Hope for All, Farewell to Natasha, Welcome Chloe, J&E Appear, Hello Dolly, The First Resurrection, Home Again

Feeling Hope for Building an Eternal Family

Our concluding lesson in institute was "Feeling Hope for Building an Eternal Family".  We absolutely love this lesson!  All of us have been and are part of God's Eternal Family.  All of us can have hope that we can build our eternal family, whatever our family circumstances have been.

Elder Yoon Hwan Choi of the Seventy taught about the difference our choices can make for our eternal family:

"All of us are in the middle of an eternal family. Our role can be a turning point at which significant changes can occur in positive or negative ways… There are generations before us and after us depending on us to follow Christ so that we can be an eternal family of God."

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles testified:

"To children whose family situation is troubled, we say, you yourself are no less for that. Challenges are at times an indication of the Lord’s trust in you. He can help you, directly and through others, to deal with what you face. You can become the generation, perhaps the first in your family, where the divine patterns that God has ordained for families truly take shape and bless all the generations after you."

Elder David A. Bednar also of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:

"With the help of the Lord, you can create an eternal family, even if you did not come from the kind of Latter-day Saint home that sometimes is featured on the covers of the [Church] magazines. Please always remember: it begins with you!

You and I are not trapped in our past experiences. We are not wholly and totally victims of our present circumstances or captives of our environment. The Holy Ghost will teach us all things that we should do, including patterns of family righteousness in which we have not previously participated. It begins with you! And with the Lord’s help, you can do it.

Some of you have had your hearts broken by family members or respected leaders who have not honored sacred marriage covenants. You may ask yourself, “If my parents or other couples I have known were sealed in the temple and their marriages did not succeed, what hope can I have that my marriage will last forever?”

To you who have experienced the heartache of a divorce in your family or felt the agony of violated trust, please remember it begins again with you! One link in the chain of your generations may have been broken, but the other righteous links and what remains of the chain are nonetheless eternally important. You can add strength to your chain and perhaps even help to restore the broken links. That work will be accomplished one by one."

The late M. Russell Ballard, president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said:

"Brothers and sisters, the most important cause of our lifetime is our families. If we will devote ourselves to this cause, we will improve every other aspect of our lives and will become, as a people and as a church, an example and a beacon for all peoples of the earth."

Farewell dear Natasha Zinovieff

Natasha was found by the missionaries who were planting gospel seeds in Berwick upon Tweed.  We were invited to teach her about Jesus Christ with the young Elders.  We have so enjoyed our time testifying and teaching her.  She is in her mid-eighties and has almost completed reading the Book of Mormon.  We will keep in touch with her as she continues her journey to learn of her eternal destiny.

Welcome Chloe Cooper

Chloe had been searching for truth and saw a facebook ad from the church in our area and decided to pursue her impression to investigate further.  She showed up at the Newcastle Chapel one Sunday and began attending church, meeting with the missionaries and learning more about the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.   She loves institute and 9-Square and was baptized the 20th of April just before we left.  (Interestingly, she drives a mini-cooper).  Welcome Chloe!

Jordan and Estefi Visit

We were delighted with a visit from our son Jordan and his wife Estefi.  It was so fun to visit Edinburgh, Scotland and many other family history sites in the area as well as Scarborough, England the home of Jordan's great grandmother Emily Ness.  

The cannon fires from the Edinburgh castle every day at pricesely 1:00 PM, providing Edinburgh residents throughout time a standard time to set their time pieces to.  

Hello Dolly

We were able to visit the first ever cloned animal "Dolly" in the museum of Scotland.  She is quite good looking and enjoyed our visit !

The Morning of the First Resurrection

During our visit to the ruins of the Saint Andrews Cathedral in St. Andrew Scotland we were presented with a thought provoking image of what the morning of the First Resurrection might reveal.

We say farewell to our wonderful Leeds England Mission office Elders.  From Left to right, Elder Bartlett, Elder Oldham, Elder Keisebach and Elder Riggs.

We travel home with two other amazing senior couples (left to right) Diane and Larry Prigmore and Val and Beth Wilding.

Home again into the wonderful arms of our family !

We cannot begin to enumerate the many small miracles we have experienced on our mission and the wonderful dedicated members. Suffice it to say 'by small and simple means, great thing are brought to pass'. We are so very grateful for the privilege we have had to serve the Lord.  We express our deep appreciation to our mission Leaders, President David Clare and His Wife Jayne Clare for their inspiration and guidance while we served and especially thank each one of our children who helped us time and time again with things at home, even moving our belongings and cleaning out our house.  We believe in eternal families; we love each and every member of our family so very much!

Our favorite scripture when we embarked on this mission journey was:

3 Nephi 5:13 

"Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life."

As we conclude this mission our favorite scripture is:

Doctrine and Covenants 68:6

"Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you; and ye shall bear record of me, even Jesus Christ, that I am the Son of the living God, that I was, that I am, and that I am to come."

