President Bayarjav (Baji) worked hard to have weekly activities involving the members. This is a branch pot luck dinner. Most say pot luck doesn't work in Mongolia because they are used to the church providing everything and they are poor enough that they feel they have nothing to contribute. That was not the case in Darkhan. We had great participation and great food at this dinner!
Mongolians love to play tennis (ping pong) and every chapel has a table and paddles. Sometimes it's set up in the hall and left there for awhile. But all ages play and they love it.
President Doko is really very good and it's everyone's goal to try to beat him!
Karaoke is also a favorite of this branch. They have the equipment and love to sing so it's a great combination!
Naranbat (Naba)
A branch activity was planned at the river. When we first arrived here, we were told that everything that is exciting happens at the river. People love to go there to just hang out, have fun and enjoy nature. A branch activity was planned for New Darkhan the day of a priesthood training. But the leaders got everyone on the necessary buses to get us to the river and then those who needed to attend the training left while the rest of us had a wonderful time. It was a rather cool rainy day, but, when asked, the members still wanted to go. It takes more than a little rain and wind to stop this branch from having a great time!
I had stuck in the jump ropes that we used for school and everyone had a great time jumping rope. Sadly, we are a little too old for that!
Mongolians love to volley the ball around. Here Sister G. is learning from President Bayarjav. He is such a great man!
And then, of course, Mongolians love football (our soccer).
This is Luvsendorj's son playing frizbee with Alan.
The older sisters enjoyed playing UNO while the younger ones ran around. Those cards are well used!
Mongolians also love to play checkers.
And chess!
And eat. Everyone brought food again today and we had a feast!
Of course, you can't go to the river without actually playing in the water!
The river is really a beautiful place. We can understand why Mongolians love to come here for rest, relaxation, fun and games!
Celebrating President Baji's birthday. The youth really love him. He is such a wild and crazy guy! But he is also loving and caring as well!
His birthday was on the Sunday after General Conference when we listened to it at the church. We gave him a tie tac of the Salt Lake Temple. Here Sister Groesbeck is pinning it on his suit.
Between conference sessions, LaNice suggested that everyone bring food to share. That way, people would not leave to go home to eat and then not return. It was a great success and Suvdaa said this is something she would like to continue after we leave.
The activities in the New Darkhan branch were outstanding and really helped to strengthen the branch. When members have fun times together, they are also strengthened and the bonds of unity are strengthened. Sharing experiences increases love and appreciation for others and their service!
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