The Anacostia Ward

Anyone familiar with Washington, DC will know that there are just some areas to which you just don't venture. Unfortunately for us, Bolling AFB happens to be in one of those areas. While we are somewhat sheltered because of guards and 295 - the sounds of many sirens can be heard at all times of the day over here.

Last Sunday we were told that our Ward boundaries had been reorganized and that Bolling AFB would no longer be a part of the Capitol Ward (in Suitland, MD) but instead, would be attending the closer Anacostia Ward located on what seems to be the most violent street in DC - Southern Avenue - as it is ALWAYS in the news for high speed chases, murders....you get the picture.

I was not too concerned because Erick and I, as you know, leave DC in two weeks - so this change does not affect us too terribly much. However, I was excited to see what this ward would be like. I knew that the Anacostia Ward was composed of first generation members...we're talking just a few years in the gospel and I knew that they had the highest baptism rate of any ward in the stake.

We arrived at the building and I was astonished that they had 10 missionaries assigned to the ward. The people were lovely - I nearly got hugged to death in Relief Society - and the facilities were, I thought, nicer than the Stake Center we used to go to. I loved the ward and the people - they were great. I mean, how often in a regular sacrament meeting does the ENTIRE congregation answer back to the speaker? The coolest part of this experience was that the missionaries take turns standing outside during services to "keep an eye on the vehicles". Love it!