Dear family, (12/5)
This week went by pretty fast. It's good to hear that Grandpa and Grandma still touch the lives of all who they come in contact with. I wish I was there to hear them.
I wasn't able to watch the Christmas Devotional; even though we were encouraged to. We spent the evening passing out hot chocolate at the Creche (collection of Nativities). There were a lot of people there; members, less- actives and non- members. It was cool! It had changed a little bit from last year, but it was still amazing. I saw a lot of people from Cupertino and even some from Gilroy. It was good to see them. This Thursday Marina Armstrong will be getting baptized at 7:00 pm. It will be great! On the 17th of Dec. Linda, Dominick, and Mathias all should be baptized so we are looking forward to that.
I was glad to hear that someone was baptized and received the Holy Ghost in the YSA ward. It's the greatest when someone enters into that covenant with our Heavenly Father and is blessed to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost in their lives. Every time I invite someone to be baptized, I always make sure I emphasize the importance of receiving the Holy Ghost in their life and I bear my testimony about the influence He's had in mine. What a blessing it is to have the Spirit of the Lord in our lives; to give us direction and clarity of mind and heart. When we feel the presence of the Holy Ghost in our lives, we can have confidence that the Atonement (the cure for sin) is taking affect. So let us strive to do things which invite the Spirit so that we can gain access to the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ. I love you all. I pray for you constantly. Thank you for your love support and prayers.
I just sent another letter so I hope you get it sooner this time.
Love,
Elder Lance Porter
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
1.9.12
Dear Family,
This week was one of the longest weeks I've had in my life! We are now
covering two wards. We are 'white-washing' the Menlo Park Ward so we are
trying to figure out a regular system to work in both wards and spend
equal time in each. There is so much work to do and I LOVE IT!!!
I'm now serving in the area I've been dreaming to be in my whole
mission. EPA (East Palo Alto).
We have the nicest house in the mission and a full time car. We live
on the church grounds just in the back parking lot of the stake center.
President called yesterday and told me this will most likely be my
last area - which I'm fine with.
We have a Baptismal date with Eduardo Farias in the Menlo Park Ward,
which we're excited for; but he's going to Mexico for like a month so
we'll see how he feels when he gets back.
We don't know a ton of people so this next week we will be focused
on meeting everbody. We bore our testimonies yesterday in church and
hope that was positive
for the ward. We are replacing our former Zone Leaders who were
excellent missionaries; big shoes to fill! I''ll let you know how
everything goes.
Mom I didn't write a journal letter this week but I think I'll try to
sum it up and send a little letter today. Too bad Ryan has a nasty cold. I
have actually had one since Wednesday. Still not going away.
It's good to hear about school starting for everyone. I'm frankly not super
excited about it but I have 6 months left so no worries. . . . . .
....Welp, I'm glad to hear everyone is doing well and keeping strong.
We are being so very blessed and I'm thankful to a loving Father in
Heaven who is merciful and shows so much patience with us. I love
the Gospel. I know it's true.
Love, Lanc
This week was one of the longest weeks I've had in my life! We are now
covering two wards. We are 'white-washing' the Menlo Park Ward so we are
trying to figure out a regular system to work in both wards and spend
equal time in each. There is so much work to do and I LOVE IT!!!
I'm now serving in the area I've been dreaming to be in my whole
mission. EPA (East Palo Alto).
We have the nicest house in the mission and a full time car. We live
on the church grounds just in the back parking lot of the stake center.
President called yesterday and told me this will most likely be my
last area - which I'm fine with.
We have a Baptismal date with Eduardo Farias in the Menlo Park Ward,
which we're excited for; but he's going to Mexico for like a month so
we'll see how he feels when he gets back.
We don't know a ton of people so this next week we will be focused
on meeting everbody. We bore our testimonies yesterday in church and
hope that was positive
for the ward. We are replacing our former Zone Leaders who were
excellent missionaries; big shoes to fill! I''ll let you know how
everything goes.
Mom I didn't write a journal letter this week but I think I'll try to
sum it up and send a little letter today. Too bad Ryan has a nasty cold. I
have actually had one since Wednesday. Still not going away.
