Transfer Day!

When you develop the word "companion" as in "missionary companion" to its most real meaning -that is, someone you are with 24-7, someone you think and share and pray with - then it is no wonder that transfer day is such a big thing.  Add to that the new leadership callings with their attending satifaction and fears, and we begin to understand the anticipation and excitement missionaries feel for at least two weeks before a transfer.  We were especially close to their guesses and their attempts to get hints from us since we have a key to the transfer board. (Behind the "real" magnetic board with all the pictures, areas, companionships and leadership is another with all the possibilities where the planning takes place.)

This transfer we got two new elders -  one from Copenhagen and one from Arizona.
Here in Ukraine, because registration with the government is required when someone moves in and out of an apartment, a missionary has to be notified that they are being transferred at least one week before moving.    They do NOT know, however, where they will be going, or with whom.    Only those missionaries being transferred came in to attend the meeting.  This transfer, there were numbers under seats.  Those with a lucky number got to crack an egg and announce the transfer they found inside.  It was all very fun to watch.  Then off they went in taxis and buses with a new companion, a new area and a renewed committment to serve.