With 10 deaths this year: Are Mormon missionaries safe? The first judge assigned to the case, Nestor Loredo, resigned on October 4 as a consequence of anonymous telephoned death threats. They also worry people will look at the page and mistakenly conclude the church is not doing anything, saying church leaders have helped out with flights and all kinds of expenses. On Saturday, June 24, after following a "trail of suspects," police arrested Constantino Yujra Loza,[66] a sociology student, and his cousin, who was later released. Their eighteen-year-old brother Greg was preparing to serve a mission as well. Obviously, he probably shouldn't have been allowed to go in the first place. While he asserted that "a bomb is not going to scare any of us," the First Presidency responded to the general political unrest by reassigning some American missionaries in Bolivia and Peru to other countries and sending others home early. She must have been horrified at that situation but probably submitted to her husband's Mormon law of silence for all things unpleasant and potentially harmfull to the cult. He was a country boy at heart, so it was natural for him to want to be back in the country. 0:27. The two women were serving in the Georgia Atlanta North Mission. Copyright Daily Herald | www.heraldextra.com | 1200 Towne Centre Blvd. Join thousands already receiving our daily newsletter. I don't even know what to say. The right includes the big landowners and mine owners. The First Presidency released a statement in which they expressed shock and sadness and "pray[ed] for an end to the hatred and misunderstanding which led to this tragedy. They did, however, have the following name and brief biographical information: "James E. Christensen, 24, Kentucky Louisville, Moroni, UT 1977". An 18-year-old missionary for the LDS Church was killed in Southern \nCalifornia Thursday when he was struck by a . Marla remembered the first miracle moment, some time in January, when she told Creed to look at her and he rotated one of his eyes in her direction. [12][13], When Jeffrey Ball and Todd Wilson arrived in Bolivia in 1988, they entered an environment of severe political unrest and anti-Mormon antagonism in the nation and in Latin America generally. "[3][71][72][73], Following on the heels of this tragedy, Oscar Zapata of Piura, Peru, who had been serving in the Peru Lima East Mission for just two weeks, was shot on March 6, 1991 after getting off a bus in the remote town of Tarma, Peru. On the contrary, religion has played a prominent role in politics since the European colonization of the 1500s. "[14] Latin America does not share the tradition of separation of church and state found in the United States. And a sad and perplexing story, Steve. He said the community is stunned and that thousands have joined in fasting and praying for. ", One witness for the defense, a psychiatrist, called Bjelde a "chronic schizophrenic.". felt that Christensen, who suffered several physical disabilities because of his accident, was lacking in appropriate Adjusting to any type of change can affect your mental health, including becoming a missionary. Check out YA Weekly, located in the Young Adults section under Audiences in the Gospel Library, for new, inspiring content for young adults each week. [14], One group that specifically targeted the LDS Church in Bolivia was known as Fuerzas Armadas de Liberacin Zarate Willka (Zarate Willka Armed Forces of Liberation, hereafter referred to as FAL Zarate Willka), named for a nineteenth century Indian hero. While Juan's sister tried to get the order reversed, his mother watched her son die.[15]. [70] However, after the resignation of the first two judges, Rivas ordered the five suspects (Yujra, the Encinas brothers, Dr. Rojas, and Simn Tema Mamani) to remain in prison without bail. steve benson It was there that they spent two and a half days reading the entire Book of Mormon. That's deplorable! [9] A scholarship fund was also established in his memory. How does the Lords wisdom bless our lives? His companion was not hurt. [11], The bodies of the missionaries arrived in Salt Lake City on Delta Flight 705 on Sunday, May 28. Mission Companions - Latter-day Saint Mission Prep In hindsight it was a stupid mistake, and I deeply regret that I was not more thoughtful and sensitive, as well as outspoken, about the potential dynamics of this combination. Putting the 24/7 burden of care for a handicapped person on a young inexperienced missionary, while also expecting him to proselyte, is the height of insanity. Elder Mason Bailey, 19, died after being hit by a vehicle while serving in the Sweden Stockholm Mission. (Chad Waggoner) Creed Leonard, right, poses for a photograph with his stepdad, Chad Waggoner. Still, the initial diagnosis wasnt good. In determining to give personal voice to her story, she admitted the "frustration and anger" she has felt "in collecting my thoughts,", But she did what she had to do, wrapping it up by firmly declaring, "Please feel free to use my whole name. No doubt he got some bad advise in going on a mission, but I also understand that within the Mormon culture, missionary pressures, from prospective missionaries, their families, local ward members and leaders, etc. Dont be hesitant to ask for strength to manage your expectations or to control your attitude. But was ultimately convicted only on Voluntary Manslaughter and aggravated assault. Re: Coming Forward: Years After the Killing of a Family Member at the Hands of the Victim's Companion and in My Uncle's Mission Field, a Courageous Woman Speaks Out for Justice & Truth He was not required, however, to undergo jail time.