Monterey California Stake 50th Anniversary

Yesterday Nan and Jeff were able to participate with the Latter-Day Saints in Monterey County the 50th Anniversary of the organization of the Monterey California Stake....organized March 2nd, 1958 by Elder Mark E. Peterson of the Quorum of the Twelve. It was wonderful. Of the seven men that have been called to serve as Presiding High Priest of the stake by the Lord four are still living and were in attendance. Two of the other three had family members in attendance. Others that had lived and served in the stake came from as far at Utah and Idaho to be with us for the celebration.

We began the day with a wonderful luncheon for the former and current Stake Presidents and Bishops. There were approximately 75 to 80 in attendance and each attending family stood and introduced themselves. It was wonderful fun to hear all the stories of inspiration, trial, fun and service. We learned about the "Egg Ranch" in Wastonville, the Avis Car Rental shuttle, the stake pig farm in Carmel Valley amongst other various welfare and fund-raising projects. How blessed are we today to live under the post 1989 budget change directive. Hopefully we are using that time to increase our study and ministry to others.

The stake then hosted an open house for all current and former members and of course any friends at the stake center in the early evening. It was wonderful to see so many former members of our stake and hear how their lives are progressing and how the Lord's hand has been so evident in strengthening and blessing their families. It was amazing to see kids that have grown to adulthood and started families, begun their service in the church and society and have begun to apply lessons learned while members of the Monterey Stake.

The crowning event of the day was a fireside last evening with a representative from each family from each stake president taking part. The stories and doctrine taught were inspirational, memorable and uplifting. The music was fantastic. I hope to be able to add the musical number performed by a member of our stake of the "stake song" named "The Banner of Faithfulness". It is wonderful and was an inspiration to all in attendance.

It was interesting to learn of all the wonderful general church leaders that have had a hand in building up the faith of the members of the stake over the years. President Gordon B. Hinckley attended stake conference on 4 different occasions in Monterey during his lifetime. Other general church officers that have attended include Elder Spencer W. Kimball, Elder Howard W. Hunter, Elder LeGrand Richards, Elder Boyd K. Packer, Elder James E. Faust, Elder Henry B. Eyring, Elder Richard G. Scott, and many others.

What a blessing to our family to have lived here and been able to be taught by so many wonderful, wise and humble servants of God.

(pictures will be forthcoming)