For Christopher

Tim will tell you that I keep track of all the important events (large and small) in Chris and Mark's lives. I have kept a calendar that I have saved through the years. So today, January 9, 2002 marks the anniversary of Christopher leaving for Taiwan to begin his missionary service. After spending about 3 months at the Missionary Training Center in Provo, he was so ready to go to Taiwan. So this is for you son!

Chris told us about a year before he got his call that he was going to China. He bought tapes to learn Chinese. So, it shouldn't have been such a surprise to us that he was called to serve in Taiwan, a Republic of China. He said, "Why wouldn't the Lord send me to where I wanted to serve!" We had so much support from our family. Chris received many cards and gifts wishing him well on his mission. This was my favorite from Mike, Pam and family. This is Abe when he was five months old. Inside it said, "Go ahead ... Leave ... We'll be fine!"

 

"For behold the field is white already to harvest ..."

A wonderful day with family at the Mt. Timpanogos Temple.

Chris' friends came to support him the night he was set apart as a missionary ~ Carl, Devin, George, Bret and brother Mark!

Saying goodbye at the Missionary Training Center.

Elder Williams with his mission president, President Larkin and his wife.

Elder Williams sharing the gospel while the light is red!

"I love this place!"

Elder Williams participating in a Chinese speaking contest. He won third place!

Chris loved the children ~ Emily, Apple with Elder Workman.

Anyone home?

Chris made it through a SARS outbreak. They had to wear masks for about a month.

The fruits of his labors!

We were blessed to travel to Taiwan and bring Chris home. So happy to be with Elder Williams again ~ November 2003.

Two years and hundreds of miles. His shoes gave their all!

Chris stopped biting his nails ~ a huge victory!

Chris with his skinny Dad! He barely recognized him.

Lao She Mei and her family. We were at her art studio. Christopher baptized her. She was so sweet and kept giving us gifts. It was a wonderful trip!

Two years seemed like a very long time for Mom and Dad. A loving family welcomed him home with open arms!

We are so proud of your dedicated service. You were a valiant missionary! Never leave for two years again!