Her homecoming talk will be Sunday March 13th at 10:30 at our ward on Holladay Blvd.
Come over any time to welcome her home!
Emily's dad
Dear Emily,
In life we pass landmarks of accomplishment which help us know we are going somewhere and that we really are progressing. Completing your successful mission is one of the biggies! Congratulations to you on choosing something difficult and something which was not expected and then doing it in such a tremendous way. Having “thrust in your sickle” so well will pay dividends for the rest of your life: more depth of character, the language, the strength of having survived a difficult journey, the testimony and knowledge that righteous living is the path of happiness. Eternally those whom you have influenced through the spirit will perhaps be the greatest long-term joy and blessing from this service. That being said we are thrilled to have you home and to see what you have become and are becoming! Welcome home Emily I am very proud to be your father! Love, Dad
Emmy,
So this is it! You are on your way home when you read this, filled with immense emotion and memories that are precious, personal and eternal. You will refer to these memories all your life. This experience has set you on a path towards your next life adventure filled with the testimony of what really matters, what is authentic and of greatest worth. Every decision you make from this point on will be steered and affected by this 18 month experience.
I have always seen your strength, but even I have been amazed at your fierce devotion and ability to do really hard things.
You have fought valiantly and fearlessly for the cause of Christ. You have endured some hefty hardships- both physical and spiritual. Through it all you have kept your sense of humor and your unflappable optimism. Once again, you are better than I could have ever dreamed. Your life is now a clean, blank sheet of white paper. Step into your life and write your story well. I love you and have missed you with all my heart.
Forever and always and no matter what, Mom
Emily's little sister- Katie
Emily thank you for setting such an example for me. I have always watched you, being so jealous of your goodness and obedience to the Lord. Yes none of us are perfect but man you sure do a good job. I have seen you influence and change so many peoples lives. I remember McKenzi Green (now new last name…) talked about you in young womens and how you have changed her life. I was so proud that you were my sister and I strived and still strive to one day influence someone like you influenced her.
I know that we have had our moments… haha and they were great! Emily I am so grateful for our world travels together! I fell like we really bonded in Guatemala (the second time) We were able to see each other in a sort of different light. When I had my moments I didn’t know if you would understand, I thought you would tell me in front of everyone to suck it up or to stop being dramatic. But you didn’t, you took me aside like dad would have and tried to understand what I was going through like mom does. I was able to see you in a different light. Thank you.
Emily this year and a half has been full of life changes for both of us. I can’t wait for you to come down to Provo and for us to live together and just talk and learn and grow together! You are amazing and have always been there for me. You have taught me so much and I am proud to be your little sister. Emily I know with out a doubt that this gospel is true and it is the most precious thing to me! We are so blessed! Love you!
-butter slice
Emily's new little niece: HavenDear Emmy,
I’m what all the excitement has been about! Can’t wait to meet you. Hey! My middle name is Emily! You’re gonna love me…. Haven
Sister in-love: Ashley
Emmy,
My heart is overflowing with love and admiration for you. You have been an incredible missionary, just as I knew you would be. You have always been an exceptionally beautiful person, both on the inside and out, and I have only seen that beauty increase as you have served the Lord. Your testimony and mission experiences have touched my heart and have helped to strengthen my own testimony of the Gospel. So much has changed since you left, and I cannot wait to introduce Haven Emily to you when you come home. I hope that Haven will always be reminded of the profound example of her aunt whenever she thinks of her middle name. I love you so much Emmy...can't wait to see you soon!
Ashley
Big Brother: Michael
Hi Emily! I wish I could create a "movie moment" or say something earth shattering at this important and sacred time in your life but I don't think I need to tell you anything that you don't already know. I'm so glad that you have had this priceless opportunity. I think that you and I will understand each other so much more now that you have had this mission experience. Missions change people, they add a depth of experience and spiritual maturity that you cannot really get any other way. I'm glad that we will have that connection, a greater understanding of what it means to truly love our Heavenly Father's children and what it means to serve and preach the gospel. Your mission will greatly benefit your future spiritual direction and will be a wonderful beacon for you to touch base with every day of your life. I love you Emily and am so proud of all that you have done!
