Arrival in the field

November 27,  2012

After an early departure from the MTC and arrival at the Salt Lake City airport, a group of 15 elders boarded their final leg to Edmonton Canada in Denver. Unfortunately the flight was delayed for over an hour, but fortunately for us, we had the pleasure of speaking to Elder McFall by telephone during that time. He was very excited to be on his way to the mission field and expressed gratitude for the things that he has learned, his relationship with his Heavenly Father, and for the wonderful support that he has received from family and friends. His MTC companion, Elder Leyerle, was unable to depart the MTC with the group due to a dental emergency and will hopefully be on a flight to Edmonton in the near future. While challenges arise in companionships, it was clear in Elder McFall's voice that he was somewhat disheartened about his companion which reflects on his true character and the caring person  he is. It is unclear when his scheduled preparation day will be once he arrives in Edmonton, but he has heard rumored that it will be on Monday. Until then, please read the letter received from Elder McFall's mission president and his wife, President and sister Campbell.

Dear McFall Family,

Elder McFall arrived in Edmonton on Tuesday, the 27th of November.  He arrived with 14 other missionaries that he worked with closely at the MTC.  They looked a little anxious when they stepped through the doors, but thankful to be here. We were there to greet them at the airport, President and Sister Campbell and the assistants showed up shortly after they arrived with the van and trailer.  

It was a pleasure to finally meet your son, Elder McFall, after studying his picture for the past few weeks.  The assistants helped them load their luggage into the van and we were on our way to the stake center.  Once at the stake center, as the mission office just won't accommodate a group this large, we introduced them to the office staff and had a bite to eat.  They were very tired and hungry and appreciated the lunch we provided for them.  We had the opportunity to sit down and eat with them and enjoyed the time to just visit.  They filled out and signed the necessary forms that would allow them to get right to work.

After the business at the stake center,  we went to the mission home, where the missionaries were able to sit and rest while President Campbell had the privilege of interviewing each one of them.  We welcomed them into our home and saw that they were well cared for.  During interviews they received their first training by the assistants. 

We provided dinner and then had a fireside where they watched a DVD of sights from the mission.  Then we had the privilege to hear testimonies from each of the new missionaries. 

Thank you for raising such an amazing son and preparing him for the work.  We look forward to serving with him and watching him grow in testimony and purpose as he serves the people of the Canada Edmonton Mission.

Enclosed is a photo of your son with us on the day he met his new companion.  May God bless you and your family during Elder McFall's service here in Edmonton.

With warm regards,

President and Sister Campbell