It's good to hear about school starting for everyone. I'm frankly not super
excited about it but I have 6 months left so no worries. . . . . .
....Welp, I'm glad to hear everyone is doing well and keeping strong.
We are being so very blessed and I'm thankful to a loving Father in
Heaven who is merciful and shows so much patience with us. I love
the Gospel. I know it's true.
Love, Lanc
Friday, November 4, 2011
Lance Letter 10.31.11
HELLO!!!!!!!
Carllee happy birthday!!!!!!!!!!!! and HOllween!
Everyone sounds good and staying busy.
Last night was cool. Steve Young spoke at a youth fireside and it was really directed towards the many non member kids there. He talked about how he had faith that Jerry rice would catch the ball and that we all need faith in life. It was really good.
The work is going well. I keep Begging Pres. Watkins for a car. Our area is pretty big. Even our members wont drive us to some parts of the area because of the distance haha.
We live in redwood city, We cover the Stanford campas, Part of Palo Alto, Atherton city, Woodside city, Potrolla vally, And redwood city. The car was taken away by some disobedient missionaries about a year ago, and the area hasn't had success since. But not to worry. Elder Pittman and i will own this area. We're working hard, and planning ways to get around the area. Back in April the concept of tracting was taken away from our mission. It's actually against the rules to tract now. So the focus would be on rescuing the lost sheep (less actives and inactives). So the baptisms have dropped as a mission. But a soul that comes back to the fold is just as sweet. So ever since April that's what our mission has been doing. It's just that they're all scattered around this huge area. But we'll find a way. I think the members are going to buy us a carr haha
Well we are doing well. This will probly be my last area before i go home, I'll make the best of it.
The gospels true. I love you all and pray for everyone.
Love Elder Porter
Carllee happy birthday!!!!!!!!!!!! and HOllween!
Everyone sounds good and staying busy.
Last night was cool. Steve Young spoke at a youth fireside and it was really directed towards the many non member kids there. He talked about how he had faith that Jerry rice would catch the ball and that we all need faith in life. It was really good.
The work is going well. I keep Begging Pres. Watkins for a car. Our area is pretty big. Even our members wont drive us to some parts of the area because of the distance haha.
We live in redwood city, We cover the Stanford campas, Part of Palo Alto, Atherton city, Woodside city, Potrolla vally, And redwood city. The car was taken away by some disobedient missionaries about a year ago, and the area hasn't had success since. But not to worry. Elder Pittman and i will own this area. We're working hard, and planning ways to get around the area. Back in April the concept of tracting was taken away from our mission. It's actually against the rules to tract now. So the focus would be on rescuing the lost sheep (less actives and inactives). So the baptisms have dropped as a mission. But a soul that comes back to the fold is just as sweet. So ever since April that's what our mission has been doing. It's just that they're all scattered around this huge area. But we'll find a way. I think the members are going to buy us a carr haha
Well we are doing well. This will probly be my last area before i go home, I'll make the best of it.
The gospels true. I love you all and pray for everyone.
Love Elder Porter
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Lance Letter 10.4.11
Hello everyone!
Well, my new companion (like I said before) is from Hollister, California. He's on a mini-mission with me. Elder Annias was transferred because he needed medication asap. They diagnosed him with a minor form of autism called 'Asbergers'. But the doctors thought it was schizophrenia. The past 9 weeks with him were really hard; athough we did have two baptisms together. So our area pretty much tanked over the past several weeks. The first day Elder Nicolayson got here (my new comp) we had a random lesson with an inactive member (Sis. Carr). She said "I have two kids who are 9 years old and need them to be baptized". On Oct. 15th her kids, Makayla and Nickolaus Carr will be baptized. The blessings never seem to end!
I will most likely stay for another transfer because our mission president does not 'white wash'. So, 10 1/2 months shouldn't be too bad in Gilroy. I think I'll start a career and establish my good name here in Garlic City.
So that's just a little bit of what has been going on.
But true, this past general conference was one of the greatest since I can remember. The words from each talk spoke to me. I made sure to write detailed notes.
