Matthew's Mission Farewell

February 10 - 13, 2013

 My brother-in-law Matthew received his mission call a few months back to serve as a missionary in the Ecuador Quayaquil North Mission! We were so excited for him! He took Spanish in school, so he'll be sure to pick it up quickly at the Centro de Capacitacion Misional (CCM) en Peru. That's right, no Provo Missionary Training Center (MTC) for Matt, with the crazy influx of missionaries - Provo is booked to capacity. His MTC experience in Peru has been so different as compared to ours in Provo. They even get to go out on the streets and talk to folks! That real life experience and practice is so important with learning the language and learning to listen to the Spirit. He sounds so happy in his emails home, which eases his mom's worrying about him. :)

Although Aaron had already booked flights to be there to hear him speak in church for his farewell, for his setting apart as a missionary, and to drop him off at the airport...after we learned of my grandma's passing, we all made the drive up. What a treat. Matthew's talk in church was amazing, and it gave us all a glimpse of just how great he'll be as a missionary. We all met at the Erickson's home after church to enjoy a meal and visit with all those who came to support Matt. Yes, go figure, I took a lot of photos. :)

He was set apart Tuesday night, the night before he was to leave for Peru. What an incredible experience to be there as his Stake President set him apart (meaning he pronounced a blessing on him and dedicated Matt's time and efforts to teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ for the next 2 years). It was such a special prayer, and even Olivia recognized the importance of it as she stayed quiet during the whole thing. Afterwards we took more photos and then it was home to Matthew pack his things! Amazing how missionaries have to fit 2 years in 2 suitcases. :)

Wednesday morning he had to be to the airport super early to catch his flight, he'd be flying most of the day/night. Debbie, Aaron and Sarah drove him to the airport, the rest of us said our goodbyes at home. Mark had come down with a nasty case of the flu and was so sad not to be able to make it on the airport trip. There were many tears that morning - Matthew is such a cuddle bear and always knows how to make us all smile - he will definitely be missed.

Matthew - we love and miss you and are so proud of you! I can't wait to have someone in the Erickson family to speak Spanish with! Oh the fun we'll have! ;)