ALAMOSA — Neil and Susan Hammer recently returned home after serving a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints. They served in the Texas McCallen Mission and served mostly in the Corpus Christi, Portland, and Kingsville areas of Texas. 

The Hammers were privileged to serve on a Church Education System (CES) Mission in which they had three main objectives during this time. One objective was to teach Institute classes to those of college age. They helped students gain a deeper understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ. As they taught gospel principles, they helped people learn to apply the Gospel in their lives, as well as recognize blessing from the Lord. 

Their second objective was to provide support for the missionaries stationed in the area. This support ranged from taking missionaries to the doctor if needed, to inspecting their apartments. The mission covers a very large area, and the Hammers often traveled about, helping missionaries with their varying needs.

Their third objective was to advise the young adults in the church. The Hammers helped plan and execute activities for them. No matter what they did or where they served, they loved their time on this mission—to help people become closer to the Lord Jesus Christ in their everyday lives is so rewarding.

The Hammers expressed their love of serving on this mission, and related that it was hard to leave the friendships behind – but thank goodness for technology which gives them the opportunity to stay connected. They loved the people of Texas; they are so welcoming and friendly. The opportunity to study and increase their own knowledge of the Gospel has been valuable to them. The ability to spend time studying the Gospel is rewarding, and both developed a deeper love of studying. They are more aware how the Holy Spirit is active in their own lives and in the lives of their family. Both tell how this mission brought them closer to each other and to the Lord. They more acutely recognize how the Lord has blessed and protected them and their family.

Serving a couple’s mission is a wonderful experience, and they would do it again. Besides Gospel related activities, they experienced so much, from a hurricane, to a snow storm (on the beach, no less). They were also able to enjoy a short visit from their family while in Texas. The Hammers are glad to be home, especially getting to welcome a new grandbaby into their family. Their future plans include enjoying their family and friends, and to continue studying the Gospel of Jesus Christ.