&. Thank you Steve for all of your hard work at bringing light to the many little known perversities of Mormonism. My parents are TBMs, as are my three brothers. "[25][26], Terrorist acts against the LDS Church in South America did not end with the deaths of Wilson and Ball. steve benson As a result, the prisoners protested their innocence, and began staging a hunger strike on March 31. I only recently found out about all of this because for so many years, it was too painful for my mother to talk about. Twinker By way of background regarding this appalling event, victim James E. Christensen had been disabled as a youth in, as I recall, some kind of accident. police he had held Christensen down in a tub of scalding water JeffreyR. Holland, Missionary Work and the Atonement, Ensign, Mar. It would be another way for the world to learn the modus operandi of TSCC. Facebook friends are sharing the news stories and sympathies as well. Its gut-wrenching, Marla said. Although there is, of course, no excuse for Elder Belde's actions, and there is a real temptation (for me too) to feel that he "got away with it," we should remember that he was placed in a position that was impossible for him. I don't even know what to say to that. During this time, Latin missionaries were called to the Bolivia Cochabamba mission at about twice the rate of North American missionaries. [54] President Monson affirmed, "It is no small thing to have every missionary parent praying for you and knowing that your hearts are filled with sorrow." The whole situation makes me furious--and I sincerely blame the religious leaders for his death. He clearly understood what he was doing on a mission, and wanted to be there. Adjusting to Life as a Missionary: Companions, Rejection, and Mental Health The group later claimed responsibility for an attack on the Bolivian Parliament and caused a blackout in La Paz with another bombing. [30] The other idea is that the assassins lured them out by having someone call them saying that the sisters needed a film projector. Do not sorrow, father. This is the first I have heard of the murder/torture of Elder James Christensen. Antonio Rojas, a Bolivian officer assigned to the case, stated that while they were staking out the home of Susana Zapana (the suspect who had been a member of the LDS Church), At 11:30 p.m., Susana hadn't arrived to tell us who Horacio was. Without excusing his behavior, this companion was expected to not only do missionary work but to look after James. Was he acquitted? According to witnesses, after the act, a commander of the group realized, "it's not him, we were wrong." Church leaders and former companions expressed condolences and renewed their dedication to missionary work. Adjusting to any type of change can affect your mental health, including becoming a missionary. Your environment is different, youre away from your friends and family, and you have schedules and demands that are unique. Creed spent much of the first month at Massachusetts General in a coma and on life support in the hospitals intensive care unit. Less than a week later, during the evening of Monday, July 10, 1989, the Hamacas Ward chapel in Santa Cruz, Bolivia was bombed. A typical missionary day begins by waking at 6:30 a.m.* for personal study. He told us, I really dont know what to expect in phase two because most people with injuries like Creeds dont survive phase one, " Chad said. It appeared that his limitations were mostly physical. Having a companion can be such a relief, especially as you start your mission. Your help in compiling a more complete account of those we would honor will be greatly appreciated.". [10] His older sister, Wendy, described him as "a powerful authority who also had a caring soft side he tried to hide but couldn't. Chad and Marla are somewhat uncomfortable with receiving help but realize that there will likely be a lot of unforeseen expenses that insurance will not cover. At least 40 of the 177 killed missionaries identified died in robberies. I have seen the harm this creates directly with my younger brother, Brian, who was born with Mosaic Down Syndrome, and who prayed to God every night asking him to be able to go on a mission. They had one microscope that looked like it came from a high school biology class about twenty years ago. President Thomas said that upon receiving his call to serve in Sweden, Elder Bailey was so excited to go to a faraway place. "We are saddened to share news of the passing of two young missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who were killed in a head-on traffic collision on Tuesday in Denton,. I don't know if the killer was required to undergo treatment. A few hours later, he and the bishop went to the Wilson home to notify them of the murders. Elder Bailey of Richfield, Utah, and his companion were walking to an appointment when he was struck by a vehicle and killed. deductible, Report a missed paper by emailingsubscribe@sltrib.comor calling801-237-2900, For e-edition questions or comments, contact customer support801-237-2900or emailsubscribe@sltrib.com. Thank you, Angela Voss, for courageously sharing your experience, your pain and your hopes. Like