-Mikey
Big Brother #2: James
For Emily-
You've come to the end of a great undertaking in your life. I think it goes without saying that we are all very proud of you and your diligence. What you did is not easy at all. It's a difficult undertaking that most of the world would rather avoid. In my prep for marriage class (yes, I'm taking it believe it or not) my professor taught that there is no finish line for marriage. Well I guess you could say the exact same about our work in the gospel. Once we take upon ourselves the name of Christ, it is a path that we must continually follow. It is a duty and a privilege as it puts us higher than the ways of the natural man. As you finish this consecrated time for the Lord, remember all the experiences you went through and ponder them in your heart continuously.
I love you kid, and I look forward to seeing you again.
-James
Little sister and comic relief: Sophie
Emmy,
I am glad you are coming home soon!! I have missed you so much. I hope I am the first one that you hug at the airport! I have grown up a lot. I go to a new school and have even made many new friends! I can’t wait to play with you and have you sleep in my room with me and snuggle me. I love you . Sophie
Dearest Emily,
I have kept in touch with all you were doing on your mission through your mother. She would read me your letters. Bette was always so proud of you too. There wasn’t anything that she loved more than you kids. I am very proud that you are my granddaughter and love you very much.
Grandpa Rol
Dearest Emily,
You were our precious "little eskimo baby", who was all grown up and "saving Chile" and now you are coming home to "save us all!" We couldn't be happier about who you are and the choices you have made and will continue to make. We love our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ so much. You have truly shared His Gospel at every opportunity with your whole heart and soul. Thank you so much for that! One of the great purposes of a full-time mission is to prepare missionaries for his or her future role in the Church. You have prepared well for life and we know that you are looking forward to continued service. We can't wait to see what the Lord and life has in store for you! The Lord really, really, loves his returned missionaries! Here are some thoughts that we are trying to apply in our lives and might be worth considering:
Glance Backward,
Reach Outward,
Press Forward!
Those are great action words and we know that you are full of action! We can hardly wait to hug you and we are sure that you will be feeling some very tender "Heavenly Hugs" too!
Love you,
Grandma and Grandpa Bourne
XOXO
Emily,
It seems like just yesterday we were sitting at Rodizio Grill talking about you embarking on your mission. We ate until we got the meat sweats and then you asked me some questions about my mission. I told you about a doctor I had baptized in Toronto, who knew the church was true, but had lost sight of what mattered most in his life. He invited me and my companion to breakfast and then told us he wasn't going to be coming back to church because he was going to commit adultery later that week. We tried to talk him to his senses, by speaking of the Plan of Happiness and telling him how much his wife and son loved him; but he had tuned out the spirit, so much so that he looked me in the eye and said, "Do you want to know the difference between you and me, Elder LeBaron? You're scared of God, and I'm not." In the ensuing months, I had limited contact with that man, but enough to know that his life had unraveled into disarray. The surety once present in his countenance was missing. He had given up the gospel for what he thought was freedom; instead, he became ensnared by selfish choices and a stranger to the happy life and relationships he had once enjoyed.
My thoughts turned to D&C 93: 31-34: "Behold, here is the agency of man, and here is the condemnation of man...And every man whose spirit receiveth not the light is under condemnation. For man is spirit. The elements are eternal, and spirit and element, inseparably connected, receive a fullness of joy; And when separated, man cannot receive a fullness of joy." I have a testimony that living the gospel brings us ultimate happiness. The Savior is the Light, and if we receive Him, He will receive us. And if we repent, Christ will shape us and help us to become like Him, to become purified, even as He is pure.
Love, Blob
Dearest Emileeb,
Congratulations on finishing your mission! I hope this makes the list for "great things accomplished" in your life. In my book, it definitely counts. The lessons you have learned, and the blessings and miracles that you have seen, all come from the Lord, as you have a testimony of, I am sure. Keep the "glow" about you, and continue to serve with exuberance those around you. I can't wait to see you!
Much Love,
Elizabeth Flamm
To My Favorite Chilean Hermana Bourne,
First, thank you so much for your friendship over the years. You have been an a constant example of Christlike love, service and hard work. Thank you, thank you for being a light of Christ in my life. I have had a huge testimony reassurance of the power of sister missionaries and the work that they do. I would not have an eternal marriage without the work of three sister missionaries in Riverside, California. I know that Christ is our Redeemer, and that we can be perfected through him. I love you, E.
Love, Hilary
Cute Emily,
Welcome Home! We have loved reading your letters and hearing many of your mission experiences. Missions are a truly a gift aren't they! Read and re-read this book often. It will keep your mission memories alive in your forever. We love you and thank you for serving so diligently. Wonderful things await you!
