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My First Mission Memories
How scared I was as I enter the mission in Switzerland. I had come from a small rural area in Southern Alberta and was quite shy and willing to hide behind those I knew. After spending a short night in a new and strange hotel, and a breakfast smaller than a farm boy had ever seen, we were exposed to the wonderful world of tracting. I was assigned to go with an assistant to the president. He soon became my hero. Throughout my mission I tried to become like him. However, on that first evening of tracting, I discovered just how little I knew about the French language. I was terrified to knock on a door of someone I did not know. For me, knocking on the door of my friends at home was a big enough challenge. I worked hard in my mind to be ready to spit out a few short remarks to the apartment’s occupants that could identify why we were at the door. As the door opened, in terror I blurted out the short phrases I had memorized, only to hear my companion take over and say, “What he means to say is …” We got in to that door and I sat nervously observing as my companion began a discussion. After a short introduction I heard him say that his companion would now like to tell him the Joseph Smith story. Wow! I began in terror to slaughter the language as I tried to deliver my message. After that experience, I did not know if I would ever succeed as a missionary. How different it was to get to the point at the end of my mission where I could discuss religion with total strangers, and be at ease doing so! -- Tom Redd
The New Mission
I (Jack Stickney) was serving as a Zone Leader in Toulouse when parts of the Switzerland Geneva Mission and the France Paris Mission were combined to create the France Toulouse Mission. Elder Mark Monroe and I got the news at the Mission Home in Geneva on a trip there. We drove home to Toulouse knowing that we would no longer be serving in the Switzerland Geneva Mission . It was a bitter sweet ride. -- Jack Stickney
Our Mission Parents
I am very much looking forward to the reunion. I feel very blessed to have mission parents who after 40 years are not only still alive but in good health and radiating the spirit of testimony and the Gospel just as they did when they taught and encouraged us 40 years ago as missionaries in the France-Switzerland Mission. -- Martin Cook
Great Years
Some of the best formative years of my life were on my mission and loved the area and people. Great to serve with so many great missionaries. Would look forward to getting back together. My travel and work schedule often prohibit me from being around SLC during mission reunion time. Hope to do better! -- Jay Cammack
Excitement-Lynn Wilcox
It is exciting that we are having a mission reunion. I am thrilled at the thoughts of seeing many of you again. -- Lynn Wilcox
About Time!
This is exciting! And about time! (Why didn't I think of this years ago?) Now I just hope we can find a bunch of missionaires (note spelling, not a typo) that will come to this reunion in April. Wonderful! -- Jana Larson Fowers
Mantel of the President
President Sager entered the field the summer before I finished in September. We had one zone conference under him. As we rode to the conference where we would meet our new president, I was a little sad. How could anyone replace the president we loved. That first interview solidified my testimony of authority. The mantel of the president had definitely fallen on the new president. He filled the shoes immediately. He was the man the Lord wanted there at that time. We loved and supported him from that moment. -- Ellen Redd Eldredge
Line of Priesthood Authority
As a child, I had a firm testimony of priesthood authority. When I was three, we attended General Conference in Salt Lake City, and President Mackay picked me up when he was coming out the back door of the tabernacle. That memory was dear to me, but I was strongly reminded of the divinity of priesthood leadership when we were in a zone conference in a burned out chapel in Nice, France. The spirit bore a firm testimony to me of the divine nature of President Sager’s calling in that zone conference. From where I sat, in a descending row were the pictures of our Savior, and the prophet, and then the face of our mission president, President Sager. As one of the zone leaders spoke, the spirit touched my heart deeply as I looked down the row of pictures from Jesus Christ to the prophet to our president and to my zone leader. I then knew beyond doubt that the Lord’s servants were divinely called to lead me and they were my file leaders on my mission. I am still grateful for that firm witness to me of the divinity of the Lord’s servants. -- Thomas Redd
It was the Best of Times...
At one of our zone conferences, one of the assistants to the president told us what our mission was like by quoting Charles Dickens. "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way..." At the time of the meeting, I needed to know that I was not totally out of touch with the spirit of the work, because I was not always feeling spiritually high. I was grateful to know that other elders whom I respected had good and bad moments as well. I have never forgotten that elder's wisdom, and as my sons left on missions, I used that same quote to help them understand that a mission was full of highs and lows. -- Thomas Redd
Wise Counsel and Sacrifice
Thank you, President and Sister Sager, for sacrificing three years of your young married life to serve. We appreciate it. I recall wonderful zone conferences and interviews. I always left those uplifted and strengthened. President Sager, thank you for some counsel that I have repeated many times. You taught us about visiting people in their homes. You advised us to "leave before they want you to leave." I have had that in mind through years of home teaching and other visits. Thank you both for your testimonies. I love you. -- Mark Dickson
Powerful Testimony and Many Firsts
I remember sitting in the mission home as a brand new missionary watching the slide show of different cities in the mission followed by President Sager then telling which one of us new Elders/Sister were assigned to the city we just saw. He came to the end and I was the only missionary without an assignment. I was lucky enough to have my first assignment to open missionary work in Chalon Sur Soane and "assist" Elder Martin Cook. My next memory of President Sager was when he came to Chalon Sur Soane a few months later during our first Fast and Testimony meeting and how he brought such a powerful testimony to that fledgling branch. The most defining memory was having my last assignment to be the first missionaries assigned to Villefranche Sur Soane with Elder Roland Kiddle. Great times and great memories. Look forward to this reunion. -- Ron Madson
Feeling a Part
I would have loved coming to this special reunion, to renew friendships and to share memories, but we will be in the Midwest that weekend visiting family. I would still like to be kept informed on what's going on, so I can still feel part of the reunion. -- Doug Monson
Setting the Pace
We have been blessed to serve with President and Sister Sager and in France! Craig Brady is currently my Stake President. Some of us learned our lessons well). Bunker Bean and other stories linger with us and quotes like "You will become as small as your controlling desire, as great as your dominant aspiration". (That may have come later).
Thank You for setting the pace and patching us up when we wrecked our mopeds or fell into spiritual disrepair. It was worth every sacrifice however great or small. Our lives are different for the effort and the association. -- Rulon Galloway
Thank You for setting the pace and patching us up when we wrecked our mopeds or fell into spiritual disrepair. It was worth every sacrifice however great or small. Our lives are different for the effort and the association. -- Rulon Galloway
Getting in touch...
It will be great to renew friendships. I have lost track of everyone. -- Nona Elzinga Fonnesbeck
Planting Seeds
Just before I left Nice I purchased a 10 speed bicycle from a missionary that was going home. The bike was raced in the Tour de France and I believe the story was that the original bike owner was a member that actually road the bike in the race. That bike was so fast and so smooth and Montpellier was relatively flat. We would take trips to the coast for P-Day and no one could catch me. Maybe it was the bike that won my heart and not the town.
I did have one of my two baptisms in Montpellier (Safia Aitali). I believe I was serving with Elder Hill at the time or it might have been Greg Harmon. The thing I remembered most is that I was supposed to baptize Safia in the Mediterranean and I was transferred 2 days before the baptism. That was a real downer.
My first and only greenie was Elder Lewis in Nice. I had only been out a few months so my French was not that great yet. I’m sure it was a new experience for both of us.
