Ancient Ruins of Mallorca are fascinating

Our friend and recent convert, Augusto, took us on a sight-seeing tour of ancient ruins on the island. These ruins are likely to be 3000 years old, similar to the Stone Henge in Great Britian. The first could have been a place of safety when invaders came to shore. The second is part of an small pueblo where a group of island inhabitants lived. These are both near the town of Arta. Augusto's friend Marty, a Mallorquin was our guide and teacher. We are all together outside of the safe haven site. Los Thompson are standing at the entrance to the small stone village.

Elder Thompson's friend Iris is baptized

Elder Thompson visits a Repsol gas station regularly. He became acquainted with some of the employees, inviting them to attend our English class. One employee, Iris, accepted the invitation. From the first time I saw Iris, I thought she might also be interested in learning about the gospel of Jesus Christ. She was a good English student who eventually became a good gospel student. She knew of the Mormons in Uruguay and felt comfortable with them. Her baptism was held in Manacor on January 29th. She is pictured with branch member Ashley, the elders Egan and Greep, and Los Thompson.

Three King's Day

We were invited to visit with the Scharsigs, our friends from Germany, on Spain's holiday, Three King's Day, Jan. 6th. We watched four boats come to shore, each containing a Wise Man led by a person representing the star. They landed to the applause of a large crowd and to a band playing a welcoming selection. With a large parade of people dressed as guards to the Kings, they made their way to the Catholic Church in the center of Colonia St.Jordi. The Kings paid respects to a woman representing Mary carrying the baby Jesus. Gifts were given to children who attended. It seems to me to be a worthwhile holiday where Bible stories are reinacted and remembered.

Los Thompson had an adventure over New Year's Eve (Noche Vieja - old night). The elders in Menorca were moving to a new apartment where they had to buy supplies for the kitchen and bath,and put up light fixtures themselves. We decided this was a good time to visit them so we could give them a hand. We took a ferry boat from Alcudia, driving our car onto the ship. It was an hour's ride to the city of Ciudella, a port city on Menorca. We drove to Mahon at the other end of the island where we met the elders. They are shown standing in front of the branch chapel, a lovely space on a very nice street.