It was hard to believe that the Whittier Stake was celebrating 50 years as a stake, but they were and where would the Renouf family and its 96 family posterity be without that wonderful cornerstone in the faith of our family. Mom and Dad's conversion took place out in Whittier at 15059 Hornell. Whittier 3rd Ward our first experience with a " Ward Family". Bishop Ron Salo was our families first Bishop.
50 Years later The Renoufs along with a multitude of wonderful people held seats of honor in this great Stake Event. We know it takes a village or a ward to make miracles happen but there has to be strong righteous leaders and supportive family members to rally those wards together, buoy those Bishops up and think outside the box.....President/ Bishop Jack Renouf and the best right hand woman Barbara Renouf. What a pleasure to watch hundreds of people long to visit, hug, greet and love our Mom and Dad. We know how wonderful they are, and we also know that they touch the lives of everyone and everything they do. They are the Lords hands and have spread his word and love across the vineyard. While I was not able to attend everything what I did attend touched my heart and strengthened my testimony. Seeing faces from a distant past brought warmth and memories. It served as a taste of what heaven holds for us as we renew those friendships that enhance our life and make us who we are today. It was a pleasure to watch Candice, Bill and their sweet family as played pioneers in the Friday performance. Dad mentioned that evening brought together 4 generations of Renouf's in the Whittier Stake. We are so grateful for the heritage and legacy that the Sanders continue to leave in the Whittier Stake on behalf of our family at the hand of the Lord.
I loved the special sacrament program that was held on Sunday. I am guessing there was at least 1500-2000 souls who came to worship and listen to the words of the great leaders of the Whittier Stake past and present. Sacrament was amazing with some 40 young men all dressed in white shirts bless and pass the sacrament to all in attendance. There was special music and Come Come Ye Saints rang through the building. Each past Stake President was asked to give remarks and each one gave a direct view and dimension to their time serving in The Whittier Stake. Each one expressed great love for the people of the stake as well as the leaders. It was a treat to hear my father give a strong powerful testimony about the Savior Jesus Christ. I was impressed as he mentioned how stubborn he was when the gospel first came to him and admitted it took time. Then with the strength of Nephi he said "if you are being stubborn get over it you are wasting time". He also spoke of a blessing left by (I hope this is correct ) Russell M. Ballard upon the Whittier Stake.
I wrote a few notes about each talk that day but there was one that really touched my heart. It also touched Mark and I am sure you will know why. President Marco said "the Lord will always put people to love and care for us in our path." Mark and I believe this with all our heart. We have a deep appreciation for our Heavenly Father and his great love for us.
It was a special weekend and I am sure I have left out many many key points but it is a memory I will treasure forever.
1 comment:
Wow-that sounded wonderful. We wish we could have been there!
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