The Members of the Branch arrived early with excited anticipation of the visit.

The Island of Martinique received its first visit from an Apostle of the Lord.  Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles presided over a Devotional February 18th, 2020 at the Fort-de-France Branch in Martinique.  Elder Renlund was accompanied by his wife, Ruth and Elder Alvarado, a General Authority Seventy, who was also accompanied by and his wife, Cari Lu.

The Members of the Branch arrived early with excited anticipation of the visit. The messages were delivered in English and interpreted to French, although both Elder and Sister Renlund delivered portions of their remarks in French. 

Testimonies were shared by local branch members, Brother Lionel Occolier and Sister Roseline Telga, who also provided interpreting for the devotional.  Sister Alvarado spoke first with a message to search, ponder and pray.  She expressed her love for the people and testified about the blessings we receive from keeping the commandments. 

After her words elder Jorge M. Alvarado had the opportunity to share some of his feelings.  He told the saints, “This area can grow” just as it did when he was a young boy and his parents joined the church. He testified that after reading the Book of Mormon and asking if it were true the spirit penetrated his heart. “The heavens are opened; you can each know that it is true.” 

Sister Ruth Renlund told wonderful stories and experiences of how we can share the Gospel with our friends, and those we have contact with by sharing what we believe in natural, normal, ways.  As we use the correct name of the church and use religious language in our daily conversations, we will have opportunities to share our beliefs and the Gospel. 

Elder Dale G. Renlund shared a story of his then five-year-old daughter who went with him to visit a less active member in his ward, whispering aloud to him “Tell the man the truth daddy.”  He said, “Because of a young girl, it gave me courage to speak.  Children can make a big difference.”  The work in Martinique requires the work of everyone – parents, youth and children.

 “As the Lord’s Apostle, we need your help.  If you are willing, God will make you able.”  This will bring blessings to your life and to others. It will help to establish the church.  The church and the Savior need you and if you are willing, He needs you.

In Conclusion, he testified of the Savior and pronounced a blessing upon the Martinique Saints and their families.