the investigation of the accident, which Waggoner said is still ongoing more than three months later, Creeds prognosis is uncertain. For her part, Marla is no stranger to grief. Still, Chad added, just what that recovery may look like or how long it may take remains uncertain. Elder Michael Austin Davis, 20, of Corinne, Utah, and Elder Tyson Gene Haycock, 20, of Miles City, Montana, died . There is no question that these two should never have been put together. While a few Americans remained in the mission, most were sent home or redeployed. He died in January from health complications. "[10] Jane Caspar, a friend of the Ball family explained the general feeling, "No one can comprehend it; it's just unbelievable. Cross, a junior at Crimson Cliffs, is finishing out the school year online. Since our physical health can affect our mental health, you should always make sure that youre eating a healthy diet, getting enough exercise (its built right into the missionary schedule, after all! Knowing Reed Benson as I came to--I was his missionary assistant for 8 months, and one of his closest advisors--I have no doubt that he was genuinely traumatized by this episode. Bjelde was later diagnosed with schizophrenia during the investigation. At this point, Id like to share--with her personal permission--her thoughts, expressed as a relative of James E. Christensen, the Mormon missionary who was slain at the hands of his own companionand who, in death, was blamed for his death. A 20-year-old missionary from Utah and his companion were killed Thursday in a head-on collision in New Mexico, according to a news release Friday from The Church of Jesus Christ of. Joseph Standing - New Georgia Encyclopedia To give her son the best chance possible, Marla spends every day with him, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. She rents a nearby apartment in Boston, where she is currently living with her daughter Sway and son Cross. Political, not religious factors motivated the assassinations, and politics soon became involved. It takes something greater and more powerful than us. It is a dangerous illusion, as this case demonstrates. I had confidence they were with my son and helping to protect him. After surgery in Boston, Waggoner said, he is now back home and recovering in Tucson, Arizona. I can't imagine how painful that was for her to continue to tell my brother no, he could not go on a regular mission. Turns out she had very good reason for that--she needed to protect her son. . Sway is taking a hiatus from her studies at Utah Tech University to help out. A schizophrenic was expected to take over the care of a handicapped missionary companion. I did know your aunt May well. Some of my best inventories happened while I was walking down a dusty road just chatting openly with my companion. To allow him to simply go on with her life is unbelievable to me. I initially found out about the tragic death of James E. Christensen when I overheard members of my family privately criticizing this senselessly-slain missionary at a Benson family gathering (one that was held during LDS General Conference, as our wider family get-togethers often are). In addition to using the United States as a scapegoat for Bolivia's problems, FAL Zarate Willka "sought revenge for their political party's poor showing in Bolivia's recent national election," on May 15, blaming the United States for this as well, claimed Gelbard. My heart truly goes out to that family. We didn't know who they were. Glo This, of course, was years ago. [40], It was early theorized by Bolivian and U.S. officials that this group resisted U.S. anti-drug policies, possibly being connected with drug traffickers. Nothing should surprise me anymore. "[11] His desire to serve a mission was manifested by his selling his Jeep that he "dearly loved" to finance it. She gave me permission to share the contents of her correspondence with me here, including her full identity. Vallow and her husband, doomsday . [27] While they were allowed to attend their meetings on Sunday, including the memorial service,[56] and were reported to be "in good spirits," [59] that week was still difficult. Donate to the newsroom now. Letting Go of Contention (Afton Nelson, Ensign, Jan. 2018, 2223), Three Things to Remember before You Judge (Chakell Wardleigh, Ensign, Jan. 2020, 7679), Bearing One Anothers Burdens (JeffreyR. Holland, Ensign, June 2018, 2429), Turning Rejection into Hope (Molly Holt, YA Weekly, Jan. 2021, digital only), How Can I Be a Successful Missionary? (Lauren Bangerter Wilde, Ensign, Oct. 2013, 3235), If I Had Known at 19 (Roger Terry, New Era, Mar. Sometimes these challenges can culminate in serious mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Utah's senior senator, Jake Garn (R) expressed, "Such wanton and cowardly acts are among the most disgusting and callous actions of which human beings are capable. Later that year on December 20, 1989, protesting American intervention in Panama, they attacked the U.S. Embassy in a failed attempt to assassinate U.S. :-(. Compassion for Those Affected by Crime and Incarceration. You have no idea who the person your forced to be with really is. Ask a local member to teach you how to cook a new dish, or do an activity unique to the area. No one ever seems to take accountability. That may not sound like a big deal, but it was the first time he moved his eyes to look at me, said