together as members of the Church in large numbers.  They interact, meet new friends (even date), and most importantly, see that the Church is much larger than just the area where they live.  Some come from outer areas where the numbers are small, and look forward greatly to these events.  Gospel principles are reinforced and testimonies are strengthened.  It is a great thing to see!

Helene, Sarah, and Morten, our YSA Reps in Copenhagen

Niebuhr, Turpins, Hawley - other senior missionaries from Sweden and Denmark

We were able to stay an extra night and see the western part of Sweden as we drove back to Copenhagen.  Elder Parker found a "hotel" for second night in Sweden, which was more like a camp, so we enjoyed it more than the usual kind of facility.  It was located outside of Halmstad, Sweden, just a short distance from the sea, in the forest, and reminded us so much of the camps we are familiar with back home that it was a bit nostalgic!

Forest outside Halmstad, Sweden

The sea, looking across to DK outside Halmstad, Sweden

Our mission vehicle with "suicide doors"

We will actually return to Sweden one more time before our mission is ended.  Elder Parker has been asked to give a special training session for the Malmo Sweden Stake - for bishops and young men's leaders concerning priesthood leadership and the Duty to God program.  We met some people at Festinord last summer that thought Elder Parker's BYU experience would be helpful!  Our mission president gave permission for us to go, as we must have permission anytime we leave Denmark.  That trip will be the middle of November, but for only one day.  Sweden is just across the bridge!