Tell Ryan I pretty much never played a single down in football until my Jr. Year; but whatever makes him happy. I never regret playing football. I LOVED it!
Thank you for who you are and all that you do. I love you so much and pray for you individually every night. Keep the faith my family.
The Gospel continues to spread forth. We as members of the Church are the way our Father in Heavens' children can access the Atonement. It is through us.
Love, Lance
Well, my new companion (like I said before) is from Hollister, California. He's on a mini-mission with me. Elder Annias was transferred because he needed medication asap. They diagnosed him with a minor form of autism called 'Asbergers'. But the doctors thought it was schizophrenia. The past 9 weeks with him were really hard; athough we did have two baptisms together. So our area pretty much tanked over the past several weeks. The first day Elder Nicolayson got here (my new comp) we had a random lesson with an inactive member (Sis. Carr). She said "I have two kids who are 9 years old and need them to be baptized". On Oct. 15th her kids, Makayla and Nickolaus Carr will be baptized. The blessings never seem to end!
I will most likely stay for another transfer because our mission president does not 'white wash'. So, 10 1/2 months shouldn't be too bad in Gilroy. I think I'll start a career and establish my good name here in Garlic City.
So that's just a little bit of what has been going on.
But true, this past general conference was one of the greatest since I can remember. The words from each talk spoke to me. I made sure to write detailed notes.
Tell Ryan I pretty much never played a single down in football until my Jr. Year; but whatever makes him happy. I never regret playing football. I LOVED it!
Thank you for who you are and all that you do. I love you so much and pray for you individually every night. Keep the faith my family.
The Gospel continues to spread forth. We as members of the Church are the way our Father in Heavens' children can access the Atonement. It is through us.
Love, Lance
Monday, September 19, 2011
Lindsey's Last Letter
Good morning my sweet family!
What an amazing week it has been! We had the most wonderful program at our chapel on Friday. We invited all of our investigators and less active members. All the members invited their non-member friends and we met up in the hafer chapel at 7:30 p.m. We started in the cultural hall and watched forever families and then sang families can be together forever. We then made the transition to the relief society room where they had a family demonstrating what it would be like to live in the Telestial kingdom. Wow, it was sad and didn't feel good at all. At the end they texplained what hey did to get there and then invited all to come join them. Of course, no one wanted to be there and we all wanted to leave as soon as possible. We then made our way into the "Terrestrial" kingdom and there watched as a family lounged about playing video games with clothes strune all over the floor and food slopped all over the table. It really was quite funny but we all agreed that is not where we wanted to be. They had us leave and then come back into the same room a few min later. There we saw a sweet family participating in family home evening, singing hymns, smiling and happy. They told us if we wanted to progress we needed to work together as families and help lift and build one another. From there we made our way into a beautiful, small, clean, white room with a family standing in the front dressed in all white holding their beautiful little girl who was just beaming from ear to ear. A great big painting of the savior hung in the front and tears came to my eyes as I thought of the temple and the feelings that come when one is worthy to enter and participate in higher ordinances. Theres nothing better in all of the earth, the understanding and knowledge that we can have our families forever if we will just do what the prophets have asked us to do. If we will just keep the commandments we can go! We can go to the temple! We won't be perfect at it but we can try. That's all we're asked to do. Try to do your best and the savior steps in and makes up the rest. I think we all walked away from that demonstration knowing exactly where we wanted to be. They don't all know what it takes to get there but they are willing and that is all that matters. The Savior can work with a willing heart. Hermana Casaday and her future companion have a lot of work to do and I couldn't be more thrilled for them. What an amazing time it is to be here on the earth when the lord has prepared the hearts of the children of men to receive the gospel. All we need to do is open our mouths and they will feel something. They've been prepared to accept the Savior. They chose him once and they will choose him again. We need to open our mouths and let them use their agency to accept it.