Love,
Jac, Warren, Zach, Caroline and Emma
Dear Emily,
My, My time has gone quickly. It has been so great to hear of your missionary experiences from your dad. I've had the advantage of seeing your dad weekly to ask him how you are doing.
I know you were a pioneer in your mission. You did many "firsts" that others could not do. Well, I guess others could, but you were called by the Lord and he wanted you. I've always been impressed with you and your abilities. Your companions were blessed and most importantly those you taught and converted through the spirit were really touched by you and your testimony. They will never forget you and the difference you made in their life. You have influenced generations of people, you'll never know just how many people you blessed.
I know the Gospel is true. Joseph Smith and Thomas Monson are true prophets. I know our Savior lives and that he knows each of us personally. The Holy Ghost has borne witness to me many times. My you be blessed in all that you do, the Stringhams love you. Welcome home!
Paul Stringham & Family
Em,
I just want to tell you how much I love you and how lucky I feel to have you as a friend. You are the biggest example to me and have been forever. The way you carry yourself as a confident daughter of God has always spoke to me. Not only are you beautiful, but your personality is one for the books! I don't think I have ever seen you down, you are always smiling, always happy and were always such a great pick-me-up when I was having a bad day. I loved that I had the opportunity to be in young women's with you and share that experience together. Your testimony back then was seriously such a huge building block for me at that age. The fact that you had no shadow of a doubt that our father in heaven was real and that his son Jesus Christ lived and died for us helped me to strengthen my relationship with both my Fathers and my Savior. Reading your blog has once again help strengthen my testimony and has always made me feel so lucky to have you as such an amazing girlfriend. I have never laughed so much as when I have been with you. I loved all of our times together and I love you so much. Thank you for everything you have done for me and helping me mold into the woman I am today. Em I am so excited for you to come home and am so happy for you for fulfilling a goal that I am sure has been a goal of yours since you were a child. Congrats on your amazing 18 months!
I love you more than words can say and WELCOME HOME!!!
McKenzi Green McCormick
Dear E,
Holy hannah! You're comin home! (side note: the word "hannah" is a linguistic phenomenon called a palindrome, my favorite palindromes include the phrases "go hang a salami i'm a lasagna hog" and "a man a plan a canal panama.")
Well E, sweet Judi says we can't write too much cuz there are so many people that love you, so I will keep it short. I can't imagine any young woman being a more qualified and effective sister missionary than I know you have been. No district leader or mission president for that matter could ask for a better sister to serve in their area. If you do missionary work like you play volleyball (go weasles!) or like you do math (heaven bless Mr. Barton!) or like you have always lifted others (seriously) then I am sure that Chile will never be the same.
Ayayay, apenas me di cuenta que ya hablas el espanol! Dejame compartir mi testimonio contigo en el idioma celestial. Se que el Senor ama a sus hijos. Las misiones nos proveen con oportunidades de participar en el milagro de conversion. Las amistades que has desarrollada con la gente chilena, con sus companeras, y con sus lideres misionales llegaran a ser relaciones eternas! Que alegria! Te quiero hermana! Te veo pronto!
Tucker
Dear Emily,
I'm sure you're feeling quite a range of emotions as you are finishing this incredible ride as a missionary! I remember someone telling me that I would cry when I left home and cry even more when I left the mission field. I vividly remember my own tears on the plane ride home! I'm sure you know that you will have many more joyous and wonderful experiences in your life, but your missionary experiences will be a highlight forever. I am continuously amazed at how little things will bring back those memories and experiences so strongly, even after all these years. You are a different person after serving the Chilean people so selflessly, as is your testimony of the gospel. I know that testimony will continue to grow and you will continue to touch peoples' lives wherever you are! We love you and are so excited to give you a hug again! See you soon!!
Love,
Marianne, David, Abby and Claire Carter
Emily, We are so proud of you and your desire to serve the Lord by giving of all your time and talents while in the prime of your life. We appreciate your example that you and your whole family sets for all of us. Welcome home and thank you for your service. Love the Tagges.
To the one and only darling Emily/ Hermana Bourne!
Alright so I just must say that I love love love you and am so thrilled for this opportunity that you have had to serve in Chile. I know how much you love the people, I know how much you love the Lord, I know how much you love missionary work....its a feeling beyond words that give you butterflies of joy in your stomach...right?? Silly and giddy, yes?? BUT TRUE!
