G.B. ARRANGED A MEMORIAL WITHOUT EMBLEMS! (page 4)

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A Missionary's Life

A little bit about what it's like to live thousands of miles from home in Guinea, West Africa.

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Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Unforgettable Memorial

Tonight we had a very special memorial. In fact, I can guaranteethat it was not like yours... Memorials in Guinea are always memorable but whether it be the unusual decorations, people taking pictures with the bread and the wine or a memorial with one publisher in a tiny village, the most important part of the evening is the commemoration of the death of Jesus Christ and the biggest sacrifice ever made. I always feel sad attending the memorial without my family though. It just doesn't seem real without them and tonight, it didn't feel like a real memorial at all.

Our Kingdom Hall

First, I want to say that though it may seem very strange, the way that our memorial was conducted tonight was "Governing Body approved" as my husband put it and our brothers followed instructions very closely. Preparations for our unique memorial started a couple of days before the memorial, all the brothers in our region received an urgent letter from our branch. Peter and I spent the day out in service delivering the letter in between doing our studies. We had to track down elders in our area who don't have internet so that they could have the special instructions. Due to the Ebola epidemic, there was to be special precautions and arrangements made for our memorial and those in nearby cities and villages. After all was said and done, it seems that these are probably the same instructions given to those living in war torn areas or perhaps countries under ban. The special memorial instructions were announced at our Sunday meeting (just one day before the memorial). I thought this was interesting because those who missed the meeting that day had no idea what was going on. What an important reminder of how important attending every meeting is, you never know what emergency instructions you will receive!
The branch told us, in short, to reduce risk of contamination of dangerous disease we should try and reduce the number of attendants by holding more than one memorial. This could even be reduced down to service-group size (or family-group size) memorial meetings if necessary. Since so far there have been no confirmed cases of Ebola in our city, in our hall only a second time was added. That means we would hold a memorial at 5 pm (which all those in attendance at our Sunday meeting were invited to) and also one at 6:30 (which was stamped on all the invitations given out in the campaign work the last few weeks). This is actually the second letter we received. A couple of weeks ago we also received a letter warning us of the Ebola disease spreading across the country and encouraged proper hygiene. The letter encouraged us to wash our hands often with soap and water treated with bleach. It also encourages us not to shake hands with others. This is a hard thing to do when handshaking plays a big role in Guinea culture (there is even a special handshake with clicking noises!). A hard habit to break, sometimes brothers would forget and then remember at the last second and then usually a wave, a wrist shake or an elbow-bump would take place. I'm pretty sure from far off we looked like a bunch smiling people doing some sort of funky-chicken dance greeting.

Benjamin helps another Benjamin wash up

As soon as everyone entered our Kingdom Hall courtyard they were greeted not by our hospitality brothers but rather by our hand washing committee! There was an official hand washing station set up and everyone who came was encouraged to wash. We joked with the brothers that we were also going to take off our shoes so that they could wash our feet just like Jesus did for his apostles. Even though many people joked about the hand washing or shaking-hands-ban, we faithfully followed the instructions from the Governing Body which were no doubt given for out protection. Reminds me of a Watchtower a little while back that said in the time of the end we will no doubt be asked to do things that we find strange or that we don't understand but we should always remember that as a loving father everything Jehovah does is for our good and the best thing we can do is to be obedient to those taking the lead.

I match brother Jean-Louis

The special instructions also said that to reduce the risk of contamination we should have no emblems present and not pass the bread or the wine. That's right, you read that right, no bread or wine for our memorial. (At least I didn't have to agonize over making the memorial bread just right as I often do every year.) And since there was no emblems, the talk did not have to be given after sundown. The first memorial held in our Kingdom Hall was not after Sundown. In fact, the first group of brothers who attended were headed home while it was still light out. Even though we did not pass the bread and the wine, the importance of the memorial was stressed. We were encouraged to write down and read certain scriptures as a family when we arrived home (after sundown) and to say our own prayer together. Sounds a lot like Family Worship, doesn't it? The Israelites also did something very similar for the very first Passover. And who knows, during the great tribulation perhaps we will be asked to do this again.

