Our Journey to Loma Linda!

We're HOME!

2010-02-08T11:14:00.002-07:00

I (Tami) am hijacking Sue's blog so that she doesn't have to figure out how to post the hundreds of pictures we took when they returned home! I know that Bob and Sue will miss the Jerusalem Center, and all of the staff and students--they truly loved each and every one of you! The stories we have heard are beautiful and amazing, and we are so grateful for you all who took care of them, and loved them when we weren't there to do it! They are truly amazing parents & we are happy to have them back! Here was my post & pics:
On Friday we went to the airport to welcome Bob and Sue HOME! We have missed these guys SO much! 18 months was a long time to have them gone--Jack was barely 6 months old when they left! We were all SO excited! Imagine how the security guards LOVED our huge group at the airport. With 36 children in tow--all under age 15 we were quite the scene! The security people were freaking out while we were waiting for them to come off the plane since the kids were all standing right by the DO NOT ENTER sign. It was actually pretty funny to watch them. When we finally saw Bob and Sue, it was a loud, crazy, melee of people trying to get to them to get a hug. We were all overcome with emotion & there were some tears shed. I am so grateful to have them home--it's not the same here without them. I am grateful to have such a wonderful family, and for their example and their faith. They are truly amazing, and have such an amazing love for their family, and for their Savior. Welcome Home Grandma and Grandpa! We missed you SO much!
Here are some of the MANY pictures I took on Friday:

After the airport we went to the park and had Barro's Pizza--which Grandma had requested! There's no better pizza than Barro's Pizza here in the valley! LOVE IT! Thanks for a great afternoon! We had a blast!

We are SO happy to have Grandma and Grandpa back home with us--we LOVE YOU! Now, you aren't allowed to leave again--for a LONG, LONG, LONG, time! HA!

2009 CHRISTMAS IN JERUSALEM

2010-01-16T12:14:00.001-07:00

Shalom #86 Real Meaning of Christmas

2009-12-25T14:28:00.012-07:00

Music: "How Far Is It To Bethlehem?"

Christmas Eve visit to the Orphanage.....

Making bubbles
Making sure everyone had their fair share
We were so blessed to spend Christmas Eve with several Jerusalem Branch members in Bethlehem.......first visiting the Orphanage for several hours playing with the children and holding babies........ giving gifts.......

We then met for dinner and gift sharing at Sahar's house. Her family had worked hard to have 30 guest over for such a lovely meal. have 3 members living in Bethlehem.....two brethern who have not been able to come to Jerusalem for church and our dear friend Sahar.....our Jerusalem Branch Relief Society President. Because of her job with the UN she has a special permit that allows her to cross the border and attend Church. Our "twig" in Bethlehem was recently organized under the direction of Elder Porter after he and several others including Pres. Allen visited with these two brothers and determined it was time for them to be blessed to meet together and having the blessings of the SacramentAfter the Priesthood brethern made their visit.....they decided it was time to allow these wonderful members the opportunity to have the Sacrament and to bring it to them in the land of the birth of our Savior......Bethlehem. Two of the brothers have not been able to attend Church in Jerusalem because of the separation wall and the only women, Sahar has a work premit which has allowed her to come to Jerusalem for church. Sahar is our RS president in the Jerusalem Branch and because of her work with the U.N. she has permission she to come to Jerusalem to our meetings. The meetings in Bethlehem are held on Sunday which makes it easier for Sahar to attend in Bethlehem and lend her strength, support and understanding of the Gospel. We have been able to attend several of the meetings also, what a spiritual feast. Sahar never knows when her job might

change and also her status for coming into Jerusalem, so having this meeting in her home town is a real blessing.
The song, "O little town of Bethlehem" brings a new meaning with the Lord's supper being offered the saints after all these years.....Bethlehem.......house of Bread, the Lord's Sacrament.......Bread representing His body, the blood, his great sacrifice. It's only fitting that the Sacrament would be offered by the "Bread of Life" in Bethlehem...........
We love this following youtube........
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PURToRRq7gM

Shalom #85 Santa's Elf's at the Jerusalem Center

2009-12-23T13:26:00.003-07:00

Santa sent his elves to help the good boy's and girls'

at the Jerusalem Center...........

Shalom #84....Good Bye to Fall Semester 2009

2009-12-22T15:29:00.003-07:00

Fall Semester 2009..........such good friends and so much fun that went too fast this semester. Good times at the Allen's.......we will miss your late night cookie baking parties, long talks about life and your wonderful testimonies.

Always good ole' linen exchange. Kalli, Kathryn and James.....the best!

Our committee........

Bus rides were always a fun time......

Shalom #83 OpPs........

2009-12-06T13:45:00.007-07:00

Ok, so it's been a month since I blogged.........OpPs........it's not like we haven't been at the Jerusalem Center but when the student's leave for extended field trips and we don't go.......it's a

great time for family to visit........We had such a great time and made so many wonderful memories with Ben & Sam, Mark & Debbie,

Ron & Ann and Glenn and Marcie............

thanks for coming to Israel...........

Shalom #82 Elder Holland

2009-11-04T01:02:00.002-07:00

Elder Holland: Elder Holland said that he had an unfailing celestial feeling walking into this building. God is good to all of those who come here. We are under obligation to never be the same again, and if we are we are a disappointment. Cherish what so many would give anything to experience. Not only because we walk where Jesus walked, but because we have had the privilege. Remember it all the days of your lives.

Elder Holland went on to describe what he called one of the most remarkable days of Christ's life, which was not a New Testament day. It is in the Book of Mormon, the greatest day in the history of the world, Christ arriving in the New World.

Jesus taught about baptism, equivalent of Sermon on the Mount, the doctrine in 3 Nephi 12-14, the Law of Moses, other sheep, and the redemption of Israel.

3 Nephi 17: 2-4 "I ^aperceive that ye are weak, that ye cannot ^bunderstand all my words which I am commanded of the Father to speak unto you at this time. 3 Therefore, go ye unto your homes, and ^aponder upon the things which I have said, and ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand, and ^bprepare your minds for the ^cmorrow, and I come unto you again. 4 But now I ^ago unto the Father, and also to ^bshow myself unto the lost tribes of Israel, for they are not ^clost untothe Father, for he knoweth whither he hath taken them."

Christ terminated the day because He had an assignment to go unto the Father and show Himself unto the lost tribes.

3 Nephi 17:5 "And it came to pass that when Jesus had thus spoken, he cast his eyes round about again on the multitude, and beheld they were ^ain tears, and did look steadfastly upon him as if they would ask him to tarry a little longer with them. "

The people didn’t dare say a word, but in their tears they cried out for Him to stay a little longer.

Christ's bowels were filled with compassion. He understood. He had them bring their sick, maimed, deaf, and afflicted in any manner.

This story teaches that if we really want the Savior in our lives, we can.

The gospel of Jesus Christ forever and ever mercy trumps justice. Mercy, tears, the lame, blind, deaf...justice or duty were all set aside.

One of the greatest single incidents of all the Book of Mormon occurs in 3 Nephi with the children. Christ asks the children to come forward, and He weeps and blesses them.

Elder Holland reiterated that the key line in this story is "behold my bowels are filled with compassion...my bowels are filled with mercy." This is the personification of mercy.

In Luke 6 it says "be ye therefore merciful as our Father in Heaven is merciful."

To be perfect is to be merciful. Be kinder. Be more forgiving. Be less demanding. "Be merciful" is the message of this city (Jerusalem). The atonement is the ultimate merciful act. The holiest setting of the Old Testament is the mercy seat, the figurative or literal place where Jehovah would come to commune with Ancient Israel.

Be a little more merciful. Be a little more disciplined. The great call that goes out to disciples is to be more merciful. Let us be merciful, helpful beyond our own needs. Be consumed with compassion.

Shalom #81 Halloween @ the Jerusalem Center

2009-11-03T04:30:00.005-07:00

Halloween is always fun at the Jerusalem Center.

It's amazing to see how clever and creative the students become. It doesn't take money to be original. Laundry basket with dirty clothes....

Pop Rocks!
The Western Wall and Dome of the Rock !

Salt & Pepper shakers

Shalom #80 Cookie Time At the Allen's

2009-10-19T23:11:00.003-07:00

Keep a batch of cookie dough in the refrigerator and students will come!

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip cookies soothes many ailments.........homesickness,

study overload, boredom.........

Shalom #79 More of Egypt

2009-10-08T12:35:00.005-07:00

Out for a family ride.......he had 4 daughters on the motorcycle with him.
A lovely family celebrating the ending of the

month of Ramadan.........

Did he make it on the camel this trip????? YES HE DID!!!

Shalom #78 EGYPT FALL 2009

2009-09-29T07:12:00.008-07:00

Shalom #76 Visiting families in the Israel District

2009-09-06T01:27:00.005-07:00

Shalom #75 The Bunker family visit's Jerusalem

2009-09-02T13:56:00.004-07:00

Last Sabbath we were pleased to have some special visitors from home come and join our church services at the Jerusalem Center. Randy and Arlene Bunker and Blake and Mikell Bunker had come to Israel on business and pleasure. They had been touring and arrived in Jerusalem for the Sabbath and to spend the last few days of their trip in Jerusalem. The Branch had planned a "linger-longer" so they were able to join us and then come to our apartment for a visit. We were fortunate that several days later they had a free afternoon that we could spend some time with them and take them to one our favorite places to shop!

Arlene, Randy, Mikell and Blake.........at the Oasis enjoying lunch with the branch.