Best part is, that is doesn't end now... it is really just all begining. The joy just gets better and better!
All my love and admiration,
Tanna Fox
"Aunt Lizzie"
Emmy you know how much I look up to you, thank you for always being that example of faith, devotion, love, and hard work.
We have had so many fun times together and I cant wait to continue to have even more. I love you so much and I hope you
know how incredibly proud I am of you. I know that nothing in this life will bring you more joy than the gospel and you have
experienced that first hand with the wonderful people in Chile.
I love you and I am so excited to see you!
~Lizzy Bourne Featherstone
Dearest Emily,
You are and forever will be one of my most cherished, admired and truly loved friends! Our friendship has brought me strength in some of the most challenging, difficult and formative times in my life. Your connection with the Spirit and your ability to share your spiritual insights right with my very soul has been an amazing blessing in my life. Additionally all of our ridiculous memories and adventures have helped to make my life full and brimming with joy, laughter, and love. You have helped to bring me closer to Jesus Christ. I know that He lives and Emily, I have felt His great love for you!
Thank you for serving diligently, humbly and faithfully. Embrace every moment life and know that you are always a servant for God when you humbly seek His Spirit and can bring others to Christ each and every day of your life--full-time missionary or not! I'm sure it seems almost impossible to leave a place, people, and lifestlye, that although difficult, you have learned to love. Know that the Lord loves you and knows better than you what is best for your eternal progression and that where ever you are, whatever phase of life, He is with you. He loves you. And He will ask that you serve Him. So no worries girly! There is plenty of work to be done right here in Provo! Not to mention me! I can hardly wait to see you, awkward and pasty as you may be :)
I LOOOOOOVE YOU!!
Come Home!
Love,
Teef
Emily,
I hope to be able to share just a thought with you...... To me you are a bright light. When you enter a room your warmth and kindness radiates. What a special gift that is. You have the unique ability to make those near you feel accepted, loved and wanted. I remember attending Michael's wedding and receiving more than a hug from you but a sense of belonging....as if that was exactly where I should be. I love that ability to make all feel important and special. I can only imagine how these gifts helped you serve the Lord. I know the brothers and sisters in Chile were and will be blessed by your very bright light. Thank You for your warmth and your love.....it has been such a delight to know and be blessed by you and your wonderful family. I hope to emulate your special gifts and love all and serve those around me as you have. I send you my love and gratitude my dear friend Emily!
To acceptance and warmth!!! I love and adore you.....
Susan DeMill
Dearest Beautiful Hermana Bourne,
Whenever I hear your beaming mother speak about your life-altering experiences there in Chili as one of the Lord's choicest servants, I always feel a tinge like your mother...since I, too, am so very proud of you and your amazing heart. You have always been a stand-out, but I don't think you've ever been more so than you are right now - desperately needing a weave, hands rough and worn from chopping firewood, and just now noticing your twenty-something skin is likely a lot less "dewy" due to severe weather extremes near the penguins. But even though you may feel less physically attractive at this point in your mission (like I did), I'm sure you realize that you wouldn't trade the past year-and-a-half for ANY earthly glamour or prize. I know the kind of young woman and the type of missionary you are, Emily, and (trust me) you have never been more beautiful than you are today. Right now. You are magnificent! You have done incredibly well. I am so proud of you. (We Mormons can now say that since Elder Uchdorf gave us all permission during the last General Conference!) I love the Lord, Emily. I feel His power and blessings in my life. I love sharing His message of hope, and love, and all things eternal with my brothers and sisters here...and I can't wait to feel His arms around me again there - in that place where weaves don't exist and where you and I can each be naturally, effortlessly forever blond! I love you. I can't wait to see your beautiful smile and hear your amazing testimony about all those experiences-of-a-lifetime. You are one fabulous girl...
Talk Soon,
DeAnne
Dear Emily:
What a thrill to send you a love message just prior to your coming home! I am so grateful your mother included me in this welcome home idea.
First of all, welcome back!
Welcome back to family and friends who love you and who have missed you.
Welcome back to your home and bedroom and your own bed and carpet and microwaves and cleanliness!
Welcome back to cell phones and computers and all things technological.
Welcome back to Holladay where you know everyone and most worship as you do.
Welcome back to your life as a BYU student with all its potential.
Welcome back to a life that isn't nearly as regimented as a mission (maybe you'll miss that!).