I don’t believe I have been to a reunion for about 10 years and it was mostly missionaries from your era. I recall it was at Richard Moffat’s home and one of the missionaries from your time had just returned from the mission as a mission president. He talked about some of the branches and what had taken place since we left. It was quite inspiring knowing that maybe we had made a difference and planted a few seeds. -- Craig Densley
I did have one of my two baptisms in Montpellier (Safia Aitali). I believe I was serving with Elder Hill at the time or it might have been Greg Harmon. The thing I remembered most is that I was supposed to baptize Safia in the Mediterranean and I was transferred 2 days before the baptism. That was a real downer.
My first and only greenie was Elder Lewis in Nice. I had only been out a few months so my French was not that great yet. I’m sure it was a new experience for both of us.
I don’t believe I have been to a reunion for about 10 years and it was mostly missionaries from your era. I recall it was at Richard Moffat’s home and one of the missionaries from your time had just returned from the mission as a mission president. He talked about some of the branches and what had taken place since we left. It was quite inspiring knowing that maybe we had made a difference and planted a few seeds. -- Craig Densley
God Moves in a Mysterious Way
We had been knocking on doors unsuccessfully for months. We came to this house that had a door to a courtyard (front yard). We entered the courtyard, approached the house door and knocked on it.
A young girl in her early teens (11-12) came to the door, she may have been blonde blue-eyed (not sure) but she seemed pleased we were there and had a very peaceful smile. We explained to her that we were missionaries and had a message to share, and asked if her parents were home. She went back in the house and returned with her father. We explained to him that we would like to share the Family Home Evening Program with them and asked him if it would be alright to set an appointment. He readily agreed with no questions or objections. The date and time was set for the following week. They both just seemed more peaceful looking and pleasant than average.
We noted down the address on our tracting book. Then we wrote down the address and date on our planner.
When we returned to the same street for our appointment and went to the house address, the house was gone and instead there was an empty lot with grass a foot high growing on it. We were both dumbfounded, and proceeded to go up and down the street and the street above and below it to see if we had made a mistake, as we could remember what the house looked like.
The house was no longer there. We knew that the Lord had placed us in a home where we could do some good, but we never found out the results of our efforts. -- Paul Adams (Poffandis)
A young girl in her early teens (11-12) came to the door, she may have been blonde blue-eyed (not sure) but she seemed pleased we were there and had a very peaceful smile. We explained to her that we were missionaries and had a message to share, and asked if her parents were home. She went back in the house and returned with her father. We explained to him that we would like to share the Family Home Evening Program with them and asked him if it would be alright to set an appointment. He readily agreed with no questions or objections. The date and time was set for the following week. They both just seemed more peaceful looking and pleasant than average.
We noted down the address on our tracting book. Then we wrote down the address and date on our planner.
When we returned to the same street for our appointment and went to the house address, the house was gone and instead there was an empty lot with grass a foot high growing on it. We were both dumbfounded, and proceeded to go up and down the street and the street above and below it to see if we had made a mistake, as we could remember what the house looked like.
The house was no longer there. We knew that the Lord had placed us in a home where we could do some good, but we never found out the results of our efforts. -- Paul Adams (Poffandis)
Reviewing the Past
It was a wonderful experience to scan all the names and remember the faces from over 35 years ago. I'm too far out to return for the reunion, but I wish you all the very best. -- Buckley Condie
Hi to You All
We are so sorry that we will miss the reunion, but we fly out that morning to Hawaii. I am officially saying hi to everyone now and will miss seeing all of you in person again. -- Thayne Gooch
Memories and Testimony
I did received your mail about the reunion, on April! Thanks a lot ... but i could't be with you. I remember the picture (photo) in 1973. Yes, we are there! Wonderful ..... I always living in France, in Elsas / Lorraine, between Nancy & Strasbourg. I will contact you more, later, for pictures, memories and testimony .... O - K
With my best feelings
Elder Patrick GOUTTIN
With my best feelings
Elder Patrick GOUTTIN
Special Holidays
As I think back on my mission, I remember the holidays spent way from my family. The first Christmas in France was hard for me, but my district in Montpellier made it as much like home as possible. We gathered at the district leader's appartment for the night. We exchanged small gifts with each other and even tried to have Santa arrive during the night. I think that each of us got up in the night to add small surprises to each other's socks that we had hung. The best part of the holiday was just being together and helping each other be happy as we celebrated the birth of our Savior. My second Christmas was spent in Grenoble with the Gisonda family. All six elders enjoy memories of home in the warmth of their large family. Pizza was delicious--and made by true Italians. Each of us received a knitted scarf from the family. That scarf is still a treasure. It is a reminder of the love we felt in their home. During that Christmas day, we visited contacts and tried to share the joy of the season with all we knew. A heart felt thank you to all the elders and members that made those special times in France memorable and a bit more like home. -- Thomas Redd
Renew Acquaintances
This will be the first mission reunion I have attended. I guess it's about time to renew some old acquaintances and of course test my memory. -- Larry Schow
He will be Missed
Hi I am Robb Caufield's wife. My husband enjoyed his missions very much. I'm sorry to report that Robb passed away in March 2008. Thanks, -- Linda Caufield
Pattern of Service
My son arrives home from his mission in Hong Kong on April 5th so I doubt I will be able to attend the reunion. -- Kevin Roper
Let's be There
I am really looking forward to the reunion. I have done a terrible job at keeping in touch and it will be wonderful to see all of you again. I hope everybody can make it! -- Dan Ruesch
How are we Doing?