Several days later we were able to have lunch at one of our

"quiet" spots in the Old City..........Austrian Hospice........there is

a lovely garden spot for lunch......notice our "special visitor"

What's a visit to the Old City without stopping by

Shaaban's to find the "deals"! Do you recognize

the new Shiek and his Queen??

Ali Baba

Mikell.......found just the right outfit.....good color on her

Dear Bunkers.......thanks for the memories

SHALOM # 74 WELCOME TO OUR FAMILY.....SAHARA

2009-08-30T13:25:00.029-07:00

WE ARE SO HAPPY TO INTRODUCE OUR NEWEST GRANDDAUGHTER

SAHARA "SUE" JOBE

7 IBS. 12 OZ.

August 28, 2009

HER MOTHER HAD A WONDERFUL DELIVERY .....

BOTH MOTHER AND BABY ARE DOING GREAT.....

WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR SKYPE..........IT WAS ALMOST LIKE BEING IN THE DELIVERY ROOM................

PROUD GRANDPA TAKES PICTURE OF KARIN AND SAHARA...........GRANDPA AND GRANDMA WATCHING FROM ISRAEL

HAPPY PARENTS......JENSEN AND KARIN ....

SAHARA HAS A OLDER BROTHER STOSH 3 YRS ( IN SEPTEMBER) AND STACIA 2 YRS.

***SAHARA IS OUR #35 GRANDCHILD........WAY TO GO KARIN AND JENSEN

BABY DRESS DESIGNED BY AUNT KELSEY......"BABY COUTURE"

SHALOM #73 WELCOME JIM AND PAULA MCDOWELL

2009-08-18T13:58:00.007-07:00

VISITING THE WESTERN WALL

Hezekiah's Tunnel
On the roof of the Austrian Hostel.....looking over the Old City
At the Western Wall

SHALOM #72 FAREWELL DINNER

2009-08-18T13:43:00.003-07:00

FAREWELL DINNER FOR SPRING/SUMMER 2009

OUR CHEFS - JIMMY, OMAR AND OSAMA

DINNER WITH MALAK SHARIF AND GEORGE AND SHARON MASTERS

HEAD CHEF:JIMMY, BOB AND ERAN HAYET

SAYING 'GOODBYE' .......

SHALOM #71 DAVID & GOLIATH??

2009-08-11T13:57:00.008-07:00

WE WERE WITH THE STUDENTS JUST OUTSIDE THE TOMB OF LAZARUS WAITING OUR TURN TO GO INSIDE WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THIS LITTLE MAN NAMED "DAVID" CAME UP TO BOB AND SAID, "YOU LOOK LIKE GOLIATH", "I WANT TO CHALLENGE YOU TO A FIGHT" ......WELL WITH HIS SLING AND STONE.........THE FIGHT WAS WON.....

Shalom #70

2009-08-11T13:35:00.002-07:00

COOKIE NIGHT AT THE ALLEN'S

THE WORD IS OUT....THERE IS ALWAYS OATMEAL, CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH IN OUR REFRIGERATOR WAITING TO BE BAKED.......COME ON OVER.

IT'S GOOD MEDICINE FOR BOYFRIENDITIS, HOMESICKNESS, DON'T WANT TO DO HOMEWORKITIS, NEED A BREAK FROM ROOMMATEITIS.....

Shalom #69 CALL TO SERVE

2009-08-04T04:27:00.003-07:00

CALL TO SERVE.............

George and Sharon Masters......
They had started their mission papers before they were asked to teach
this semester at the Jerusalem center and then during this semester completed the application. Their "White Envelope" was waiting for
them upon their return from Galilee.......CES Winnipeg, Canada

It was exciting to help Rachel Curtis, Yuma, Az. prepare her mission papers this semester. We helped her to see the Dentist, fill out her medical portions of the application and then fax her mission papers to Salt Lake City. While the students were in the Galilee for 10 days her "White Envelope" arrived. Everyone was so happy for her as she read her call......Chicago, North - Spanish....

Shalom #68 Good Bye to our Professors

2009-07-29T02:59:00.003-07:00

Even though the Spring/Summer semester doesn't end until Aug 13, we had a farewell dinner for the Professors and their wives. These are wonderful, dedicated teachers who love the scriptures and the Holy Land. They have enriched all of our lives.

Jeanna and Roy Huff. This sweet couple had 4 of their 6 children with

them this year. The children ranged in age for 12 - 18.

He is a Professor at BYU Idaho. We have enjoyed this

wonderful family and will miss them.....especially the

special hugs from their youngest son - Zack.

Janet and Andrew Skinner. He has been the Professor for Near Eastern Studies.

We have had some wonderful experiences with this great couple and will miss them.

They arrived shortly after we did last August and taught fall, winter and now

spring/summer terms. Janet has served as our R.S. President.

George and Sharon Masters came for the Spring/summer semester.

They are from So. Jordan, Utah.

He is retired from CES and last week they received a mission call to

Winipeg, Canada to work with CES for 23 months. It was exciting

for them to receive their call while teaching at the Jerusalem Center.

Shalom#67 Linen Exchange Spring/Summer 2009

2009-07-17T11:56:00.003-07:00

Shalom #66 District Visit to the Galilee Branch

2009-07-15T06:37:00.008-07:00

We had our "first" assignment together as District representatives. Bob is 2nd Counselor in the Israel District and I am the District Relief Society President. We were both asked to speak at the Galilee Branch. We invited 3 students to join us......Kellyn Briggs, Rachel Lee and Chadwick Densely. They brought a wonderful spirit to the meeting with their talks and a beautiful song. Including the 5 of us, there were a total of 24 saints at the meetings. The Branch members are such sweet, humble saints and the service couple, Dean and Susan Madsen from Logan, Utah are doing such a wonderful job as the Branch President. Susan is my counselor in the District RS. Susan has authored several books on the mother's of the Prophets.

Standing on the balcony of the Galilee branch with the Sea of Galilee in the background

Several of the Galilee Branch members

Susan Madsen, Nanette Beckstead, Ann Hansen, Sue

Susan is my counselor in the District RS

Nanette and her husband, Merrill, are Service Couples in Haifa

Ann Hansen -a long time resident of Galilee....Michael's wife and faithful member of the branch

**Notice the song boards......English, Russian, Spanish and Hebrew

Shalom #65 Ein Gedi

2009-07-10T05:54:00.011-07:00

Each semester on "free" days, groups of students makes arrangements to go snorkeling to the Gulf of Aqaba located at the southern most point of Israel. There was a small group of students who for one reason or another could not go. They asked us if we would be willing to take them on a "field" trip. Of course, we were happy to "make their day". They wanted to go to the Dead Sea and we suggested that we include En Gedi since the two locations are right next to each other. Today, EIN GEDI is a Nature reserve located on the eastern edge of the Judean Desert near the shore of the Dead Sea. Two wadis (dry river beds) deliver spring water from rain fall in the Judean Mountains and seeps into the underground water table. It is a beautiful oasis in the Judean Mountains.

One of the waterfalls and pools of En Gedi

Brad Sawaya, Kyle Stuart and Bob

Brad, Mary Kate Mckay, Bethany Bateman, Kyle,

Annie Clark, Sue

Dead Sea in the background

Next STOP... the Dead Sea

To learn about Ein Gedi.......

read 1st Samuel chapter 24

Shalom #64......None of us are a "lost" cause

2009-07-09T12:32:00.005-07:00

weDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2009.....this is pasted from Todd and Tami's blog.....6Kra-z-kids.....but we loved it and wanted to share it with those of you who are discouraged, sad or lonely.......or think all is LOST.....

A "Lost Cause..."

Emie (one of our beautiful granddaughter's)bore a beautiful testimony in sacrament meeting on Sunday, and I(Tami) wanted to remember how special it was, and how much she touched me by the words she used, and the spirit I felt as she gave it. She talked about how she was talking with her cousin, my niece, this weekend when she was visiting. Her cousin told her that when it came to the church, she was a "lost cause". She is 17, and has just had a really hard life, and a really hard couple of months especially with some issues at home, and she just feels generally like people, namely God, have given up on her. Emie expressed how sad that this statement made her, and said how she felt in her heart that she knew that this wasn't true. She said that she was glad through reading the scriptures, and praying to her Heavenly Father, each of us can know that God loves us, and that he will never give up on us. To our Heavenly Father, NONE of us are a "lost cause". She expressed that she knew, through experiences that she has had, that Heavenly Father knows each of us individually, by name. If we will pray to him, we will know that he is there, and that he loves us.

I just wanted to post this here, in hopes that my niece will read it, and know that her cousin was thinking of her, and so am I. In the gospel of Jesus Christ, there is no such thing as a "lost cause". It doesn't matter what we have done, or how far from our Savior we think that we have wandered, he never stops loving us. Even when we turn our back on him, even when we think that there is no possible way back, even when we feel like we have wandered so far from where we should be, our Savior is still there, reaching out to us, ready to welcome us back to the fold. He told us this when he was on the earth, in the parable of the lost sheep. In Luke 15 it reads:

"Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him.
And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. And he spake this parable unto them, saying,
What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?
And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.
And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.
I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance."

I want to add my testimony to hers, that no one is ever "lost" in the kingdom of God. Our Heavenly Father, and our Savior, Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd in this parable, never stop loving us, never stop reaching out to us, they never give up on us. They will never stop searching for those who think that they are lost, for we never are truly lost, to them. They know you, and they know your name, and they know your heart. You were our Heavenly Father's daughter, and our Savior's sister before you can even remember. But they DO remember. They know you, better than you know yourself. They love you, more than you know. When you doubt that, all you need to do is get on your knees and ask Him. He will tell you, in your mind and in your heart, by the spirit of the Holy Ghost, that these things are true. You will feel how much He truly loves you, and then you will truly know your worth.

