1 - American media blows everything out of proportion.
2 - While this sounds scary, this is life in Argentina. Missionaries are trained how to deal with such situations and Sister/Hermana Missionaries are not assigned to areas with higher rates of these situations.
So she and all missionaries are relatively safe and closely watched over by the Mission Presidents and other church leaders. While I know this, and am very grateful for this, I continually pray for the safety and protection of my missionary, and all those who choose to serve the Lord through missions.
There has been a rash of "express kidnappings," robberies and muggings in Buenos Aires and other large cities in Argentina recently. Last week this happened to the Mission President of the Buenos Aires West Mission. He lost his truck, computer, cell phone and wallet with money and ID after being held at gunpoint for a short time. Allison is serving in the Buenos Aires North Mission.
While there is no definitive proof Americans are targeted, the majority of instances reported have been Americans. So much so that the American Embassy in Argentina has issued a travel advisory to Americans regarding the potential of these instances. I am grateful our church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, monitors situations such as this and will act quickly if there is any danger for missionaries serving in these areas. I haven't heard from Allison nor her Mission President since this information was released - in these type situations, no news is good news.
Please pray for Allison and all the missionaries serving in Argentina that they may be kept safe and out of harms way. Also please pray for me and all the other parents of these missionaries to have peace, comfort and assurance their missionaries are watched over and protected. These young people are truly on the Lord's errand, sharing the good news of His gospel with all who will listen!
Thank you so very much!
Audene Scarlett
