Elder S. Gifford Nielsen to New Missionaries: 'This is Your time'

Elder S. Gifford Nielsen, a member of the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his wife, Sister Wendy Nielsen, met with new missionaries at the New Zealand Missionary Training Centre yesterday [Tuesday 19 August].

“This is your time,” he said. “Don’t waste a minute. This is your time to develop a close relationship with the Saviour.”

Elder Nielsen asked the missionaries, “Why are you here?”

Their responses included, “To share the happiness of the Gospel;” “To build a foundation in Christ;” and, “To help others understand the Saviour and His Atonement.”

Elder Nielsen discussed the sacred responsibility to serve. He reminded the missionaries they are here because the Lord has called them here.

Looking further ahead to life after their missions, Elder Nielsen said, “You are here to prepare yourself to lead your posterity in righteousness."

“It is important” he continued, “to gain an unwavering testimony and to learn how to love others.  By appreciating the differences in others we become better companions, better mothers and better fathers.”

Referring to Joshua in the Old Testament, he repeated, “This is your time. ‘Be strong and of good courage.’ Don’t waste a minute. Become great ambassadors of Jesus Christ.”

Sister Wendy Nielsen said she and her husband shared things in common with the missionaries — such as the Gospel, the Church, the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and the fact that they are all embarking in the service of the Lord.

Referencing the fact that she and Elder Nielsen arrived in New Zealand earlier this month, Sister Nielsen said, “We are all beginning a new adventure.”

Sister Nielsen encouraged the missionaries to think about the Saviour, follow His example, maintain an attitude of forgiveness, and commit their will to the Saviour.  “Turn to God, follow Him, serve Him. Give and radiate your testimony to others,” she said.

Read about Latter-day Saint missionary training centres.