So many people search for happiness in this world, in so many ways. Yet, you look around and see plenty of miserable people. People who thought they could find fun, and happiness, and only end up destroying themselves in the process. The world only offers false hopes of happiness, empty promises, disappointment. The way to happiness, the only way, is through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Through Him, we can truly be happy. Not just a happiness here on earth, but a happiness that will continue through eternity. That is happiness that is worth searching for.

Shalom #63 4th of July @ the Jerusalem Center

2009-07-04T20:06:00.006-07:00

Happy 4th of July.......AMERICA........we love you and miss you. We had Fast Sabbath and it was a wonderful way to end our fast with a traditional barbeque with all the trimmings.........

Decorating the Oasis for the big party.

Shalom #62 TIM TAM SLAM AT THE ALLEN'S

2009-07-01T09:37:00.002-07:00

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOUR TIRED OF STUDYING?.............GO VISIT THE ALLEN'S

THERE IS ALWAYS A TREAT AT THE ALLEN'S...........TONIGHT IT WAS THE

TIM TAM SLAM............A SMALL WAFER COOKIE COVERED WITH

CHOCOLATE........YUMMY

SO TO HAVE A TIM TAM SLAM YOU HAVE TO HAVE A CUP OF HOT CHOCOLATE

THEN YOU TAKE A BITE OUT OF TWO OPPOSITE CORNERS OF THE WAFER....USE AS A STRAW AND DRINK THE HOT CHOCOLATE........ENJOY!!

Shalom #61 -JORDAN:Petra

2009-06-26T20:17:00.008-07:00

The Treasury is the "pride and joy" of Petra and is the most beautiful monument there. It was carved in the 1st century BC as a tomb of an important Nabataean king; some scholars believe it was later used as a temple. The Nabataean people were an ancient Arab tribe who originally came from the Arabian Peninsula more than 2200 years ago and settled in southern Jordan.

Dan Ash (from Mesa), Alex Alard and Bob

Kim Matheson, Amelia Fenn, Sue and

Mary Lu Funk

Wall of tombs
Waiting in line at the W.C. (bathrooms) which were inside of a beautiful cave.

Local bedouin sales lady
Does anyone want to buy some rocks?

Poor horses taking Bob and Sue out of Petra...

JERASH: It is one of the best preserved Roman cities in the world.

Shalom #60

2009-06-20T16:14:00.008-07:00

Today is Father's Day and I wanted to pay tribute to the Father of my children.........my friend, my eternal companion. He has been such a dedicated, loving, amazing father for 40 years. He has the greatest love and respect of his children and grandchildren. and his only desires is to see them happy by keeping Heavenly Father's commandments and following the teachings of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

I love this picture....taken in the Canadian Rockies when we took Christiaan, Courtney, Emie and Austin on a week of camping, fishing and horseback riding in to the Canadian Rockes

With his sons at the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount, Jerusalem - May 2009
A beautiful view of the harbor of Haifa.........
Saying Hi to family from the Pyramids of Egypt

One of his favorite places in the whole world......the beautiful Bryce Canyon National Park - in Southern Utah.

Shalom #59

2009-05-27T12:21:00.003-07:00

WELCOME TO ISRAEL DEAR FAMILY. AFTER A LONG FLIGHT FROM ARIZONA, OUR FAMILY ARRIVES SAFELY AT THE BEN GURION AIRPORT. WHAT A HAPPY REUNION FOR ALL OF US. BABY COLE ALLEN WAS A WONDERFUL BABY THE WHOLE TRIP. FOR THE NEXT TEN DAYS, CHRIS, CINDY AND COLE, SHAUN & KATE, GREG & TERA AND KOHN AND KARI WERE ON A TRIP NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN. WE HAD SUCH A WONDERFUL TIME WITH EVERYONE AND WE ALL APPRECIATE WHAT A SUPER TOUR GUIDE BOB (DAD) WAS. HE WAS WELL PREPARED AND USING THE SCRIPTURES TAUGHT US ABOUT THE PROPHETS, THE LAND, THE HISTORICAL SITES OF THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT AND WE ALL FELT THE SPIRIT AND A RENEWED DEDICATION TO OUR SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST. WE STAYED HEALTHY BUT WERE VERY TIRED AT THE END OF THE DAY.........BUT WE DID OUR BEST TO COVER AS MUCH TERRITORY AND HOLY SITES AS POSSIBLE IN THAT LENGTH OF TIME.

THE PICTURES ARE NOT IN ORDER OF OUR TRIP.......

ARRIVAL AT THE BEN GURION AIRPORT

BOARDING THE BOAT ON THE SEA OF GALILEE

KOHN AND KARI INSIDE THE DOME OF THE ROCK
SHAUN AND KATIE IN FRONT OF OUR VAN WITH OUR DRIVER IMAUD

Shalom #58

2009-05-25T07:52:00.011-07:00

Shalom #57

2009-05-05T23:22:00.004-07:00

AS WE BEGIN THE SPRING/SUMMER TERM AT THE JERUSALEM CENTER , WE PAUSE TO REFLECT ON THOSE WONDERFUL STUDENTS, EVENTS AND PLACES THAT HAVE TOUCHED OUR LIVES.

BYU STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN THE PALM SUNDAY WALK.........
VISITING THE ORPHANAGE IN BETHLEHEM
A VISIT TO THE BIBLICAL ZOO WITH BRANCH MEMBERS.....TOM AND AMY, JOANIE AND JACKSON SOWERS AND ANDREW SMITH...

GREEK ORTHODOX SERVICES AT THE HOLY SEPLUCHRE

ONE OF THE PROPOSED SITES OF THE UPPPER ROOM WHERE THE LAST SUPPER TOOK PLACE

STUDENTS SAYING GOOD BYE TO THE DOME OF THE ROCK
BOB, ANDREW AND JANET SKINNER

SAYING "GOOD BYE" TO OUR FRIENDS, DORENE AND NORM SQUIRES

OUR FINAL LINEN EXCHANGE.....
VIEW OF THE DOME OF THE ROCK ACROSS THE KIDRON VALLEY FROM THE CHURCH OF ALL NATIONS
DOME OF THE ROCK WAS BUILT BY THE EARLY ISLAMIC RULERS IN JERUSALEM IN A.D. 691 ON THE SITE OF THE TEMPLE OF SOLOMON.

Shalom #56

2009-04-19T06:24:00.008-07:00

We are so happy to announce the birth of our #34 grandchild.................Cole Anthony Allen

Happy Parents: Chris and Cindy

Brothers and Sisters:

Christiaan, Courtney, Cassi, Caleb, Carson, Camryn

Big brother : Christiaan..............

A kiss from proud Dad

Cole Anthony Allen

March 24, 2009

7lbs. 12.5 oz

Shalom #55

2009-04-14T23:21:00.006-07:00

FINAL LINEN EXCHANGE OF WINTER 2009

WHAT A GREAT TEAM WE MADE.........THIS WAS WHERE IT WAS HAPPEN' ON TUESDAY NIGHTS AT THE JERUSALEM CENTER!!

SHALOM #54

2009-04-12T23:22:00.004-07:00

Our Easter Sunday is the Palm Sunday for many Eastern Orthodox Churches.

We joined the crowds of pilgrims at the Greek Orthodox chapel inside a portion of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher who had come from all the world to celebrate. It was very interesting to watch the pageantry of this religion.

Shalom #53

2009-04-12T22:23:00.007-07:00

EASTER SUNDAY IN JERUSALEM -2009

WE LEFT THE JERUSALEM CENTER AT 5:45 A.M. AND WALKED A SHORT DISTANCE TO OUR NEIGHBORS ON THE MOUNT OF OLIVES TO JOIN THE STUDENTS AND MEMBERS OF THE LUTHERAN COMMUNITY AT THE AUGUSTA VICTORIA HOSPITAL COMPLEX FOR A WONDERFUL SUNRISE SERVICE CONDUCTED BY REV. MARK HOLMAN OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER. IT WAS A SWEET EXPERIENCE FOR THE LDS STUDENTS TO JOIN THOSE OF OTHER FAITHS IN CELEBRATING THE RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST.

LIVING IN JERUSALEM THESE PAST 8 MONTHS BRINGS US TO THE REALITY OF HOW MANY PEOPLE DO NOT BELIEVE IN OUR SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST OR THE MIRACLE OF HIS RESURRECTION. IT WAS INSPIRING TO JOIN WITH "BELIEVERS IN CHRIST".

SUNRISE OVER THE JUDEAN HILLS OF JERUSALEM

REV. MARK HOLMAN GIVING HIS SERMON

FAITHFUL CHRISTIANS JOIN FOR SERVICES

Shalom#52

2009-04-10T00:05:00.003-07:00

WE KNOW THAT OUR REDEEMER LIVES

Shalom #51

2009-03-29T08:11:00.009-07:00

TODAY IS MARCH 29, 2009.............HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SWEETHEART

just a few random pictures of people and places that make him happy..........