Thanks so much for this site, the reunion, and all the work going into them! I've wondered so many times how everyone is doing. It w ill be great to see at least some of them again. -- Elizabeth Watkins
Reunion will be reported on our Website
Please keep me informed. Thank you. -- Douglas Wathor
Regrets and warm regards
I really wish I could come! But I will be out of the country on an extended assignment. Please convey my warmest regards to all! -- Bruce Cowser
Mission Cookbook
I was so excited when I saw the mission cookbook. That has been the basis for my cooking since my mission. -- Wendy Pedersen
Wonderful Memories
Greetings to all my old and dear friends from the France Switzerland Mission! My son Casey, youngest of six children, returns home from his mission to Hong Kong on April 5th. I’m not sure how the flight and time zone change will work but most likely we’ll be picking him up at the airport about the time of this reunion. I want everyone to know that I have nothing but wonderful memories of those two years serving with all of you in France and Switzerland . My wife and I traveled back “home” a few years ago and tried to find each one of my apartments and meeting houses in each city with moderate success. What great memories! But the streets are much narrower driving in a car than a moped or bicycle. My son in Hong Kong gets discouraged if he doesn’t have a baptism at least once a month. My two years of hard work produced two baptisms: Noel and Josette Moullet. So was it worth it to spend two years to only find one family ready to accept the gospel? Well, on our trip back to France we spent several days with Patriarch Moullet and his wife and four children. They have embraced the gospel and live it to its fullest each and every day. I am absolutely convinced that the Moullet family was a gift from God to me and Elder Lussier, my companion. There was a fair amount of friction in our companionship at the time so it wasn’t like we were sharply in tune with the spirit. The Moullets were the “needle in the haystack” and we were simply allowed to be the Elders who taught them the discussions. What a blessing to teach them. I miss all of you with whom I was privileged to serve. I think about you a lot; much more than you might think. Again, nothing but wonderful memories. -- Kevin Roper
Moving...Eventually
My principal residence is in Springville, Utah where my wife (the former Soeur Wendy Walker) and my oldest son live. I work in Seattle and spend as much time with them in Utah as schedules allow. -- Jim Pedersen
Looking Forward
Look forward to being there and renewing old friendships. -- Scott Anderson
Thanks to all who have participated in planning this reunion! I look forward to it. -- George Thompson
Ça me fait un grand Plaisir
I am sending a photograph of the Mejean family who were baptized in Lyon, France on March 15, 1975. The two missionaries in this photo are Elder Kerry Davis on the left and Elder Todd Richards on the right. The two sons were named Terry and Denis. Elder Scott Anderson also helped to teach many of the missionary lessons in 1974. I really enjoyed my mission and serving under President and Sister Sager. O Mission Suisse De Geneve - Ça me fait un grand plaisir de vous servir!! -- Todd Richards
The Paper Says it All
I just realized that one of the "facts" they got wrong (there were seven) in that article about me and the drawing in the mission is glaring out at me. After all, I didn't write the article. Someone at home did and sent it off to the church news. I didn't even know it was in until June or so. Well, it was President Sager who gave me the start when I came into the mission home and President Stephens only carried out what was started by him. I want him to know that I know that as he does and I will be forever grateful that he let me do that at the start of my mission. If I actually had any input I would have corrected that error. Some of the pictures on the Elder Kingsley page could have been from the mission (obviously Asterix was) but I gave away everything I drew while out except for the occasional drawing in my journals. As I would draw them people would gather around and ask us who we were. It beat the heck out of knocking on doors. -- Ron Kingsley
Note: If you have not looked at his page on this site, it is very interesting.
Note: If you have not looked at his page on this site, it is very interesting.
Renew Friendships
It will be wonderful to renew acquaintances and friendships. I served only a couple of months under President Sager before completing my mission. They were fruitful and memorable days with Elder Martin Cook in St. Rapheal/Frejus.
See you soon,
Tom Ayers
See you soon,
Tom Ayers
Complete Obedience
When Boyd K. Packer told us in Marseille that we weren't there to be tourists and we should send our cameras home...I did. So I had to bum a copy of the few pictures I have after my first city. -- Jim Pedersen
Note: Anyone who served with Elder Pedersen that has pictures that would be of interest to him, please email them to him. I am sure he would appreciate the memories.
Hopeful
My wife and I and 5 children and 4 spouses are going to Isreal the beginning of March. I am not sure we will be able to make another trip back west. I do get out there for business from time to time, but I'm not sure about whether I can arrange it at this point.
It would be great to reconnect. I have communicated online with a couple of missionaries in the past, but it is easy to get too busy to keep it up.
I did get my wife to France for a long weekend for our 35th anniversary, spent the time in Paris.
Thanks for the effort in putting this together.
Elder Dennis Brooks
It would be great to reconnect. I have communicated online with a couple of missionaries in the past, but it is easy to get too busy to keep it up.
I did get my wife to France for a long weekend for our 35th anniversary, spent the time in Paris.
Thanks for the effort in putting this together.
Elder Dennis Brooks
Mission Memories
I enjoyed and loved France so much I was very sad to go home. Some of the memories I have are; the chapel in Nice burning, the King family in Antibes, the Laurent family in Nimes, all the Roman ruins in and around Nimes and Arles, going to Aigues Mortes on a P day, Christmas in Montpellier, riding the mopeds through the countryside of France, the wonderful people in Vichy especially the members of the Branch, speaking at the meeting of the Societe France-Amerique in Vichy.
My wife and I went back and toured the mission in 2001 and she said I was just like a little kid at Christmas when we found each apartment I had lived in. It was wonderful to attend church in Montpellier and see the branch of 15-20 members had grown to a Ward and have their own building.
Ron Christensen
My wife and I went back and toured the mission in 2001 and she said I was just like a little kid at Christmas when we found each apartment I had lived in. It was wonderful to attend church in Montpellier and see the branch of 15-20 members had grown to a Ward and have their own building.
Ron Christensen
Wow, Forty Years??
I look forward to seeing all of you. My work ties me down, but I am hoping to get away for a couple days. Wow! 40 years?? -- Barbara Jones (Hansen)
Montpellier Chapel
Montpellier was my first city in the France-Switzerland Mission, in 1972. The branch there had been struggling for decades, and they still told stories about the Great Apostasy of 1958 when about 20 missionaries were sent home. Every time a new member was baptized, certain members would drive them into inactivity.
40 years later, Montpellier has a Ward, a beautiful chapel and a Family History Center. Here is a current photo of the LDS chapel at 66 Rue Daunou. My thanks to all those missionaries and members who labored for decades to make this possible. -- Elder Kurt Kammeyer
40 years later, Montpellier has a Ward, a beautiful chapel and a Family History Center. Here is a current photo of the LDS chapel at 66 Rue Daunou. My thanks to all those missionaries and members who labored for decades to make this possible. -- Elder Kurt Kammeyer
Que Dieu te benisses
Wow, really sad I cannot attend. Prior commitment that cannot be changed. I would love to see my friends that helped change my life. You all are a continued strength in my life. Best wishes to all. Que Dieu te benisses. -- David McKenzie
Flood of Memories
It was exciting to receive the announcement in the mail regarding the upcoming 40 year mission reunion. It brought a flood of memories into my mind from my mission and thoughts of those fellow missionaries that have so impacted my life for the good.
I have often thought about the Sagers and hope that I will have the opportunity to attend the reunion. --David White
I have often thought about the Sagers and hope that I will have the opportunity to attend the reunion. --David White
See you all There
I'm anxious to participate. President and Sister Sager were such an inspiration to me. They were so good at encouraging and motivating me. I didn 't want to let them down. :) And, I felt such confidence in their guidance.
See you all then.
Ivan Legler
See you all then.
Ivan Legler
Three years ago, my wife, Michelle, and I returned from serving in the Baton Rouge, Louisiana Mission. It was great being able to choose my own companion! (No offense to my previous companions).
While in the MTC, one of the speakers caused me to stop and wonder if I had ever met him before. I asked him how long he had worked in the MTC and he said over thirty years. I asked what languages he taught. He said French and several others. I said, "Elder Graham, you taught me French while I was in the LTM." He then told us all about our other instructors, Elder Streeter, Bonnie, Elder Dangerfield, and others. -- Don Lake
While in the MTC, one of the speakers caused me to stop and wonder if I had ever met him before. I asked him how long he had worked in the MTC and he said over thirty years. I asked what languages he taught. He said French and several others. I said, "Elder Graham, you taught me French while I was in the LTM." He then told us all about our other instructors, Elder Streeter, Bonnie, Elder Dangerfield, and others. -- Don Lake
Salutations à tous ceux qui se rappellent de moi
Je ne pourrais pas être avec vous, cette fois. Cela m'a fait un immense plaisir de recevoir votre invitation. En parcourant les photos que vous avez publiés j'ai eu du plaisir à revoir certains des anciens missionnaires et les soeurs.
