Patriarch Han Hogervorst has now
returned to his home and duties in The Netherlands after his second 3-week trip
to Suriname in less than a year. During
both visits he was able to give a total of 75 blessings – far and away more
than he would normally give in a 3-week period.
His busy schedule allowed little time for sightseeing as he met with
faithful members six days a week – some who had waited more than 20 years for
their own personal “iron rod” on which to lean for guidance in their life.
The Patriarch was very impressed
with the humility and faith of the members.
“A special moment for me is always when the brother or sister offer a
prayer before receiving their blessing. Though they undoubtedly have sorrows and
cares, they have great faith in the love their Heavenly Father has for them. As
for the youth, it was very clear they most desire guidance in this very uncertain
life and insight from their Heavenly Father to set a course for the future.”
“I was so sorry not to be able to
give blessings to all who desired them the first time,” notes Patriarch Hogervorst.
“It was very moving as I learned how sad, even to the point of crying, some of
the members were at not receiving their blessing in the first visit. The second
visit was also different as many more of the youth received their blessing.”In his very limited leisure time, the Patriarch was able to visit to an elementary school were his daughter served as an intern about 13 years ago. The Primary from the Uitkijk Branch also enjoyed his company during a trip to the Suriname Zoo.
Would the Patriarch come back a
third time? “It is such a privilege to
do this work. If asked to return, and the First Presidency approved it, there
is no way I would say no.”
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