Shalom #50

2009-03-22T14:36:00.008-07:00

This is our #50 post.....for someone who doesn't enjoy doing this because of the lack of technological skills I am happy for what the Lord and family and friends have helped me learn......in fact, without His help and the help of others there isn't much I could accomplish on my own. I would like to share a couple of little miracles with you. First of all, thank you for your prayers in our behalf. I know that there have been several times since we have been here that we should have been really injured badly or taken longer to get over an illness. Case in point....the day before Rita Kaiser arrived here for a week vacation we went on a field trip with the students to the Hezekiahs tunnel. Now we had been there before with Todd and Tami and waded the 45 minutes through the cold water that was at least up to our knees. This time we decided to go through the dry tunnel with Andy and Janet Skinner.

It was a cold day and none of us felt like getting that wet. It doesn't take quite as long to go through the dry tunnel and so we were finished before most of the students and decided to walk into another tunnel which is an original Roman road from the time of Jesus. We found some students already in there and because they were wet the big, stone pavements were wet. I don't know how I went down but one minute I was watching students take pictures in there and the next thing I know I had completely rolled my ankle and was down on the ground. I seriously thought I heard it snap. It happened so quickly I didn't have time to break my fall put I almost snapped my wrist back too.

Well, everyone scrambled to help me but my pride and embarrassment wouldn't let me have help. Bob did help me limp out, but when we came out into the open there was most of the students listening to a lecture and watching us all come out. No way was I going to have help and I just acted like it was nothing. Well, we had this very steep road to walk up.....at least 30 minute walk. We had taxi's waiting there for everyone to take us back to the center. Thank goodness, because by then it was really swollen. Well, Bob wrapped it very tightly and we iced it and I stayed off it for the rest of the day.

The next day Rita arrived and I could hardly hobble into the airport.....but I did and that is how it has been.......it's been painful, swollen, stiff but I haven't stopped doing what I need to do in the Center with all these stairs, and I've even walked into the Old City several times.

I know it is a miracle......as hard as I fell, it should have been broken......or maybe it was but it is healing but I'm doing better.

Bob had an injury the other day when we were out again with the Skinner's looking for another ancient Roman road again, dating to the time of Jesus. As we were walking by the side of a highway to locate this section of the Roman road.......all of a sudden we hear this terrible crash happening. It was very close to where we were. It was about 4:00p.m. in the afternoon and this young mother had fallen asleep at the wheel of her nice car and cross the road and thank goodness hit the guard rail right in front of where we were ready to go or she should would have definitely flipped into the ditch right in front of us and possibly rolled her car also. Well, several cars quickly pulled over and our group jumped this deep ditch to get over to her to see what injuries she might have because the front end of her car was totally damaged. Another car which had stopped brought out her 3 month old baby ........who was fortunately O.K. she had him in a car seat. She was in shock.....but seem to be ok.

Well, back to Bob, when we jumped the ditch to help her, he said he felt the muscle in his thigh tear......he could hardly get back to the car and of course, did he want anyone to know what had happened? No, so he hobbled over to see the ruins once we knew the girl and her baby were alright. He never said anything in the car to anyone but he was in a lot of pain. When we got home, he wrapped it really tight and put ice on it.........he is amazing.......it's black and blue and you can feel the separation in the muscle but he is walking and not slowing down.

We both know this is a miracle that he has healed so quickly. Years ago he did a similar thing

and had to see his patients being pushed around in a wheel chair for several weeks.

Thank you for your faith and prayers in our behalf. We feel them, and know they are what gives us strength and keeps us safe.

Shalom #49

2009-03-17T13:33:00.016-07:00

CAVE #1 AT QUMRAN

Recently we were part of a group invited by Kent & Gayle Brown to visit Cave #1 at Qumran which is near the city of Jericho. The rest of the group included Andy & Janet Skinner, Carol & Ray Thomas, Dennis & Karen Thomson and Norm Squires. The caves are located in the mountains and rough terrain of Qumran. It was a very steep hike up to the cave but very exciting once we reached it. The view of the Dead Sea from the mountain side was just breathtaking. This was a group of "old folks" acting like they were young students but we all made it safely.

The scrolls, hidden in jars for nearly two thousand years were able to be preserved because of the area's dry climate. These scrolls come from a break-away sect, known as the Essenes, who lived and studied there for two centuries.

Cave #1 allegedly was discovered by a Bedouin shepherd boy who when chasing his stray goat threw a stone through a small opening in the cave and heard pottery break. Frightened by what he heard he left but returned several days later, crawled through the small opening and found 10 jars, each about two feet in height. All but two of the jars were found empty but what they did discover was a cache of ancient documents later to be named "Dead Sea Scrolls" which changed the study of the Old Testament. Among the findings of the seven scrolls were the Manual of Discipline, War of Sons of Light, thanksgiving Scroll, Isaiah A & B, Genesis

Apocryphon and Habakkuk commentary.

Kent S. & Gayle Brown

Taking a rest - Carol Thomas, Sue, Andy & Janet Skinner

Karen and Dennis slowly but surely making the

climb. It was very steep the whole way up.

Holding on so as to not cause a rock-slide

Checking out the cave #1

Listening to Dr. Brown and Dr. Skinner give

their knowledge and experience about coming

into these caves earlier in their careers as young

Professors. They have helped translate some of the

fragments and have written articles and books

on the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Not an original container but what one would

look like.

Showing the opening of the Cave

Inside the Cave listening to a discussion by

Kent S. Brown

Shalom #48

2009-03-17T09:44:00.005-07:00

We had a wonderful visit with our dear friend, Rita Kaiser. The students were on a trip to Jordan and Petra so it was a great time for company. For 9 days we started early in the day and ended late at night seeing as much as we could in Jerusalem, the Galilee and other special sights around Israel.

The Garden Tomb

Visiting Dean and Susan Madsen at the Tiberius Branch in Tiberius.......

The song numbers are posted in Russian, Spanish, English and Hebrew
Herod's palace at Masada
Spice pyramid in the Old City of Jerusalem

At the shore of the Galilee

Baptismal sight at the Jordan River
Rita and her new friend........
Rita and the Allen's with Mr. camel on the way to the Dead Sea which is the lowest point on earth.

Shalom #47

2009-03-07T14:48:00.007-07:00

David Resnick - Architect of the BYU Jerusalem Center

This past week at the Jerusalem Center there was a community event honoring

David Resnick.....the Architecture of the Jerusalem Center. There were nearly 300 people here at a reception in his behalf mostly architects themselves. It was amazing how many people had never been to the JC. Bob and I had been asked to help serve refreshments to the guest as they view the art work in the large meeting hall. They were then given a tour of the building and watched the movie the BYU produced about the Center. This man is very famous in Israel and even helped design the Kinneset building - the Israeli equivalent to our Congress building and several other very important Israeli buildings.

BYU Jerusalem Center - Hosting Video

This video is presented before a tour of the BYU Jerusalem Center.

To watch the BYU Jerusalem Center - Hosting Video complete the following actions.

Select the language you would like to hear by clicking on the appropriate link below.
- English (selected by default)
- Arabic
- Hebrew
- Russian
- Spanish
Press the play button on the video player. (The video player requires the Adobe Flash Player 7 or greater and a high speed internet connection. If you cannot see the player you do not have Flash installed)

Shalom#46

2009-03-07T13:42:00.007-07:00

Last weekend was our District Conference. Our district includes the Jerusalem, Tel Aviv

and Galilee Branches. We had our Area Authority over the Middle East and Africa -

Elder Dennis Neuenschwander and his wife Joni with us. His "desk" is in the Church Office in Salt Lake City ......he travels many miles to visit his area. We have many different cultures in our district. We have members in our Branches from Russia, South America, the Phillipines and countries of Europe. Bob was responsible for having all the equipment for translation ready and working for the members who needed translation for Spanish and Russian. There were over 30 members who used the equipment. He had 2 wonderful people from the Galilee Branch help with the actual translation. He was complimented by the members and translators for being so organized and it helped them all to feel the Spirit and enjoy the Conference.

Along with our District Conference there was a Humanitarian conference being held here at the Jerusalem Center. There were 7 couples who serve as Humanitarian missionaries through out the Mid-East staying here for a week. As the housing couple, we are the JC concierge.......we assign rooms, help with anything guest need and make sure they know the cafeteria schedule. It was interesting to meet these wonderful couples and learn of their service and what their duties require.

After the general session we had a women's conference which I conducted as the District R.S. President. We had a sweet spirit there with Sister Neuenschwander telling about how she met her husband about a year ago and how being a divorcee she didn't know if he would ever call her.. he did and they dated about a year and were just married just this past August. She told how it feels and the adjustment to being married to a G.A. We did some calculations and he has to be at least 20 years older than her. Sharon Eubank showed a power point presentation on many of the projects the Church is involved in. In the past the branches have been given food assignments but this time Bob and I made arrangements with our chef's to have a lovely meal for the members. They really enjoyed being treated special.

Elder/Sister Cotton from Louisville, Kentucky.

They are finishing up in their assignment to Northern Jordan

They said they know Shaun & Katie and also Kristy & Billy from

when they lived in Kentucky.

Sue with Joni Neuenschwander and Sharon Eubank

Bob&Sue, Sharon Eubank - Church Humanitarian Services,

Elder & Sister Neuenschwander

Shalom #45

2009-02-25T13:57:00.004-07:00

This was such a wonderful post from Kristy that I wanted to share it with you......

