Leaving for the MTC - July 26, 2017

Although Elder Copeland was supposed to go to the Colombia Missionary Training Center, it had to be changed to the Mexico Training Center because the Colombia MTC was too filled up at the time with missionaries.  However, the Mexico MTC didn't work out either because Elder Copeland's Visa arrived too late.  Everything worked out well anyway because now he would be attending the MTC right there in Provo which had just opened up a giant new addition that would be an excellent place to learn about teaching, service, and the Spanish language, which Elder Copeland would need to know in Ecuador.

Prior to taking him to the MTC, some of the family members went for a pizza lunch.

 After eating lunch, Elder Copeland's Uncle Cameron and Aunt Anne and their children said good-bye for two years.

 

 Big hugs from Gavin and Mason.

 Then he said good-bye to his Uncle Craig and Aunt Cassie and their three children. 

 It was especially hard for Kennedy to say good-bye to Elder Copeland.  She had become so attached to him (and vice-versa) in the days leading up to his leaving.

 Riley said he wasn't going to let him go.

 We then drove over to a grassy area in front of the Provo Temple to take a few last pictures with Elder Copeland.

 And then, all too soon, it was time for the grandparents to say "good-bye."  What a wonderful grandson Elder Copeland is.  We are all going to miss him for two years, but couldn't be prouder of the choice he has made to serve this mission.  Good-bye to Grandpa Copeland . . .

 and Grandma Copeland.

Then came the hardest part of all.  His family drove him to the Missionary Training Center where they would say good-bye for two years.

Their car is met by missionaries who help the new missionaries with their luggage and show them where they need to go.

Everyone gives one last hug.  This is a very emotional time for a family--and definitely the missionary!

 

 

 And he's off--although he won't see his family or friends for two years, may only e-mail  home once a week, and may only call home twice a year (on Christmas and Mothers' Day), we all know this is one of the most growing times in a young man's life.  By serving the Lord and serving his fellowmen, which he will do the next two years, he will grow and become the person that the Lord wants him to be.  We all will miss this dynamic young man, his loving personality, and the way he reaches out to everyone--especially little children--but, we wish him well and will continually pray for him in all he does in this worthy work.