Amanda's Setting Apart

Amanda's setting apart was incredible.  President Ron Mortensen started by reading Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all thy heart, and lean not to thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."  He told Amanda that Heavenly Father knew years and years ago that she would be a full-time missionary in Hong Kong.  He also knows the people that she will be teaching and finding.  He has prepared them for her.  If she tries to do the work on her own, she will not be successfull, but if she trusts in God and follows the impressions she has, miracles will happen.

He then read John 3:16 and told her this will be the most important message she will share on her mission!  God loves all of His children so much that He gave His Only Begotten Son.  This will be a new message for many who have never heard of Jesus Christ!

Finally, before he set her apart, he told her to ENJOY her mission.  Take some time out when things are getting too stressful and heavy.  Go get ice cream!  Kick back for a few minutes and decompress.  Try to enjoy the beautiful country of Hong Kong!

Here are some of the specific blessings she was  blessed with in her setting apart:

• You will be given the gifts and talents necessary to reach the hearts and minds of those in your path
• The Holy Ghost will teach you on a daily basis
• Be humble
• Enjoy and love you companions, be postitive and be patient.
• You will be blessed with good health and the strength necessary to meet the rigorous demands of mission life
• Remember to SMILE!  You will stand out in Hong Kong!  People will be drawn to you and will ask you questions
• You will be a good teacher!
• You are given the gift of tongues and you will learn the language - in fact you will become proficient in it quickly because the people of Hong Kong need to hear what you have to share!
• Pray ALWAYS - that includes when you're standing, sitting, walking or kneeling.
• Remember to talk to Heavenly Father about everything!

Amanda felt a physical difference as she walked out of that setting apart.  She was peaceful and calm and more confident that she now had the blessings and tools she needs to be successful with a lot of hard work!