FEB 12, 2009

Special Special DAY

(This is for my kids)

Today is the 9th anniversary of an event that completely changed our little family. I want my kids to know my side of the story (Billy's and mine differ a little). After I graduated from high school I went to Rick's college. It was a good thing for me to get away and find out who I was and how I wanted to live my life, to not always rely on my parents and what they said, but to decide for myself. I went home for Christmas and got a very unexpected called from Billy (we had said our goodbyes graduation night and I really never expected to hear from him again.) He had asked if I wanted to go see the temple lights. I thought it was really crazy he wanted to go but didn't want to pass up this opportunity so I decided to go.The temple lights were beautiful and it was fun to see each other and catch up. As we walked around he started asking questions about what we believed as Mormons and said he wanted to learn more about our church. Honestly (and I know this is really bad) I didn't believe him and thought it was all just a joke. He is the biggest jokester so even now it is hard to know when he is really serious. He even said a few other things like we should just go get married so I really did not know what to think. We had a really fun night. The break went by so quickly that we really didn't talk much after that night. Right as I was leaving to go to the airport to go back to Ricks I got a call from Billy and again he had asked to hear more about our church. My dad happened to be right by me and at the time he was the stake mission leader so I told my dad that Billy wanted to learn more but was still very skeptical . I was on my way out so I immediately went to the airport and went back to Ricks.
(So this is what my dad and Billy say happened after)

My dad calls Billy a few minutes later and asked when he was free to learn more- Billy says whenever, not really thinking anything about the discussions and that my dad was the mission leader, and they ended up having the first discussion about a half hour later. It was about a month later that Billy got baptized. So 9 years ago today Billy was baptized a member of the LDSChurch. Of course it was life changing for Billy and I can't even begin to say how proud I am of him and how amazing I think he is. He is not who he was 10 years ago and so much more than I ever thought he could be.
For me though, it was also life changing. I remember thinking at times if living the gospel was really that important and did I really want to do it, but when Billy was baptized it helped me more than anything. Even to this day if I ever question things all I have to do is remember Billy and his story. If the gospel could change someones life so drastically then I want to be apart of it. If someone would have said 10 years ago that Billy and I would be married and have two little kids and be as happy as we are (don't get me wrong we fight and have our hard times but we get through them and I love him even more) I would have laughed and said it never ever could happen. But I am so happy that it has happened. I love Billy and he helps me to be better in so many ways. He is so giving and does so many things without even thinking. He is so forgiving and kind and loving to me and my babies. I know God's hand was in it and I am so glad my dad had more faith then I did to not doubt but to just proceed. Thanks dad, that call changed so many lives. Billy, I can't wait to see what the next 9 and many many more years have to bring!!!

Shalom #44

2009-02-23T13:04:00.004-07:00

THIS IS THE COURTYARD OUTSIDE OUR APARTMENT. WE HAVE HAD SOME WONDERFUL RAINS HERE THIS PAST WEEKEND WHICH INCLUDED A BIG ICE STORM.....IT LOOKS LIKE SNOW TO US. ISRAEL HAS BEEN IN A SERIOUS DROUGHT AND THE SEA OF GALILEE IS AT IT'S LOWEST POINT IN YEARS.

Shalom #43

2009-02-23T10:24:00.013-07:00

THIS BLOG IS DEDICATED TO DAVID AND JESSICA.......THANK YOU FOR OUR FLIP VIDEO.......WE FINALLY FIGURED IT OUT (WE HOPE)...

WE ARE READY TO ROLL!

SO....WE WANTED TO BRING YOU "LINEN EXCHANGE"...ALLEN STYLE.

EVERY STUDENT IS ASSIGNED TO A COMMITTEE BEFORE THEY ARRIVE AT THE JERUSALEM CENTER. WHEN THEY LEARN THEY ARE ON THE LINEN EXCHANGE COMMITTEE THEY ARE TEASED BY THEIR FAMILIES & FRIENDS...HA HA ....YOU HAVE TO DO EVERYONE'S DIRTY LAUNDRY....SOOOO....GUESS WHAT....EVERY ONE WANT'S TO BE ON OUR COMMITTEE BECAUSE WE TURN A "CHORE" INTO A FUN EVENING.

ALSO, WE REWARD OUR "TEAM" WITH A NICE CANDY BAR...

WE ARE SO BLESSED TO WORK WITH THESE WONDERFUL STUDENTS.

Shalom #42

2009-02-22T08:26:00.005-07:00

This afternoon, I was looking through some of our recent pictures. It reminded me of what a great time we had with Todd and Tami.

Arab camelboy/camelgirl

Garden Tomb

Over look of Jezreel Valley

Thanks Todd and Tami for coming to visit us in Israel. We had such a wonderful time with you...we hope others will be "inspired" to visit The Holy Land.

Shalom #41

2009-02-19T06:16:00.004-07:00

Happy Valentine's to my sweetheart of 43 years. For several days prior to Valentine's day, students had been advertising singing Valentines....so during our Branch prayer on the evening of Sabbath and also Valentine's day, President Allen was surprised by this quartet of young men. His reaction was the best!

Soooo, we've been absent from blogging for several week. It takes commitment, energy and creativity to blog regularly and we really admire those of you who do.

From time to time special conferences are held here at the Jerusalem Center. Since one of our duties is housing, we make room assignments and help in any way that is needed.

H. David Burton and his wife along with 10 couples from Europe, Africa and Utah were here for a week of meetings. These men are employees of the Department of Temporal Affairs. In the past they have met in Salt Lake City around conference time but decided this meeting would be held in Jerusalem. In visiting with Bishop Burton, it was interesting to learn that he has never travelled to Israel or the BYU Jerusalem Center. The group had a wonderful visit and after their meetings were able to see many sights around the Old City.

The Branch was able to host a special Fireside with Bishop Burton as the guest speaker. As Bob was introducing him, he choked slightly as he said Bishop Burton had graduated from the University of Utah. The audience loved that.

His message was on satan - the great deceiver. He began by telling of his great love of baseball and used the example of pitchers and how important it is to be able to throw different kinds of pitches to deceive the batter and strike him out. Ted Williams, a famous baseball player who still holds the honor of having the best batting average ever, had a great eye for watching the pitcher in his release of the ball and could tell what type of ball was being thrown and therefore had the ability to not be deceive as a batter. There are so many ways satan tries to deceive and destroy our lives......we must use our eyes to see the evil in this world and turn our lives over to the Savior and see His good works and follow His counsel.

Shalom #40

2009-02-08T13:10:00.008-07:00

Going through some of our videos we found this one of visiting the Temple Mount where the Dome of the Rock is located.

This information comes from Dhimmi Watch....... Jews and Christians are forbidden to pray at the Temple Mount. Judaism considers it the holiest place on earth. Muslims say it's the third holiest. Christianity reveres the spot as being of great historic importance. But if someone prays there, if he or she is not Muslim, the worshiper will be immediately arrested. Welcome to the Temple Mount.

the Temple Mount is the large area directly behind the Western Wall in Jerusalem. It is the site of Judaism's first and second Temples, the primary area of workshop for the Jewish Faith and the location in which God's "shekhina," or presence, is thought by Jews to reside. The area is about the size of 15 football stadiums.....

Although is not mentioned by name in the Quran, the Temple Mount is also commonly identified by Muslims as the "furthermost sanctuary," the site from which the Prophet Muhammad, accompanied by the angel Gabriel, made the Night Journey to the Throne of God.

In addition, Christianity considers the area historically important. The book of Luke recordds that Jesus, raised a devout Jew, was dedicated in the Second Temple in accordance with the Laws of Moses, and describes Jesus' boyhood visit to the Temple, which, it iw written in John, he cleansed at Passover and during the last week of his life. Jesus once referred to the Temple as His "Father's house."

During "open" days, Jew and Christian are allowed to ascend the Temple Mount, usually through organized tours and only if they conform first to a strict set of guidelines, which includes demands that they not pray or bring any "holy objects" to the site. Visitors are banned from entering any of the mosques without direct Wafq permission. Rules are enforced by Wafq agents, who watch tours closely and alert nearby Israeli police to any breakinf o their guidelines.

Shalom #39

2009-02-03T13:29:00.006-07:00

The Dome of the Rock. This magnificent mosque was built on the site of the First and second Temples in 691 A.D. by the Omayad Khalif. It is one of the wonders of the modern world with its golden capped Dome and is an outstanding landmark of Jerusalem. Wall mosaics, beautiful carpets and stained glass windows inside the mosque and beautiful blue and gold tiles on the outside walls of the building.

For the 3 major monotheistic religions, the Temple Mount is the historical and spiritual focus of Jerusalem. It is revered by Jews as the holiest place on earth. The rock at the centre of the Temple Mount (now covered by the Dome of the Rock) is the place where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son, Issac. The Muslims believe this is the spot that Abraham was prepared to sacrifice his son, Ishmael. Solomon built the First Temple here which was destroyed by the Babylonians in 587BC, and later the Second Temple built by Herod was erected on the same spot. It was destroyed by the Roman's in

70 AD. Christianity associates the Temple Mount with the preaching of Jesus, while for Moslems this is the accepted place from which Mohammed ascended to heaven.

Shalom#38

2009-02-03T12:36:00.003-07:00

Ok, so we have had a wonderful two weeks with Todd and Tami. They arrived January 22 and left this am - February 3. They arrived several days before the students left for their 2 weeks in Egypt which was fun for us because they were able to meet many of the students, eat in the cafeteria with them and see a little of what makes up our responsibilities here at the JC. This trip to Egypt is one of the highlights of the students semester in Israel. We did not go as the physician couple this semester because fortunately there is another medical couple here at the JC who was assigned to go. It meant that we would have 2 free weeks....what a perfect time to have visitors. I am going to refer you to Tami's blog:6krazkids.blogspot.com for the last 2 weeks. She was so diligent in keeping a journal and blogging about our experiences. We were so blessed to spend this time with them and hopefully more of our family will be able to visit while we are here. I think I can speak for them as they felt the same way I did when we arrived....no words can really describe the experience of Jerusalem or the places of the Savior's life and to be in a country so rich in history and centuries of civilizations mentioned in the Bible. Please visit her blog for a great experience...........6krazkids.blogspot.com

Shalom#37

2009-01-21T14:10:00.005-07:00

THANK GOODNESS: FALSE ALARM!!!