Peter and Philippe

Our hall was comfortably full for both memorials, it's probably good we did it this way anyway since last year there were about 30 people standing outside our Hall. I attend both memorials tonight since Peter was giving both talks. I was happy to welcome many of our studies. Among those who came was a young man who Peter and I had invited the week before. We were walking (because our motorcycle broke down) to our study about an hour away when I recognized the home of a man that I knew had studied in the past and who had attended meetings. We hadn't seen him in a while so we inquired of his family who we saw working outside. This man suffers from anxiety, depression and perhaps other mental illnesses. When we asked his mother how he was, she informed us that he has been feeling very poor lately. In fact, done in local custom, they had chained him to the floor in a room in their house. (Unfortunately, this is very common here for the mentally ill since there is no medication or care facilities to help treat them.) The mother asked us if we wanted to talk to him and we hesitantly agreed. We were escorted to a dark room with a thin sponge mattress on the floor. Blezz, was mostly naked and chained with thick chains around his ankles that were attached to the floor, a child's toilet bowl was in the corner. He no doubt felt ashamed of his appearance and tried to tell his mom that he didn't want any visitors but as we tried to leave Blezz invited us in. We told him that we missed him at the meetings and we were thinking of him. We explained that Satan's world gives us many trials and no doubt his situation is a great trial to him. But also that Jehovah promises the day will come will we will all be together in good health. We read a couple of scriptures, gave him the latest magazines and in the end said a prayer to ask that Jehovah give him strength to endure. I hesitated to give him a memorial invitation since he was chained up and obviously couldn't attend but at the last minute I decided to invite him along with his family who were also listening to us. How surprised and happy we were to see that Blezz, well groomed and dressed nicely, was among the first to be at the memorial! Blezz greeted us warmly and thanked the brothers before he left. I'm so glad I gave him that invitation. How we long for the day when those who suffer from debilitating mental and physical illnesses will all be cured.

Richard

We had a combined total of 249 in attendance for our congregation, not bad for 51 publishers. The great attendance was no doubt due to the hard work and zeal of our publishers. One brother, Richard, worked 9 hours door to door placing hundreds of invitations several days in a row! Even one of my own bible students said she received her invitation from him (she also attend the memorial). My bible student Marie, now baptized, also proved to be zealous. She prayed for courage and stood up in front of her entire school class to invite them all along with several of her teachers. This after she was suspended last month for refusing to salute the flag. "I thought one of my math teachers was going to be mean to me because he is very severe in class," she told me "but when I invited him he was really nice and said he would come! Now I'm going to take him the magazines every month and not be afraid." It's good to see that her zeal has not been dampened by persecution. Even some of my young bible students who are not yet publishers kept asking for more invitations to invite their neighbors, family and school friends. No doubt they are working their way up to become publishers. We were so happy to see so many in attendance. Well, perhaps we were a little less excited to see some. One young man who has been showing up at the meetings but is also slightly crazy, came up and proposed marriage to me tonight. I had to turn him down saying my husband would probably be angry if I married someone else. Later I found out that I wasn't even his first choice, he has proposed to a couple of other sisters this week! I don't know what to be more offended by, the fact he proposed to me or that I was proposed to as 3rd choice! I told you this was a one of a kind memorial, how many of you can say you were proposed to at the memorial?! One of the best stories of tonight features a wonderful family. But I'm just teasing you with this one, you'll have to wait to hear about them. I'm saving up stories and pictures our summer vacation slideshow and believe me, this is not one you will want to miss. For those of you who read my blog online and wont be able to make it all the way to Arizona for our slide show, don't worry, after our vacation I'll post all the stories and pictures on my blog so you wont miss out either.

2014 Guinea Memorial

As I write this post our family has not even started to get dressed for the memorial yet (since we are 7 hours ahead of them). Every day I miss them tremendously but even more so on occasions such as this. But I also think that feeling this way is how Jesus must have felt while on earth away from his father and it's comforting to me to know that he understands how I feel. It also reminds me of what a tremendous sacrifice it was for Jehovah to send his son to us. Makes me think of the sacrifice that our parents are making to allow us to be here in our assignment in Guinea. After the memorial Peter and I Skyped (video chatted) with our family and told them about our "Ebola Memorial". Then we sat on our bed and did our special memorial Bible reading along with the regular memorial Bible reading and then said our prayer. What an unforgettable memorial... Posted by Linka Email This BlogThis!Share to Twitter Share to Facebook Share to Pinterest Labels: Memorial

87 comments:

Janet April 15, 2014 at 6:42 AM
Wow! No emblems and home before dark!! I never thought that would be possible. Our congregation of around had 155 but the new group attached to us has 92. The group was only set up in October so they did very well. Jehovah's blessing is with them as they expand our territory.
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Dee Meyer April 15, 2014 at 6:45 AM
Thank you so much for sharing! What a unique memorial! Jehovah's continued blessing as you serve in your assignment!
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Marebear April 15, 2014 at 7:14 AM
Brought tears and joy. You write so well. May Jehovah contiue to strengthen you. Much Christan love from Texas. Waiting patiently for the rest of your Memorial Story. We had 338 at ours, only problem really not enough seats.
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gayleen blewitt April 15, 2014 at 7:40 AM
Your memorial experience is absolutely wonderful and so upbuilding, thank you for sharing with us.
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Mrsqueenvee/mrs-flopsybunny April 15, 2014 at 7:45 AM
Dear Sister. Thank you for such a heartwarming tale of your memorial evening. It reminds us again that Jehovah always makes provision for his faithful ones... In a loving and caring way as always.
We had 204 to our memorial in Paignton, England. With a second Polish one held after at 9.15pm... I don't know how many they had.
Wish fond greetings from your spiritual family in Paignton
:-) x
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Anna-Lisa Gunnarsson April 16, 2014 at 2:43 PM
Nice to hear from Paignton too. I went there once, as a summer student. I was only 13 years old, and I was looking and asking for a congregation, but never found one, nor any witnesses, on those a little more than 3 weeks... I would so much go back there, and then also visit the meetings, but also to share my experience with my husband. My mail, if you would like to communicate with me, is [email protected] or if you prefer gmail: [email protected]
Keep up the good work, all of you. We will, and maybe one of our return visits will turn into a study now, after the Memorial. They visited it - WITH their two kids! - was really amased and had a lot of questions afterwards. They also confirmed 2 -3 times our ordinary meeting times... My husbands study also came. All together: on a congregation of approximately 42-43 we were 78 attendants at the Memorial! That's a blessing from Jehovah, we think.
/Anna-Lisa
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drajjz April 15, 2014 at 7:45 AM
That is exactly how I feel, Tears of joy and much laughter. I so love reading your experiences and you write in such a way that I feel I am next to you experiencing what you are. Thank you for sharing with all of us. We have had quite a story here with the "Blood Moon" the total lunar eclipse that happened last night. We that have the truth rejoiced in the beauty of creation and are excitingly awaiting Jehovah's timetable as we zealously try to reach as many as we can with the truth. I will also be excitingly awaiting your story when you return from vacation. Warm Christian affection and love from your fellow worker, Angie in South Dakota.
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Maura@Lilac Lane Cottage April 15, 2014 at 7:45 AM
I am so happy to have come across your beautiful blog. Your experiences are a wonderful encouragement to all who read them. I live in the central United States where we have to deal with weather extremes (tornadoes, excessive heat, snow storms etc). We think we have it bad sometimes, but after reading some of your posts about what you deal with over there...I realize that we don't have it so bad after all! Thank you for sharing your memorial experiences with us, it makes me realize how fortunate we are that we at least for the time being we live in peace. May Jehovah bless your hard work.
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Giagantaur April 15, 2014 at 7:54 AM
Wow wow wow ... great experience ... this organization is always looking out for our well being ... a fore gleam of our very close future ... thanks for sharing. Sheldon from Creston BC Canada.
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Michelle Avery April 15, 2014 at 7:58 AM
Thank you!! This makes realize that even though we had our memorial late this year, due to different congregations using the kingdom Hall, we did nor have to worry about disease and we did have our family. Thanks for reminding us to be humble and grateful for what we have. Much love!!
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(Chisoba)Christine Louise Black April 15, 2014 at 8:07 AM
Wow wonderful experience ...thank you ...
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Rosy Bravo April 15, 2014 at 8:34 AM
Always heartwarming to read your experiences Linka and Peter. Thank you for sharing. This blog made me cry and got a little laugh to when you were 3rd choice...(oh that was too cute and funny). May Jehovah continue to bless you!!!
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Katte April 15, 2014 at 8:53 AM
Ah the joy I feel when reading your posts is grand. Our brotherhood really is WORLDWIDE! No matter what the circumstances of the places we live, there will always be a way. Even if it's a memorial before sundown and without bread and wine ;) It's also comforting to see how our brotherly love includes even seemingly little things, such as washing hands to avoid contamination. Aren't we blessed with a wise father! Oh Linka, I'd be incredibly intimidated to speak with a person chained to the floor, uncomfortable would be an understatement. Yet you and Peter did and the results were positive! Lesson for me! One of the things I admire the most of brothers and sisters serving where the need is greater is how they are willing to be separated from their families for Jehovah. I had never thought about it also being a great sacrifice of both Jesus and Jehovah because for the first time they were separated, yet, they did it for us. Now it's our turn!
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Katherine Nelson April 15, 2014 at 9:05 AM
Jehovah is so good in how he takes care of all our needs. I always think about the countries around the world where the work is under ban, where our brothers have to meet in small secret groups to observe the memorial. I try to always remember to pray for their safety during the special occasion. Now I will start remembering to pray for our dear brothers in areas like yours where disease can effect how groups meet. Thank you for sharing the joys of your assignment.
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THURMAN ZIMMERMAN April 15, 2014 at 9:19 AM