Yesterday Wes gave the opening prayer in Sacrament Meeting for the very first time. He was so nervous. We practiced before he went up and told him that the spirit would help him. He did an amazing job and he couldn't stop smiling afterwards. On Saturday we had the opportunity to enter into the temple with Wes to participate in confirmations. He wasn't able to do baptisms because he's on dialysis. But when they layed their hands on his head to confirm the gift of the holy ghost for those that are dead there came a feeling into the room that is hard to describe. We all felt it but as the tears streamed down wensceslaos face I was filled with gratitude for the opportunity of sharing the gospel with this man. He is special. We had a sweet, quiet, lesson in the waiting room of the temple and spoke of the sacredness of the temple and the privilege we have as members to help further the work on the other side. He tried to explain the feeling that he had in the confirmation room but he lacked the words as most of us do when trying to describe feelings of the spirit. He promised me that he would do all that was necessary to be worthy to go through and participate in the other ordinances of the temple in one year. I know that he will be true to his word and I hope to be there when that day comes.
Well, It has come. The last year and a half has passed like a dream. I always knew the time was ticking. It started in the MTC and sped up from there. I never did get used to it. How do you sum up a year and a half? the time here has been precious. The feelings indescribable. It has been a sacred time. The mission is more than I could have imagined. I never expect to feel pure love for someone that I "just met" and know without a doubt the lord had placed them in our path to show them the way back to our heavenly home. He has allowed me to feel a portion of the love that he has for all of his children and it is powerful. But with that love also has come heartache. Wow, there were times that I thought I would break. The pain of watching someone suffer because of misuse of agency or because of an others poor use of agency. The pain of watching Satan take over because of rebellion or disobedience to the laws of god. I am in awe of the partnership we have with the savior, the understanding and pure mercy he has for us. He has carried me and walked beside me, rejoiced when I rejoiced, wept when I have wept, pushed when I didn't think I could push anymore. He has been my support through it all. I've never laughed so hard, been so inspired, sweat so much, been so tired, prayed so long, felt so high, and felt so low all in one day, only to get up the next day and do it all over again. The time spent here has been full. Full of the sweetest experiences and lessons one could hope to have in such a short amount of time. Oh how short its been. Its not over. There is more to come. More people to reach. More souls to save. I'm so thankful for the trust that the savior has put in me to carry his message. I couldn't begin to describe the joy that the mission has brought me. It has saved me.
I can't thank you enough for the love and support that you have shown for Lance and I. Most of all for your sincere, faithful prayers. They have been heard, answered, and felt over the last year and half. We have needed every single one. I love you all with all of my heart and look forward to reuniting with you in just 2 days. See you soon!
What an amazing week it has been! We had the most wonderful program at our chapel on Friday. We invited all of our investigators and less active members. All the members invited their non-member friends and we met up in the hafer chapel at 7:30 p.m. We started in the cultural hall and watched forever families and then sang families can be together forever. We then made the transition to the relief society room where they had a family demonstrating what it would be like to live in the Telestial kingdom. Wow, it was sad and didn't feel good at all. At the end they texplained what hey did to get there and then invited all to come join them. Of course, no one wanted to be there and we all wanted to leave as soon as possible. We then made our way into the "Terrestrial" kingdom and there watched as a family lounged about playing video games with clothes strune all over the floor and food slopped all over the table. It really was quite funny but we all agreed that is not where we wanted to be. They had us leave and then come back into the same room a few min later. There we saw a sweet family participating in family home evening, singing hymns, smiling and happy. They told us if we wanted to progress we needed to work together as families and help lift and build one another. From there we made our way into a beautiful, small, clean, white room with a family standing in the front dressed in all white holding their beautiful little girl who was just beaming from ear to ear. A great big painting of the savior hung in the front and tears came to my eyes as I thought of the temple and the feelings that come when one is worthy to enter and participate in higher ordinances. Theres nothing better in all of the earth, the understanding and knowledge that we can have our families forever if we will just do what the prophets have asked us to do. If we will just keep the commandments we can go! We can go to the temple! We won't be perfect at it but we can try. That's all we're asked to do. Try to do your best and the savior steps in and makes up the rest. I think we all walked away from that demonstration knowing exactly where we wanted to be. They don't all know what it takes to get there but they are willing and that is all that matters. The Savior can work with a willing heart. Hermana Casaday and her future companion have a lot of work to do and I couldn't be more thrilled for them. What an amazing time it is to be here on the earth when the lord has prepared the hearts of the children of men to receive the gospel. All we need to do is open our mouths and they will feel something. They've been prepared to accept the Savior. They chose him once and they will choose him again. We need to open our mouths and let them use their agency to accept it.
