BLOG #19

By Kevin V. Hunt

Recently we witnessed another Nauvoo miracle, and it was truly a historic day for our covenant community of Nauvoo missionaries.  We had 300 Nauvoo missionaries all together.  Anytime you have 300 missionaries together, it becomes a historic moment, but this was one of the truly great moments.

The occasion was a full mission photo with everyone.  Getting that many missionaries together (other than maybe at the MTC) is a miracle in itself).   We gathered to the steps of the Nauvoo Temple for the grand event.

On the Sunday before, it was announced in our “ward” that we would have a group photo on Tuesday night.  We were told that we would meet after a mission-wide training – also to be that night.

On Monday evening, August 5^th, we received a communication announcing the photo op.  It said, “We plan to take a mission-wide photo tomorrow evening, Tuesday, August 6^th, on the front steps of the temple.  Please wear proselytizing missionary attire.  Our Tuesday night training will conclude at 7:00 so that we may assemble for the picture in time to catch the light.  Carpooling from the VC will help the parking challenge.”

Then Tuesday evening came, and the weather caused a change of plans.  It was interesting weather.  It wasn’t rainy, but it was kind of a different sky.  About 6:30 PM that night, we received a new communication.  It said that “our light is fading fast” and we were all instructed to “do not pass go … do not collect $200 …” – to go immediately to the Temple for photos.  We were told to be there at 7:00 PM.  This became a bit of a challenge since the missionaries had to come from the stage, from Carthage, and everywhere in between.

We got there just a few minutes before the new time and joined other missionaries on the temple steps.  And incidentally, there could not have been a better site for such a gathering.  The Temple has a dozen or so steps up to the front doors – so we could all be at different levels, be seen in the crowd, etc.  We still had to be a bit “friendly” as we tried to compact into the space – with so many of us, but it worked well.

Elder Mills is the mission photographer, and he had pulled his van up to the front of the Temple.  He had his camera set up on the top of his van.  He began taking practice shots with those that he had to work with.   Missionaries came to the gathering from all directions – and wearing whatever missionary attire they were in at the moment.

  Most of the senior missionaries wore “church clothes” – (white shirts and ties for the men).  But, the performing missionaries came in whatever attire they were then or would later be performing in.  Some even were to be on stage at that moment – performing “Sunset on the Mississippi” (a wonderful display of song, dance, and extreme energy) – and they had to tell their audience to “hold that thought”.  They left the stage and literally ran the two blocks away – all out of breath – having used most of it already on stage – to join us on the Temple steps.

Elder Mills kept taking “practice shots” as we continued to be joined by more missionaries “flying” in.  Our mission president, President Mehr – directed new-comers to side or other positions where they might be accommodated or seen best.  It was fun just to watch the whole process.  We were asked, “Does anyone know of someone who is missing?”  And the old quip:  “If you are not here, raise your hand.”

Elder Mills would do a count down and we could goof off on 1 and 2 and then on 3, we were to give our best smile.  We would think that we were done.  and then four or eight more missionaries would come running in and we’d have another count-down.  We finally called it good.  It was a fun activity – and with a magnifying lens, one can almost see us.  (As were leaving, we saw four young men Performing Missionaries who hadn’t run fast enough.  Sad!)

AN INTRODUCTION TO NAUVOO MISSIONARIES

First, a clarification … we are not called to the “Nauvoo Mission”.  There is not such a group.  We are the “Illinois Historic Sites” mission.   (Carthage is in our mission – so it is not just Nauvoo!)

Nauvoo – the full area and mission, even the community – is known as a “Covenant Community”.  That is what the Saints had when they were here – and the feeling continues with the missionaries who serve here.  We are all here to serve and help as needed.  No one tries to “out-shine” another.  And each one tries to help and love everyone.  We are all bound together by our own Gospel Covenants (in the Temple – and as set-apart missionaries).  We all work for the common good and for the overall mission of the Church – and as licensed representatives of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Each one of us has special talents and abilities which we are willing to share to assist and help fellow missionaries, visitors who come, and everywhere we can.  This concept of “Covenant Community” is real and it creates a special and wonderful bond between all of us.

In Nauvoo, there are really just two kinds of missionaries here – Elders and Sisters. And we all share the black nametag and the desire to serve our Lord.

Nearly everyone who serves here absolutely loves their time here.  Many try to come back again, and again – in whatever way they can.

There are about 300 missionaries in our mission.  Can you imagine that?

Our mission president happened by – on his bike – the other day when we were at the Red Brick Store, and we had a good conversation with him.  He shared some stats on our mission.

We have 66 Young Sister Missionaries (YPM’s).  Until last week, we had 71 Nauvoo Performing Missionaries (NPM’s).  So, if you are doing the math, that must mean that we must have about 160 or so Senior Missionaries – which means about 80 couples.  I just checked the roster and found 60 couples on the list.

Missionaries serve varying terms.  Senior Couples traditionally serve for 6, 12, 18 or 23 months.  (I guess 23 and not 24 is a “tax thing.)   NPM’s come for about 3 months each.  YSM’s are called for 18 months.  And our President noted that he has some flexibility in recruiting couples “as volunteers” (outside of the traditional mission call scenario).  These volunteers can be returning missionaries – or just interested couples – for short periods – or folks here just for busy times (like pageant support).