Marla, who wrote about it in her journal. So its not only important but essential for you to find new, mission-appropriate ways to relieve stress and manage your mental health. Davis is from Corrine, Utah, while Haycock is from Montana. I am truly horrified at what can go wrong on missions. As I remember it, the situation involved a collision with a train. Force was the plan of Satan in the premortal life, while God wanted to preserve His childrens agency and allow us to choose for ourselves, proving to ourselves and to Him if [we] will do all things whatsoever the Lord [our] God shall command [us] (Abraham 3:25). As Steve noted, I was the senior assistant to Reed Benson when Elder Christensen and Elder Belde were put together. Missionary killed in Sweden was inspiration to others Mormon Observer When a missionary is disobedient, it can severely hamper the Lords work and put a strain on your companionship. He remained conscious for a few minutes, then died in an ambulance. My sympathies to everyone that loved Elder Christensen and to the family that is still affected by his loss and the circumstances surrounding it. His companion, Elder Rudger Clawson who later became president of the Council of the Twelve Apostles of the Church was unharmed. Those boys came back changed men, President Thomas said. Thanks for posting it again with the additional detail from the extended-family member. In January, car accidents took the lives of five missionaries: a sister missionary serving in the North Carolina Raleigh Mission and four elders serving in the Iowa Des Moines Mission. "[51] Parents of the missionaries were allowed to contact their sons and daughters during this time. You have reason to stand tall and be grateful that the Living Son of the Living God knows all about your sorrows and afflictions.2. I noticed that although I never got mad at my companions or told them they were going over our time limit, they would usually start using less time and trying to be more aware of the rules. [28] A rumor later surfaced of a hit list that the group held which named several other missionaries and Americans in the area. "I don't think anyone felt secure at the time," expressed Young. In this respect Elder Belde was a victim of Mormonism too. Secondly, with him going, he should have gone on a service mission. I was so surprised when I found that post. "[53] Dan and Diane Wilson together concluded their brother's tribute, reciting what they felt their brother might say, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith."[54][55]. And what if he had; would he have been separated from Elder Christensen; or just encouraged to "pray for patience," and show more love. An optometrist in St. George, Chad flies out once or twice a month to reunite with Marla, Creed and the rest of the family. I don't even know what to say to that. Others have also buoyed the familys spirits. As a result of these shootings, North American missionaries were further reduced in Bolivia and Peru. biblebeltbetsy You also dont have to limit these conversations to just your weekly formal companionship inventory. He could communicate and express himself. I cannot in my wildest dreams imagine that someone could beat another person and kill them and then be left free to live their life. . My heart goes out to both of their families and all of their close friends. In a public school, he would be given an aide to assist him all day. Both Elders were beaten, one was stabbed in the throat, and they were both shot once in the head. Hung jury? Love is more often something you do than something you feel. It can be hard to resolve conflicts and discuss any challenges that might be keeping your companionship from working together in unity, so you should approach these conversations with humility and the desire to improve together. The driver of the other vehicle is hospitalized. [41] The investigation included five or six members who brought ballistics laboratory equipment, polygraphs, and other equipment. He had "looked forward to his mission above all else." Moreover, again in hindsight, this should have been obvious. The Adjusting to Missionary Life booklet will be your best resource for finding your way in missionary life! Degrees of disobedience vary, and if you ever feel like a situation is hindering the work, you always have support. I suppose it was during that time that Mason gained a strong testimony of the Book of Mormon.. http://www.down-syndrome.org/practice/179/. A young man who had a smile on his face and was somebody that people naturally enjoyed being around, Elder Mason Lewis Bailey, 19, died on March 2, after he was involved in an accident while serving in the Stockholm Sweden Mission. 