While we were on the Geography Field trip with the students....right after our experience with the Cat.....and just as Dr. Skinner is ending up his remarks...we hear a loud air raid siren go off in one part of Jerusalem.....and then across the valley another siren goes off and then at least several more went off in different locations of the valley. We looked at each other and said, "Oh,Oh, we are sitting ducks here on this hillside out in the open.!' We watched and waited for

Dr. Skinner to make some comment but he just keep talking like nothing was happening. Bob quickly calls the Jerusalem Center Security to see what we should do and of course the students were starting ask us "what's this mean?".

Fortunately it was a False Alarm.....it did raise some concerns realizing that Gaza and the war is only 45 miles away in Gaza.

Shalom#36

2009-01-21T13:12:00.008-07:00

Geography Field Trip

The first student field trip of the semester is called the Geography Field Trip. The main purpose is to help the students gain a better understanding of the geography of the Holy Land and how it is closely linked to the scriptures. This field strips stays within 15 miles of Jerusalem but has some of the most important areas described in the Bible.

We were so grateful to be invited to join the students because as we anticipate Todd and Tami coming this week and future guest....it helps us in our understanding of the area so we can be the "perfect tour guides". We look forward to your bookings!!!

From this vantage point on the Haas Promenade, Andrew Skinner is describing the City of David behind him and the Hinnom Valley which in Joshua 15:8 tells how it divides the

a reas of Judah and Benjamin. It is a spectacular view of Jerusalem and beyond.

So we are enjoying this lovely afternoon, SITTING ON THE GRASS, just enjoying the spirit and having this great appreciation of being in the Holy Land and the blessing of listening to Dr. Skinner give his profound remarks on the geography of the Holy Land and bringing it to life as he weaves the scriptures and Bible stories together to enhance our knowledge and understanding .....when out from the bushes comes a FURRY, LITTLE FRIEND! Now anyone that knows my husband, knows how allergic he is to cats......I was raised with lovely, little felines, but we have never had any our whole married (43 yrs!) life. Also, as the Physician here at the Jerusalem Center he had just given an orientation talk to all of the students and Professors that they should avoid playing or even touching the wild cats (because of infections) that are around the Center and all over Jerusalem. Well, needless to say, for us it was hard to keep from laughing out loud while Dr. Skinner was giving his talk.

This was the most friendly little kitty.....just wanted to snuggle up with Bro. Allen..........

I tell you........it was one funny experience!

I will need to do a post just on Cats......they are everywhere in Israel....we can count on one hand how many dogs we have seen but even around the Jerusalem Center there must be a dozen or so that live on the grounds.

Shalom #35

2009-01-13T08:15:00.004-07:00

Here are some pictures from our tour with Daniel Rona. They are not necessarily in order........

WE ARE AT A BEAUTIFUL NATURE RESERVE CALLED: TEL DAN. A STONE WAS FOUND IN THE AREA DURING AN ARCHEOLOGICAL DIG THAT HAS REFERENCE TO KING DAVID-....1,000 B.C.
Robin and Chris at the top of the Bahia Gardens, Haifa. The port of Haifa is behind them.

On the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. We had just left visiting the Dome of the Rock and now behind us is the Golden Gate OR the GATE BEAUTIFUL. The Turks sealed the gate in hopes of keeping the Jewish or Christian Messiah from entering.
Morgan & Suzanne Davis at the Tel Dan
Robin & Chris Conkling - Tel Dan
Robin and "Uncle Bob" .....Haifa
ROBIN AND CHRIS CONKLING - TEL DAN

Shalom #34

2009-01-13T08:00:00.004-07:00

SHEPHERD'S FIELD OVERLOOKING BETHLEHEM

We spent a very cold but lovely afternoon on Shepherd's Field reading from Luke about the birth of our Savior. As we watched the sunset over Bethlehem and listened throughout our head phones to the beautiful Christmas carols we were reminded of that Sacred, Holy night when the Angel's announced the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ to the Shepherds.

A Bedouin Sheperd woman brought her sheep to feed right by where we were sitting. She allowed us to take pictures of her and her sheep.

Shalom #33

2009-01-13T06:45:00.005-07:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM JERUSALEM - JANUARY 2009

We have received many emails from you concerned about the situation in Israel. We found the following article on www.ldslivingonline.com and thought it might answer your questions.

DESPITE VIOLENCE, JERUSALEM CENTER REMAINS OPEN

Lacie Hales

01/06/2009 12;39 PM MST

Despite continuing violence between Palestinians and Israelis, the Brigham Young University Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies will start winter semester on schedule.

Israel started air strikes against the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip on Dec. 27 in retaliation to rockets being fired into southern Israel. Israel lanched a ground invasion of Gaza on Jan. 3, and violence has continued since then. Jerusalem is 48 miles away from Gaza.

Carri Jenkins, BYU Communications Assistant to the President, said plans were not going to change for the center because of the violence.

"The University is very careful and prudent with the safety and security of our students," Jenkins said.

She said everything for the Center is going on as planned. Students left for Jerusalem on Tuesday.".................

The students did arrive safely and are very excited about this semester. They were informed before they left Provo that because of the conflict going on here there may be some restrictions because of safety issues. Meanwhile, classes have started, they are about over their jet-lag, they are settling into their apartments - only about a dozen apartments have blown fuses-, they have had a get-acquainted dance, and have had their first Shabbat in Jerusalem last Saturday, which they thoroughly enjoyed. Their program is moving forward and so far no field trips have been cancelled or delayed. The past several days they have been able to start exploring the Old City.

We have 17 men and 61 women this semester. Great odds for the fellows! This is a wonderful group of young people and we already feel a closeness with them. One girl is from Richfield, Utah....she was born after we moved to Mesa.......but we know the same people. Yesterday a girl was wearing a ASU t-shirt and we found out she is from Phoenix. It's fun learning about them and we find we have connections with quite a few of them.

Bob's goal as Branch President is to give each person an opportunity to serve in the Branch while they are here. This adds greatly to their over all spiritual experiences. He has spent the last few days extending calls to the students to fill the vacancies in the various organizations - yes we even have a primary here - so right now he has about 30 called...hopefully he will be able to finished by this weekend so the Branch Presidency can have them all sustained on Shabbat and then they can start setting them all apart. Our R.S. President is moving in a few weeks so he called Sister Janet Skinner to be the new one. She is a lovely lady with the best sense of humor. She asked for Sahar (our wonderful Palestinian sister from Bethlehem) to be her 1st counselor and another cute sister April Fitzgerald (from Morgan, Utah) to be her 2nd counselor. They made cookies and visited every new sister/student last Shabbat.

Well, now to settled down to blogging again. Even though we were homesick for our dear family and friends, we had a great holiday season with company from the states. From Arizona -Morgan & Suzanne Davis and Jerry Owensby and her mother Coila. Chris and Robin Conkling visited us from California. We all had a great time together as we toured with Daniel Rona for 6 days. After the tour we spent time here in Jerusalem and fortunately we visited Bethlehem before the conflict started because after that we were not permitted to go there.

Thank you for all your cards, emails and especially your PRAYERS. We feel your love and concern for us. We feel so blessed to be in the Holy Land and want you all to know we feel safe. War is a harsh reality of life.....and after visiting the Holocaust Memorial....it was a very sober reminder of the wickedness of this world. The only peace we can find is through our Savior Jesus Christ and keeping His commandments. We like to chant with our grandchildren -CTR, CTR...which means CHOOSE THE RIGHT....when we do CTR we can have the peace our Savior has offered us.

We wish you all a very Happy and Healthy (and in these difficult economic times) PROSPEROUS New Year.

Shalom #32

2008-12-25T06:57:00.004-07:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS to our dear family and friends........

We love you and miss you all. We feel humble and blessed to have the opportunity to be service volunteers in this Holy Land, the land of the birth, life, death and Resurrection of our dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We testify that He lives, His Gospel is here on the earth and He has a great plan of happiness for each and everyone of us. He knows us, loves us and wants us all to be happy. He has given us Prophets and wise leaders to help us through these difficult times. We can have peace even though the world is in turmoil. He is the one who can give us this peace....

Shalom #31

2008-12-23T11:05:00.004-07:00

At the end of each semester, students decide what they want to leave behind as donations which are then given to several organizations....one is a battered woman's home. These donated items are a great blessing to those who have to flee immediately from their homes or difficult situations. The students have enough gifts they have purchased to take home that these items are a relief to not have to pack. Shoes and clothing are then washed, sorted by size, bagged ready for delivery to the shelters. Even the leftover toiletries are used and needed.

A little of something is so appreciated when you have nothing!!

Shalom#30

2008-12-23T10:29:00.003-07:00

Fall Semester 2008 has officially ended with the departure of our 81 wonderful students.

It's amazing how close we have become to these young people and the love we have for them. They left in two different groups - one at 3:00 a.m. and the next at 7:00 p.m the next day. There were many tears from the students as they said their goodbyes to the Jerusalem Center and their new friends.