Serving as a Nauvoo missionary can be a “cheaper mission” (than many other missions( since the Church owns the housing, and contracts out for internet, utilities, etc.  (That becomes a good option for Bishops.  Housing is made available to all missionaries (of all kinds).

All missionaries buy and prepare their own meals.

Senior Missionaries drive and bring their own cars to the mission.  (And some even bring two … but we have not seen much of a need for a second vehicle.)  Performing Missionaries (NPM’s) and Young Sisters (YSM) are provided with mission bikes and cars as applicable.

One perk about serving a mission in Nauvoo is that families (for Senior Missionary Couples, Young Sister Missionaries, and Nauvoo Performing Missionaries) can and are encouraged to come to visit their family who serve here.    Many of the assigned homes of senior missionaries are limited relative to family accommodation space but some have a lot of room for guests.  (You do not seek the housing arrangements … it “finds you”.)   Families of the YSM’s or NPM’s would have to arrange for their own housing needs.  When family members come, they can tour on their own as their missionary is busy.  And the missionaries can be with their family guests “after hours” and on their P-days.  Family members are welcome at the Sunday meetings held by the missionaries.  (Friends are encouraged to attend the Nauvoo Visitors’ Branch … that is separate from the missionary meetings.)

When not assigned elsewhere – and on p-days – missionaries can visit and tour the many sites (restored homes and shops).  They can also attend and enjoy the many performances of the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries as they have time and as their schedule allows.

Senior Missionaries generally serve from 9 Am to 5 PM each day (Monday to Saturdays) and Sundays from 12 to 5 PM.  They get one P-day each week and can manage their own schedule and activities on these p-days. We often eat out at the Mi Camino Real Mexican restaurant in nearby Hamilton. This place is legit Mexican food!

There are only a handful of places to eat out in Nauvoo. And the opportunities for shopping and entertainment are very limited.  Most missionaries (of all kinds) do their shopping in nearby Keokuk – that is located about 12 miles “down river”.

Senior missionaries can even “escape” (when pre-arranged) for limited short trips back home – for weddings, funerals, and other special occasions.  These get-aways must be arranged through the Mission President and of course, all expenses are paid by the missionaries.

During the pageant – and throughout the summer, there are always fun and entertaining (and spiritual) events to participate in.  Typically, the mission conducts training events each Tuesday night.  Mission-wide training meetings are held twice each month and on the off nights, zones and districts stage their own training meetings and activities.

All missionaries of the Illinois Historic Sites mission are organized by districts and zones – just as in any other mission.  Missionaries (Senior Elders and Young Sisters) serve as these zone and district leaders.  Senior missionaries are also assigned to serve and receive “ministering couples” – as in wards back home.

Missionaries of all varieties (except Temple Missionaries) are called upon to teach Priesthood, Sunday School, and Relief Society lessons, to give talks, and to lead or play music in our various meetings – as in any other ward.

CALLS TO SERVE IN NAUVOO

When Sister Hunt and I were called to Nauvoo, my experience was based upon 49 years ago.  Then, Nauvoo missionaries were just that – Nauvoo Missionaries.  We were site missionaries (just as I am now).  Nowadays, there are a variety of mission calls that Nauvoo missionaries receive.

When we got to Nauvoo, I initially thought that we were just “Nauvoo Missionaries”. Then someone asked if we were called to be site missionaries.  I had to return to the mission call to see what we were called to do.  The call did say that “you are assigned to labor in the Illinois Historic Sites.  Your primary assignment is to serve as a historic site missionary.”

In a recent mission gathering, a leader asked how many of the Senior Couples did not specify Nauvoo on their missionary applications.  Everyone was surprised that about a third of the couples had not made any “request” on their Missionary Recommendation Form.  About two thirds of the group had specifically requested a call to Nauvoo as their designated preference.

Senior couples do have the option to note a request for a specific mission service area.  Couples can put in as many as five mission requests or preferences.  And the senior missionary website – on the church’s website talks about many current missionary options where or how Seniors can serve.  On this website, you can select missions and different functions – based upon a variety of designated types of missions (office, historic sites, family history and more).  These options also give details about the possible missions, the cost to the couple, geographic area, and more.  You can get very specific as you choose from the options available.  And this list changes quite regularly.  So, there are always new mission opportunities that pop up and as some are filled, they no longer show up.  The list that you see when you begin your mission journey will change dramatically by the time that you are ready to submit your Recommendation form.  You obviously can hone in on the Nauvoo opportunities.

You do also sign a statement that says you are willing to serve anywhere as needed.  There is no guarantee that you will be called as you desire.

THE CALL OF ELDER AND SISTER HUNT TO NAUVOO

Sister Hunt and I were among those who did not put in a missionary preference.  We did, at first, find many possible mission opportunities (as listed on seniormissionaries.org (on the Church website).  We got excited about some of them.  But, many of the places that we wanted were way beyond our somewhat limited resources available for funding such an adventure.  And in the end, we removed all preferences and requests.  We decided to just make ourselves available to serve wherever the Lord needed us – and for as long as He needed us.  We resorted to total faith and submitted our Recommendation Form through the Bishop and Stake President and looked forward with trust for the call to serve.  As with all missionaries, we looked forward to the big day when the envelope (of nowadays … the e-mail) that would bring the big news to us.

