On January 28, Elder and Sister Chandler from Bakersfield, CA bid a fond farewell to the Russia Vladivostok Mission. Called to serve a 23-month mission in the mission office, they ended up extending the maximum amount of time allowed, thereby serving for two years. How grateful we are for the Chandlers and their faithful, devoted service! Each day, they cheerfully made their way to the office...walking up a hill, climbing stairs, and waiting for the buses in the bitter cold weather. They were blessed and sustained throughout their mission. They quickly learned to"do as the Russians do" when it comes to dressing warmly. (We have all learned that sage advice living in Russia.)
Sister Chandler is the second oldest of 14 children. Elder Chandler met her after dating her older sister first. Their first date was at a dance. They have been married for almost 55 years and have loved dancing ever since. The parents of 4 children, the Chandler's planned their entire married lives to serve a mission. At age 77 1/2 years, Elder Chandler has managed all the mission finances, kept the missionaries in money each month, dispersed rent, became expert on the IMOS and MLS computer systems of the Church, filed reports of every kind and gave sound advice to all. Sister Chandler, a former office manager for a urologist for 20+ years, produced newsletters, welcome/orientation books for incoming missionaries, memory books for departing missionaries, typed all of President Brinton's correspondence and yes, gave advice...among many other duties. They were both a vital part of the daily work of the Mission Office. How we love and appreciate their amazing service!
On Monday, the 27th, a farewell dinner was held at the Mission Home for the Chandler's. Most of the missionaries in the Vladivostok zone were able to attend (some were on visa trips to Korea).
Both added their tie/scarf and name tag to the "Wall of Fame".
These are the hands of loving service. Helping hands which cooked hundreds of meals, mended many shirts, pants, blouses, and skirts, and gave a loving pat on the back or a squeeze of the hand to missionaries and members.
It was a joy to cook a meal honoring this couple who have served with all their hearts. Here Sister Braithwaite assists with the serving of food.
Seated from L to R: Elders Hardy, Jewkes, Chandler, Sisters Chandler, Radzhabova, Allison, Elder Elwood, Sisters Aytalieva, Braithwaite, Brinton, President Brinton, Elders Mateer, Lusk, and Sitton. Elder Shepherd took the photo :)
From a different angle. This photo includes Elder Shepherd :)
Posing for a picture in front of the big map of the world has become a tradition before leaving.
En route to the airport, we surprised the Chandlers by stopping at the beautiful new Artyom Church building so the missionaries there could say "goodbye".
With six bags in tow (four of them checked), they ascended the escalator towards customs.
Our final goodbye (for now) to this precious missionary couple. May God's blessings be with them and may they have many more years together to enjoy their families and continue in their service to the Lord. We love you, Elder and Sister Chandler!
Since we have not received a replacement office couple (only 3% of the Senior Couple missionary pool qualify (healthwise) for the Russian missions, President Brinton was inspired to call three computer geniuses (and they're terrific missionaries too!) to take over the duties of the Chandlers...from L to R...Elder Elwood, Elder Jewkes, and Elder Hardy! These young men are nothing short of amazing, and we are so grateful for their assistance in this very important responsibility. Thank you, Elders, for all you do to keep things running smoothly!!
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