50 year Andes Mission reunion

Tonight was the Jubilee celebration of the Andes mission. I was part of the program. President Groberg spoke first about the creation of the South American mission by Melvin J. Ballard. I told of the period from 1956 up to 1978. President Tyler told of the time when he was a young elder in the late 70's. Elder Hooker wrapped things up to today. It was a very spiritual meeting that lasted just over two hours.50 years ago today the Andes mission was created by Harold B. Lee. It became the 4th mission in South America. During his dedicatory prayer Elder Lee said that the coast of the Pacific Ocean would become the most prolific and furtile areas in the church. As you think about it, it is so true today. Chile, Peru, Central America, parts of Mexico, California, Oregon and Washington.

Elder and sister Cleverly, sister and elder Hooker, President Tyler and elder Loli of the area 70.

Elder Cleverly, sister Ruth Ojeda Ballard, President Groberg of the MTC, (the three of us served together in the Andes Mission) and elder Hooker of the seventy. Elder Hookers family was baptized when he was one year old by Elders Boyce and Stevens. This elder Hooker later became the first President of the Piura mission.

Ruth Ojeda Ballard with her three daughters flew from San Diego last night to be here. The daughter on the left played the piano and the two on the right sang a number during the program. They have the most beautiful voices.

Sister Ojeda went to the United States after her mission and worked for the church. She ended up marrying a very fine man and they were married in the Salt Lake temple. They eventually moved to San Diego. About 15 year ago her husband and 15 year old son were killed in an auto accident. She has continued to live in San Diego.