Dear Family & Friends,

We have had a wonderful week here in Madagascar. We have been getting rain that makes it smell so good, and cleans the air. It also cools it down some. Yesterday it went from 88 to 76 which was nice. We had Stake Conference yesterday. It was a special broadcast from Salt Lake City to the Africa East and West areas. President Monson spoke on finding the Lost Battalion, or lost sheep who need rescuing. He told a story from World War I that took place in Flanders field, where a group of soilders were trapped behind enemy lines and how the 77th Division fought through to rescue them. They were courageous and fought harder than they had ever fought before because their purpose was to save other men who needed their help. Greater love hath no man than this that he lay down his life for a friend. He said, "We need to help rescue those around us who need our help and our love, the widows, our neighbors, and those who are lost. We can lift the heads that hang down by being their friend and helping them when we see their need. We all need a friend and someone who truly cares and loves us." He further asked, "Do you see Christ in every person you meet? Our Heavenly Father is mindful of all of us, he loves us and wants us to return to live with him." He challenged all of us to be better neighbors and friends, and to help the lost sheep find their way home to safety.

We are looking forward this week to greeting the newest couple to our mission the Shupes' from Cordova, California. They will arrive on Wednesday. We are busy trying to get their apartment ready for their arrival. We hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. We send you our love and appreciation for all you do to support us and each other. Elder & Sister Cornelius

This first picture is of some unique flowers that are blooming near our office. (936) The second picture is of the view from the mission office looking at the Jacaranda trees in bloom.