This is the first time reading your blog and it was simply amazing to read. And I never thought about Jesus feeling lonely away from his family in heaven. wonderful field point..Jehovah must be very proud of you missionaries, I know that I am as well.
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Mireille April 16, 2014 at 11:18 PM
Very good point about Jesus being lonely away from his family Keeping busy in Jehovah's service is the best cure! Thanks so much for this up building experience sister May Jehovah bless your efforts and sacrifices always!
Love from Mireille (French sis living in UK)
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Trish Butts April 15, 2014 at 9:30 AM
I love the stories of the zealous publishers. I would very much like to see your slideshow when you are on vacation. This post made me swell with pride for those publishers, made me cry and laugh...3rd choice really? Lol The more I read the more I feel I have to come to guinea!
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Kathy April 15, 2014 at 9:34 AM
Thank you for the experience. I especially appreciated your comments on how Jesus must have felt being away from his father and heavenly family.
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Solange Armua April 15, 2014 at 9:42 AM
I almost cried reading the last paragraph.. We serve to Jehovah and at the same time we receive much more things than that we had sacrificed! ..We serve in a little foreign language group and we were 69 in attendance! Happy!!!!!! :D
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Lynn Rose April 15, 2014 at 9:57 AM
I love reading your post. I just found your blog. I'm so thankful for missionary's like you and your husband. How else would people learn about Jehovah and his kingdom, I live in Macon Georgia USA and I have been disable since I was 33. I love going in field service, I can't image what it is like for you. I can't be there to help but I love to read your stories. Please continue to write. I pray Jehovah gives you and your family strength and endurance. April 15 2014 text , He that has endured to the end is the one that will be saved.—Matt. 24:13.
Remember: The new system will certainly fulfill the promise given through the psalmist, who said of the loving Creator: “You are opening your hand and satisfying the desire of every living thing.”—Ps. 145:16.
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Deborah Rist April 15, 2014 at 10:01 AM
I have just begun following your blog. Thanks so much for sharing! It brings our brotherhood even to s tighter knit group! Where are you from in Arizona? We served in Gilbert for 7 years and are now back in Washington state and will be attending the Seattle international Convention. But I will be visiting Arizona again soon. Where and when will you be giving your slide show?
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Linka April 15, 2014 at 12:48 PM
Hi Deborah, Peter is from Central Phoenix and I'm from the West Side. We'll be back in Arizona in June and July. Please e-mail me so I can give you some more information. :) [email protected]
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Rosemary Lynn April 15, 2014 at 10:37 AM
I too am enjoying your upbuilding blog. Very much interested in seeing the slide show and accompanying talk when you visit AZ! Would love to bring along our 14 year old brother (future Bethelite/maybe circuit overseer) and his mother, who loves reading your blog as well. Can you let us know when and where so that we can schedule accordingly? We are in the Tucson area.
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Linka April 15, 2014 at 12:52 PM
Rosemary, we you can e-mail us at the above address for more information. As the time gets closer I'll post more information on my blog as well.
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Carmen April 15, 2014 at 10:40 AM
Oh dear sis, THANK YOU so much for sharing all these accounts, giving us a taste of Missionary Life.
You bring us smiles and tears while also helping us to examine our faith and endurance. May Our wonderful God Jehovah continue to protect you and bless all your efforts there.
Warm Christian Love and greetings from Atlanta. Georgia. USA
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Andiloveu April 15, 2014 at 11:02 AM
Dear Linka, What a unforgettable memorial indeed! My husband came home early today from work and we read your post together. We both said how wonderful it is how Jehovah protects his people. And how encouraging that the brothers listen and don't question the directions even if they sound a little funny. We also laughed when we read that you were proposed to. It made us remember a young man that came to our hall a long time ago and asked me if I was out of the bloom of youth and if I'd marry him. LOL Of course, my husband said I was taken. Thank you for sharing your memorial with us. I wished we lived closer to Arizona so we could see your slide show and the boys could meet you. Keep up the good work. We look forward to many more stories. Christian Love, Andrea
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Frannie Turrell April 15, 2014 at 11:03 AM
I am reading on your blog for the first time I think as a friend of a friend maybe? With tears from a heart warmed by your expressions, thank you for sharing with us. Those of us who live in rather cushy areas should take heed. Our day may come, and I wonder how many of us will be prepared. May Jehovah continue to keep you ion his care and bless your efforts. Numbers 6:24-26. Your sister Fran from Damascus, MD.
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Shirley Hutchison April 15, 2014 at 11:05 AM
What an amazing Memorial you had! So thrilled that all went so well after all. May Jehovah continue to bless your hard work in his service. Warm love from your spiritual family in Namibia ♡
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Minnie Wheeler April 15, 2014 at 12:28 PM
You really did have an unusual memorial.thank you so much for sharing your experiences. It is so wonderful the way the governing body instructs us in every situation we encounter. And when we follow their instructions things always work out for the better. May Jehovah continue to bless you and Peter in your assignment. Agape.
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L A Snodgrass April 15, 2014 at 1:00 PM
This is the first blog I have read. Now I know I have been missing out! I had tears, I had chills, I had a new respect for such ones; who 'offer themselves willingly' - particularly the mention of the sacrifice your family makes as well, along with reminding us of how Jesus must have felt in his assignment.

