The Branch Missionary Open House

Our little branch put on a major missionary effort- a missionary open house.  It was scheduled for Saturday afternoon, May 21st, 4-8 pm.  In preparation, Ken and the Elders passed out a lot of invitations door to door. It was difficult, and reminded Ken of his mission when he was younger and how hard that rejection is. 

The branch members worked hard preparing for the event- hoping to help people learn about us, about Jesus Christ, and to feel the spirit as they walked through the church.

On Tuesday evening before, many branch members gathered to create and hang posters explaining our beliefs. 

Many were there most of the day on Saturday as well, making everything look just right.

In this corner, people could read about Joseph Smith and the restoration of the gospel.

This display taught about the sacrament and the Book of Mormon.

The Kobayashi's taught about family history in  this corner of the chapel.

Many sandwiches were made(by Imi- on the left) (potato salad sandwiches and ham sandwiches) and bagged Japanese-style with a brownie I made.  People could stay and eat there or take their bag with them.

The Sugawara's were in the Primary room.  They taught about Primary and Family home evening.

In the Relief Society room, there were posters explaining what Relief Society is and then there was a cute craft people could make if they chose to.

Our wonderful leader- President Endo.

Imi displaying the craft- little pin cushions

Sister Endo and me.

Dear Sister Hirayama- my faithful friend and Relief Society interpreter.

Cute Elder Mitchell (you saw his worn-out shoe in a recent post.)

My dear friend, Imi

I love Sachiko.  She is the Primary President and faithfully meets with our one child in the branch each week in Primary. 

The sisters made this one for me.

It was wonderful to have children come.  They loved the craft.

As well as the fun game the Sugawara's had for them in the Primary room.

President Endo explains about the sacrament to some visitors.

The Relief Society display

The display on Family Home Evening held each week at the branch. 

Primary

People making the craft

Learning about family history with Sister Kobayashi

Bags of candy for the kids.

It was a great evening and I think everyone who attended went away better than when they came.  We hope it helps bring them closer to Christ.

* The elders reported today at church that they have three new investigators now as a result of this open house. . . and maybe more to come!!