Ward and branch members in the Berlin, Hannover, Hamburg and Leipzig areas prepared a special meal for us. They set up, prepared the food, served and cleaned up. They are the angels President Uchtdorf spoke of who are in our own neighborhood and give loving service.
The afternoon was celebrated with a gift exchange, family traditions of singing carols and ringing hand bells. President and Sister Pimentel shared Christmas stories and messages of giving and of love ("...remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35). Numerous missionaries have heavenly musical talents and we were uplifted as they shared their gifts. At the conclusion we all simply sat and enjoyed the sweet Spirit before the search began for Christmas gifts. It was a joyous week.