11 March 2014. [2][3][4], Government officials of both the United States and Bolivia employed their resources in bringing the assassins to justice, and the accused assassins suffered deprivations to their persons and families, including the murder of a brother. He became the young man that other people liked being friends with, President Thomas said, remembering Elder Bailey as someone who was happy and who others liked to be around. Also suspected were two individuals known as "Horacio" and "El Sapo" (the toad), presumably the leaders of the group. I suppose such a condition could conceivably mitigate criminal charges. My companion and I would sometimes sit there after a day of teaching to ponder and stargaze. But if you feel like you could use some extra help in certain areas, here are a few other articles that might be helpful. and had beaten him several times because of his 'sloth. He was convicted of one count of voluntary manslaughter and one of aggravated assault. "[41][65] Two of the agents served as liaison between the Embassy and the Minister of the Interior, which heads the Bolivian police. Whether youre serving in your own country or one foreign to you, its always nice to have someone you can rely on. This action resulted in the suspension of the trial for the other five defendants. sltrib.com 1996-2023 The Salt Lake Tribune. Re: Response Re: Coming Forward: Years After the Killing of a Family Member at the Hands of the Victim's Companion and in My Uncle's Mission Field, a Courageous Woman Speaks Out for Justice & Truth For me, the death of my brother meant that I had to give myself up at some point, I was a fugitive for three years. Yes, he should have spoke up. This poor woman and her family, but the church is true, right? Then you can pat yourself on the back for getting through it. LDS Missionary From Utah Dies in Virginia Shooting | KSL.com In a follow-up email to me, Angela said this about the Recovery from Mormonism site: A lot of eyes have been opened and a lot of healing has begun from posts on exmormon. Chad said a doctor who has looked at their sons MRIs and CT scans told them he doesnt see anything that would prevent him from recovering. Their idea of imperialism is not limited to territorial expansion, but "involves a whole series of political, cultural, and religious means,"[14] including the LDS Church. Response [53] President Benson's other counselor, Gordon B. Hinckley, presided at Wilson's funeral, which was also attended by L. Tom Perry of the Twelve, Taylor, and seven hundred others. And people talk about a loving god? [2][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26], This group had previously assaulted the LDS Church on several occasions. "[15][17][18][19][20], However, the trial progressed very slowly. During this visit, they "gave instructions to the missionaries concerning safety precautions they need to observe, including returning to their apartments by 9:30 p.m. and how to travel and conduct themselves in the present climate." Here are some thoughts to consider as you make the transition to a missionary lifestyle. [36] Members brought in their meals. "[31] Another mother expressed of her son, "I just don't know how I'm going to live through the next year if he stays there. The Yankee invaders who come to massacre our peasant brethren are warned, as are their local slaves. (Again, James had reportedly been brain-injured in his youth and his local ecclesiastical leaders therefore thought it inadvisable that he attempt to serve a mission). Elders Wilson and Ball were ushering those they had prepared to receive the gospel in the spirit world into the temple to witness the vicarious ordinances being performed in their behalf. I also have a relative with a mental disability--although mild--who is about to embark on an LDS mission. It simply was a bad match. While that companion has his or her agency, you also have your own agency to choose to be obedient. I am tempted to use this information as ammunition to help my parents see that the Church is harmful, but know that would only fuel the hurt and cause more arguments. The Salt Lake Tribune, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity and contributions are tax I was very surprised by the account of the Benson family blaming Elder Christensen, but perhaps this is a defensive mechanism that became useful over time. As they were about to enter their apartment, a yellow compact car (possibly a Volkswagen) drove by, and they were shot with 9mm machine gun fire. I was not in Kentucky when Elder Christensen died, so I cannot speak to the specific events or aftermath. I was Facebook friends with both Elder Luke Carter and Elder Eli Fowler. That's a stumper. He was still in high school when he put in his mission papers, and so he was part of that wave of young men who first desired to go when they could at 18.. [17] These arrests led to the naming of brothers Nelson and Flix Encinas Laguna as prime suspects of the bomb on Parliament, and according to Information Minister Hermn Antelo, there were also "indications of their participation in the murders" of Elders Jeffrey Ball and Todd Wilson. But these adjustments dont have to get the best of you. Joseph Standing - Wikipedia Elder Carter began his missionary service in November 2020. Mission presidents were contacted directly by members of the First Presidency, and informed that "all (American) missionaries with release dates between now [July] and December will be sent home this month and next." Despite these precautions, trouble continued to brew. No matter what happens, the Waggoners say their love for their son and faith in God will see them through. Her mother is a cousin of James E. Christensen, the Mormon missionary who was killed by his companion iwhile in my uncles mission. Todd had a friendly, gregarious personality and an exceptional academic aptitude, especially excelling in accounting. An LDS missionary from Benton, Ark. Graffiti on the side of the chapel said "Americans go home. "[10] Another friend, Terry McQueen lamented, "He was there doing what the Lord wanted him to do, so why did this happen?