We so testify that He was, that He lives today and that He will come again, our Savior and Redeemer, even Jesus Christ the Son of the living God.  In His Holy name, we conclude this mission with gratitude for his Great Sacrifice for us and the many tender mercies we have been extended by Him and our dear Heavenly Father.   

Defend, (TT)x2, It's Over, Our Word Cloud

Defending the Family

In institute class this last week we talked about how we can defend the family organization in a changing and chaotic world.  The family is the most fundamental unit of our society.  We have an obligation to provide an environment for children and spouses to be nurtured and cared-for in a loving home.  The "Proclamation on the Family" released in 1995 by Gordon B. Hinckley, president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints concludes with these words: 

"We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.

We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."

We love our family and want each and every one of them to have all the blessings possible from being raised in a safe and loving environment.  

Temple Time with Grace Cadle

One of our institute students, Grace, has been on a faith journey for the last three years which culminated in a trip with us to the Preston temple this last week to receive the Endowment Ordinance.  The word endowment means "a gift." The temple Endowment Ordinance  is literally a gift from God whereby He bestows sacred blessings upon us.  The Endowment can only be received in the Lord's holy temples.  Some of the gifts one receives through the temple endowment include:

1.  Greater knowledge of the Lord’s purposes and teachings.

2.  Power to do all that God wants us to do.

3.  Divine direction and protection as we serve the Lord, our families, and others.

4.  Increased hope, comfort, and peace.

5.  Promised blessings now and forever.

It was a glorious day to be with Grace.  Because she is the only member of the Church in her family, this was an especially tender time for her and we felt privileged to be with her.  She is one of the most resilient & optimistic individuals we know. 

A stop for the world's best chocolate milk was a a fun treat for us, the sister missionaries (Sagers and Moss), and Grace.

Temple Time with Emily Wheatley

We also had a wonderful adventure with Emily Wheatley to receive her Endowment, just 2 days after our trip with Grace to the Temple.  Emily has grown up in the church and also attends our Institute class.  She has submitted her mission papers and expects to be called on a mission shortly.  She is pictured here with us, her parents and her grandparents (her grandfather is Bishop Adlington of the South Shields Ward).  She has the sweetest smile and most pleasant disposition.  

It's Over Celebration

We had a humbling and delightful gathering at the Newcastle Chapel for Sunderland Stake members who wanted to wish us a farewell.  Mixed feelings for us--  leaving now after having met so many incredible people here, yet missing so desperately our family back home. 

They presented us with a word cloud gift, based on input from the YA who attended our classes.

Try Again, Babbling Brook, 5K, Hand it Over, Girl in the Park

 Repentance & Forgiveness in Family Life

This week in institute we discussed repentance and forgiveness in family life.  We may often overlook how important regularly practicing these principles can bless our lives and those of our family.  Seeking to learn how others are feeling and recognizing when communication needs to be improved can help us find opportunities to practice repentance and forgiveness.  Some of our favorite quotes this week:

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained, “Repentance means a change of mind and heart—we stop doing things that are wrong, and we start doing things that are right. It brings us a fresh attitude toward God, oneself, and life in general.”

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught: “Repentance not only changes us, but it also blesses our families and those we love. With our righteous repentance, in the timetable of the Lord, the lengthened-out arms of the Savior will not only encircle us but will also extend into the lives of our children and posterity. Repentance always means that there is greater happiness ahead.”

We need to sometimes give someone space to repent, to not assume that they will behave the same as they have in the past, but to give them the 'benefit of the doubt' and give them the gracious love the Savior gives to each of us, the opportunity to repent.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “Let people repent. Let people grow. Believe that people can change and improve.”

Elder Massimo De Feo of the Seventy said: “My dear brothers and sisters, if you are struggling to find the strength to forgive, don’t think of what others have done to you, but think of what the Savior has done for you, and you will find peace in the redemptive blessings of His Atonement.” 

The Brook Pauna Family

We sometimes highlight families we come to know.  We had the opportunity this last week to have a meal with the Brook and Lyndall Pauna family.  Lyndall is from South Africa and Brook is from Australia.  They met when Brook's brother met the Hamiltons on his mission and suggested that Brook reach out to Lyndall and get to know her.  He did and the rest is history.  They are such great examples in the stake here.  They have three children, Josiah 9, Asa 6 and Phineas 3.  They live in Morpeth and Lindall's mother, Debrah Hamilton, lives not far away.  Brook is the Ashington Branch President and a Chiropractor and Lyndall is the Primary first counselor and a dentist.  They have full lives and are very busy but take time to be loving and kind to others.  We had beef stew with mushrooms and dipping bread then played with the family guinea pigs and played 'Doubles' (Spot-it).  

District 5k

Our district activity this week was on the banks of Whitley Bay where we joined the ParkRun there.  Of course Elder Betteridge couldn't resist a run in the park, so off we went.  Sister Betteridge walked along the course and took pictures. There were probably 400 participants. 

The members of our district are from back left to right -- Elder Howard from South Dakota  , Elder Jones from Worster Massachusetts, Elder Gao from Provo Utah, Elder Ahlmer from Pleasant View Utah, Elder Daniels from Firth Idaho, Elder Muchmore from Casper Wyoming, Sister Moss from Winslow Arizona and Sister Sagers from Tooele Utah.  