Your writings are precious. I will not miss another. Much warm Christian love from Ely Nevada USA
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Carol Collins April 15, 2014 at 1:31 PM
Your experiences and blog are so faith strengthening and I sincerely thank you for doing this. This is the first time I have read one as the link was sent to me by another sister. It was thrilling to read. We also have friends in AZ from our old congregation. J & D Richoux, you probably know them and their family. I hope to continue reading your blogs as this one gave us a great lift. We got ours halfway over an iPod and the rest over the car radio as we can't go into our Hall due to health issues but we know that Jehovah is always glad to see us outside for all our meetings. We always want to follow Jehovah's directions whether we understand them or not.

Thank you again. Agape.
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Unknown April 15, 2014 at 1:45 PM
It was a dark and stormy night. Raining cats and dogs. Then it turned to snow. It was memorial night and nothing should stop us attending. That is nothing compared to what Jesus went through back in 33AD. This blog shows how important it is to attend all the meetings as we never know what is ahead of us. Thank you dear family for letting us into your home and heart.
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hezbb April 15, 2014 at 2:03 PM
As always, my dear sister, your beautiful heart and sense of humour combine to not only drive the message home, but sound it down in the heart! Just lovely - and a very practical reminder of why meeting attendance is of the utmost importance, as well as obedience and trust, in those taking the lead. I so deeply appreciate your sharing! <3
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Linda Kirkendoll April 15, 2014 at 2:47 PM
I too have never read a blog before. Your story is beautiful. Show how we need to follow instructions from the faithful slave. We have no idea what the end of this system will be like & we need to be obediently on the watch. Thanks for sharing your story. Agape from Oregon City, Oregon. We had 210 attend our memorial.
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Sister April 15, 2014 at 3:31 PM
Thank you for sharing
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Ken Red April 15, 2014 at 5:28 PM
Thank you for sharing. That was very encouraging.
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Audrey Sheppard April 15, 2014 at 5:50 PM
I enjoyed reading about your unique memorial experience! Just found your blog, and will look forward to receiving your email updates. I'm in Alabama, and we had 224 in attendance this year. We have around 108-110 publishers.
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Patty O April 15, 2014 at 6:28 PM
Truly a special memorial. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences, they show that following instructions are for our protection. I look forward to reading more your blog. (I have friends that attend the KH on N33 Ave in Phoenix.)
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Jessica April 15, 2014 at 7:00 PM
Such an encouragement despite the scary situation you are experiencing!! May Jehovah continue to bles your efforts!!
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debbie k. April 15, 2014 at 9:48 PM
OUTSTANDING MEMORIAL CELEBRATION, sis Linka. most memorable one I have ever heard of anywhere, thank u for sharing.
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Den Gonzales April 15, 2014 at 9:50 PM
Hi I'm Brother from the Philippines - Thanks for sharing your wonderful missionary experience. This is also my first time to read your blog. I'll share this also to our brothers and sisters. What a wonderful unusual Memorial celebration... It reminds us the importance of our meetings... The importance of sharing the truth to anybody... and the importance of LOVE of our God Jehovah and His Son Jesus Christ.
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Weepet April 15, 2014 at 10:24 PM
Thanks for another uplifting post my sister. I often feel down and discouraged being the only member of my family in the truth. They seem to think I'm crazy or just fanatical. What a blessing for you to have loving supportive parents, even though you miss them a lot. I hope you will allow me to think of you as a real sister even though we haven't met? I feel very blessed to have a precious spiritual family all over the world. Your sister in South Africa.
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Teresa Castro April 15, 2014 at 10:59 PM
My 1st time reading ur blog. I really appreciate the points u shared. Gave
me somethings to meditate on. Please ad me
to urblog. Someone shared this with me. Agape. Ur sis in California.
[email protected]. ;) ♥
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celeste April 15, 2014 at 11:10 PM
I am from South Africa and I so enjoyed reading how your memorial was done there. It just amazes me how...no matter what...we will serve Jehovah. Thank you for this faith strengthening blog and for your service. I know you miss your families so much, I have a nephew in Bethel service and its the same for him. Thank you thank you thank you for doing what some of us are unable to. We will keep you in our prayers of gratitude to Jehovah.
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esther omulupi April 15, 2014 at 11:31 PM
Wow, i cried when i read this! Truly amazing the self sacrificing spirit you missionaries have and reading your experiences helps all of us understand what you go through and this inturn proves to all of us that Jehovah truly watches out for his people and the power beyond normal that he gives is so REAL. May Jehovah continue to protect you and the brothers in your territory.
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akcognard April 15, 2014 at 11:54 PM
Thank you for sharing your memorial experience. Your memorial was truly unique and there are so many lessons to be learned from your experience. Well written as usual. Looking forward to future posts. May Jehovah continue blessing the spirit that you and your husband show.

