We are loving it here in Khabarovsk, Russia...part of the Far East Russia! We have 6 wonderful Elders and 2 mini-missionaries. One of our mini-missionaries returned to his home in Nahodka, Russia, then in 10 days or so will go to the MTC in Provo, Utah. After his training, he will return to Russia Samara Mission and serve his wonderful people here. We also just got transfers, so many of these fine missionaries will be leaving us and we will get more wonderful elders. These elders are AMAZING, so the Lord is just making them better and better and these elders are 'rising to the bar' and above!! We are trying to love a lot of our members back. It must be the last days, because even Pres. Hinckley talked about our need for retention! We must all show love and forgiveness to all our members and help them feel our Savior's love for them. Heavenly Father loves all His children...each one of us and He wants us to live so that we can return to live with Him. May we all strive to do better and live up to the potential that He has for us.
We thought you might enjoy some pics of a couple rooms in our apartment. It is definitely a humble abode and we are so blessed to have it. We are never hot or cold in our apartment, but there is no thermostat..! I can't figure it out! Water is heated in some building or plant far away (when we went in a car or bus we saw huge insulated pipes a couple of feet off the ground) and these carry hot water to the thousands of apartment buildings in Khabarovsk. Our showers are plentiful with hot water and are wonderful. We understand that this might change when heating apartments for summer will no longer be needed. You see, the hot water is the heating source for the apartment. We are told that there was no snow to speak of here last year, but this year there has been lots. What a nice gift for us.
Included are some pics of the 'park' that we walk through as we go to church - 20 min. walk up & down hill one way. It is the greatest exercise to be able to walk everywhere and we are blessed to be able to do so. This park has tons of ice sculptures and many 'ice slides' for children to play on. No matter what the weather, the children come out and play and moms walk infants in strollers. I wish we would see more families, but unfortunately there are lots singles.
The work is going forth, we go with the missionaries a lot and visit with member, investigators and it is all wonderful. WE SEND OUR LOVE, THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS TO YOU FOR THE SPIRIT TO BE BOUNTEOUS IN YOUR LIVES. Love, Elder & Sister Sartori