My inglich it'is very bad. Fortunatli my wife and our 2 sons they speak correntli englich. Our first son Lorenzo served a mission in Italy. Maria, my wife, work a the Bern Switzerland Temple. I work a the LaPoste suisse at 20 yars.Our sons are studing engeneering.
Nous sommes heureux, j'ai pas mal de photos de a mission, la plupart en diapositives.
Merci pour l'invitation salutations à tous ceux qui se rappellent de moi. Bye.--Paolo Talà
My inglich it'is very bad. Fortunatli my wife and our 2 sons they speak correntli englich. Our first son Lorenzo served a mission in Italy. Maria, my wife, work a the Bern Switzerland Temple. I work a the LaPoste suisse at 20 yars.Our sons are studing engeneering.
Nous sommes heureux, j'ai pas mal de photos de a mission, la plupart en diapositives.
Merci pour l'invitation salutations à tous ceux qui se rappellent de moi. Bye.--Paolo Talà
Success Story
Please see my facebook page for personal info and photos. I have recently published a religious novel, The Prayer, that takes place in modern Israel just prior to and during the Second Coming of Christ. I uploaded a copy of its cover photo.
It's great to see the Sagers again! Best wishes.
Craig Doney
It's great to see the Sagers again! Best wishes.
Craig Doney
"Old" Companions
Looking forward to seeing "old" companions and Pres & Sister Sager.
Email or call with any info I need. I will be flying in around 4pm Friday night.
Thanx,
Paul Ekstrand
Email or call with any info I need. I will be flying in around 4pm Friday night.
Thanx,
Paul Ekstrand
Artist at Work
One of the things I also did when I was in the mission was write music that we used on occasion. I have continued to do that and to this date have written over 1500 songs that I also use in my
practice. I am sending you one that was written towards the end of the mission in French. I have a channel on YouTube that has 38 of my songs on it so far. I just uploaded the French
song Le Ballade des Baobabs if anyone is interested. Thanks -- Ron Kingsley
practice. I am sending you one that was written towards the end of the mission in French. I have a channel on YouTube that has 38 of my songs on it so far. I just uploaded the French
song Le Ballade des Baobabs if anyone is interested. Thanks -- Ron Kingsley
Warmest Wishes
Very sorry not to be able to be there with you to celebrate this special occasion. Please pass on my warmest wishes to all present & especially President. & Sister Sager. Kindest Regards, Keith Gould
Juggle Schedules
This sounds exciting, we will do everything we can to be there. We have to be in San Diego the following weekend for a convention, so we are trying to juggle schedules as we would love to be at the reunion, but just found out about it today. We will see what happens! -- Peter Scott
Absolute Assurance
I am looking so much to come to the reunion to renew old cherished friendships. My absolute assurance of the reality of God the Father, His son Jesus C hrist and the prophet Joseph took place in my life one night in an old, broken down, rickety appartment teaching an Arabic young couple where I received that undeniable knowledge. I was born again that night. That one moment with absolute truth and light given by the communion of the Holy Ghost has carried me though my life's trials. How could I not come to this reunion? -- Ross Fulton
See you in April!
I am excited to come together after so many years. Even though I was only in the misison for a short amount of time, and only knew but a few missionaires, I have wonderful memories. Excited to come together and share and get caught up. See you in April! -- Larry Shumard
True Meaning of Missionary Work
Wish I could be there with all you good people who understand the true meaning of missionary work! -- Carol James (Rudolph)
Have Fun!
Sorry I can't make the reunion. Have fun! -- Jeanne Whiting (Grow)
Looking Forward...
It's been many years since I have attended a mission reunion. I am looking forward to seeing many of my former companions, friends, and associates. -- Kerry Smith
Good Memories
Sorry I will be unable to attend the 2013 reunion. The photos and comments brought back good memories. Thanks for putting the website together. -- Neff Russell
Compassion and Priesthood Power
Wow! How time flies. Even though I am getting older I still remember the wonderful experience enjoyed in a short amount of time, as I served in the mission field. My heart still swells with emotion as I ponder and share those experiences throughout the years with our four children and now 15 grandchildren. As I have served in a few different callings in the church, I have mentioned President Sager and his wonderful bride in a few talks and youth discussions. I have witnessed the Lord’s hand in my life many times. I do not have the memories of a 24 month mission but what I have in just a short amount of time (7 months—I went home for medical reasons) are powerful and lasting. I had the chance to witness President Sager’s priesthood in action and Sister Sager’s love and compassion first hand. I still read letters that were exchanged weekly after going home from my mission. The comfort Sagers rendered as I headed home and did not want to go by assuring me that it would be okay still lingers. I have enjoyed so much, and the Sagers are a part of many memories and life changing experiences. Thank you, President and Sister Sager! Gayle, my wife, and I are planning on attending the reunion and would not miss this opportunity for anything. – Larry Shumard
Merci Président
Je ne peux écrire en anglais, car je ne pratique pas assez. J'ai servi avec Pres. Saeger peux de mois, car j'ai été transféré de la Mission de Toulouse pour des problèmes administratifs liés à mon permis de séjour en Suisse.
Quand je suis arrivé a Genève après 3 jours de grève des trains en France. Pres. Saeger était en Conférence de zone à Marseille. Les assistants m'ont dit que je devais aller à Lausanne. Je n'aime pas les changements et le fait d'aller dans une ville ou je ne pouvais pas utiliser mon vélos m'a contrarié. A chaque fois que j'avais une entrevue avec le Président et qu'il me demandais ce qu'il pouvait faire pour moi je lui disait de me transférer. Président Saeger me disait que le Seigneur lui a dit clairement que je devais rester à Lausanne. J'ai eu"la sfacciataggine" de lui dire qu'il s'était trompé. Par la suite j'ai eu mon propre témoignage que Président Saeger avait raison. Je suis resté à Lausanne 9 mois et 1/2 . De compagnon junior avec E. Loose et ensuite E. Jeffrey Stewart. Je suis passé Senior avec E. K.Knell. Ensuite Chef de Zone avec E. Bunker et E. Wuilliams. J'ai servi avec 3 Président de Missions et j'ai eu 24 compagnons. 3 Greens e 3 missionnaires de district qui par la suite ont accompli une mission à plain temps. Ces deux années resterons pour toujours gravé dans ma vie. 9 mois après la fin de ma mission j'ai rencontré une jeune fille au Temple suisse de Berne qui partais en mission, je l'ai attendue 4 mois après la fin de sa mission nous nous sommes mariés et scellé au Temple. Merci Président de m'avoir fait comprendre que le Seigneur vous à inspiré. Salutations à tous mes compagnons qui ont servi avec moi. Sans oublier les soeurs qui ont été un exemple pour ma persévérance à attendre le retour de ma femme de sa mission. -- Paolo Talà
Quand je suis arrivé a Genève après 3 jours de grève des trains en France. Pres. Saeger était en Conférence de zone à Marseille. Les assistants m'ont dit que je devais aller à Lausanne. Je n'aime pas les changements et le fait d'aller dans une ville ou je ne pouvais pas utiliser mon vélos m'a contrarié. A chaque fois que j'avais une entrevue avec le Président et qu'il me demandais ce qu'il pouvait faire pour moi je lui disait de me transférer. Président Saeger me disait que le Seigneur lui a dit clairement que je devais rester à Lausanne. J'ai eu"la sfacciataggine" de lui dire qu'il s'était trompé. Par la suite j'ai eu mon propre témoignage que Président Saeger avait raison. Je suis resté à Lausanne 9 mois et 1/2 . De compagnon junior avec E. Loose et ensuite E. Jeffrey Stewart. Je suis passé Senior avec E. K.Knell. Ensuite Chef de Zone avec E. Bunker et E. Wuilliams. J'ai servi avec 3 Président de Missions et j'ai eu 24 compagnons. 3 Greens e 3 missionnaires de district qui par la suite ont accompli une mission à plain temps. Ces deux années resterons pour toujours gravé dans ma vie. 9 mois après la fin de ma mission j'ai rencontré une jeune fille au Temple suisse de Berne qui partais en mission, je l'ai attendue 4 mois après la fin de sa mission nous nous sommes mariés et scellé au Temple. Merci Président de m'avoir fait comprendre que le Seigneur vous à inspiré. Salutations à tous mes compagnons qui ont servi avec moi. Sans oublier les soeurs qui ont été un exemple pour ma persévérance à attendre le retour de ma femme de sa mission. -- Paolo Talà
Would Have Loved to Come
It was good glance at website. Will have a proper look tonight. You are quite welcome to put my details on your list. I would have loved to come and see everyone but we will be in Maylasia. My daughter has just had a baby girl! -Ann Jones (Elizabeth Ann Pooley)
How I would love to be there...
