President Orgill's Farewell

 Jan. 18.  Pres. Orgill's Farewell

Pres. Orgill has served as President of the PCC almost 13 yrs.  We were so blessed to attend his farewell party Friday night.  

He and his wife arrived at 6:30 p.m. in this PCC  floral-covered cart.  

 They were greeted by the Motor Pool (Blue Shirts)  

They then boarded two canoes.  All of their children and special friends were with them and they rode around the Lagoon in the canoes while each village sung/danced and bid them farewell.

 At each village, the President & his wife were given beautiful leis and gifts. 

All 50 of us missionaries gathered @ the Mission Settlement House and sang "You are my Sunshine."  Tears flowed freely. This was a very spiritual and touching moment for everyone.  Pres. Orgill stood in the canoe and with tears streaming down his face, applauded all of us.

We were to wear our matching Aloha Wear.  

At the end of the boat ride, many of the Island People were dancing with fire.  We clapped and sang and danced to the song "Celebrate Good Times, Come On." There were torches burning, everyone dressed in their native costumes. So fun!!

We enjoyed our personal tour guides to help us find our way around the lagoon in the dark.  Eugene used to be a tour guide and also a canoe driver. One month ago he went to San Francisco and married Candace in the Oakland Temple. We work together at Give & Take. Thanks also to Eugene for snapping all my photos.  He treats me so good!!

 Following the canoe ride, we gathered at the Gateway and enjoyed dinner and a program.

When Pres. Orgill & Family arrived back at the Gateway, they were welcomed with the strains of "Called to Serve".  We were all singing.  Pres. Orgill personally hugged all who were near him as he passed.  He has reported directly to Pres. Hinckley and Pres. Monson for these past 13 yrs.  He is a friendly, emotional, spiritual and caring more for others than himself, man and will return to Orem, UT  where he and his wife will await their new Mission President Call.

 Over 1,000 missionaries and PCC workers were fed.  After dinner, all the people who work @  PCC  gave gifts and provided entertainment. This party lasted until Sat. 1 a.m.  The Polynesian people said they could keep entertaining for several more hours to show how much they love Pres. Orgill and his wife.

They received about 6 quilts, even one from Elder G's Department, "The Blue Shirts".  They (blue shirts) truly are the backbone, best workers at the PCC.

We R Blue Shirts..Chant..Elder R and his "Blue Shirt" Buddies recited their Hawaiian Chant.

For the closing number we all stood and joined in singing "We're Thanking You for all You've Done".  Once again, not too many dry eyes.

It was an incredible celebration & we were thrilled to be able to share in this grand occasion. Something we shall never forget!!!