Saying Goodbye

Today Matthew was set apart as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  His dad is the Stake President so he was able to set him apart in his own home.

Following him being set apart, his family, as well as his girlfriend Ivy, took him to the airport to send him on his way to the Colombia MTC.

Matt's sister, Ashley, and her 2 daughters.

The Welch boys! Tyler (left) just got home from his mission in Brazil a month ago.  Dustin (right) served a mission in Idaho about 4 years ago

The Holloway family

This is Matt's nephew, Boston.  He is the next boy in the family who will serve a mission!

Getting all of his money exchanged to use in Colombia!

Saying goodbye one last time to everyone.  His parents were able to take him all the way to his gate.

His sister, Brittany, and her family weren't able to be there today since they live in Portland, so they said their goodbyes to Matt a week ago.

Matt's grandparents, the Donovans, also weren't able to be there today, but they were able to come and visit and listen to Matt's farewell talk at church on July 26th.

And he's off! See you in 2 years, Elder Welch!!

Elder Welch is flying to Colombia and will report to the MTC on July 29th.  We will hopefully be hearing from him once he arrives, so stay tuned!