Yesterday Wes gave the opening prayer in Sacrament Meeting for the very first time. He was so nervous. We practiced before he went up and told him that the spirit would help him. He did an amazing job and he couldn't stop smiling afterwards. On Saturday we had the opportunity to enter into the temple with Wes to participate in confirmations. He wasn't able to do baptisms because he's on dialysis. But when they layed their hands on his head to confirm the gift of the holy ghost for those that are dead there came a feeling into the room that is hard to describe. We all felt it but as the tears streamed down wensceslaos face I was filled with gratitude for the opportunity of sharing the gospel with this man. He is special. We had a sweet, quiet, lesson in the waiting room of the temple and spoke of the sacredness of the temple and the privilege we have as members to help further the work on the other side. He tried to explain the feeling that he had in the confirmation room but he lacked the words as most of us do when trying to describe feelings of the spirit. He promised me that he would do all that was necessary to be worthy to go through and participate in the other ordinances of the temple in one year. I know that he will be true to his word and I hope to be there when that day comes.
Well, It has come. The last year and a half has passed like a dream. I always knew the time was ticking. It started in the MTC and sped up from there. I never did get used to it. How do you sum up a year and a half? the time here has been precious. The feelings indescribable. It has been a sacred time. The mission is more than I could have imagined. I never expect to feel pure love for someone that I "just met" and know without a doubt the lord had placed them in our path to show them the way back to our heavenly home. He has allowed me to feel a portion of the love that he has for all of his children and it is powerful. But with that love also has come heartache. Wow, there were times that I thought I would break. The pain of watching someone suffer because of misuse of agency or because of an others poor use of agency. The pain of watching Satan take over because of rebellion or disobedience to the laws of god. I am in awe of the partnership we have with the savior, the understanding and pure mercy he has for us. He has carried me and walked beside me, rejoiced when I rejoiced, wept when I have wept, pushed when I didn't think I could push anymore. He has been my support through it all. I've never laughed so hard, been so inspired, sweat so much, been so tired, prayed so long, felt so high, and felt so low all in one day, only to get up the next day and do it all over again. The time spent here has been full. Full of the sweetest experiences and lessons one could hope to have in such a short amount of time. Oh how short its been. Its not over. There is more to come. More people to reach. More souls to save. I'm so thankful for the trust that the savior has put in me to carry his message. I couldn't begin to describe the joy that the mission has brought me. It has saved me.
I can't thank you enough for the love and support that you have shown for Lance and I. Most of all for your sincere, faithful prayers. They have been heard, answered, and felt over the last year and half. We have needed every single one. I love you all with all of my heart and look forward to reuniting with you in just 2 days. See you soon!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 62
Hello my dear family!
Wow, I feel like I was here typing away just yesterday. Hm..... I'm telling you. It's pretty cruel the way time marches along.
We just finished a wonderful meeting with a couple of the zones in the mission, the mission president, and his assistants. We are focused on finding. We are finding the tens of thousands that the lord has prepared to receive the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. The plan that we've come up with as a mission is to take one hour starting at 6:00 p.m. have a sincere, heart felt prayer with a member family in the ward that we will find those that are ready to accept the gospel and then from there go out and track like crazy. It will be a powerful thing when we, as a mission in unity, go out and have the same purpose and goal in mind. When we are all driven towards the same cause there are miraculous results. We are excited to put it into practice tonight and for the next couple of weeks.
Yesterday we learned how to make papusas at the Garciaguirres home. Wow. Definitely not an easy task but so yummy! I love Salvadorian food. I love the culture of every Latin country. I love the Latinos. What amazing people they are. I'm so thankful for the privilege and opportunity that I've had to be able to communicate with them, as poor as my Spanish is, they know that I love them and so they don't mind using a little extra Patience to try and understand what I am saying. What a gift the Latino people are to this earth. So full of love and charity, willing to give you anything and everything for your happiness. They really are Celestial people and I love them with all of my heart and soul.