Oh, how I would love to be there. Unfortunately, I started a new full-time job only weeks ago and have no accrued vacation, which means it is highl y unlikely that I will be able to make. I sure wish I could. I'll be there at least in spirit and will be thinking of all my beloved companions, Brother and Sister Sager, and all the wonderful people we got to know and serve in France. -- Elder Rob Davis
Looking Forward
Looking forward to the Reunion and seeing President and Sister Sager again (they moved from my neighborhood so I don't get to see them as often as before) along with the many missionaries I served with! -- Patricia Worthington
Our Daily Tools
Maybe you could use these for memories. (Thanks, Derek, for all the wonderful memories these pictures brought back! And the books below...)
This will be my first reunion. It will be so wonderful to see all my dear friends who have stayed in my heart and who have had a huge influence on my life. So excited to see Pres. and Sis. Sager again. What a wonderful blessing and privilege it was to serve in this part of the Lord's vinyard. Such happy, happy memories. -- Derek Hoare
Love and Testimony
Wednesday 18 June, 1974. Toulouse
Well yesterday was one of the best conferences that I had ever been to, my head is still aching from crying. . . I don't think that I have ever felt a stronger spirit of love, it was beautiful. . . Testimony meeting was a spiritual highlight, I just couldn't hold back the tears. At the very end we all just started singing La Mission Franco Suisse. . . Elder Mangum was next to me and we put our arms around each other as we sang. Nearly everybody had tears in their eyes, it was a truly wonderful experience. -- Derek Hoare
Well yesterday was one of the best conferences that I had ever been to, my head is still aching from crying. . . I don't think that I have ever felt a stronger spirit of love, it was beautiful. . . Testimony meeting was a spiritual highlight, I just couldn't hold back the tears. At the very end we all just started singing La Mission Franco Suisse. . . Elder Mangum was next to me and we put our arms around each other as we sang. Nearly everybody had tears in their eyes, it was a truly wonderful experience. -- Derek Hoare
Sincere Gratitude
The past couple of weeks have been so enriching looking at pictures and reading comments and journal entries. How wonderful to relive some of these life, foundation-building, testimony-building-and-strengthening experiences.
I express my sincere gratitude to President Sager for being in tune with the Lord when making those inspired transfers. My assignment to the Mission Home staff allowed me to be there when my father passed away from cancer. The timing of that assignment was not coincidental. President and Sister Sager, I will always appreciate your loving care and support during that difficult time and throughout my entire missionary service with you.
I, too, look forward to this reunion! A huge thank you to Elder Redd and everyone who has taken part in setting up this memory-igniting website and for organizing this grand event!
Thanks! -- Lowell Bunker
I express my sincere gratitude to President Sager for being in tune with the Lord when making those inspired transfers. My assignment to the Mission Home staff allowed me to be there when my father passed away from cancer. The timing of that assignment was not coincidental. President and Sister Sager, I will always appreciate your loving care and support during that difficult time and throughout my entire missionary service with you.
I, too, look forward to this reunion! A huge thank you to Elder Redd and everyone who has taken part in setting up this memory-igniting website and for organizing this grand event!
Thanks! -- Lowell Bunker
The Eternal Blessings of Service
This upcoming mission reunion has me thinking about things that have been filed away in my memory for years. I so appreciate the efforts of those who are putting this together. I received three different contacts from former missionaries who didn’t even know me. Thank-you. I will try to be there.
I came into the mission in April of 1976, shortly before President and Sister Sager returned home. Though I came at their last hour, I was blessed to receive like compensation in training and example and am eternally grateful for their service. One thing I never fully understood until my own sons served missions is the president’s role in not only running a successful baptizing mission, but in shaping his missionaries (by love and example) for lifetimes of church and family service. I am thankful that President and Sister Sager understood and magnified this calling.
I’m not sure how I was so blessed to be called to serve in the one mission in the world that I had decided (in my head and heart) that I wanted to be in. The discussions and language came fairly easily (I had studied French before). But after a few weeks of long, hot days of rejection in Toulon, I discovered how sadly unprepared I really was. As I review mission memories I see, unfortunately, the many things I could have done better. But I also take a little comfort in the fact that God knew He was calling upon the “weak things of the world,” the “unlearned and despised” to do His work (D&C 35:13) and also that He has “looked upon [my] works and [knows me]” and that what matters is that my “heart is now right … at this time.” (D&C 38:7-8) But I still wish sometimes that I could do a remake. I write this because maybe there are others who feel this way, too.
The first baptism I witnessed was magnificent. Elder Kaopua baptized their investigator, Soeur Violette, in the cold, choppy waters of the Mediterranean, with a few supportive members and our entire district of missionaries looking on. I wrote in my journal that she walked bravely into the sea and that the Spirit was “so beautiful that it hurt.” Those are the kinds of memories that made the mission so dear.
The French members were always an inspiration to me, so devoted and full of faith. To Elder Richards (Todd)-- I knew the Mejean’s in Lyon in the fall of 1976. They were very good to us and I loved them. Does anyone know of their history since then? To Elder Kingsley (Ron)-- it was fun to be part of your creative brand of missionary work. The picture was taken in Lyon, right? I’m pretty sure I see my companion, Soeur Redden, in the picture.
I was blessed to serve with many great elders and sisters. I learned something from each one and I remember you so fondly and hope to see you. I must thank, especially, my companions, DL’s and ZL’s for encouraging me through all my ups and downs (yes, there were many tears from this sister missionary ) I’m saddened to see the word “Deceased” by some of the names. If anyone knows details, please share.
