Escape from Germany

In August 1939, eighty-five American missionaries were actively serving in Germany, dedicated to their faith amidst a rising tension. As Hitler's forces began tightening their grip on the country, the environment became increasingly perilous for these individuals.

As military tensions escalated, the need to relocate the missionaries grew critical. The missionaries recognized that staying in Germany could pose a severe danger to their safety as the threat of war loomed larger.

In the fall of 1939, President Heber J. Grant issued an urgent notice to the missionaries, emphasizing the imminent threat of war. His stark message declared that war would begin in just three days and urged immediate action to extract the missionaries from Germany.

Despite limited means to communicate, the missionaries began to coordinate their escape plans. This was a remarkable feat considering the oppressive control exerted by Nazi authorities and the lack of resources available to the missionaries.

The missionaries encountered numerous challenges as they sought to leave Germany, including bureaucratic obstacles and fear of arrest. Despite these overwhelming difficulties, they relied on their faith and the hope of divine intervention.

As the urgency escalated, miraculous assistance arrived for the missionaries. They received unexpected help from various sources which significantly aided in their evacuation efforts amidst the chaos.

The missionaries started their journey toward safety, leaving behind their homes and communities with heavy hearts. Each step forward was filled with uncertainty, but they held onto their faith and determination.

In the days leading up to the war, the missionaries made their final push to evacuate Germany. The pressure mounted as time was running out, and potential danger surrounded them at every turn.

The last missionary successfully reached safety in Denmark on Thursday, August 31, 1939. This pivotal moment marked a successful escape that would shield them from the impending chaos of war.

On the very next day, September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland, officially marking the beginning of World War II in Europe. This act would seal off many from escaping the country as borders closed quickly.

Following their escape, the missionaries reflected on their harrowing journey filled with faith, resilience, and hope. They recognized the miracle of their survival and the assistance that came to them during such dark times.

The escape of these missionaries is now recognized as one of the most astonishing yet underreported chapters in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Their story serves as a testament to divine guidance during perilous circumstances.

The courageous actions of the missionaries have left a lasting legacy within the church. Their experiences underscore the themes of faithfulness and the impact of collective effort against overwhelming odds.

Inspired by the missionaries' diaries, the story of their escape has been documented, capturing the miraculous events that unfolded. It emphasizes the strength of community and the importance of faith in times of crisis.