Diplomats at Marriott picnic help make quilts for Kosovo
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HUME, Va. Guests attending the 9th annual Western Family Picnic here at the Marriott Family Ranch Sept. 25 participated in one of the Church's humanitarian projects making quilts for the refugees in Kosovo.
A display showcasing the humanitarian work the Church has done throughout the world was also featured at the picnic. The exhibit, provided by Latter-day Saint Charities, gave families of government leaders from the United States and diplomats from many countries the opportunity to learn about the Church's humanitarian service.
Elder James O. Mason of the Seventy was the guest of honor at the picnic. Elder Mason, a native of the Washington, D.C., area, was accompanied by his wife, Marie. Also attending were Richard and Nancy Marriott, five members of Congress, and diplomats from 21 countries. Countries represented included: Belarus, Botswana, China, Croatia, Cuba, Denmark, Estonia, Fiji, Ghana, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic, Lebanon, Moldova, Mongolia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Thailand and Ukraine.
"The spirit of friendship bridged culture, language and geographic boundaries," Elder Mason stated. "The picnic was a great success."
"Events like the Western Family Picnic help build the reputation of the Church among the international community," said Bruce Olsen, managing director of Church Public Affairs, who attended the picnic. "This event is unique in that it invites not only the diplomats and their spouses, but also their children and other family members."