And the day that the call (finally) came, we excitedly opened our calls.  We were elated to learn that we had been called to serve in the Illinois Historic Sites mission.  Wow!  It was wonderful beyond our dreams and expectations.  We were actually quite speechless.  Nauvoo!  Wow!

The mission was really perfect for us.  I have noted that I served in Nauvoo as a “young missionary”.  (And so cool to return to serve in the same place and exact function as before.)  We had been to Nauvoo many times on various trips and treks through the years.  We served in the “City of Joseph” cast two different summers.  And Sister Hunt’s parents – Elder and Sister Belcher, served in Nauvoo for two and a half years – at the Lucy Mack Smith Home and the Brickyard – which her dad started.  She was destined to be one to carry on their special legacies.

And it helped that I am totally into history, family research, genealogy, and everything in between.  Of course, I have been a historian for much of my life.  And the Lord knew all of these things – our unique talents, skills and abilities that we could offer to Him.

[Import or have a link to my blog about Gratitude for Talents}

A while ago, I wrote a blog article that talked of this subject and my gratitude for the talents given to me.  Here is a link to that article:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VrfIRU29srPDu4RSpVgaj72POuSMzxiS/edit

I am the first to acknowledge that I have been given a multitude of special talents and abilities.  The Lord has greatly blessed me.  I am one who has worked to develop my talents and as I have done so, the Lord has graciously given me even more of them.  And with each new talent, I recognize that each has come from the Lord and through the power and inspiration of the Holy Ghost.  And I am truly grateful!

I hope that these talents were considered (of the Spirit) as my missionary recommendation was in the selection process.  I like to think that they played a part in my call to Nauvoo (in 1975 and again in 2024).

OUR SPECIFIC SERVICE ASSIGNMENT IN NAUVOO

And beyond the basic call, there is another little detail that is worth sharing.  Maybe I have already done so in a previous blog – but it is worth repeating.

When in the MTC most of the couples with us – and who were also going to Nauvoo – had received an advance notice of the home that they were to work in.  It was thought by all of us missionaries that we would receive such an assignment and that it was to be kind of a permanent arrangement.  We were also told that we would be given a “trainer” who would help us get oriented to the new call and site assignment.  (Sadly, we never did find this connection.)

We were kind of baffled by the fact that we seemed to be the only couple who had not received such an assignment.  We left the MTC – still with no assignment for our service – but with the assurance that it was “forthcoming”.  We were told our assignment would come soon.

We were traveling at high speed on the I-70 Interstate toward Nauvoo.  We were about halfway there.  We stopped at a rest stop.  I got back to the car before Lou did and used the moment to check e-mail messages to see if our assignment might have come.  It was there!  And of course, I read it with great interest and anticipation.  I loved it.  I could not wait to share the news with Sister Hunt.  She returned to the car, and I told her that we had received our much-anticipated site assignment.  I put her off a moment with my teasing.  Then it was time to share the truth with her.  We had been assigned to serve … YES!  IN THE LUCY MACK SMITH HOME … just has her folks had 45 years before.  She was in a state of total and absolute shock.  It took a few moments for her to internalize and believe it.  I enjoyed the moment as I saw her utter shock and disbelief.  Then reality sunk in.  We went forward!

(We did not realize it at the time, but we would not be given a long-term assignment.  The first assignment was really just that – a beginning.)  When we arrived, we actually spent our first day at the Browning Home and Gun Shop (not even in the Lucy Mack Smith home).  We did later serve for a few days at the Lucy Mack Smith home, and it was glorious.  And Sister Hunt broke down and got very emotional as she thought of her mother serving there … and her tears created a very special spiritual experience for her and the guests.  (The Spirit seems to accompany tears!)

SOMETIMES THE CALL IS NOT WHAT WAS SELECTED OR ANTICIPATED

I like to tell the story of my own mother and stepfather.  They were ready to go on a mission.  And as they completed their Recommendation form, they thought that they “had all of their t’s crossed and their I’s dotted” to serve in Nauvoo.  “Richard” even had some special connections at Church headquarters – so they thought it was a “done deal”.

Stepdad Richard, called the bishop after they received their mission calls.  He said to the bishop, “Now how did you spell Nauvoo on that application?”  The bishop spelled it out saying, “N-A-U-V-O-O”  Richard said, “Well, let us tell you how THEY spell it!”  He then spelled out “T-O-O-W-O-O-M-B-A.”  The bishop was baffled.  He said, “Where in the world is that?”  Richard said, “Toowoomba, Australia”. And yes, they were called as institute teachers “out in the bush” (way off the beaten path) in the state of Queensland, Australia.

When we were in the MTC, there was a couple there who heard that we were going to Nauvoo, They expressed frustration (almost anger) that they were not called to Nauvoo as they had designated and anticipated.  They were very jealous and boisterous about this.  We felt bad for them.