While serving in my last area, Nice, my companion gave me a Neal Maxwell quote that I have never forgotten. It went something like this—“In a thousand years from now you will look back and count the blessings from this experience.” I say, not just a thousand years, but well beyond. I count the Switzerland Geneva mission experience as one of my life’s greatest treasures. It’s good to remember! -- Michele Casper (Allred)
I came into the mission in April of 1976, shortly before President and Sister Sager returned home. Though I came at their last hour, I was blessed to receive like compensation in training and example and am eternally grateful for their service. One thing I never fully understood until my own sons served missions is the president’s role in not only running a successful baptizing mission, but in shaping his missionaries (by love and example) for lifetimes of church and family service. I am thankful that President and Sister Sager understood and magnified this calling.
I’m not sure how I was so blessed to be called to serve in the one mission in the world that I had decided (in my head and heart) that I wanted to be in. The discussions and language came fairly easily (I had studied French before). But after a few weeks of long, hot days of rejection in Toulon, I discovered how sadly unprepared I really was. As I review mission memories I see, unfortunately, the many things I could have done better. But I also take a little comfort in the fact that God knew He was calling upon the “weak things of the world,” the “unlearned and despised” to do His work (D&C 35:13) and also that He has “looked upon [my] works and [knows me]” and that what matters is that my “heart is now right … at this time.” (D&C 38:7-8) But I still wish sometimes that I could do a remake. I write this because maybe there are others who feel this way, too.
The first baptism I witnessed was magnificent. Elder Kaopua baptized their investigator, Soeur Violette, in the cold, choppy waters of the Mediterranean, with a few supportive members and our entire district of missionaries looking on. I wrote in my journal that she walked bravely into the sea and that the Spirit was “so beautiful that it hurt.” Those are the kinds of memories that made the mission so dear.
The French members were always an inspiration to me, so devoted and full of faith. To Elder Richards (Todd)-- I knew the Mejean’s in Lyon in the fall of 1976. They were very good to us and I loved them. Does anyone know of their history since then? To Elder Kingsley (Ron)-- it was fun to be part of your creative brand of missionary work. The picture was taken in Lyon, right? I’m pretty sure I see my companion, Soeur Redden, in the picture.
I was blessed to serve with many great elders and sisters. I learned something from each one and I remember you so fondly and hope to see you. I must thank, especially, my companions, DL’s and ZL’s for encouraging me through all my ups and downs (yes, there were many tears from this sister missionary ) I’m saddened to see the word “Deceased” by some of the names. If anyone knows details, please share.
While serving in my last area, Nice, my companion gave me a Neal Maxwell quote that I have never forgotten. It went something like this—“In a thousand years from now you will look back and count the blessings from this experience.” I say, not just a thousand years, but well beyond. I count the Switzerland Geneva mission experience as one of my life’s greatest treasures. It’s good to remember! -- Michele Casper (Allred)
Reflections
I sure am glad that you were persistent, I appreciated the call and it reminded me of so much that has been lost in my past
and that I have missed. I was able to find (no small feat!) my missionary box. I started reading around 9 pm and at 2 am realized I needed sleep. There is so much that I have forgotten about my mission and all of you who touched my life back then, and how much that experience molded me and influenced and inspired me throughout my life since. I am grateful to the Gospel and the opportunities it continues to afford us that bond us together in unity and love and help us to prepare for joyous reunions of all kinds. I feel guilty for loosing contact with so many who I grew to love and respect and am somewhat fearful that my memory at this time may fail me to recall many great and important experiences with so many of my companions and fellow missionaries. I am afraid I am growing nostalgic, sorry for that (no actually I am not sorry , but thankful) I look forward to seeing you and those who don't make it, I hope with all the technology we have, we can get in touch and renew friendships and share experiences. -- ( Sterling ) Duane Smith
and that I have missed. I was able to find (no small feat!) my missionary box. I started reading around 9 pm and at 2 am realized I needed sleep. There is so much that I have forgotten about my mission and all of you who touched my life back then, and how much that experience molded me and influenced and inspired me throughout my life since. I am grateful to the Gospel and the opportunities it continues to afford us that bond us together in unity and love and help us to prepare for joyous reunions of all kinds. I feel guilty for loosing contact with so many who I grew to love and respect and am somewhat fearful that my memory at this time may fail me to recall many great and important experiences with so many of my companions and fellow missionaries. I am afraid I am growing nostalgic, sorry for that (no actually I am not sorry , but thankful) I look forward to seeing you and those who don't make it, I hope with all the technology we have, we can get in touch and renew friendships and share experiences. -- ( Sterling ) Duane Smith
Wow!
Tuesday, March 23, 1976
We had a unique missionary experience… We taught Monsieur Pietti, a man who came to church with a member two weeks in a row. The member thought he was a member… but Elder Thompson saw him standing alone on his second Sunday (which was just this last one). He began talking to this man and he asked him if he was a member, to which he replied, “no.” He asked if he was being taught, no again. And so… he arranged this meeting on this night and E. Nielson, myself, and E. Thompson went to see him. He had a 1907 copy of the book of Mormon given to him by Lowell J. Yancy in La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1937. He had stopped smoking, drinking coffee, and alcohol, and he had begun to look for this church, of which
he had carried its book around for 40 years. I had heard about this type of thing but I never really thought I would see it with such magnitude. We got through ½ of discussion C and gave him the baptismal challenge. He knew already that he needed to be baptized but he said he didn’t know whether he was sincere enough. His date is set for the 29th of April. Then he asked if he could start paying tithing right away, something we hadn’t even mentioned. And so… we set up times to come back and teach this man all he needs to know before he is baptized. He was very humble. E. Nielson said a prayer and then Monsieur Pietti said one afterwards. Tears were in his eyes at the close and he said he hoped Heavenly Father had heard him. We assured him that He had. Wow! Is about all I can say. -- From the Journal of Ron D. Kingsley
We had a unique missionary experience… We taught Monsieur Pietti, a man who came to church with a member two weeks in a row. The member thought he was a member… but Elder Thompson saw him standing alone on his second Sunday (which was just this last one). He began talking to this man and he asked him if he was a member, to which he replied, “no.” He asked if he was being taught, no again. And so… he arranged this meeting on this night and E. Nielson, myself, and E. Thompson went to see him. He had a 1907 copy of the book of Mormon given to him by Lowell J. Yancy in La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1937. He had stopped smoking, drinking coffee, and alcohol, and he had begun to look for this church, of which
he had carried its book around for 40 years. I had heard about this type of thing but I never really thought I would see it with such magnitude. We got through ½ of discussion C and gave him the baptismal challenge. He knew already that he needed to be baptized but he said he didn’t know whether he was sincere enough. His date is set for the 29th of April. Then he asked if he could start paying tithing right away, something we hadn’t even mentioned. And so… we set up times to come back and teach this man all he needs to know before he is baptized. He was very humble. E. Nielson said a prayer and then Monsieur Pietti said one afterwards. Tears were in his eyes at the close and he said he hoped Heavenly Father had heard him. We assured him that He had. Wow! Is about all I can say. -- From the Journal of Ron D. Kingsley
Service around the world...
My husband and I are currently living in Herforst, Germany. He is an administrator for the El. School on Spangdahlem Airbase. With adjustments due to fiscal situation, we will be transfered as soon as the school year ends. We have four sons, two daughters, 6 grandchildren. Our youngest is serving in the Arizona, Tempe Mission. -- Ellen Eldredge (Redd)
Greatest Blessings to all
It is great to hear about the grand reunion being scheduled. It will likely be a great opportunity to mingle with friends. Unfortunately, my spouse and I will not be able to attend due to other committments.