Welcome back to the 'real world' that you will continually strive to make congruent with the 'spiritual world' you have lived in these past l8 months.
Even though it will be hard to take your nametag off for the last time, you can still put it in your sock drawer and see it every single day as a reminder of your mission life.
You can still love it and treasure it and remember.
You can remember your heartfelt prayers on your knees.
You can remember your spiritual yearnings for others that almost hurt!
You can remember your uber joy at watching someone's conversion process.
You can remember your deeply spiritual moments in the scriptures.
You can remember companions and what great things you both taught one another.
You can remember painful but powerful lessons learned in the Lord's University. (Missions are the Lord's University. You've earned a Ph.D.!)
You can remember the highs and lows, the happy and sad -- all part of this magnificent journey of journeys.
Emily, what if you had not gone?! I am so proud of you. So happy for you. Can't wait to hear your homecoming message.
You are such a delightful soul and one so easy to love. It will be so fun to watch the next part of your life unfold with all its possibilities and promises.
The gospel is true. You are loved. And God is so good.
With love and affection, Martsie Webb
Darling Emily you’re coming home... I cannot wait to hug you!!! You are a gift in my life. You are a wonderful example of goodness to me. There is no doubt that our Heavenly Father is so proud of you.
Please know of my Testimony of this gospel. I do not know where I would be without it. I love you and cannot wait to see you. Your
Friend, Jill VanderToolen
Hey, Emily, Mary Driggs here. I just wanted you to know what an inspiration you have been to me and my four daughters this past year and a half. It has been wonderful to read of your experiences (we still laugh about you meeting Mario! Or was it Luigi?) and to feel your testimony . I want you to know that I also have an unshakable testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel, and very few things have helped me feel His Spirit more than the words I’ve read from the missionaries in my life. Thank you for being such a good example and for choosing “that good part.”
Love, Mary
Emily,
We are so looking forward to seeing you and hearing of your many wonderful experiences in Chile. Having been to the southern tip of Tierra Del Fuego, I can only imagine what your daily routine was like, especially in winter. There must be an equivalent to our fabled Nanook of the North down at the end of the world. I am sure you have fit the bill from the pictures your parents have shared with us. Have a wonderful trip with your parents. You won’t understand this for a while, but their seeing your mission and meeting your investigators and converts is a real payday and a time together like no other. Give them the full tour including showers with a 55 gallon drum of water and a bowl, local cuisine off the street and discussions with the loving Chilean people. The Gospel is true and your contribution to its growth and success will be felt and appreciated by all those with whom you have shared your testimony and touched their lives. Enjoy this unique time in your life, one of service and 100% focus on others. You will likely never be so focused in this manner again.
Best to you and see you soon. Much love.
Bishop Larry and Tammy Pinnock
Dear Emily,
What an outstanding young lady you have been your entire life! I am so in awe of your latest accomplishment, your mission. You have shown such great faith and diligence just like the great women of the scriptures.
I have never adequately thanked you for the special act of service you rendered to my Carissa her Junior year in High School. You volunteered to take her to school each morning. Hello, that was the most amazing thing you could have ever done for our family at that time!!!!! I know you were probably late for school at times because of this sacrifice. I just want you to know that I was sooooooooo appreciative of your notice of a need and your willingness to act on it.
Carissa really looked up to you and what better person to have chauffering my daughter to school than someone she was closely watching as a real mentor or hero. Iʼm sure that the service she saw you giving in so many ways, greatly influenced her desire to want to serve others. Your goodness is contagious! May our Heavenly Father continue to bless you with everything you need. Thank You!
Love, Shaunie and the rest of the Fotheringham Clan
Dear Emily,
Congratulations on completing your mission! We have enjoyed hearing about your experiences and how much you have loved serving the Lord! We are so happy for you and grateful your parents will have the amazing experience of picking you up. There is nothing that brings more joy to a parent than seeing and meeting the people whose lives have been changed because of their child sharing the gospel. We are anxious to hear about your adventures and hear your strong testimony
Truly, there is nothing more precious in this life than a testimony of Christ, His life, His infinite atonement, and His restored gospel. We have a testimony of these things. We know that the Prophet Joseph, in reality, saw God the Father and His Son, received divine revelation, and translated the Book of Mormon as another witness of Christ. How grateful we are that through His restored divine priesthood and temple covenants families are eternally bound. You are so blessed to have your wonderful family and we are so blessed to know you. You have all had a profound influence in our lives and we only hope that love and friendship continues for years to come. We love you and we are so proud of the the young woman you have become!