Two People in Spain
www.akcognard.wordpress.com
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Penny Pritchard April 16, 2014 at 1:57 AM
Such a wonderful experience, thank you so much for sharing. Here in Australia we had 255 at the congregation we attended then 232 and 205 in the other 2 congregations :
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Big Bear April 16, 2014 at 3:10 AM
What a wonderful experiences, very encouraging to see how Jehovah is looking after us.
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Jessica April 16, 2014 at 7:53 AM
As always, love your writing and post. Question: If there were any partakers, did they just take care of getting the emblems themselves and partaking at home on their own? Or did the elders provide a time after sundown to pass? Just curious, if this is details you can share :) Jessica
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Linka April 16, 2014 at 9:24 AM
Hi Jessica, actually several people have asked this question. All of Guinea has under 800 publishers and out of all of those, we have only one anointed brother, a missionary, who lives in the capital. Had we had any anointed here special arrangements would have been made for the bread and the wine either at his home or after the public meeting. I'm sure our elders would have been on top of that too. :)
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Jessica April 16, 2014 at 1:09 PM
Okay! Thanks for wondering. My kids had LOTS of questions ha ha. They were SURE I read the blog wrong and that the emblems were THERE that they were just not passed so we had to re-read it very carefully and yes...I am right. :) We wish we lived close to Arizona to come see your slideshow, how fun would that be!
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TSIZEHARE April 16, 2014 at 8:46 AM
I'm bethelite here in Madagascar. I'm far from my family(we're alike) but happy in fulltime service. I love your writing.
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Linka April 16, 2014 at 9:25 AM
It is certainly not easy to be far from family and friends but I can guarantee, it is the best life. :)
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somedae April 16, 2014 at 12:53 PM
Hi, Linka, wonderful story please add me to your blog, first time I have read your wonderful blogs and would love to keep reading all you write....I live in NC.USA [email protected]
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JOE ZTLAW April 16, 2014 at 2:52 PM
ABSOLUTELY AMAZING THANKS FOR SHARING
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Kellie Theriot April 16, 2014 at 6:22 PM
Sister thank you so very much for sharing this. You have no idea how encouraging this has been for me, it's truly appreciated!! May Jehovah continue to bless all your efforts!!!
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Anya Shortridge April 16, 2014 at 7:14 PM
Thank you for sharing this!
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Patsy Carter April 16, 2014 at 10:02 PM
That was such a beautiful experience! We in the US need to read more of these experiences to really appreciate our relationship with Jehovah even more. Thanks so much for sharing.
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Joab Ranga MAUTSA April 17, 2014 at 12:35 AM
Thank you for sharing so encouraging
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Jacqueline Oosthuizen April 17, 2014 at 1:16 AM
Jacqui, April 16 2014. 10.am

Your blog was sent to me by a sister in the US, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your unusual Memorial. Can't wait to share it with my friends. I live in Port Elizabeth, South Africa (a harbour city) and our congregation had two memorial celebrations, one at 6.30 and then at 8.00. The hall was full and we had a wonderful memorial, Haven't heard yet what the combined attendance was. Could be +- 500 but will hear at tonight's meeting. Please add my email address ([email protected]) to your list as I would really love to receive your blog on a regular basis. Thank you my dear sister.
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Linda Corby April 17, 2014 at 2:45 AM
Dear Linka, thank you so very much for sharing your wonderful experience with us, it warms my heart to hear of such great faith in action. Here in Reigate, England the people are sadly very apathethic and despite our dear brothers putting in hours of hard work we only had 88 at our memorial, sad there was nobody that was not expected. I have a nephew and his wife in China but of course they can tell us nothing, so I love to soak up other brothers & sisters experiences. May our dear heavenly father continue to bless you. Numbers 6:24-26. Christian love Linda
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pattyta April 17, 2014 at 12:40 PM
Querida Ilynca y Peter, es tan fortalecedor oir de la fe de ustedes y como siguen adelante en medio de las dificultades severas que les tocan.
Aunque aqui no se nos presentan expresamente esos desafíos convivimos con otros peligros. Pese a nuestros esfuerzos y alegrías la Conmemoración no conto con el apoyo que anhelabamos y que emergia de las experiencias recogidas durante la campaña.. La apatia de las calles sin lugar a duda esta cediendo debido a los ultimos acontecimientos en que se ha visto involucrado el país. Con todo eso no parece ser suficiente para inducir a la accion justa a las personas mover su corazón y sus manos en dirección a Jehova.. Claro que esto nos apena pero a su vez hace que redoblemos esfuerzos en vista del potencial que evidencia el territorio. Nuestros hermanos se veian de maravillas con todos los preparativos, Y el discurso fue tan ilustrativo que nos hizo ver como almas agradecidas por la esperanza en busca de extender el beneficio mediante suplica...tomen el mensaje de la salvacion por favor...!!!. Si me es posible voy a compartirles parte de el, aunque no se si es muy dificil para ustedes traducir todo esto al ingles. Es una gran pena esto del idioma que me limita porque no dejo de verme a su lado en tal justa tarea. Siempre agradezco que nos permitan participar de su obra mediante estas informaciones y fotos constantes. Ilynca valoro muchisimo el trabajo extra que estas tomando. QUE Jehova nunca deje de proveerles el suficiente socorro fortalecedor para continuar con su tarea. Col 4:8-11 Saludos a ustedes y mis hermanos de su congregación con amor cristiano. Ines
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noémy Lainé April 17, 2014 at 2:31 PM
Bonjour, nous vous suivons de France
Merci pour votre si belle expérience, qui nous fait prendre conscience de la facilité que nous avons de pouvoir nous réunir facilement.
Et de l importance de mettre les choses du royaume à la première place.
Faite attention à vous
Que Jéhovah bénisse vos efforts
Encore merci de partager vos expériences avec nous
Noémy
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Pam April 17, 2014 at 3:10 PM
I was waiting to hear your Memorial report! Last years was amazing! But you are right...definitely a first this year! Did the village nearby have a small group like last year? Always a bright spot in my day when I read your blog!
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Linka April 18, 2014 at 6:34 AM
Hi Pam, unfortunately the Witnesses were chased out of the little village where they held the memorial last year. The people are very superstitious and when there were ethnic problems between tribes they started blaming it on the Witnesses because they did not make sacrifices to their ancestors. It's really sad to see people so oppressed by false religion. But you never know, perhaps Jehovah is still working on someone's heart in that village. The one publisher (and his children) were present at our memorial. :)
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Adrienne Haynes April 17, 2014 at 5:28 PM
Wow! Each memorial has a different element to it. No emblems just sounds...incredible. Can't wait to read more of your experiences, my sister! Purposals during the memorial, I have never heard of that before...that would have felt weird being the third choice LOL!
Here in Oregon, we had ours at a wine institute at the local college here (which one of our elders joked that it was too fitting). The talk was given by the same elder, also of the anointed. (Good thing he didn't choke on the bread this year like he did two years ago!)
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Robert Lamb April 17, 2014 at 6:32 PM
Very interesting information. Thank you for sharing this!

