Of all the special moments on our last Sunday, June 13, was to have our dear brother Merle Dutton (to Linda's left) in attendance at our meetings at the Bedford Branch. He was again accompanied by his cousin Harry Dutton of Salem. Harry and his wife Dolores Dutton are active, faithful members of the church. They have made a pointed effort to express to us their deep gratitude for the change that has taken place in Merle's life since we began our weekly visits to his home back in February 2009. To have Merle with us now for the 4th time in 3 weeks in our Church meetings and special events means more to us than we can adaquately express. He is a very sincere person in all that he does. We are deeply honored that he has made the decision to renew his attendance. He has not been an active member of the church in close to 60 years!

He wept as he tried to tell us of his feelings about our friendship and how he will be missing us as we depart for home. But, he has friends now among the members of the branch and we believe he will want to continue his activity and hopefully prepare for the reception of the priesthood and qualifying for Temple blessings. After all, he is 81 years young! We love him with all our hearts!