When I was on my “youth mission”, I was in Tallahassee, Florida.   I was surprised as a new call or “assignment” came and which would facilitate me getting transferred from Florida to serve my final six months in Nauvoo.  This was quite an unusual call and one which I normally would not have thought possible.  (I did have advance notice – of the Spirit – at the beginning of my mission of such a future call) and I did have previous skills that prepared me for such an opportunity.  I had served for two years as a “youth guide” at the Mesa Temple Visitors’ Center – and that was a grand experience.

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we all believe in a Prophet of God, and know that ultimately, all mission calls come over the signature of the current prophet – now President Russell M. Nelson.   

Many Apostles have shared with church members how they have been a part of the mission assignment process – and how they have assigned missionaries to their coming missions.  And then after their process, the calls are signed by the Prophet and then they are sent to the missionaries.  And so, with faith, we can all go forward believing and knowing that all calls ultimately come from the Lord’s Prophet as the Lord’s personal representative.   The Lord knows each of us personally and he knows our talents, skills, and abilities – and where and how we might best serve Him.

Many – but not all – mission calls to Nauvoo begin service in March, April or May.  Missionaries serve through the summer, one winter, and another summer.  About half of the missionary force goes home in late fall (6 or 18 months after they come to Nauvoo).

TYPES OF MISSION CALLS TO NAUVOO

After we arrived in Nauvoo, we learned that there are many different calls to Nauvoo.  And we learned that there are a multitude of different missionary assignments or functions in Nauvoo.  The call, as noted above, comes from the Prophet.  Then once in the mission, all missionaries come under the direction of the local mission president and as he is led of the Spirit, he sends missionaries where the Lord wants them to serve.  And he can give various assignments and delegate functions as he deems best for the mission.  And in these assignments, typically, he can move people around and give different tasks.  No additional or specific “call” (from the Prophet) is given, but the President does call his missionaries to these many different assignments.  That is also the case in Nauvoo with our President Mehr.

I believe that there are at least six different Nauvoo calls that could be specified on the Prophet’s mission call.

THE CALL TO SERVE AS A YOUNG SISTER MISSIONARY (YSM) IN NAUVOO

Many young sister missionaries are surprised by a call to serve in Nauvoo.  This has often “not been on their radar” but most seem to enjoy being here once they get over the initial shock.  They have a strong “sisterhood” here and they enjoy being and serving together.

As noted above, most missionaries begin service in the spring.  This is also the case for the Young Sister Missionaries.  They serve for six months (or so) – through one summer.  They then receive a new call (also from the Prophet as in standard mission calls) to serve in a 6-month “outbound mission” as they call it.  These calls can be to anywhere in the United States.  They go on their outbound missions – and serve for six months as regular proselyting missionaries just as any other missionary in the world.  Then in the spring, they return back to Nauvoo for their third mission “trimester”.

About half of the YSM force leaves for home this fall, and half will leave for their “outbound” missions.  There are no YSM’s assigned to Nauvoo during the winters (with severe cold and diminishing visitors).  The whole “campus” is manned by just the Senior Missionaries in the wintertime.  (The Temple is still open, and many Temple missionaries remain over the winter.)

We have YSM’s of varied ethnic groups – and they add much to the “covenant community”. Each one is valued in their roles and service.  There are several YSM’s who speak Spanish, and they come from various parts of the US, Mexico, and other countries.  They are always anxious to find Spanish families with whom they can share tours and special experiences.  They serve all over but are also “on call” for any time that we have Spanish speaking guests who come to us.  They come and meet the group and take them on tours of various places in the community.

THE SISTERS ARE CALLED TO SERVE “OUT-BOUND” MISSIONS

As noted, the YSM’s serve an outbound mission for the middle third of their missions.  There is a traditional night – usually late July or early August – when each Sister receives a new mission call.  And by tradition, they all gather at the historic 70’s Hall (the earliest church MTC) for the big night together.  On this night, each Sister receives her own new call.  Excitement is high as they all wonder where they – and their sisters – might be called.  (And how cool is that to receive a mission call in the 70’s Hall – the 1840’s site of missionary training.  In those days, many missionaries actually received calls (after the building was completed – which was after the Martyrdom) by Brigham Young.  Many of the departing missionaries were ordained Seventies. There were 35 quorums of Seventy in Nauvoo.  On January 12, 1845, Brigham issued calls to 24 Seventies in the morning audience.  And then in the afternoon, an equal number of High Priests were called.)

Each mission president in Nauvoo develops his own plan as to the format and plans for the evening, but the function is still the same.  The meeting is scheduled, the sisters arrive, they receive their new calls (delivered in some way by the mission president) and then the Sisters all reveal somehow where they are going.  And then there is a lot of “girl” hype and energy as they celebrate together.

The Senior Couples were not invited to the event – that was just between them and Elder and Sister Mehr, but we did gather outside the 70’s Hall and anxiously awaited the moment of their coming out of the hall.  We were there to support and cheer them on – and this was a grand time for them and us.  All of the Senior Sisters hugged the YSM’s (and vice versa) and we all rejoiced in the joy of the moment. It was truly a grand and wonderful event for all of us who participated – either getting a call or as members of the support team.