The Handoff

This last week we took a step back from leading the institute effort and turned it over to the stake as counseled by our mission president.  David Redpath, the high councilor advising the YA activities, led the effort this week.  We had record attendance with 24 at North Shields and 21 at Gateshead.  Many friends of the missionaries attended.  

We handed off the 9-square which has been a big hit here in the stake. We have hauled this 50 pound bag around the stake to our two institute classes every week for the last year.  It barely fits in our little Toyota Corolla.  We have enjoyed using a slightly larger, balloon-type rubber ball.  It is easier to play with and is more unpredictable.  

Look who we found in the park, she looks just like our youngest daughter.  

Cheers, TTT, Lastiness, The Show Ain't Over 'Til..., Rollin.. rollin... rollin, Arise!

Cheers to Health

We were able to discuss with the young adults this last week understanding mental and emotional health.  Our mental and emotional health influences our thoughts, feelings, behavior, resilience, and more. Even as we strive to maintain good health, we may experience mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression.  It is important to be mindful of how we feel and why we feel the way we do and to do the best we can to manage these emotions in healthy ways. Jesus often went to places where He could be alone and commune with God.  Following His example can strengthen our mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

While sinful behavior can cause mental, emotional, and spiritual suffering, it is crucial that we do not attribute all such challenges to sin or a lack of faith. Some of the Lord’s most faithful children experience mental health challenges, such as severe anxiety or clinical depression. Though we don’t know everything about mental illness, we do know it is complex. Mental illness can be linked to chemical imbalances in the brain, genetic and environmental factors, traumatic events, brain injury, or substance abuse. In our day, “one in four people will be affected by mental or emotional illness at some point in their lives”, said Bonnie L. Oscarson.  

If we experience mental illness, fasting and praying for relief, seeking priesthood blessings, and attending the temple can often bring strength and healing. At other times, the illness may persist. If this occurs, know that our efforts are not in vain.  The Lord is watching over us and can sanctify this experience for our good.

Consider how the following principles can support our efforts to maintain or improve our mental health:

• Stay focused on Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Especially when it is challenging to feel Their influence, choose to act with faith in Them. Reflect on times when you have felt Their influence. Remember that the Savior can always help because He “descended below all things”. He perfectly understands the despair and frustration of those who experience mental illness. The prophet Alma testified that Jesus Christ knows “according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities” (Alma 7:12)
• Share what you experience with loved ones. Keeping mental illness secret can increase feelings of isolation and prevent you from receiving necessary, even lifesaving, help. Helping others understand what you experience will increase their ability to support you.
• Seek help from competent medical professionals. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles advised:  “If things continue to be debilitating, seek the advice of reputable people with certified training, professional skills, and good values. Be honest with them about your history and your struggles.” (“Like a Broken Vessel,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 41)

To The Temple with Skie Elson (pronounced sky)

We had a delightful experience attending the temple this last week with Skie Elson, who attends our Thursday night Institute class.  Her parents also attended the temple with her.   Her family lives in the Newcastle ward.  She is the oldest of 5 children and a wonderful example to all.  We loved the opportunity to be with her as she received the Endowment ordinance.

The Lasts

We took our last transfer day trip to Leeds.  The car was empty on the way down but we picked up two of our favorite missionaries, Elder Jacoba Trotta from Italy and Elder Felix Heller from Germany, back with us.  They will be serving in the Gateshead ward area within the Sunderland Stake. 

We conducted our last series of Flat Inspections (9 flats).  We have done this every 6 weeks, preparing treat bags for the elders and sisters and making sure their flats are safe, clean and free of black mould.

We taught our last institute nights in Gateshead (Thursday nights)  and North Shields (Wednesday nights).  We have transferred the discussion leading / teaching to the stake leaders and recommended people within the stake who can carry on this responsibility..

We prepared our last institute meals.  The winner for easiest to prepare and most favorite was Taco Soup, served over tortilla chips with sour cream, grated cheese and olives.

Yes, Elder Betteridge really performed in the North Shields Ward Choir fully with pants and shirt ;-).  Heather accompanied several soloists and sang with the choir.  Jan Phillipson has inspired Elder Betteridge that he has a voice that should be heard (in the choir). 

Egg Roll

An Easter tradition in our family is to hard boil eggs and then sit across from each other in the living room and each roll an egg at the other with the intention of hitting your opponents egg and cracking it. Only one egg will crack and the owner of that egg is deemed the winner of the egg roll. Well.... guess who won the 2024 Hardy-Betteridge Family Egg Roll in Seaton Delaval England?  

The Resurrection

The spring time renewal is here and it is truly amazing to us.  The beautiful creation of this Earth testifies in so many ways of the Resurrection of our Savior.  As we entered the chapel on Easter morning the Daffodils and tulips outside the door seemed to stand a little taller that morning as if to say, He is Risen!  We express deep and joyful gratitude to our dear Father for the Resurrection of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.  He lives !