Called to Serve

On November 9, 2007, we were called by President Henry B. Eyring of the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, to serve as President and companion of a Spanish speaking mission of the church. Our job will be to oversee the missionary work in a designated area of the world. With that huge assignment comes the responsibility to look after the welfare of approximately 170 missionaries ranging in age from 19-25 years of age. Those missionaries spread the good word of Christ to all who will listen and teach about the gospel of Jesus Christ as it has been restored in these latter days. It was with much anticipation we awaited the assignment which would come at the end of February.

On February 23, 2008, an ominous white envelope containing our call arrived at our home in South Jordan, Utah. With family gathered around, we opened the envelop and learned of our assignment to serve in the Mexico Torreon Mission. President Clark served a mission in the Southeast Mexican Mission as a young man (1969-1971). That assignment included the areas of Veracruz, Puebla, Tuxla-Gutierrez, and Oaxaca. All of those areas would get new mission presidents this year also so we were quite surprised to be assigned to a completely different area of Mexico. Rather than facing high humidity and jungle, we will be living in the hot, arid desert. Our family quickly went to the internet to learn about the city of Torreon. They found that it is a thriving metropolis in the north-central part of Mexico. It is noted for it's industry and safety--a pretty great place to live.