Celebrating Bonga Mango's mission departure, Elder and Sister Thomas departure and the Stapley's move to East London

We had the opportunity to visit with the Sada Ward today.  They had a special function for Bonga Mango who is departing on a mission to the London South Mission.  Amazing.  Sister Thomas and I helped Bonga as he made the necessary preparations.  Of course, there was a great deal of help from the Stapley's who follow us in Sada.

The function was also for Elder and Sister Thomas as well as Elder and Sister Stapley who will be relocating to East London to take out place there.

It was a joyous celebration and it was well planned and well executed.  They really know how to have party there.  Bishop Xalabile and Sister Xalabile are simply awesome leaders in the Ward.  It has been wonderful to see sacrament meeting attendance grow from 43 the first time we attended to over 120 today.  Dedicated service from the members, with the support from the Stake in calling Stake Missionaries to work in the ward, along with the service of the missionaries has made a difference.

About halfway through the celebrations, they came and took Sister Thomas away and dressed her up.  It was cute.  Only later did Sister Thomas realize that Sister Xalabile made the dress for her.  When she realized this she had tears in her eyes for more than just a moment.

We had President Merrill with us for this and he enjoyed the lunch provided by the ward.

We really love this place and and the people.  We will leave a portion of our hearts with these members.