Kendra, repairing a zipper of her roommates luggage so she could finish her packing.
Brother Allen checking in keys and linen
Sure glad all this laundry is sent out!

Brother Allen helping the girls weigh their luggage. Let's see....81 students...2 pieces of luggage each...
Angela and Allie taking a break from packing

Shalom #29

2008-12-16T12:14:00.013-07:00

Merry Christmas to the Holy Land from the Brigham Young University Fall 2008 Semester students.

The Christmas Concert performed by the students, several faculty and one service volunteer (Sue) was enjoyed by the season ticket holders and the local community. Dad and others who didn't sing in the performance were there to greet the guest and had been much help behind the scenes to the success of this program. Our wonderful service couple, Norm and Dorene Squires, where the Director and Pianist/Organist. They are so talented and their love of music came through to each of us as we had our practices and then performed.

The performances were held two nights....Friday was the night for our local Palestinian neighbors and others who could attend and Sunday night the Israeli communities and others and it turned out that there were no empty seats. The tradition here for an encore is not a standing ovation but a continuous clapping of the hands in unison. The students loved it.

The program was divided between traditional songs about the birth of our Savior, then several seasonal songs and a rousing rendition of the traditional Jewish favorite,"Hanukkah", which was not sung on Friday night but on Sunday night after which there was cheering and a long and loud clapping in unison. The closing songs where a beautiful trumpet trio of "Jerusalem", and two choral numbers with organ from "The Messiah",

"The Hallelujah Chorus" and "The Glory of the Lord".

The following are just short audio's from several numbers ....enjoy!

"Monotone Angel", a cute song about an Angel who wants to be in the Christmas Choir

"Jerusalem" ...a trumpet trio. They stood at the back of the auditorium by the Organ....

with the lights turned down low the audience could enjoy the view of Jerusalem at night.

Shalom #28

2008-12-16T11:39:00.010-07:00

Id ul Adha --The Great Feast, Feast of the Sacrifice is a four day Muslim festival commemorating Abraham's sacrifice and coinciding with the pilgrimage to Mecca. The Muslim's believe it was Ishmael that was to be sacrificed not Issac. We went into the Old City and entered at the Damascus Gate. The walk ways were lined with merchants chanting their bargains and beckoning buyers to come to their stands, "They want to help you spend your money!" These videos give a slight idea of the crowds and noise of the city. We missed several opportunities to take pictures of sheep being led through the streets to where they would be sacrificed and later eaten at the family feasts.

Shalom #27

2008-12-06T09:35:00.007-07:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Jerusalem Center......

Santa welcome's you to Brother & Sister Allen's apartment.

We were fortunate to have a nice Christmas tree and olive wood carvings left behind from the former couples.

The Jerusalem Center was quiet while the students and faculty were in the Galilee for 10 days. We kept ourselves busy decorating the center for Christmas and also hosting tours of the building. The Jerusalem Center is open for tours to the public Tues-Friday. The visitors to the Center come from all over the world. They enjoyed seeing the festive Christmas decorations and many wanted their pictures taken in front of the grouping of Christmas Trees. On the days we hosted tours, our visitors included organized Israeli tour groups that had booked way in advance, an LDS tour group from America, neighbors who are curious about the building on Mt. Scopus with the arches, walk-ins visiting Jerusalem who had a couple hours and had read in the tour books "best to see in Jerusalem"; the Mormon University and organ recital. One group we hosted had 150 Israeli's from several retirement centers. As we introduced ourselves we told them that we are volunteers here and what our responsibilities are. We also tell them about our family. The comments are great when they heard we have 9 married children and 33 grandchildren.... actually they were amazed. First that we would have so many children and grandchildren but that we would leave them to come here for 18 months at our own expense. Many had questions about the Mormon Church but we are not allowed to enter into discussions as per the agreement with the Israeli government and the Mormon Church that no proselytizing of any kind can take place. The tour takes in the 8th and 7th floors of the building and last about an hour. It includes a 10 minute movie about Brigham Young University, the BYU Jerusalem Center, how it was built, information about the architect, and so on. The guest are then escorted into the beautiful auditorium with that magnificent view of Jerusalem for an organ recital of classical music such as Bach, Beethoven, etc. performed by our master organist. From there we guide them outside where they have the glorious view of the Old City Jerusalem and then walk through the Biblical gardens. The Biblical gardens have several ancient olives presses with the first one dating 2,000 years old and the other 1,500 years old. The millstone is an impressive stone and to a few select groups we remind them of the scriptural story of the millstone and little children. We end the tour walking past the 700 yr. old olive tree that was transplanted from the Galilee. It didn't survive the transplant so they grafted in some branches from a healthy tree but along with the branches there were somehow seeds from a raspberry bush. So we tell them we have the most unique olive tree in Israel....a Olive/raspberry tree. They love that story. Wouldn't you know that when there was a tour of high school students they wanted their pictures taken with that "cool" guy Bro. Allen.

This lovely nativity set was purchased by the Center over 10 years ago from a Master Wood Carver named George Llamas. He just pasted away several days ago. We had the opportunity to meet him on our first visit to Bethlehem. He includes several of our Prophets who have purchased nativity sets from him.

This set is kept in the Safe at the center during the off season.

Our students leave for home in 2 weeks.....we have grown to love them and will miss their friendship. We are looking forward to friends coming for a visit during the holiday seasons........they will help us celebrate the season while we are away from family and friends.

Shalom #26

2008-11-26T08:51:00.021-07:00

We are thankful for our wonderful family who are living the teachings of the Savior, Jesus Christ and by their great example teaching our grandchildren to follow Him....

....we are thankful for the opportunity to visit the Wailing Wall...the most sacred site to the Jewish people.....

...... we are thankful for our apartment at the Jerusalem Center that gives us the glorious view of the city of Jerusalem......knowing that the Savior walked these streets so close to where we live.......

.....we are thankful that Temples dot the earth in these latter-days that unite families

for Time and all Eternity.....and that all our 9 children have been married and sealed to their wonderful spouses in the Holy Temples of our God......

....we are thankful that a miraculous event occurred because a young 14 year old boy was searching for truth...

....we are thankful we were able to watch the rising moon over Bethlehem....but imagining the night the Shepards saw a new star in the sky......

....we are thankful we made it to the top of Mt. Sinai to see the sunrise where Moses received the 10 commandments....10 rules for personal happiness and now centuries later will still bring us great joy as we obey!......
......we are thankful for God's beautiful creations: dark nights that show the glorious heavens....worlds without numbers.....mountains, streams, lakes, snow, rain, wind, blue skies, clouds, trees, plants, animals, birds, fish.............

.....majestic rocks.....

......we are thankful for special places to gather family and friends..........

THANKFUL: adj 1: conscious of benefit received

THANKSGIVING: n 1: the act of giving thanks

Thanksgiving 2008 finds us in the full-time service of our Heavenly Father and

His beloved Son. Living in Jerusalem and serving at the Jerusalem Center for

Near Eastern Studies these past four months has been an amazing experience filled

with opportunities to come closer to our Savior, Jesus Christ, in the land of His Birth, life, death and resurrection. We could serve to the end of our days here on this earth and never ever be able to repay our Savior for His Atoning Sacrifice in our behalf. Because of our love for our Savior we are willing to leave our wonderful family and dear friends, our home and all the family activities that mean so much to us for 18 months. Even though there are times of missing home and family, this service opportunity has brought so many wonderful people into our lives. The students, full-time staff and management, Professors and Branch members are such good people. Having never lived abroad we have enjoyed learning and experiencing the culture, customs and diversity of the peoples of the Holy Lands.

Being Thankful means so much to us......

Shalom #25

2008-11-19T12:53:00.011-07:00

We visited the Baha'i Gardens this past week with the service couples. One of the couples had visitors and had wanted to take them to this spectacular site. We were invited to join them....and are we ever glad we did. The Baha'i Shrine and Gardens are the most beautiful grounds and are at the top of our list of "must see" in Israel. It is the international headquarters for the Baha'i faith. In Frommer's Israel guidebook the Gardens & Shrine are listed in the "Most Important Holy Places" to visit. Haifa is the international headquarters for the gentle Bahai faith, which began in Persia in the mid-19th century in a blood bath of persecution. The book states, "the shrine was built to memorialize the remains of one of the Baha'i faith's martyrs, Bab Mirza Ali Muhammad, who was executed by Persian authorities in 1850. It is built in the port town of Haifa and has the most breathtaking views of the city and harbor.

This is the shrine of the Bab's remains, incidentally, which were hidden for years after he died a martyrs death in front of a firing squad. Eventually, however, his followers secretl y carried his remains to the Holy Land.

In Frommer's, it states, "Baha'is believe in the unity of all religions and see all religious leaders-Christ, Buddha, Muhammand, Moses-as messengers of God, sent at different times in history with doctrines varying to fit changing social needs, but bringing substantially the same message. The most recent of these heavenly teachers, according to Baha'is, was Baha' Allah. He was exiled by the Turkish authorities to Acre (across the bay from Haifa) where he wrote his doctrines, and died a peaceful death.....the shrine entombs the remains of the Bab, the Baha' Allah's herald who died a martyr's death in front of a firing squad." It was so interesting to us to learn about this religion. Many things in their history parallel the story of the

Prophet Joseph Smith and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

This picture does not do justice to the gardens. Imagine this whole mountain side with immaculate gardens, hedges, fountains, beautiful flowering plants, etc.... 9 levels above the Tomb and 9 levels below the tomb. We are looking down on the tomb probably from level 5.

