We were so excited when we got the first news that they were on the plane to Germany. Tyler said they barely made it to the plane as it closed the gate. He had so much chocolate in his bags they had to detain him at security.... maybe some hair gel also! Then we got a text that said AMERICA! Landing in Denver meant he was so close. We had a great group at the airport. AND only three missionaries arrived home, so we had lots of space.
If my math is correct you are only a few hours away from embracing this incredible missionary. Oh how I wish I had the time and the words to describe what an amazing missionary, disciple of Jesus Christ and compassionate soul this Elder is, but I guess you already know that, even better than I do. Sister Dover and I are new here in this beautiful land and the one thing we know for sure is that we want missionaries like you son to stay. To see them, hear them, watch them and feel their power, their love their devotion is beyond words.
We had the chance to take you son to the temple a few days ago and to hear him and his companion talk about a scared experience where they hugged a friend who they had taught and baptized in the Celestial room. The spirit was so overpowering. I am so thankful for your son taking the time to share with me his insights about a certain area of Finland and how we can possibly improve the efforts and outcomes was critical. There was no question he was supposed to be where he was to teach me, challenge me and lead us both into critical revelation. We developed a close connection in the short time we were here and I will miss him deeply.
His final letter to me, portions of it will be shared throughout the entire mission because I don’t know if I have ever seen or read, outside the BofM a testimony of what it means to become a missionary and to love missionary service. Tears came to my eyes as I read it and loved his opening line, “President I am not much of a deep thinker….”. Wrong! Watching the departing elders and sisters sing last night as your son beautifully played the piano was the ultimate capstone to his mission of love. He was an incredible missionary, and is an incredible saint. Thank you for sharing him with us and the great people in Finland. I wish I had the time and the skills to send more pictures, but please take a look at the Facebook page Sister Dover posts to and you will see his wonderful face.
Be well until we meet someday.
Bert T. Dover
President
Finland Helsinki Mission
