We received and update this morning from President Smart about the hurricane and their efforts. We didn’t hear from Madeline yesterday and now we know why. They are moving the sister missionaries to the mission home and the elders to the mission office. Living on the opposite end of the island, it would take them time to gather and travel.
As you are aware, Hurricane Maria has strengthened and is forecasted to hit Puerto Rico Wednesday morning. Therefore, we have decided to move all Sisters to the Mission Home and the Elders to the Mission Office. We believe the experience of having the missionaries together will buoy them up, bring a sense of unity, safety and security. Our prayer is that they will walk away spiritually fortified like never before and then turn and save another.
Communication is limited and we cannot answer parent’s phone calls, texts or emails because our time will be spent with the missionaries. We will however send regular updates.
The most important thing you can do at this time is to keep the missionaries and all people of Puerto Rico in your prayers.
With sincere gratitude and love,
President and Sister Smart
The strategy of moving is a good one. First, it appears to be on the opposite side of the island from the direction Maria is headed. The further away from the eye wall the better.
Second, both mission home and mission office are very fortified and are away from the coast where storm surge could cause a problem. If storm surge were to still reach them, there is more than one level.
Third, with everyone together, you not only know where everyone is and how they are doing, but you can help with the emotions that will be high when a large hurricane hits. Even more, if other plans needs to be enacted, everyone is together.
These are all logical thoughts. The spiritual knowledge is even more sure. The Lord has protected his people throughout time and we know that any hurricane is nothing compared to the power of God. I have peace knowing He is paying careful attention to each missionary.
Brett