Shalom#24

2008-11-18T11:26:00.008-07:00

Our Jerusalem Branch had a service project at the Augusta Victoria Hospital olive groves.

The hospital is owned and operated by the World Lutheran Federation. We are neighbors with them here on the Mt. of Olives. In past years the students have helped out but this year our Branch had the opportunity. One of their objects is to help the poor and needy Palestinians. The olives are taken and pressed for olive oil which the hospital then sells to help their special patients who can't afford to pay their bills.

Shalom #23

2008-11-12T15:29:00.014-07:00

Whoever said doing laundry was boring hasn't

visited our Linen Exchange! Once a week (usually

Wednesday night) the students come into the

laundry room for clean linens. We have these

four great students - Angela, Mikael, Julie, and

Andrew who take a "job" like this and turn it to a "party"!

Notice our supplies of TP! - Very important.......

This is 1/2 of the pile of linen that comes

in. We only hand it out....we don't have to wash

or fold it. Housekeeping sends it out to be cleaned.

It usually takes us less than an hour if all the

students show up on time.

Shalom #22

2008-11-12T15:15:00.005-07:00

As we were exploring the Old City we came

upon a "smelly" area. We had found the

meat market section. There are several

dozen little shops with fresh meat, fish

and a kitty enjoying all the scraps.

Notice the Tail still attached. That is

one of the yummy parts!

Tongues

Lungs, etc.

Shalom #21

2008-11-12T15:04:00.002-07:00

So we decided to take a walk into the Old City and

it was very warm that morning. We were thirsty

and stopped at this little stand for some fresh

orange juice. These pictures speak for themselves.

*notice fingernails! We did drink it and it

was really refreshing....I just couldn't look at

his hands, table or washcloth.

Shalom#20

2008-11-07T11:31:00.007-07:00

Bethabara was revered by the early Christians as the site associated with Jesus' baptism. It is located beyond the Jordan River in the modern country of Jordan. The Hebrew word, beth means house or place, while abara means to cross or ford, suggesting a place where travelers forded a river. In the gospel of Matthew it says that John the Baptist baptized "in Jordan" (3:6), the gospel of John says that he did so "beyond Jordan" (1:28; 10:40). the Apostle John may have meant the east bank of the Jordan River. At a very early date, Christians began honoring this site we visited.

The Greek Orthodox Church has recently built this new church on property close to the baptismal site as are several other Christian denominations building new churches in the area.

This is an area where possibly Jesus' baptism took place.

Today, the Jordan River is a small river compared to

what they believe it was at the time of the Savior.

We felt a very reverent and sacred feeling here.

Shalom #19

2008-11-07T07:56:00.009-07:00

Large pictures of His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein and his father (now deceased)

King Hussein. These pictures are posted on buildings, roadways, billboards, etc.

His Majest King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein is the 43rd generation direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammand (Peace Be Upon Him). He assumed his constitutional power as a Monarch of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordon on Feb 7, 1999 the day his father, King Hussein passed away.

The King Abdullah I Mosque in Amman, Jordan, is an example of Islamic architecture.

Islam is Jordan's state religion and about 9/10th of the population are Sunni Muslims.

This Mosque is capped by a magnificent blue mosaic dome.

This tower is called a Minaret. Minarets are generally tall spires with onion shaped crowns and are lighted with green lights. The call to prayer is broadcast from the Minarets. If you stand in our patio in the evening, you can see green lights all over Jerusalem. We have many mosques in the Jerusalem area.

Electronic board showing times of prayer

Inside mosque listening to lecture on Islam.

We were asked to put on robe before entering the mosque.

Group picture before we left the mosque

Shalom #18

2008-11-07T06:22:00.008-07:00

Two modes of transportation in Petra

In side a cave, waiting in line for the WC (bathroom).

An archeological dig at Petra
Little Bedouin girl selling rocks to the students

The Cathedral and Royal tombs
On his trusty mule heading up the canyon.
Out for a "joy" ride up the canyon.

Posing in front of a group of tombs with one of the

Professors, Roy Huff and his wife Jeana.
More tombs
Obelisk Tomb -Egyptian influence

Shalom #17

2008-11-07T06:05:00.002-07:00

An integral part of the ancient Holy Land, Jordan has some special sites pertaining to the Old and New Testaments. Mt. Nebo is a peak on the west Jordanian Plateau facing the Jordan Valley. This area was ruled by the Amorites, whom Moses defeated. Moses was taken atop Mt. Nebo where he was able to see the Promised Land and also where Christians believe he was buried (Deut.34). However, the JST and Alma clarify that Moses was translated.

Looking into the Promised Land from Mt. Nebo.

Looking down from Mt. Nebo we were able to see

where the Israelites camped before they were allowed

to enter into the Promise Land.

Shalom#16

2008-11-05T13:15:00.018-07:00

PETRA, the ancient city that carved it's cemetery out of red sandstone mountains in an area of southern Jordan, has been called by some archaeologists as the eight wonder of the ancient world. Petra's rock-cut tombs and other structures were created by the Nabataeans, an ancient Arab tribe who originally came from the Arabian Peninsula. They were engaged in the caravan business bringing frankincense and myrrh, Indian spices and silks, African ivory and animal hides across the desert to the mediterranean sea for europe. Because of the trade business, it became a wonderful cultural melting pot. After the collapse of the Nabataean kingdom in AD 106, Petra was ruled in turn by the Roman and Byzantine empires, the early Islamic Umayyad

Caluphate and briefly, the Crusaders....all these cultures added to the architecture of the tombs and city.

Petra was gradually abandoned after the 14th century and it was completely lost to the West, until a Swiss traveller named Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1812.

The Petra based Nabataeans dominated Near Eastern trade for 600 years by selling their incense and spices on the Old Kings Highway.

These people are mentioned in the Old Testament in Gen 12:6, 36:20-21 as being the Edomites.

The ancient main entrance to Petra is

As-Sig, an impressive narrow gorge of natural

beauty. The cliffs that make up the Sig are

180 ft high. Looks like our beautiful

Lake Powell canyons. Then it opens up

to this amazing view of Al-Khazneh or the

TREASURY.

The Treasury is the pride and joy of Petra

and is the most beautiful monument there.

From this angle you can see how the TREASURY

was carved out of the mountain. It is truly

breathtaking, so much so that it is hard to describe

it. It was carved in the 1st century BC as a tomb

of an important Nabataean king and some scholars

believe it was later used as a temple.

A friendly Petra guard.

This was the view of the canyon as we climbed to

more beautiful tombs. Notice the tombs carved

out of the sides of the mountains. This area the

tombs were more like caves.

This fellow needed a rest....no we didn't ride him!

Shalom#15

2008-11-04T05:02:00.009-07:00

It was a beautiful day last Shabbat. I decided to take my camera so I could take some pictures after our meetings were over. As I sat in the audience of the Auditorium of Jerusalem Center taking in the amazing view behind the Branch Presidency and listening to our speakers, I was overcome with feelings of gratitude to our Heavenly Father and his beloved Son for their great love. Inspite of turmoil around the world, we can have peace in our hearts and homes as we turn to the Savior of the World, Jesus Christ. When theses students started singing this beautiful song I realized I should have recorded sooner. Anyway, listen to their song and as I zoom in on our Branch Presidency you might beable to see the Dome of the Rock behind them. You can hear little childrens voices....I try and sit by our 2nd counselors wife and help her with their 2 little children. Her daughter Ellie is 3, and Ben is 1 1/2 and their #3 is coming in 3 weeks. They are both little redheads and are so sweet.

Shalom#14

2008-11-02T01:04:00.008-07:00

What a fun Friday night everyone had at the Jerusalem Center celebrating Halloween. We had students and faculty coming by our apartment throughout the day looking for any kind of props or clothing for their costumes. We are the "resource" center for such important events at the Jerusalem Center! We planned ahead and brought the "love bug" costume we had used when Bob was the Bishop of University 8th Ward (ASU singles ward) but the creativity really came out in the faculty and students. We were busy flitting around and casting our "spell" of love on some of the students and told them when they go back to school for winter semester the "spell" begins. The following evening we gathered with the students of the Branch for a short meeting of announcements, singing, spiritual thought and were so surprised when they gave us the

"grand prize" for our costumes.

Marie Stenquist dressed in my housecoat.....she totally took on the character of an 'old lady'

She had us laughing all night with her actions.

Bro. & Sis. Thomas posing with the "love bugs".

Sister Carol is a former counselor in the General YW Presidency with Sister Nadauld, Brother Ray is a Pediatrician and their duties are hosting tours of the Jerusalem Center.

Linda and Keith Wilson - One of our great Professors in the Program from BYU Provo

Roy & Jeana Huff and one of their daughters -Kristi, another one of our great Professors here at the Jerusalem Center....he is from BYU Idaho. They have 4 of their 6 children here with them.

Sandee, Hailey Sarah and Jessica...

Dave, Vanessa, Kyle and Derek....felt they put a little weight on after the last field trip....it was a little hard to get back into their clothes!

Our siamese twins....Sadie and Brittany...they even braided their hair together.

Clarissa dressed as "black mail"

Indiana Jones showed up as did the 3 Peas in a Pod

Brett had already proposed marriage to Shenley on top of Mt. Sinai..but just incase she changed her mind he didn't want her to get away!

Janaan - our Egyptian Queen

Students dressed as our security staff showed up just in time to apprehend Paul getting away with some extra brownies.

Piper lived up to her name - PITA Piper Pizza

THE LOVE BUGS - in their cozy bathroom checking out their costumes one last time.