Mother's Day/Birthday

We were able to talk to Ben on Mother's Day. It was SO good to hear his voice. He's the same old Ben, just more mature. He sounds GREAT!!! Right now he is in a three-some. His current companion is Elder Smith and his new companion is Elder Gines. He is from Layton, Utah and his last area was Bessemer, AL where he served as the zone leader. He has been out in the field for 18 months. Ben says he loves him and that they have already become great friends. He continues to be busy, busy, busy with all the Zone Leader Meetings, getting to know ALL the missionaries, team-ups, and much more. Ben says he's feeling more comfortable in the office and that he loves serving the Lord.

They were fortunate enough to have Gladys Knight come and perform in Alabama on March 21st and 22nd. It was a great missionary opportunity. They received 500+ referrals from the concert. He said the concert was incredible and something that he will always remember. He said it was powerful and bold. Galdys Knight's husband got up and told everyone that this is the true church and that they all needed to join. Pretty awesome!

Ben celebrated his 20th birthday on May 7th. He celebrated with the Stanley family. Ben was so excited to open up his birthday package from home. He LOVED it! He had a good birthday.

Ben continues to work hard and absolutely loves the work. He has such a strong testimony of the gospel.

My mom has made several friends in Alabama since Ben has been serving there. They email back and forth and occasionally talk on the phone. They give her all the updates from a member's point of view. My mom is able to ask them questions that Ben will never answer when she asks. They told her it is tornado season right now and that Gadsden has been hit pretty hard, but that everyone is safe. They also tell her funny, happy things about Ben which makes her smile. It's always good to hear good reports about your son. They all adore Ben out there so it's good to know he is in good hands. This is the latest email from a sister in the ward. My mom will probably hate that I posted this, but tough luck! I love that Sister Austin describes Ben just how we all remember him. This is what I would call a PAYDAY for a mom!! Mom, one day you'll be glad I recorded this!

Hello Brenda..

Just let me say this: In all my 45 years on this earth, your son is probably one of the most humble, diligent, respected, sought after missionaries to ever serve in Alabama! I pray the Lord blesses you daily while you are separated. However, please know that the work of our Father in Heaven progresses daily through your son! These pics were before the recent Glady's Knight concert in our Stake. This is my niece Sadie (our entertainer) and Sis. Moats - one of the Gadsden, AL early member pioneers. I wish you & yours much love!

Sis. Lori Goss Austin
Gadsden, AL Ward
Birmingham, AL Stake