THE CALL TO SERVE IN THE TEMPLE

There is a plethora of missionary couples who serve in various Temple functions at the Nauvoo Temple.  They serve as sealers and ordinance workers.  I am not sure how many couples serve there, but I found some information that said that 60 homes were built in 2002 to house Temple missionaries.  They have nice housing.  The Temple missionaries wear black name tags like the rest of us. 

They actually serve under direction of their Temple President – not our mission president – so we do not have a lot of official contact with them.  They do come to many events where our missionaries participate, and it is always fun to have them come.  They seem to have a lot of time (outside of their Temple responsibilities) to come to visit and tour the many sites – and so “site missionaries” get frequent interaction with them.

The Temple missionaries also do not come to our Sunday meetings.  They are actually sent (kind of permanently) out to attend church each Sunday in the various small wards surrounding Nauvoo.

THE CALL TO SERVE IN FAMILY HISTORY

There is a FamilySearch history center here in Nauvoo.  It is located across the street from the Temple.  The function is housed in the historic and restored home/store of Raymond Clark.   I think that there are two couples who serve there all of the time.

There used to be a “Land and Records” office where people could also get help to locate their people – to map and to see where their people lived in Old Nauvoo.  After COVID, that function was moved to the Visitors’ Center.  And the responsibility for the desk rotates around to whatever missionaries get rotated in to serve at the Center each day.

THE CALL TO SERVE IN THE MISSION OFFICE, MEDICAL, AND OTHER IMPORTANT FUNCTIONS

Some older sisters have been specifically called to serve in office functions.

A medical doctor (and wife) is called to assist all of the missionaries in medical needs, referrals to local medical providers, etc.  And as the doctor serves, the sister is called to serve in the sewing room – or elsewhere as needed.

Another Elder is a veterinarian and he, of course, is called to take care of all of the medical needs for the animals who also serve here with us. 

These doctors are called specifically for their medical skills and knowledge.

THE CALL TO SERVE IN THE PAGEANT – AND AS SUPPORT AND ADMINISTRATIVE HELP

Two or three couples served in administrative functions relative to the pageants.  These folks actually work at their function – recruiting, processing, scheduling, etc. – all winter – but they work from home – and have to go to various try-outs, etc., in Salt Lake – in preparation for the coming performing season.

As my previous blog stated, families can also sign up to be Pageant missionaries (i.e. cast members).  The “Core Cast” is chosen by auditions, and they come for a month during the summer.  There are three or four different casts of like 300 people.   Each cast comes for two weeks.

There are also many “pageant volunteers” who come to serve but who are not in the casts.  These folks can serve as security guards, in parking, photography – and other support functions.  This is a great role for couples who want to serve – but who cannot commit to a full 6, 12, or 18-month mission.  We knew several of these volunteers and they seemed to be having a grand time – like all of the rest of “us”.

Cast members eat catered food at the Pageant Building – located a couple of miles east of town.  I am not sure of the financial arrangements for the food.  Costumes are provided for the cast members.   (And there are missionary sisters who are called or assigned to the creation of these 100’s of costumes … that is another missionary opportunity).

The challenge is housing.  Each individual family is responsible for finding their own housing.  Families could bring an RV and stay in it at Camp Nauvoo. They can tent or RV at the Nauvoo State Park.  Google (all knowing) states that the Nauvoo State Park does have showers in a shower building.  The building also has flush toilets.  There are RV sites and some small cabins (“tiny houses”.)

There are also a great many cabins, AirBandB and other contracted rental places.  These can be rather expensive, and they tend to fill up fast during the pageant season.  If you want to be in the pageant cast, you need to arrange housing early.

When not on the stage, pageant cast members have free time to explore the many restored homes and shops while they are here.

Being in the pageant is a glorious and magnificent experience.  It can be the highlight of a teen’s life and will create memories and testimonies that will last many years.  Being in the cast can be a costly adventure but the benefits probably outweigh the challenges and costs. 

Cast members do not receive a mission call from Church Headquarters but they do have to be cleared by their local leaders for participation.  Calls to be in the cast come from the Senior Missionaries who administer the pageant.  Applications must be submitted by early fall in anticipation of the being in the pageant the following summer.

THE CALL TO BE A NAUVOO PERFORMING MISSIONARY (NPM)

We have a great army of Nauvoo Performing Missionaries here. They are energetic, fabulous and totally amazing.

We have had two different “casts” of NPM’s.  One cast came in May.  They came and practiced for a month and then performed for two very intense months.  The other cast came in July and practiced for a month. They began performing in mid-August and they will be here until about the first of October.

Elder Lunt has administered the NPM program for the past 18 months.  A new couple has now taken over for the coming 18 months.  Elder Lunt told me that as the summer cast completed their service commitments, they all flew out of St. Louis for their own homes on one day – and it took a convoy of about seven large vans to get the 43 missionaries there.  He said that there were 28 members in the “Summer Cast” – plus the members of the Nauvoo Brass Band.  This included two missionaries who were tech guys (who managed sound, lights, and other systems).  Two performers were specialty violin players.  And there were 24 performing missionaries.  There is the same group size  of “Fall Cast” members.  And of the 24, half are guys and half are ladies.  (This makes it better for dancing!)