Love always,
Don and Beck
"Aunt Jessie"
EMMY!
How are you my all-star hermana? I hope you know how absolutely incredible you are, you have served an incredible mission, and I can't wait to see all your pictures and hear all the stories. Emmy, you have always been my example, and I look up to you more than you would ever know. I'm sure this is a very bittersweet time for you, but remember that as you leave Chile, leave with no regrets. Know that you have done a phenomenal service, by bringing so many souls to the gospel. That is the greatest gift anyone could receive, and your example, testimony, and hardwork will be imprinted on their minds forever. You are amazing! I am so proud of you, thanks for all you do Emmy! I love you so much, and I cannot wait to see you! And guess what, we can go to the temple together, that is going to be so cool! I can't wait for you to meet Peter too, you are gonna love him. See you at the airport, enjoy the homestretch of your mission, live it up, make the most of it. And don't worry, the missionary experience never has to end, "every member a missionary!" There are so many lives that you can bless here as well, and I know that you will. Thanks for all you do Emmy, thanks for the life you live, and I love you so much! See you soon:)
Love, Jessie
Emily, Emmy, Sister Bourne –
I have watched you since you were a young girl. You and Topher are the same age so I had the opportunity to observe you through the years at Cottonwood Elementary, Olympus Jr. and Olympus High. You were never “flashy”, never “phony”, never anything but what you were…kind, sweet, authentic and beautiful. I cannot tell you what it means to a parent to have a child who is real. A child who knows who they are and stays true to that gift throughout their life. You have that gift. You have had it all your life. Your parents saw it and so did everyone else ~ and they loved you for it. Thank you for your example to young and old alike. I will never forget when you where named Homecoming Queen and how my daughter Amanda and I watched from the sidelines at the football game and she said, “How do you become Homecoming Queen.?” And I said, “just be nice to everyone like Emily.” Four years later, Amanda was Homecoming Queen too…because of your example. Nice ALWAYS wins!! I hope my daughter can follow your example of goodness throughout her life. Serving the Lord faithfully for the past 18 months is the best example you can give anyone. Thank you. Proud of you. Love you.
Kristy Dibblee
Emily!!
One word can describe my letter writing to you on your mission...LAME. However, reading your letters via the blog has been such an amazing experience and I have selfishly been inspired and uplifted by you and the people of Chile these past 18 months! The strength and conviction you have in the Lord and His gospel can be felt all the way on the other side of the world (I know that sounds cheesy, but I mean it!). I know that you have helped the Lord touch the people of Chile and that impact will be felt for years to come. Emily, I have not found any greater joy than bringing myself and others closer to the Savior and I know that you have experienced that joy to the millionth degree. Keep up the fire Emily (or E-puppy as Jason would say) and the Lord will continue to draw on your strength to enrich and build others. So much has changed in the most wonderful ways since the awesome summer Apt 316 came to be! I am so grateful for the strength I found and continue to find in you and Ashley, and I can't wait to see what the future holds.
I love you Emily!
Kortney Porter
For Emmy:
1 Samuel 2:30 You have honored yourself and the Gospel, I'm excited for you to continue your mission here at home! Love you! Sarah Waldo Burton
Hermana Bourne,
I know how hard it is to leave a country and people you have grown to love. Finishing something great is always bittersweet.
Yo tengo un testimonio fuerte de esta iglesia. Yo se que la iglesia es verdadera. Yo se que Jose Smith fue un profeta de Dios y el Libro de Mormon es la palabra de Dios. Yo se que podemos volver a vivir con Dios un dia. Estas palabras simples han dado guia, confianza y direccion a mi vida. Estoy muy agradecia por la luz del evangelio en vi vida. Gracias por su ejemplo and servicio en un pais y un gente que amo mucho.
Welcome home!!!! Hermana Debra Packard
Hermana Emily Bourne-
Ya ha transcurrido la epoca de su mision en Chile. Sin embargo, ni usted, ni la gente de Chile sera lo mismo que antes por razon de su servicio como discipulo de Cristo y representante de El. Seguro hay muchos que le aman y que son muy especiales para usted. Aqui hay buenas oportunidades comunicarse en espanol y para continuar con la obra misional. La influencia del Espiritu, la veracidad de la Iglesia restaurada y el poder del Evangelio del Senor, todo lo que ha llegado a amar tanto durante su mision, seguira con usted al regresar. Aun, la esposa y yo sabemos de unos restaurantes Chilenos donde se puede comer mil hojas, pebre y pan y empanadas de queso y de pino. Hay dentro de mi corazon y de mi mente el testimonio de la restauracion, del propheta Jose y de los vivientes. Se que el Senor vive y nos ama. Bien hecho Hermana Bourne!