I had the privilege of giving our memorial talk. We had 283 in attendance and 1 partaker. We have a little over 100 publishers so this was a really good turn out.

Many said they enjoyed the talk and a couple of sisters said their husbands stayed awake through the whole talk (for the first time). So that made me happy. Some told me they cried when I described what Jesus went through when he suffered for us. So I guess I was able to reach a few hearts.

Thanks again for the experience!

Your brother,

Rob Lamb
Hawaii
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Richard & Chantelle April 17, 2014 at 9:37 PM
My mum is currently a need greater in Botswana so she heard about your blog and sent it to me. My husband and I and our two kids are currently serving where there's in need in Ciudad Obregon, Mexico. We've been here 6 months and starting to really miss our family. Your post has really helped remind me that others cope with being away for much longer and also thinking about Jesus being away from his father has really helped as well. So thank you for your encouraging words!
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Linka April 19, 2014 at 3:04 PM
I Richard and Chantelle! I am an expert on homesickness. :) And yes, it does help to know that you are not only one feeling this way. Sounds like you have a great adventurous family. Keep up the good work in Mexico (and Botswana for mum)!
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farrington hellen April 17, 2014 at 10:28 PM
...JUST, JUST, JUST so nice.....!!!!
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Stephen Orchard April 18, 2014 at 7:07 AM
Thanks for the encouraging words...it just goes to show how prepared the organization is for every scenario the world sends our way. Our meetings are truly 'life-saving' in every way! Although you miss your family, remember your world-wide family is proud of you!
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Orly April 18, 2014 at 5:17 PM
Thank you so much for this experience! It shows us that Jehovah's Organization adjusts to things in areas of the world when there needs to be this kind of adjustment. I was wondering if any of our Christian brothers or sisters had problems due to the Ebola outbreak. I saw a part of a newscast from there on CNN and it looked pretty bad. I always wonder if our brothers are safe when something like that happens. Thank you for your blog.
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Linka April 19, 2014 at 3:06 PM
Orly, as far as we know none of our brothers and sisters have contracted Ebola. However, this doesn't mean that they aren't affected. These are tight-knit villages and often everyone knows each other. Many people know someone who has died and it's very frightening.
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Travelingbrood April 18, 2014 at 9:31 PM
Hi Linka, Your post actually reminded me of our memorial talk. The brother highlighted the fact that the only reason why we have the memorial is for those annointed ones. He mentioned that this could be our last memorial...because once those 144,000 a sealed (which occurs sometime during the great tribulation) we will not have to observe the memorial and I siad to Shannon how weird would that feel? So this is a good reminder that Jehovahs organization is on the move and we need to keep up with it! xx
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alicia king April 19, 2014 at 1:33 AM
Thank you for that wonderful experience. . I shed tears ... laugh and was encouraged by your faith as well as the other brothers in the congregation. May our loving God jehovah continue to bless you all.
Your Christian sis
Alicia
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Etrius Wong April 19, 2014 at 10:03 AM
What a wonderful experience ! Thanks for sharing this. You are really doing witness for Jehovah and really rely on Jehovah. May I translate your experience to Chinese and share with my brothers and sisters through Whatsapp? May God Jehovah keep blessing you all.
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Linka April 19, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Hi Etrius, I'm glad you enjoyed reading my post. Please feel free to translate it and share with your family and friends. However since I don't know what Whatsapp is and I don't use it I would prefer that you don't put your translation on there but rather direct people to my blog. Thank you!
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Eric Ritchie April 19, 2014 at 10:58 AM
That is a beaaauuutiful experience... We are missionaries in the D.R. and I was tremendously encouraged by it and also to see how flexible can our organization be. It was done the best way it could possibly be done, even if the perfect timing wasn't there, the most important thing was to be there. Olga