All of these performing missionaries live in large group homes that accommodate six or eight of them.

Each of these NPM’s receive a call to serve for their designated time.  They wear black nametags and are known as Elder and Sister.  (And they are equal with the rest of us.)  The NPM’s are single young adults who are between the ages of 18 and 25.   Some of the NPM’s have returned for multiple years – but most are new recruits each year.  Some of the NPM’s come to Nauvoo as mission “preemies” – meaning that they come before serving or as they prepare to serve regular proselyting missions.  And some have already served their proselyting missions.

These performing missionaries stage a plethora of wonderful shows throughout each day. 

Then every night, they perform with great energy and enthusiasm in their production of “Sunset on the Mississippi”.

In addition to the so-named NPM’s, there is also a dedicated corps of folks who are “Died in the wool” (or living in the legend of Highland dancers – with kilts and all – and whatever is underneath them) bagpipers who come to Nauvoo at Pageant time. 

These 20 or so folks (young and old) do not receive mission calls, but they come – sometimes year after year – as “volunteers”.  They are absolutely amazing and so fun to have here.  They march down the streets and perform and squeeze their pipes – with their unique and wonderful sounds – throughout the town.  They play for many major events and performances while they are here. They bring their own kind of energy and excitement to the town – and it is so sad when they make their departure.

These performing missionaries all have a Monday P-day but at all other hours, they are on stage (various stages and performing scenarios).   They start early each morning and work until late in the evening – with only short breaks for lunch and dinner.  And they don’t just “act” … they sing, clog, and dance with great energy and enthusiasm.  We wonder how they can keep up with the demands of their rigorous performance schedule. They literally run from one performance to the next – and they entertain crowds on the street, at the Cultural Hall, at lawn “parks”, at the 70’s Hall. 

Another 15 or young people (NPM’s) serve in the Nauvoo Brass Band.  These young people all play one or multiple instruments.  And they maintain the 1840’s tradition as the original Nauvoo Brass Band – and all that this entails.  They have their own horse-drawn “wagon or carriage”, and they go all around the town (on the streets and in front of the historic sites – wherever they can get a crowd (large or small) to hear them.

All of these Nauvoo Performing Missionaries have been preparing much of their lives for such an  experience.  They have all put in many years of endless practices and performances – and now get to use their unique talents to help build the Lord’s Kingdom in very special ways.

HOW TO GET A CALL TO SERVE AS A NAUVOO PERFORMING MISSIONARY

A few days ago, Sister Hunt and I were serving for the day at the John Taylor home and the Times and Seasons building (combined as one tour).  We were asked to remain closed for the first hour or two (to ensure that there were no “photo-bombers”.  We discovered that a couple of NPM’s were selected to be “on camera”.  They represented the many NPM’s of the current cast.  Their mission was to help create an “advertising clip” to help the Church recruit new Nauvoo Performing Missionaries for future years.

We watched as Sister Shields began the conversation, “Hello, I’m Sister Shields.  I am a Nauvoo Performing Missionary” and then Elder Carroll as he said, “And I’m Elder Carroll …”  They said their lines to a director and a camera guy. Sometimes they goofed up and had to repeat the lines two or three times before they got it “perfect”.  But ultimately, they did it right.

Their mission of the morning was to create a video clip to be posted on the official ChurchofJesusChrist.org website – to be used to encourage future would-be Nauvoo Performing Missionaries in the coming summer(s).  They explained the recruitment and application process.  They explained how would-be performers need to submit clips of their singing, dancing and performing prowess.   

THE CALL TO BE A TEAMSTER MISSIONARY

If you are a guy who loves everything about horses, then this mission might be the call for you.  There are about 16 or so men who serve as Teamsters.  They have to feed and care for the fleet of 26 or so large horses (like Belgians).  They drive carriages and wagons pulled by horses.  Generally. there are two Elders on each conveyance.  One is the driver and the other goes as the companion for moral support and safety.  Teamsters also manage the “oxen experience” – leading visitors in wagons pulled by oxen.

The “Wagon Ride” takes riders around busy Nauvoo and the Sister guides talk about various sites as they make the 30-minute ride through old Nauvoo.   One Sister goes along with each “wagon ride”.  The sisters sit in the back of the wagon and deliver scripts about the town of Nauvoo.  And the wife of one teamster driver (who is not giving the carriage tour) is assigned to work in the sewing room or as site missionaries.

The “Carriage Ride” goes off into the “north 40” through the beautiful countryside (going “over the woods and through the river”).  Two Teamster Elders go together on this ride (and their wives get assigned on other duties).  Along their way, they share stories of interesting pioneers who lived here in old Nauvoo.

The horses do not work on Sundays and so the Teamsters are generally assigned to work in the various sites on Sunday afternoons.  (All sites are open Sundays from noon to 5:00 PM.)

Teamsters also get a “p-day” – as do all missionaries.  These p-days (as do ours) rotate to different days each month – so that all missionaries are not off at the same time.

