Sunday, August 15, 2010

Happy Independence Day

Today is India's independence day. On 15 August, 1947 the British handed over rule to the people that live in India There is a pretty good description in Wikipedia of the various festivities that happen. Of course, since it was Sunday, we missed out on everything. Our driver had the day off so we had to take taxis to church today. Attendance was down since it was difficult or impossible for some folks. Apparently a lot of the buses weren't running today, which made it difficult for people to get to church.

I've thought a lot about our own country's independence and how it brings out patriotic feelings and a deep gratitude for those that have sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. It was really great to see that the people here have the exact same feelings of patriotism and gratitude.

Michelle gave a talk today on the parables of Christ. She focused on the parable of the talents. She did a really great job. One thing that we have noticed, is that many people who convert to the church here in India make great sacrifices to join the church. A lot of them go against the wishes of their families or give up position or station in life. Our Branch President is quite young (in the 25-30 range) and comes from one of the top casts here in India. He is a very humble and spiritual man, but as you can imagine, his family was less than pleased that he decided to join the church. Many of the Saints here are so very faithful and work so hard to be good examples and to share their faith with others.

1 comment:

  1. that is amazing. I guess I've never thought about it. You don't read too much in the ensign about the sacrifices of the Indian pioneers.
    However, I did mean to meantion that the June or July Ensign had quite a few articles about the church in India. I hope you were able to read them. I thought about your family as I was reading them.

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