While we were serving in Russia, we found out that Elder Carlton Collins, from Junction, Jamaica was serving in the Orem Utah Mission! We were so excited and happy for him and the mission. His family is one of the most stalwart families in Jamaica! We planned to call the mission and take him and his companion out to lunch when we returned. Feb. 13th, 2019 was our return date but upon calling the mission - it was against mission rules to contact him. Oh My! I was told we could see him just before he left for home - I asked when was that - January 2020! okay I will wait!
The mission secretary was kind and patient and I agree that with so many friends, family and acquaintances in the near by area they don't want to get distracted from the important work they are called to do. Tender Mercy - during our Wednesday, Jan. 29th Temple shift - in walked the Mission Pres. and wife, and 8 elders, 2 sisters - coming for a temple session before leaving Utah for their homes. YAY! I got to give Elder Collins a hug in the temple! That evening we were allowed to meet him at the Spring Hill Suites at Thanksgiving Point. We served with his family for 5 months before being called into the Mission Office - Elder Scott and Sister Pam Wright worked in Junction their whole 18 months. Bro. Wright was out of town caring for a family member who had surgery - we were so happy to catch up with details of Elder Collins mission and life.
We were surprised and happy to learn that Elder Collins older brother, Chris Anthony Collins was coming down from Rexburg to see him before he left for home also. Chris served his mission in Birmingham, Alabama and has studied at Southern Virginia University, and now is about to graduate from BYU-I!! Chris was in my Seminary Class in Junction! So good to see him and you can see the happy smiles on their faces to be with each other. Chris drove his roommates car, and brought a friend from Honduras with him. He took back with him Carlton's winter coat, boots and bicycle! Carlton is coming back to BYU-I in the fall! He wants to major in agriculture and go home and improve Jamaica! He was a Deacon when we left Junction, it is fun to have Chris introduce him as his little brother - taller than him!
What wonderful things happen on senior missions! We have waited for 10 months for this short visit and it was well worth it! Chris and his friend loaded up the car and headed back to Rexburg - it was about 9 at night - but they both had to work at 7 in the morning! Young people are able to do things like that! Sure wish them well in their future plans! The Church is in good hands with these young men being future leaders!!
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