THE MISSIONARY ANIMALS

As noted, there are about 26 very large horses that pull wagons.  And there are six or so large oxen.  These animals are on their own missions … and we all treat them as regular missionaries.  They do not wear name tags.  And I am not sure how they receive their “calls”.  I am sure that they are a part of an intense recruitment plan.  They do also have a “p-day” (“pasture day”) one day a week and all animals are off and do no work on Sundays.

The horses seem to enjoy their function and role in the overall excitement of Nauvoo.  You can see their pride as they prance along and pull the wagons and carriages (large people transporting caravans on wheels) throughout the town. 

And they seem attached to their partners with whom they “share the pull”. They stand with their partners even when they are in the fields.

We are all grateful for these majestic missionaries who serve with us.

THE CALL TO BE SITE MISSIONARIES

Site missionaries – like Sister Hunt and I – serve in the 30 or so restored homes and shops of Old Nauvoo.  We are given scripts for the many places, and we learn each of them as we rotate through the various homes.  Unlike my in-laws, who remained in the Lucy Mack Smith home for ALL of their two-and-a-half-year mission. …   (And Sister Hunt and I cannot even begin to fathom that scenario), we get moved around almost daily to the different historic sites.  And generally, we are even in a different home each day of the week. So, we “work” or serve 6 days each week and have to know all of the various scripts.

It may seem to some that such a scenario would be a major challenge.  But, it really is not as bad as it may seem.  When given a new home, we have a week or two of advance notice.  This gives us time to study, learn and practice the script for the new place.  We have created a mini leather journal book (for each of us) that contains our scripts and we can read quotes from this – and it looks really legit.

I tape the tour script for Lou – and then we listen to it a few times over breakfast.

Then at the site, we kind of have to refer often to our book of scripts – for the first time or two.  Then after that, giving the tour is easier each time that we present it.  And after giving it ten or more times in a day, we learn it fast.  And once learned, it kind of sticks with us.  And we acknowledge that the Spirit can “bring all things to our remembrance”.  And He always seems to come through for us.  So, it gets easier and easier.

And when we later (a week or two or a month later) get assigned again to the place, we can quickly review as above – to prepare once more for service in the site.  And again, the words come back to our minds.  One week was a bit of a challenge.  We had a different site assignment every day – and four of the sites were new to us.  This gave us a workout, but we made it through okay.

I will introduce the many historic sites in a future blog.  You can hold me to it!

In addition to serving as “site missionaries”, our “friends” and companions also serve in other “assignments” beyond or as an extended part of the call.  Some of these functions include:

               Zone and district leaders

               Mission Presidency

               Ministering Brothers and Sisters

               Mentoring couples (for new couples in the mission)

               Site Coordinators (to “shepherd” the site, order materials, coordinate needed repairs, etc.  (Sister Hunt and I serve in this role for the Joseph Homestead, Mansion House, and the Nauvoo House.

               Mission Historians (tasked with creating an annual Mission “ministering” history of events and activities, training, and more for the mission (per General Church guidelines for histories)

               Coordinators for sacrament, speakers, and music for the “Visitors’ Branch” (and the Senior Elders get to bless and pass the sacrament)

               Vehicle fleet management

               Sewing of costumes (for pageant and for regular missionaries).  This role can also be a designated “mission call”, as well.  As noted above, sisters whose husbands are teamsters often work in this role)

               One Elder is assigned as the mission “scheduler”.  He has the massive job of creating the composite service schedule for all missionaries each week)

               Computer Techs (a team of them) provide support for all gatherings and even personal assistance for computer or other tech problems.

               Photographer for mission events

               Support (ushering and set-up, etc.) of events staged by the Nauvoo Performing Missionaries

               Shoeing the horses – working with Amish experts who come to assist.

               Working in the Blacksmith Shop forge

               Finance record keeping.       

               Serving on 3-month or whatever time shifts in Carthage.  (There are generally two senior couples and two YSM’s assigned out there.  They live in Carthage and work there each day.  And they return to Nauvoo for Church, training meetings, Etc.)

               Serving as the “postmaster” for distribution of all incoming mail for all missionaries (including Temple missionaries)

               Coordinating the contract to ensure that we have plenty of ginger cookies to serve in the Scovil Bakery

               Planning of mission events and programs

               Training meeting coordination for all missionaries

               Working at the “Brick Yard” to create thousands of bricks to be distributed to the many visitors who come to Nauvoo.

               Scheduling of interviews for or with President Mehr

               Daily cleaning of each site after the day of serving there – performed by the missionaries who served at the site together.

As one can see, there are plenty of assignments – and opportunities to share current talents – as well as to explore or gain some new ones.  Everyone gets a chance to use their own special talents.  There seems to be a special job for each and all missionaries serving here.

In making this list, Sister Hunt and I have probably left off many of the tasks performed by missionaries … but you probably get the idea.  It is much more than the mission call to serve here in Nauvoo.

THE CALL TO SERVE AS FACILITIES MAINTENANCE (FM) MISSIONARIES

We did not know that there was such a person or responsibility when we received our own Nauvoo calls.  We have come to learn how fabulous they are.  Our “Covenant Community” in Nauvoo could not survive without them.

