Then we headed straight to the temple for lunch and to do a session inside. The grounds were absolutely gorgeous.
This afternoon, we headed to Chatburn's River Ribble. This is the river that they baptized the first converts in England back in 1837. It's now more of a stream, but it was a neat little place nevertheless.
For our last visit, we headed over the hill to Downham. Here's a description of the place by Brett:
In 1837, Elder Heber C. Kimball was called to lead a mission to England. He was told that the people of the Preston area were too stubborn and obstenate and that for 30 years, ministers of different faiths had unsuccessfully tried to establish congregations. Elder Kimball had much success - baptizing over 30 people his first night in the area, and baptizing an average of 50 people every week for 8 months (many in the River Ribble). Many spiritual experiences occurred here at Downham where on his final day before journeying home, Elder Kimball was met by over 700 saints by this bridge where they took off his their hats, sang and honoured the efforts of Elder Kimball.
When Elder Kimball reported to Joseph Smith about the spirit he felt and the amazing success he had in England, the Prophet told him that it was because ancient prophets and apostles had once walked on that land and dedicated it for the preaching of the gospel in the Latter-Days. My mission President told us that it is believed that it was the apostle Timothy who made his way up to England. There is also an English tradition that says when Christ was in his youth, he traveled with his uncle, Joseph of Arimathea, to England for trading purposes.
The End.
Special surprise of the day! While by the river in Downham, we saw a bunch of little tiny ducklings. They were so cute and fuzzy!!!
A wonderful last day in England. We are so sad to leave tomorrow.
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