Youth Conference

Yesterday, Mom and I were invited to attend a type of youth conference with the Dondo Group (they have not yet qualified to become a Branch). Dondo is located about a 45 minute drive and is the furthest congregation from our city of Beira.

They, like all the Branches, have a large amount of active youth. There were perhaps 40-50 youth, including the 18 year old YW president and the 20 year old YM president. Also, it appears that about 70-75% of the active youth are in Seminary/Institute and these combined activities are with the young men. The young women are clearly the minority. Some explanations include: it is not important for girls to learn the Seminary lessons or girls need to stay home to help around the house and to care for their younger siblings.

Also, for whatever reason, it appears that there are very few married couples serving in the YM/YW organizations of the Branches or attending the youth activities.  We were the only married couple in attendance at Dondo.   Additionally, The Branch/Group leadership or any married adults do not appear to attend the various youth activities.

They held this event at a type of park with large trees, playground equipment, concrete type of basketball/soccer court. It was a very peaceful & quiet setting.

We left this activity to hurry back so Mom could attend a Primary training meeting for the new Primary Presidency in Beira 1. 

The District Primary President has served for 6 years, she has a lot of energy. Her name is Ana Maria Mafuro. She was married when she was 16. She has eight children (4 boys & 4 girls). The youngest is a 2 year old boy and the oldest is a 17 year old girl.  She and her husband joined the Church seven years ago and six years ago they were sealed in the temple. Her husband previously served as the Branch President. However, two years ago her husband was killed in an accident helping someone build a home when a wall fell over on him. She is 35 and a widow with 8 minor age children !

Here is her photo. We gave her a ride home as not one member of the new Primary Presidency attended the scheduled training meeting.....