Elder Brent Parsons

Brent was set apart as a missionary by President McGinn Monday night at 9:30 pm. We all kind of had a hard evening. We were helping Brent pack and he was getting pretty emotional and just felt overwhelmed. However, after his blessing he was was so calm and happy and excited. The blessing was great- so many neat things included in it. I loved how President McGinn mentioned his humor and fun-loving personality. He said to use it and encourage others with his enthusiasm. He blessed him with an open-mind while learning Portuguese and that he will have experiences where the Lord will talk through him and he may not even know what he is saying. He told him to be precisely obedient. He blessed him with health, strength, and stamina. It was a great blessing and the experience was such a strong testimony to me of not only missionary work but of the priesthood and its power.

President McGinn said, "If missionary work was just based on looks, he would be the greatest missionary ever." I totally agree- he is adorable! After the setting apart friends and family came over to visit with Brent one last time and have Brent's favorite dessert- cheesecake!

Brent with cousins Jenny and Laura

the boys- Ryan, Jake, Brady, Kenton, Brent, and Mike

Brent and Mike- cousins but more like brothers

This was one of the best moments for my dad. Brent really wanted a nice pen to take on his mission, even despite the fact that he may get mugged for it!! :) My dad is a collector of fine pens, namely Mont Blancs. Brent went into my dad's office and told him that he felt like he was old enough for a nice pen. My dad was thrilled. He brought his collection out and let Brent test drive some pens. After switching around some inks and deciding on the statement-making red of classy black, Brent is now the proud owner of a black Mont Blanc.