Washington Vancouver Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

Vancouver's culture is a dynamic blend of historical significance and modern innovation, heavily influenced by its proximity to Portland, Oregon. The city's culinary scene features local favorites like Pacific Northwest cuisine and farm-to-table dishes. Music and arts thrive in Vancouver, with performances at the Kiggins Theatre and exhibits at the Vancouver Art Gallery. Historical sites such as the Fort Vancouver offer insights into the region's past, particularly its role in the fur trade and early settlement of the Pacific Northwest.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region features a mix of urban landscapes, river valleys, and forested hills, with natural landmarks such as the Columbia River and the nearby Mount St. Helens, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

CLIMATE

The climate is temperate maritime with mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers. Summer temperatures average around 80°F, while winter temperatures average around 40°F. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being November and December.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken are English and Spanish.

RELIGIONS

Major religions in the region include Roman Catholicism, Presbyterian, and Methodist.

INDUSTRIES

Technology: The area supports a strong technology industry with major employers like Intel excelling in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation.

Healthcare: The region has a robust healthcare sector with companies like PeaceHealth excelling in medical services and patient care.

Manufacturing: The area has a significant manufacturing industry with companies like WaferTech leading in advanced manufacturing and production.

LOCAL EVENTS

The area hosts events like the Vancouver Fireworks Spectacular, celebrating Independence Day with fireworks and community activities; the Cranberry Festival, showcasing local agriculture and cultural traditions; and the Clark County Fair, featuring a variety of entertainment and exhibits.

TOURISM

Popular tourist destinations include the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, known for its historical exhibits; the Columbia River Gorge, featuring scenic views and outdoor activities; and the Oregon Zoo, offering diverse animal exhibits and conservation programs.

RECREATION

Favored activities include hiking, kayaking, and biking, with major parks like Mount Tabor Park and Beacon Rock State Park being popular destinations.

MISSION HISTORY

In 1854, four missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving in California were sent to labor in the Washington and Oregon territories. Enough converts joined to form a congregation along the Lewis River. During those early years, animosity against the Church members was so strong in Washington that when one convert died in 1911, her grave was dedicated secretly at night.

Many Church members helped with Washington's railroad construction for the Northern Pacific Oregon Short Line in the 1880s. In 1930, Church membership in Washington was 1,900 in eight congregations, with chapels in Everett, Spokane, Seattle, and Olympia. Many members flocked to the state with the completion of the Grand Coulee Dam on the Columbia River in the early 1940s. A temple was completed in Seattle in 1980.

The Spokane and Columbia River Washington Temples were completed and dedicated in 1999 and 2001, respectively.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

Washington Vancouver Mission Group