On Saturday evening we sat down with our friends--Sipho from Zimbabwe and Irene, a foreign exchange student from Italy--to watch the opening session of General Conference. When the saints from all over the world were welcomed to the session, we felt special knowing we had 3 countries represented in one room, and 4 if you include Belgium. 
You can imagine the excitement we felt as President Monson announced the 5 new temples. One in Philadephia, PA--YEA!!! And one in Rome, Italy! What an amazing thing. Irene, a convert of 3 years, travels 7 hours to attend the Switzerland temple. Now it will be only 4 hours. She was thrilled and blowing heartfelt kisses to the prophet on the big screen. 
The more I think about a temple being built in Rome, the more gratitude I feel for the truths we know about the gospel spreading across the earth. As we naively drove into Rome last April, we were stunned at the blatant pornography being displayed along the main, and only, road leading into the city. It was hard it imagine the wickedness of that city. And now, they are getting a temple! The righteous will prevail!!! There is no doubt. Also, Rome is the center of Catholicism with Vatican City a stone throw away. Isn't is great to know that one of our beautiful temples will soon be there to bless so many.
And, a note about the Philadelphia temple--Ever since Elder Wallentine has been there, he has commented how ready the people are to accept the gospel in Pennsylvania. They have seen miraculous things and watched many people join the church. Now, they will have a temple, too. The work of the Lord is progressing and to sum up one of my most favorite quotes--"No unhallowed hand will stop the work. . ." It is true!!!
Tonight these 2 sisters will come to our home again for the Sunday Morning session. Irene is going to make us pasta for dinner. Fun--a cooking lesson from an Italian!
We are looking forward to being fed--Spiritually & Physically!
