On Friday 20th November 2015 missionaries serving in Athens had the privilege of having a one hour devotional with Elder M Russel Ballard, one of our 12 apostles. For an 87 year old he was on a very demanding schedule. Visiting and holding meetings throughout Europe and Ireland he was also assessing the refugee crisis and after our meeting was flying to the Greek island of Lesbos. Despite his schedule, as always a missionary, while viewing the Athens skyline from the restaurant in the hotel where he was staying, he made friends with a waiter, acquired his name and address and promised him that two representatives of the church would deliver a copy of his book to his home in the next few days. That responsibility we now know has fallen to Elder Shaner. Watch this space for how this story progresses.
The picture of us was taken by Joel Mawlam, Christian's brother (husband of our daughter Elizabeth) who was accompanying Elder Ballard. He is currently employed as the Church photographer in Europe. The other picture is of Elder Ballard with the mission presidents daughters, Alinda and Marie.
Elder M Russell Ballard on Mars Hill, Athens, where Paul once preached.
Early morning, Friday 20th November 2015
