The Call

Because of Dallin's Asperger's, he had to do a few more steps before his paperwork was submitted. One of the things he had to do was meet with a psychologist. From that encounter, the psychologist felt like Dallin could serve a regular proselyting mission with no restrictions. His papers were submitted and we were waiting for the big white envelope to come in the mail. Our Stake President was great at keeping us in the loop of what was happening. He let us know that even with the psychologist's recommendation, the brethren that assigned mission calls the day Dallin was in the queue felt like he needed to serve a two-transfer mission. We were able to talk with Dallin about it. He cried a little a first, but then said, "Well I guess I will do what God wants me to." What amazing faith!!

Dallin's call actually came to the Stake President. He and the Bishop came over and had Dallin read it. The Spirit in the room was amazing and I think we all had tears in our eyes. Dallin was called to the Utah Ogden Mission and had 3 weeks until he was to report. We were definitely busy. A two-transfer missionary needs all the things that a 24 month missionary needs so we had a lot to do in a short amount of time.

FYI--A two-transfer mission is kind of like a practice mission. It is designed to see if the missionary can adapt to mission life, if he can handle the work and lifestyle. The missionary goes for 3 months and is called somewhere close to home. He goes directly to the mission, without going to the MTC. At the 2 month mark, the Mission President, the missionary, and the companion fil out an evaluation. Those are sent to SLC where they are reviewed. At that point, if it is deemed that the missionary adjusted well, another call is assigned. The missionary receives a big white envelope where he is currently serving and opens it while the family is watching via Skype. Then he goes directly to his new assignment. (He may or may not go to the MTC in between-we have heard both ways.)

If it is deemed that he did not adjust well and continuing would not be a positive thing, the missionary is released and his service is considered full and complete. He is considered an honorable returned missionary.