Mary Jane Card - Arcadia Ward

 I have had a very blessed life. I was born in Phoenix Arizona, the third daughter of Richard and Hope Rechif.  I also have a younger brother.  I have lived in Portland, Oregon, Seattle, Washington, Dallas, Texas and Arcadia. My Father was climbing the “Corporate Ladder,” so we were transferred often. When we got to Arcadia, My Mother said, “No more moves for this family.”

    I graduated from Arcadia High School.  Attended Utah State University and BYU, Provo. When I turned 21, I was called on a Mission to The Northern Indian Mission that was  then changed to The Montana-Wyoming Mission, while I was in the MTC. I spent the majority of my mission on the Fork Peck Indian Reservation, serving the Sioux Tribe. It was a great time for me, and my testimony was strengthened while serving my Heavenly Father. 

My husband, Bill, was on a mission at the same time, so when we got home we went up to
BYU together. That spring, we were married in the Los Angeles Temple. I worked a variety of jobs waiting for my children to arrive. Finally after 10 years ,we were blessed with a daughter, Colleen. Twenty five months later we were blessed with our daughter, Catherine.

When my girls were older and independent, I returned to college and finished my degree in education working with Special Needs students. I taught elementary school, middle school and high school Special Education for 12 years. I retired and we were called to serve a mission at the Polynesian  Cultural Center working with 750 students attending BYUH   on The Church iWork program. It was a wonderful mission and we met so many wonderful students and senior missionaries.  When my mother passed away, I had the opportunity to purchase her house and move back to Arcadia and live in the house I grew up in.

I have been blessed with two daughters and sons-in-law, as well as five grandchildren of whom I can’t get enough, and a loving husband who waits on me hand and foot. Yes, I do have a very blessed life. My daughter,Catherine, was facing many medical problems; and through prayer and fasting , her life was spared.  I have witnessed, first hand, the Lord’s hand in her recovery and felt the answer to many prayers offered in her behalf.  I know that my Heavenly Father loves me and knows me. I also know we are privileged to have a living prophet  today directing us and admonishing us to lead a righteous life. I’m thankful for the Book of Mormon and the sacrifices many people went through so that we could have this sacred book and be a part of the gospel restoration.  I am  especially thankful that during this time of uncertainty  we can be assured that all will be well in Zion. Mary Jane Card - Arcadia Ward