The Book of Jon

It has been an interesting week.  Sister van Hoff and I have been learning how to webcast.  We wanted to do it on our own, so that we get the full effect of how it must be for other Technology Specialists to set things up and begin webcasting for the first time.  For those unfamiliar with webcasting, it is the technology used to broadcast Stake Conference or other events to other Ward or branch buildings.

Our 1st attempt

Well, the first time setting up the equipment it took us nearly an hour.  We unpacked the equipment and had set it up just fine.  Then we realized it would not work with the camera only five rows back into the pews.  Nearly all the equipment had to be taken down and moved. But, that provided us with great practice is setting it up again.

2nd attempt

Success.  The equipment worked great; sound and camera.  However, trying to connect to the web portal did not work. The web portal allows others connecting to a designated web page with the right code number to view the webcast.

2nd attempt as viewed from the pulpit

Sister van Hoff and I experienced the frustration that many others might have experienced.  Through the rest of the week we tried a few more times to see if we could figure out what went wrong.  Next week we will get some help from more experienced people. We still haven't been able to do a successful test broadcast.
It was a good learning experience and through our failures we will be able to help others who find themselves struggling.  "And thus we see" the Lord allows us to go through trials that we might be there to help make the paths of others easier to travel. (The Book of Jon 1:1)

This week we both had the opportunity to talk and help people from different countries.  There were brothers from Hungary, Italy, Germany, Norway, and a Sister from Serbia.  Some calls were initiated and others came to us.  In each case we were able to help them or, if nothing else, let them know that they were not alone; that they were individually thought about and that someone cared about them.  "Now I say unto you" the Lord uses His servants to do those things He would do if He were walking on the earth. (The Book of Jon 2:8)

Snowman and bunny

Sister Enger's class was fun this week.  With fall around the corner, she talked about chestnuts and the different parts of the tree in German.  At the end of the class she gave us the supplies to create something using chestnuts and wooden matchsticks. For those who can't figure out our chestnut characters, I labeled them.  "And it came to past" that we found enjoyment with the simple things of nature which God has graciously provided. (The Book of Jon 3:10)

For those reading this blog, we love you.  Many of you are in our prayers daily.  It is so wonderful to be on a mission and to serve the Lord the best way we know how; and to meet people and do things we never would have been able to do back home.  The Lord has truly blessed us in our lives and we pray that he blesses you in yours.  Until next time...