Steven becomes Elder Richardson

Adios Elder Richardson

It was a sad night on Tuesday, July 30th when we had our goodbye dinner with Steven.  But we were blessed to be joined by Elders Rodriguez, Dearden, Morton and Cantera, the office elders.

Elders Cantera, Morton (Steven) Dearden and Rodriguez

They each take a minute to share something they appreciated about Steven.  They had some very kind things to say.  They mentioned that Steven was very approachable, genuine, fun, knew when to be serious and when to be funny, and that he would be everyone's favorite companion.

We celebrated his 19th birthday (August 16th) early and he opened several gifts, and we shared our thoughts and feelings for Steven. 

We take advantage of the moment for one last family picture before our early morning departure the next day.

Brian was given permission to set Steven apart so it was extra special to have not only his Dad set him apart as a missionary, but to have the office elders assist.

 

We didn't get much sleep because we went to bed at 1:30 a.m. and needed to leave for the Quito, Ecuador Airport at 3:30 a.m.

Two years seems like such a long time!

Red eyes in the morning

It was a tearful goodbye, but we knew where Steven was headed and that he was prepared to be a wonderful missionary.

This is a big step for Elder Richardson, but he has no hestiation! 

And Steven's off to the Chilean MTC in Santiago, Chile on Wednesday, July 31st.