Hermano Packard
Emily,
We have a few pictures of you on our fridge. We all miss you and are eager to have you back. You have been in a tough part of the world. It'll be fun to hear of your mission adventures. Our family has prayed for you daily. Welcome back !!! We love you.
Aunt Stephanie
Emmy!
Welcome home! I never told you this because you were on a mission but I have missed you sooooo dearly! I can not wait to see you! Oh I'm going to cry! haha. I am sure you were the best missionary ever but now you are MINE! muahahahaha! hahaha. Thank you for being the best cousin ever! I haven't been with you for over five hours in three and a half years! I can not wait to be your junior comp. again as soon as you get home. Much love!
Your cousin,
Hal
My Dearest Emileeeb! Oh how I love you! I am so happy that we got to go on the adventure of a lifetime together, even if we were on completely opposite ends of the world. I know without a doubt serving a mission was the best decision I ever made and I know you feel that way too. I know that we have a Heavenly Father who loves us more than anything. He just wants us to be happy and that is why He gave us the gospel and the Plan of Salvation. Sharing this with everyone for a year and a half brought me more joy than I can even describe. I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior. He atoned for each and every one of us and through that we can overcome anything. I loved watching people's lives completely change after gaining a testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel.
I am so grateful for your friendship and example in my life. I know you have a great testimony of this gospel and it has always been a great strength to me. I'm excited to share stories with you and hear all about Chile. I know it's not easy coming home, in fact, it kinda sucks. Don't worry if you just want to read your scriptures all the time, or if you randomly burst into tears because I've been there and might still be there ;) I know exactly how you're feeling, but you have lots of people that love you and are very proud of you. And most importantly you have a Father in Heaven who is always aware of your situation and has a great plan in store for you!
Love, Beckron
Dear Emily,
Congratulations for having served such a great mission. It has been fun to read your blog and feel the love of the Chilean people and testimony that you have developed. It will be a reservoir of strength for you the rest of your life. I share with you my appreciation and love of the gospel as well as the Chilean people, some of the best to be found for sure. Welcome home. You have a lot to look forward to. Life could hardly be more exciting for you.
Love,
Bob and Gemini
Emily,
I can’t believe how quickly time has flown! I have loved reading the blog and hearing all about the awesome experiences you gave had... How you LOVE your mission!!! You will forever remember this time as such a blessing and privilege in your life!! I am so proud of you and know you have been able with the spirit to impact many lives. I’m so excited to hear first hand your favs and can't wait to see you!
Love you,
Bec Case
Dear Sister Bourne,
I am writing to express my testimony of what I know to be true.
I have had many experiences in my life that have left me with a greater love and appreciation for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and for the amazing example of our Savior. I have felt the purest and most overwhelming love encompass my whole being after breaking a fast (I was trying to understand a difficult situation I was in and needed guidance).
I know God lives. I know He hears and answers prayers. I know He loves me. I know we are all brothers and sister and are here on this earth not only to have our own unique experiences but to serve and help our brothers and sisters return back to our Father as well.
"Oh it is wonderful....wonderful to me!"
My love to you Emily
Nancy Welti Sanchez
Emily,
I can hardly believe that your year and a half are up. What an
adventure it has been. It has been so fun to hear all about your
mission from your mom and dad. They are so proud of you!. I can't
wait to see you and to hear your homecoming report. You were amazing when you left and now you are even more amazing. How lucky you are to have served a mission. It just puts you so much further ahead in life, in all that you do, especially in being a mother. The older I get and the more I see of life the Gospel is what make it all worth it. We are all so blessed! Can't wait to see you!!
Love
Mike and Kris
PS We need a ski day with the Bourne Family
Dearest Emily,
Congratulations on such a wonderful mission. I admire so your love and devotion to your Heavenly Father and his children. I have loved talking with your Mom and hearing about your experiences and your insights as you have served with all your Heart, Might, Mind, and Strength. What a gift you have been to all you have served. I admire and hold your service in the highest regard. It will be so nice to be able to, soon, catch a glimpse of Emily, again. I cannot wait to see what remarkable things your next life chapter will bring.