There is a whole cadre of FM missionaries out here.  They are everywhere and into everything.  They are very much needed to keep all of the historic sites open, functioning, and in good repair, and looking beautiful.

Some of these FM functions include many of the “skilled trades” – of facility maintenance and upkeep.  There is a huge collection of tasks to be done, and these people willingly serve wherever they are needed.  Many of these people are called to be facility maintenance missionaries because of their skills, abilities, and background as “general handyman”, plumber, painter, furniture maker, general maintenance and cleaning.   Specific tasks or assignments could vary daily and could include specialty or project work performed – or as special needs come up:

               General facility maintenance

               Facility cleaning

               Specialized cleaning of heirlooms, historic relics, and artifacts

               Lawn mowing and tree trimming.

               Arborist management of the 100’s of trees on the “campus”

               Painting of window frames, buildings, and anything and everything that needs a facelift – in compliance with the overall maintenance plan for each site or structure.

               Cleaning and preparation of missionary housing (in preparation of new missionaries as they arrive or change houses)

               Perform home maintenance for the 130 or so church properties (homes and shops) where missionaries of all kinds live).  This includes painting, A/C service, utility maintenance, getting rid of mold, mowing and trimming,

               Creating beautiful and luxuriant gardens, flower displays, and everything related to the development and maintenance of planters, gardens at sites, and general beautification of the wonderful world around us.

               Set-up of physical facility arrangements for events and activities (chairs, stages, etc.)

               Creating new draperies for historic sites as needed

               Reading or development of building plans

               Performing very delicate and specialize cleaning of old relics and artifacts – to carefully preserve them for current and future enjoyment by visitors.  (Some of these articles have been in the homes for 50 years or more.  I remember many of them from when I was here 49 years ago – all due to the care that is given to them.

               Provide routine and long-term maintenance projects as needed by the FM team.

               Making plumbing, A/C, and heater repairs and installations

               Repair of structures at the various Nauvoo historic sites

               Cleaning of multiple restrooms used by missionaries and visitors.

               Window cleaning for all buildings

               Repair or creation of toys at the Pioneer Pastime Pavilion, props, and demonstration items

               Cleaning of pioneer costumes at Pioneer Pastimes

               Pick-up of old cleaning rags and supplies and delivery of new supplies to the sites

               Creating or making benches and other specialized wood projects as needed anywhere (and created in the fabulous on-site FM wood shop)

               Greenhouse management (even in the changing seasons)

               Road maintenance

               Driving and maintenance of various vehicles and heavy equipment

               Tool Sharpening

Anyone (male of female) who has general maintenance or specialized abilities in any or many of the “skilled trades”, could be a candidate for a call as a Nauvoo FM missionary.    You could serve in these functions – and never have to give a missionary discussion or a site presentation.

THERE IS A NEED FOR EVERYONE HERE … EACH PERSON HAS SPECIFIC TALENTS AND ABILITIES TO CONTRIBUTE TO OUR “NAUVOO COVENANT COMMUNITY”

No matter what your background or abilities, or even your limitations, there is something that you can contribute to the Nauvoo (and Illinois Historic Sites) mission.  We are a part of a mini (or large) utopia community that exists to help visitors have spiritual experiences relative Jesus Christ, to the restoration of the Gospel through the Prophet Joseph, and the building up of the Lord’s kingdom in this sacred historic site – even the Nauvoo “Covenant Community”.  We truly “walk on holy ground” and you could be a part of the team on this holy ground.

And I might add that if you do not see yourself in the church communications or opportunities posted for Nauvoo missionaries, you could always contact the mission president, Daniel Mehr, and tell him of your unique circumstances, interests and availability and perhaps he can (with you) create your own special opportunity to serve here in Nauvoo.  It is worth the try!

And if after all of this, you do not now see yourself as a missionary in Nauvoo, send this blog on to someone else who could be a Nauvoo Missionary!

WE ARE LIKE CRAYONS IN THE BOX

Here in Nauvoo, we are all like crayons in a big  box of crayons (like the giant 120 box).  “Each of us has a role, none are more important than any other job.  They are necessary and we need to learn to work together just like we need all the colours in a crayon box to make a beautiful picture.”  (homestreamradio.com)  “We are a box of crayons, each of us is unique, but when we get together the picture is complete.”  (Unknown author)

Each one of us come “to the box” (Nauvoo, our “Covenant Community”) with our own talents and special skills.  If we are willing to get in and be in the box – with the others – then God can use those talents and abilities to create a beautiful picture made up of all of the colors in the box.  Each person – with their own skills and talents are needed here.  Individually, we can be a wonderful color, but when we all pull together, the opportunities are amazing and spectacular.  That is our opportunity as we serve in Nauvoo – and it can be available to any who will develop the talents and skills (and interest) to be put into the Nauvoo crayon box.  And God, Christ, the Holy Ghost, our Prophet, and mission leaders can all help us to achieve our best color for our unique roles in the box.

Happy to be one called to serve on the Nauvoo Covenant Path (the mission trail) …  Elder Kevin Hunt