ZHM Sisters Conference

Sisters of the Zimbabwe Harare Mission

Our first ZHM Sisters Conference started the day after Thanksgiving. In the months leading up to the conference the STL's and I counseled together about what might help our sisters feel more united in love for each other and for Jesus Christ, while focusing on our missionary purpose. 

The STL's selected our theme, CHARITY NEVER FAILETH, then planned and taught workshops around what was most needful: Caring for the sacred temple garment, locking your heart, charity one towards another, healthy communication skills, and cleanliness in all things.

Everything was a highlight, but one of my favorites was our Sister-to-Sister zoom devotional with the sisters in the Washington Vancouver Mission. The sisters asked each other questions about mission life in two very different places. We learned that what we have in common is much more powerful than our differences. And the impromptu singing by our sisters at the beginning was very connecting for all of us.

Sister to Sister zoom with the Washington Vancouver Mission sisters

Early in the morning for them, and late in the evening for us

Earlier in the day, we also had a zoom class with a dear friend in the states who serves as an ARP missionary and life coach. She taught the sisters about agency and the power to change their thoughts, feelings and behavior in ways which would strengthen them as missionaries. 

Zoom class with Sister Reeves

Another highlight was a golf lesson and morning fun at one of the Harare stake president's homes. 

The majority of these missionaries are converts, and did not have the blessing of attending young women's activities in their youth. At moments, this conference reminded me of all the best things about girls camp - the feelings of love that grow as you spend time together, the powerful spirit that testifies of each sister's individual worth especially in the face of very difficult challenges, and as each sister bore her testimony we could all feel God's love for us. 

It was hard saying good-bye, and as we parted I think we all felt strengthened, and carried with us a greater resolve to focus on our missionary purpose, and more fully live the two great commandments...to love God and love one another.