My mission was indeed, to that point in my life, the best two years of my life and the Sagers were a good part of that.
Greatest blessings to all the Missionaries is my wish.
Sincerely
David R Muncey
My mission was indeed, to that point in my life, the best two years of my life and the Sagers were a good part of that.
Greatest blessings to all the Missionaries is my wish.
Sincerely
David R Muncey
Would Love to be There
I would not be able to attend the reunion but your kind invitation and the information on the web site rekindles fond memories of my 2 years in the France Switzerland Mission. Please pass on my kind regards to any one who knew me or with whom I served. If anyone would like to visit Scotland I would be happy to see them and could offer them short term accommodation
Love and support
John Wood
Love and support
John Wood
Time to Come
When I saw the list of attendees includes two and maybe more of my mission companions, I decided to fork out the money and come. It was a good idea to share the list of those coming. Thanks for organizing this. -- Duane Hampton
Great Examples
It is great to hear that there will be a reunion for the President Sager years. I am recovering from knee surgery. I won't be able to make it this time. It will be great to hear how the reunion went. I am running a small chiropractic busines s while limping around with a very swollen knee using a crutch. I have a lot of help from employees. I haven't seen anyone since the mission years except I saw Jeff Stewart at the temple one time who had know idea who I was. I guess loosing 60% of my hair and gaining a few inches around the waist didn't help. Elder Curtis was the first of only two Senior companions that I had. Elder Curtis, it was your last 2 months and my first 2. We were in Lyon, in a 4 man apartment. Elder Jeff Stewart was training as a Zone Leader. You were a work horse. You were an excellent example for me. You set the pace for the rest of my mission and probably my life. Good job brother. Maybe that is why my knees are wearing out. I need to slow down. I have 5 adult children and an excellent wife. Both sons have served missions and 2 oldest daughters have married return missionaries. Youngest daughter not married yet. My father never served a mission, however, in the late 1960's he was cal led to serve in a newly formed bishopric. President Kimball who was an apostle at the time was here in Las Vegas to organize a new Stake. He ordained all of the members of the new bishoprics High Priests. He gave all of their sons, myself included, a silver dollar. He suggested that if we had not had a personal missionary fund started that we should start now. I know that all of the sons in our bishopric did serve missions as requested. No I do not have the dollar. It was used in my personal mission fund as requested. I'm glad that I went. I am thankful for the experiences that I had serving with all of you under President Sagers excellent leadership. -- Donald Evans
Getting to know the President
Greetings to the Sagers and all former members of the Mission Suisse de Geneve
I appreciate this opportunity to share some of my experience relating to President and Sister Sager and their family. It was my privilege to be called to serve in the Mission Office as Accountant for a few months of my mission. While this proved to be one of the most challenging times of my life it was also the period of time that I experienced the most personal growth. Sadly, I was not very well prepared to take over the responsibilities of Mission Accountant. Simply put, I did not understand accounting very well and when my training was done and it became my responsibility to handle the finances I literally sweat bullets for several weeks trying to make the accounts balance and submit reports to Salt Lake in a timely manner. I had to spend a lot of time on my knees praying for understanding and spent a lot of extra hours in the office trying to figure things out. It was amazing how the answers to problems would come to me while riding on the train back from Lousanne or while I was out tracking and teaching, but the Lord blessed me a great deal in this circumstance and showed me the way. Before I left the Mission Office I had vowed to return to college and learn what I should have known before I was called to serve as Mission Accountant.
The greatest part about my time in the Mission Home was getting to know President and Sister Sager in a new way. I believe it was my first week in the mission office when we were scrambling to get to the dinner table on time after P-Day and President Sager walked in to do an unannounced inspection. After walking through the house he came to the room where we were all gathered. He then asked who had just taken a shower. I sheepishly raised my hand and his response was “You are losing your hair Elder” We quickly learned that President and Sister Sager expected our best in every aspect of our life.
I knew President and Sister Sager had big jobs, but I never realized how big those jobs were prior to transferring to the Mission Office. I recall President Sager spending countless hours counseling with missionaries, taking care of mission business, and traveling around the mission to move the work forward. Those were not 40 hour weeks. I recall the way President Sager wrote letters in a very professional manner and tried to emulate that in my own communications. I was impressed with his ability to dictate and tell the writer exactly where and how to place punctuation. I also remember Sister Sager going weekly to buy groceries and teaching the missionaries how to eating healthy, as well as find necessary time to spend with Eric, Karine, and Steven. In her spare time she was mother to all of us, particularly in the Mission Office, trying to finish the job that our own mothers were not able to complete before we left home. Eric and Karine were mature beyond their years and Steven was full of fun and mischief. I grew to love them all in a way that will never leave me.
So many times since leaving the mission field I have looked back at that experience and what I learned from the Sagers. I have always wanted and tried to be like them, because in them I saw the Savior, and through them I first began to really understand how much the Savior loves each one the Father’s children. I am grateful to have had them for role models and I owe them for much of what I am and have accomplished in my life. I am grateful for the sacrifices made by the Sager family to share those important years with us -- Lynn Wilcox
I appreciate this opportunity to share some of my experience relating to President and Sister Sager and their family. It was my privilege to be called to serve in the Mission Office as Accountant for a few months of my mission. While this proved to be one of the most challenging times of my life it was also the period of time that I experienced the most personal growth. Sadly, I was not very well prepared to take over the responsibilities of Mission Accountant. Simply put, I did not understand accounting very well and when my training was done and it became my responsibility to handle the finances I literally sweat bullets for several weeks trying to make the accounts balance and submit reports to Salt Lake in a timely manner. I had to spend a lot of time on my knees praying for understanding and spent a lot of extra hours in the office trying to figure things out. It was amazing how the answers to problems would come to me while riding on the train back from Lousanne or while I was out tracking and teaching, but the Lord blessed me a great deal in this circumstance and showed me the way. Before I left the Mission Office I had vowed to return to college and learn what I should have known before I was called to serve as Mission Accountant.
The greatest part about my time in the Mission Home was getting to know President and Sister Sager in a new way. I believe it was my first week in the mission office when we were scrambling to get to the dinner table on time after P-Day and President Sager walked in to do an unannounced inspection. After walking through the house he came to the room where we were all gathered. He then asked who had just taken a shower. I sheepishly raised my hand and his response was “You are losing your hair Elder” We quickly learned that President and Sister Sager expected our best in every aspect of our life.
I knew President and Sister Sager had big jobs, but I never realized how big those jobs were prior to transferring to the Mission Office. I recall President Sager spending countless hours counseling with missionaries, taking care of mission business, and traveling around the mission to move the work forward. Those were not 40 hour weeks. I recall the way President Sager wrote letters in a very professional manner and tried to emulate that in my own communications. I was impressed with his ability to dictate and tell the writer exactly where and how to place punctuation. I also remember Sister Sager going weekly to buy groceries and teaching the missionaries how to eating healthy, as well as find necessary time to spend with Eric, Karine, and Steven. In her spare time she was mother to all of us, particularly in the Mission Office, trying to finish the job that our own mothers were not able to complete before we left home. Eric and Karine were mature beyond their years and Steven was full of fun and mischief. I grew to love them all in a way that will never leave me.
