This is an update from Jared about Tate’s current situation:
We started to receive word Sunday that all foreign missionaries would be leaving Argentina (and other surrounding countries) over the next few weeks. Over the past 36 hrs, this information has changed and we are still unsure of the exact timing or process. But, we are grateful for a diligent mission president and wife who strive to communicate with parents while trying to oversee and coordinate a complete whitewash of the mission.
We were able to call Tate’s cell phone yesterday and chat with him while he and his companion are on government enforced lock down. Tate recounted that his days have been filled with fielding texts and calls from missionaries and the mission president. They had gotten word of the bugout, but knew few of the details that we were privy to, due to limited internet access. In between the calls, they have been cleaning their apartment and packing, preparing to relocate to the mission home/office to assist the president with the logistics, until the final departure. They are communicating via phone with investigators and members. Generally spirits were high and full of hope and faith. However, the prospect of ‘being done’ was something they hadn’t considered. Tate expressed faith that he was willing to accept the Lord’s will and strive to see His hand in these events.
Tate is right at the 18 mos. cutoff for missionaries, so we don’t know (yet) if he will be reassigned after his 14 day quarantine. Our current understanding is that he will not. We will update this blog as we get more specific information.
We are excited to welcome Tate home and hear more details of his experiences in Argentina. We too express our testimony of the peace that we have felt during this entire time of chaos. During the storms of life, we are grateful for the safe harbor provided by the Savior. By following the counsel of His prophets, we have found peace and joy not available in any other way. This has been an amazing opportunity to slow down, disconnect from some of the cares of the world, and reconnect with what is truly important. We look forward with great anticipation to hear the words of living prophets in the upcoming General Conference. We know that His work will move forward for no unhallowed hand can stop the work. We do not understand all things, but we have complete confidence in He who does.
My life is but a weaving
Between my God and me.
I cannot choose the colors
He weaveth steadily.
Oft’ times He weaveth sorrow;
And I in foolish pride
Forget He sees the upper
And I the underside.
Not ’til the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Will God unroll the canvas
And reveal the reason why.
The dark threads are as needful
In the weaver’s skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned
He knows, He loves, He cares;
Nothing this truth can dim.
He gives the very best to those
Who leave the choice to Him.
Corrie ten Boom
Elder Tate Cannon 