23 December 2016
Dear Brother and Sister Baker,
We are currently in the middle of the annual typhoon season in
the Philippines. Every year, more than 20 typhoons come to this island nation.
These typhoons originate in the Pacific, east of the Philippines and then move
in our direction. Our mission is often in the path of these storms, especially
our outer island Catanduanes. Prior experience has prepared this region
to weather the various storms well. We have missionary housing that is
selected for resistance to high winds and located out of the flood
plains. Each missionary area has an emergency plan for preparing for and
responding to all natural disasters. Areas that are remote from the
mission office have local priesthood leaders that provide direct oversight of
the safety of our missionaries.
Currently Typhoon Nina is head in the direction of the Legazpi
Mission and is expected to pass over our mission the evening of December
25th. It is expected to bring heavy rains and some floods in the low
lying and/or coastal areas. Each companionship has been notified of the
incoming storm and have been asked to follow our emergency plan. The
safety of our missionaries is our #1 priority. Each missionary has a 72
hour kit of food, water and other supplies. They should also have an emergency
supply of cash and a fully charged cell phone. As soon as the storm passes each
missionary will contact their leaders to report their condition and that
information will pass through our communication tree to me shortly thereafter.
If the storm compromises our electrical or Internet infrastructure,
this may impact the ability of your missionary to complete their Christmas
phone calls and/or normal preparation day emails. Be assured, I will be
constantly monitoring this situation, and they will have opportunity to reschedule
their calls at the first opportunity. We love your missionary and will always
care for them as if they were our own son or daughter. May the Lord bless you
for sending your precious child to serve the Lord. You would be so proud of who
they are becoming and the great work they are doing.
If there are any further developments that would impact our
missionaries, I will let you know. Have a merry Christmas and a happy new
year. Serving the Lord is a joy!
Warmest regards,
President Dale Kotter
Philippines Legazpi Mission
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