So many times since leaving the mission field I have looked back at that experience and what I learned from the Sagers. I have always wanted and tried to be like them, because in them I saw the Savior, and through them I first began to really understand how much the Savior loves each one the Father’s children. I am grateful to have had them for role models and I owe them for much of what I am and have accomplished in my life. I am grateful for the sacrifices made by the Sager family to share those important years with us -- Lynn Wilcox
Regards to Everyone
Please give my regards to everyone. Please give my highest regards and great appreciation to the Sagers. They were a very positive influence in my life and for many others too. I truely enjoyed my mission, being in France and getting to know the people, sharing the Gospel and learning the culture. I thank the Lord daily for His great blessings to all of us who have served missions. It really is s holy calling that builds and lifts us. I cherish the friendships and associations with the missionaries and I am very sorry to miss the reunion. -- Paula (Hansen) Brashier
The Lord's Hand is in our Lives
The Lord’s hand must be in this. March 1st at the temple (we live next to the San Antonio Temple), my husband was talking to one of the temple workers, and missions came up. The brother told my husband he went to the Geneva-Switzerland Mission, at which time my husband shared that I also had been there. We got together in the foyer and it turned out to be Elder Terry Martin, who served in my city at the same time I was there. He told me about the reunion and shared my information.
In the 40 years since my mission I have never accidently run into any of the missionaries I served with or knew in the mission, nor talked to one of them in 37 years! This was no accident .
The Lord is in the details of our lives!
Elizabeth (Becky) Cody Compton
In the 40 years since my mission I have never accidently run into any of the missionaries I served with or knew in the mission, nor talked to one of them in 37 years! This was no accident .
The Lord is in the details of our lives!
Elizabeth (Becky) Cody Compton
Elder Robison is Looking for Help
I am looking for a pediatric nurse who speaks pretty good French to assist me in teaching the Helping Babies Breath program to midwives in Morocco in May (17th-25th). Have you found any missionaries who are pediatric nurses, pediatricians, family physicians, or obstetricians?
Chris Robison
Cell 612-990-6018
Chris Robison
Cell 612-990-6018
Soeur Robb will be coming!
I will be attending with my wife Sandy Robb Gale who some my remember is Soeur ROBB.
My wife served in the Geneva Switzerland Mission from 1976 to 1978. She started her mission at that same time as President and Sister STEVENS started their mission. -- Jeff Gale
My wife served in the Geneva Switzerland Mission from 1976 to 1978. She started her mission at that same time as President and Sister STEVENS started their mission. -- Jeff Gale
May it be a Huge Success
Elder Redd (out of respect for all of the effort that you have made to bring this together), For years now I have scanned the missionary reunion site hoping to see my mission getting together. I know, I could have done something about that but sadly, that is not in my nature. I am grateful for men like you who are willing to take the time and sacrifice to bring to pass the wishes and desires of the hearts of those of us who are less capable, or willing.
I am unable to attend but have found such great joy in reading the comments of those who know and understand what we were able to accomplish, the struggles and success, the joys and sorrows, the love for the people we had the opportunity to serve through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and those that we had the opportunity to serve with.
The interesting thing is that I am unable to attend because of the necessity of commitment I learned on my mission. In January, I made a commitment to participate in a local community theater presentation of My Fair Lady. It has been an amazing experience. This is only the third time in my life I have participated in such an event. Once in high school, a million years ago, then last summer I was in Fiddler on the Roof. It has been an amazing new adventure, with many an opportunity to share the Gospel, and to learn more about my fellowman. Things that I learned on my mission, constantly guide my way through all of life's experiences and open doors to share my testimony in so many ways.
I hope that this is a huge success, it appears that it already is. I am so excited to see the posts of all that took place.
Sincerely, your Brother in the work of the Lord,
Dave McKenzie (1975-1977)
I am unable to attend but have found such great joy in reading the comments of those who know and understand what we were able to accomplish, the struggles and success, the joys and sorrows, the love for the people we had the opportunity to serve through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and those that we had the opportunity to serve with.
The interesting thing is that I am unable to attend because of the necessity of commitment I learned on my mission. In January, I made a commitment to participate in a local community theater presentation of My Fair Lady. It has been an amazing experience. This is only the third time in my life I have participated in such an event. Once in high school, a million years ago, then last summer I was in Fiddler on the Roof. It has been an amazing new adventure, with many an opportunity to share the Gospel, and to learn more about my fellowman. Things that I learned on my mission, constantly guide my way through all of life's experiences and open doors to share my testimony in so many ways.
I hope that this is a huge success, it appears that it already is. I am so excited to see the posts of all that took place.
Sincerely, your Brother in the work of the Lord,
Dave McKenzie (1975-1977)
Reflecting on Good Fortune
What a great time for a mission reunion, as the years in France and Switzerland have been much in my thoughts lately. I was very ill last year and have since had time to reflect on my good fortune: How fortunate we were to serve where we did; how fortunate we were to have President and Sister Sager to lead us through such important years of discipleship; how fortunate we were to have known each other when were young. -- Miles Jacoby
Kim Stoddard Memories
I just had a nice visit with Kim's mother, Sister Stoddard. She had been reading the paper and always likes to look for mission reunions. Her husband served as a mission president shortly after Kim's mission. Kim died of cancer in the late 1990's. She said he always thought about his mission and loved to look at his mission keepsakes. She told me that Kim had taken French in High school and loved the language. After he had been through the LTM, and had "Lived his Language," he went to France and felt like he was really put in his place by the Sager children. The were in the Mission home the first night and started the evening feeling like they could try out their new language. It didn't take long with the Sager family to realize that they really didn't know very much about the languages. He said that he was so taken back by the Sager children chatting away at top speed in French with their parents. He then realized how little they really did know. Later when Kim was serving in the Mission home, he reported that there were times that President Sager would be making bread in the middle of the night. He said that the President could work out his worries and concerns about the mission by kneading bread. I guess we caused a lot of good bread to be baked at the mission home because of worries we cause the president. -- stories related by Sister Stoddard
Long Awaited Day is Almost Here!
Wow! The long awaited day is almost here. A BIG HELLO to all. I don't think Pres and Sister Sager will remember me , but please give them my love. Capture the stories. Would love to hear them in person!! Should be a blast.
Had our own little fun here. Went to church in Luxembourg last week. It is held in French!!! Fun!! Yes, I did understand almost all of it and was able to contribute comments to the lesson and visit with folks afterward. -- Ellen Eldredge (Redd)
Had our own little fun here. Went to church in Luxembourg last week. It is held in French!!! Fun!! Yes, I did understand almost all of it and was able to contribute comments to the lesson and visit with folks afterward. -- Ellen Eldredge (Redd)
Wish I could be there...
I wish I could go to the reunion. We just got here on Saturday night. We are in Midpines near Mariposa in the California Fresno Mission. I don't think my companions were going to go. If they go could you tell them I said hi. They were Soeur Aagard, Soeur Allred, Soeur Reid, Soeur Christensen, and Soeur Elzinger. Also, could you tell Elder Roper I said hi because we were together at the LTM and in Nice. Also, could you tell President and Sister Saeger I said hi. Thanks, Sister Lund Mahlum