Sisters Luncheon.

Monday, December 2nd from 1-3pm, was Sister Carter's luncheon for the 'near' sister missionaries. (Remember Darwin, Alice Springs, and Mildura are all ' far.')

Sister Carter is a closet decorator, because the tables and mission home were all beautifully decked out for Christmas. Because I collect them, I asked if the nativity had special origin or meaning and she said it was from Jerusalem. The mission home has two lovely Christmas trees and room enough for three large tables that seated all 30, either in the dining area or great room.

Each place setting had a green napkin and a Santa sleigh made from candy canes as runners, individually wrapped large and mini candy bars for the actual sleigh, and a ribbon holding it all together (thanks to Sisters White, Goodrich, and Smith for wrapping, gluing, tying!)

The senior missionary sisters made salads, served with crust bakery bread and fruit. After lunch, we gathered in the living room for messages by President and Sister Carter.

Sister Carter shared the Luke 10 scripture story of Mary and Martha and indicated that both types of sisters are needed, and she cautioned us to be wise in our priorities. For more insight, I really like this article here.

President Carter mentioned noticing women's hands, particularly older women's hands, knowing they are the result of years of love, service and devotion. He spoke of his own mother and shared stories of her, as well as other influential women in his life.

President closed by singing to us, and accompanied himself on the guitar. Afterward we all went into the kitchen to participate in the cookie exchange.

Our thanks to President and Sister Carter for the afternoon of special attention and encouragement.