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Linka April 19, 2014 at 3:08 PM
Hi Eric and Olg, glad you enjoyed it. I'm sure you have tons of your own stories. Keep up the good work in the D.R.!
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Nathalie Lep April 19, 2014 at 11:08 AM
je m'appelle nathalie et je suis de la Brest en France, nous avons passé un bon mémorial, mais je suis très heureuse de pouvoir lire toutes ses événements que vous passez en Guinée... que c'est fortifiant pour nous de pouvoir lire vos récits... merci de les partager avec nous tous... que Jéhovah vous bénisse!!!
Nathalie lep
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nana/mom April 19, 2014 at 12:22 PM
so touching to read about the real primitive, difficult situations in which our brothers and sisters are contending in behalf of mankind who need to hear about Jehovah and his kingdom. Wow!
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Alyona Kuznetsova April 19, 2014 at 1:30 PM
need to write a second "Yearbook" of Guinea.
Thanks, Linka.
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Susan R April 19, 2014 at 6:03 PM
Amazing! Thank you so much for sharing your Memorial with all of us!
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Jeelyjar April 20, 2014 at 12:09 AM
Thank you so much for sharing Linka. Really enjoyed your writing. Spiritually thought provoking, interesting, heart wrenching in places and then your proposal story made me chuckle! :)

I'm in Scotland and forwarded this to a friend in Arizona. She replied quickly telling me that they had their CO visit, the CO's wife knows you & had shared some of your experiences with her on field service!! It's a small world in the truth.

I'm fairly new to this blogging thing, may I subscribe to or follow your blog? My email addy is: [email protected].

Thanks again and keep up the hard work (Hebrews 6:10)
Your sis
Kirsty x
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Unknown April 20, 2014 at 7:58 AM
Your story is well written and a lovely gift. Hearing about the work you are doing and the response of the deserving ones there is very encouraging. I plan to share this at family worship this week. I. Pray Jehovah keep furnishing you and your husband with love and focus as well as energy! I look forward to more!
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farrington hellen April 20, 2014 at 1:58 PM
......There is an old saying that says...Believe in GOD, but tie-up your horses......!!!!......LOL......Though out the Bible, Jehovah HAS allowed Minor alterations of his instructions---He always remembers he is dealing with Imperfect DUST people....!!!.....He looks directly into a persons Figurative Heart to see what his motivation is.......Like is a person Wicked or just Weak......Two people could commit the Same offense, and Jah let one go, and the other receive punishment.......Jehovah just wants his people to remember and celebrate the Major accomplishment and Obedient Action of his Firstborn angelic Child, done 1,881 ( approx. ) years ago----which helped to Save all his ( Jesus ) human brothers and sisters in the past and to come----to give them Back a chance to regain the Unending life clause, that their first Parent Adam Lost or gambled away from them.....The JW's in prison would NOT ( and never ) use the Emblems----but the fact that they make an effort to Stop and think about Jesus' Assistance towards them, is basically what Jesus' Father is looking to see..............Go to the website @...... ...www.JW.ORG... ....for more examples and scriptures of how Jehovah Continually, Non-stop keeps working with Mankind----to try to bring them back up to His Speed.....!!!!........LOL
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Michael Roode April 20, 2014 at 2:34 PM
Thanks My Dear Brother and Sister for such a Heart warming experience we living in the most challenging times but also the most Joyful times knowing we are all directed by Jehovah we were only 108 in Attendance at the Ottery Congregation South Africa may Jehovah continue to give you power beyond what is normal.
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Linka: N'Zérékoré, Forest, Guinea; I'm a Gilead Grad Missionary who is just trying to get through one day at a time in Satan's word while sharing my adventures in Africa.

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G.B. ARRANGED A MEMORIAL WITHOUT EMBLEMS!

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Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Unforgettable Memorial

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