Wednesday, July 9, 2008

First Day at the TF Temple

Yesterday (7/8) I went with 12 of our YSA from the Jerome 9th YSA Branch and our High Council representative to assist with the 'foot coverings' for the temple tours. We had 8 at the front door putting on the shoe covers and 4 the back door taking them off. (We were told we couldn't call the adventure 'Bootie Duty' - but, hey if the shoe fits...)

We arrived just before 4pm and received instructions on how we were to act and (yes really) how to put the foot coverings on over shoes. Special attention was given on how to keep them on small feet - rubber bands, to clean the wheels on wheelchairs before they were allowed in as well.

We started our 'shift' at 430 with the intent of being done at 8pm. We started out with 3 groups of about 40 Boise Idaho Mission missionaries then it slowed down until about 730. After 730 it really picked up and we were busy until the last tour group at 830 (yep we went over an half hour).

The funnest of all for me was when we were done we were given an opportunity for one more tour -- us. And since I and our HC rep are both 'tour guides' in training. We got to take the YSA thru on a tour. I was given the assignment to lead our tour.

As we started the tour, the YSA were excited and a bit rowdy (hey, who wouldnt be after 4 hrs of bootie duty!), but as we viewed the baptismal font and made our way along the tour to the Celestial room they got quieter and quieter. Hardly a word was spoken as we entered the sealing room, at the end of the tour. Tears were flowing and all were awestruck.

As for the tour guide and his presentation, you will have to ask Collette she can critique for you. But I know there is a lot room for improvement. I am just glad my friends were my first time.

I look forward to next Wednesday when Linda and I get to spend the day meeting, greeting, and giving tours to all comers.

5 comments:

Linda Clark said...

I was so glad that you were able to go and participate with some of our YSA "kids" in the temple. Collette mentioned how beautiful it was and I am posting next some of the beautiful pictures that were featured in the Church news.

Collette said...

It was an aweseom day. I loved serving those people and putting on their FC's (foot coverings). The temple is gorgeous. Like I said before I don't care where my husband will be from I am getting married in that sealing room.

Alisa said...

What a great experience! I would so call it bootie duty, too. I can't wait until we come visit and can go to your temple with you!

Audrey said...

Incredible! and you are very blessed to be apart of this. I have very vague memories of touring the Seattle temple before it was dedicated. Although I was very young, I'll never forget the reverence. & that we had to wear booties. So you had a very important job!

Becky said...

Bro & Sis Clark - The Twin Falls temple is amazing, thanks for sharing your experience. Lance and I are currently ordinance workers in the Columbia, SC temple and we absolutely love it. I cannot wait to come home and see the inside of the temple. I wish we were there for the open house - bummer!!