What are your names and where are you from?
Elder Boone from Virginia Beach, VA
Elder Linthorst from Holladay, UT
What language are you learning? Did you know it before you came on your mission? What has been the most difficult part of learning your language?
Arabic. Elder Boone had taken some classes in High School, Elder Linthorst had no prior experience. In response to the most difficult part of learning the language, Elder Linthorst said "I don't know. All of it."
What has been the most beautiful part of serving in the Arabic speaking community?
What do you enjoy the most?
We love the many Middle Eastern cultures represented in the population of El Cajon. Their rich family tradition and loyalty to each other is inspiring to us. We haven't met an Arabic speaker yet that doesn't believe in God. This fosters a strong community with much support for each other in times of trial, and celebration in times of joy. So many of them welcome us as brothers and sisters, not to mention the good food they give us, that we feel like family!
Can you share one of your most special experiences of serving in the Arabic community?
There are many. One touching experience was when we were invited to a traditional Chaldean dinner with many friends, good food, and good conversation. Towards the end of the get-together we learned about some of the troubles one of the older ladies was having with her health. We were able to share about the priesthood and give her a blessing of healing. The Spirit was incredibly strong. It was beautiful to see the faith and love expressed by this dear family.
In your opinion, How can members of our stake best help our Arabic speaking brothers and sisters?
Invite them to have dinner with you! As with any group of people the most important thing is to help our Arabic speaking brothers and sisters feel welcome and loved. Sit by them at church or in activities, talk to them, learn about their culture and their history. Every one of them has a story. Speaking to them with a few words of Arabic would make their day! Eating food together or going to celebrations are huge in their community, so any opportunity to go to an event with them, or bring them to an event with us, is golden.
What’s your favorite food you have discovered on your mission?
Shawarma is our favorite!
Comments