Much Love to you Emily,
Liz Gibbs
Hermana Bourne!
Did you know that the first memory I have of you is helping out with the Pioneer 5th Spanish Branch back when we were in the Santa Barbara ward's Latino Outreach Committee together? You were doing what you do best-teaching people. You were helping a little boy learn to play the piano. I'm so amazed that you've done so many humanitarian aid efforts, and in Spanish no less. The best on is the greatest humanitarian aid of all, administering the Atonement to Heavenly Father's children. From Mexico to Peru to now the Penquins, is there a nino or nina you haven't helped? So excited to hear your stories of all the small and simple miracles you've witnessed and of all the things you have yet to do in microfinance and accounting...."por medio de cosas pequenas y sencillas se realizan grandes cosas."
Un abrazo, Phil Volmar
Did you know that the first memory I have of you is helping out with the Pioneer 5th Spanish Branch back when we were in the Santa Barbara ward's Latino Outreach Committee together? You were doing what you do best-teaching people. You were helping a little boy learn to play the piano. I'm so amazed that you've done so many humanitarian aid efforts, and in Spanish no less. The best on is the greatest humanitarian aid of all, administering the Atonement to Heavenly Father's children. From Mexico to Peru to now the Penquins, is there a nino or nina you haven't helped? So excited to hear your stories of all the small and simple miracles you've witnessed and of all the things you have yet to do in microfinance and accounting...."por medio de cosas pequenas y sencillas se realizan grandes cosas."
Un abrazo, Phil Volmar
Dear Hermana,
Hola! I've been studying some Spanish for when you get back. Here's my best phrase: No te pongas triste que estas muerto.
Okay, well maybe I haven't been studying Spanish, but if you can even understand what I typed, I'm serious about the message. You have served an honorable mission and blessed scores of peoples' lives by sharing the gospel with them. I'm sure you realize that, and you have a sense of peace about it now, but if there ever comes a time in the near future when you miss your mission or your heart hearts because of the converts you left behind, just remember that the Lord is over your life and over their lives. I've been home from the mission almost as long as I was on a mission now, and in the time I've been home, my faith and confidence in the Lord has been reaffirmed time and time again. I know that the gospel changes lives, and I know the Lord is speaking the truth when He says "the blessings which I give unto you are above all things" (D&C 18:45). I know that the Lord will continue to use you as a tool to spread the gospel and bless lives. You've been an awesome full-time missionary, now get ready to be an awesome member missionary!
Noah
Dear Emily, I simply cannot believe that you are coming home! I cannot believe that it's been a year and a half since we sat with you in that big room, sharing thoughts and feelings before you were set apart as a full-time missionary. I was large with child at that time, and now I have a cute little toddler running around (who is very excited to meet you, by the way)! I knew even then that you would be an amazing missionary. You have always been an incredible person, with a strong testimony and a great love for the Savior. The Chilean people have been so blessed to have you in their midst...you have touched their lives, and changed them for the better, and you will never be forgotten. We can't wait to have back with us, so that we can feel of your love and goodness once again. We love you so much! Love, Dave, Suzanne, Maxwell, Carson & Rachel Stewart  Sister Emily Elizabeth E - Bourne, First of all, thank you for being my friend and someone who has blessed my life immeasurably. Seriously E, you have always been such a good influence in my life; whether it was skiing at Snowbird, having fun as SBO's, playing at Cottonwood Elementary, laughing with you on Concert Choir Tour, talking with you late at night Freshman year, or reading your mission blog, you have been someone who has helped me become who I am today and who has helped me become better. We have had some fun memories over the years, and I hope for more to come! I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true and that it is a gospel of love and of hope. Our Heavenly Father loves each one of us individually, so much so, that He sent his Only Begotten Son to live and die for us so that we could hope to return to Him one day. He sent His Son to show us the Way to eternal life, and if we follow His example and try to live as Christ lived on this Earth, we will have greater happiness than any other path that we might choose in this life. He sent His Son to suffer for our sins, feel our pains and sorrows, so that He might know how to succor His children and to let us know that we are never alone. The Lord loves us and knows His children. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Thank you for spreading His love through your service! Love, Brooke (Brookie) Bagley |
With my love and gratitude, Judi