We are just on our way to an appointment and so there is not a whole lot of time but I just want to fill you in on a little of what is going on. We are still teaching teaching teaching. Mina is getting baptized on Sunday and she is excited as ever. Talk about prepared. Yes, it is true. There are people ripe and ready to dive into the font. She is one of the many. Mina is a member referral and full of love for her lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She's never hesitated with one of the commandments that we've taught her but has seemed to have lived them throughout her whole life without really knowing why. She is just a smiley, happy, darling person. I love her and couldn't be more thrilled for the decision she has made to take upon her the name of Christ and stand as a witness of god throughout her life.
Juan Carlos is still reading the book of Mormon and really seeking to get that answer and conviction that only comes to the honest seeker of truth through the still, small voice. He will get that witness, It is only a matter of time and how badly he wants to know. How badly he wants it to be true. We're wondering if he truly does want it all that bad. He's grown up memorizing the bible and loves every word of it but he's having hard with another testament of Jesus Christ. We have yet to pull out 2 nephi chapter 29 and think we still may hold off on that for a little while. Maybe he'll stumble upon it....? Ha. He'll get baptized as well. Rafael. He has gotten his answer!! He just is not recognizing it at the "moment" but he will. Maybe even tomorrow. I know he will. We left him Alma 32 to read and know that something in there will penetrate his heart and he won't deny it. How sweet would it be to be here for each of their baptisms. I'm going to have to get right to work when I get home to save up so money so that I can come back. We are teaching many more people at the moment but they seem to be our focus right now. Wes told me yesterday that he's moving back to Mexico. I asked him when. He told me the twenty first of September. Oh Wes, I just love the man with everything I have! I wanted to just bawl when he told me that. Our ward hasn't been too quick to get home teachers over there. He needs them. He needs more support than he's getting. I know he'll be fine but I'm a little nervous for him.
Well, I love you all so much and want you to know how much I love this work. I love every min of it. Even every second. I'm so thankful for the time I have left and for the miracles that have yet to come. They are coming. We are seeing them. We see them every day and it is the sweetest testimony of the love that our heavenly father has for us and for each of his children here on the earth. The gospel is true. There is safety in keeping the commandments and covenants we make with the lord. The Book of Mormon is the word of god and contains power and doctrine that can change ones life if they will follow and live the principles that are taught. You're all so wonderful and I hope you have a successful week! Love you love you!
Love, Lou
Wow, I feel like I was here typing away just yesterday. Hm..... I'm telling you. It's pretty cruel the way time marches along.
We just finished a wonderful meeting with a couple of the zones in the mission, the mission president, and his assistants. We are focused on finding. We are finding the tens of thousands that the lord has prepared to receive the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. The plan that we've come up with as a mission is to take one hour starting at 6:00 p.m. have a sincere, heart felt prayer with a member family in the ward that we will find those that are ready to accept the gospel and then from there go out and track like crazy. It will be a powerful thing when we, as a mission in unity, go out and have the same purpose and goal in mind. When we are all driven towards the same cause there are miraculous results. We are excited to put it into practice tonight and for the next couple of weeks.
Yesterday we learned how to make papusas at the Garciaguirres home. Wow. Definitely not an easy task but so yummy! I love Salvadorian food. I love the culture of every Latin country. I love the Latinos. What amazing people they are. I'm so thankful for the privilege and opportunity that I've had to be able to communicate with them, as poor as my Spanish is, they know that I love them and so they don't mind using a little extra Patience to try and understand what I am saying. What a gift the Latino people are to this earth. So full of love and charity, willing to give you anything and everything for your happiness. They really are Celestial people and I love them with all of my heart and soul.
We are just on our way to an appointment and so there is not a whole lot of time but I just want to fill you in on a little of what is going on. We are still teaching teaching teaching. Mina is getting baptized on Sunday and she is excited as ever. Talk about prepared. Yes, it is true. There are people ripe and ready to dive into the font. She is one of the many. Mina is a member referral and full of love for her lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She's never hesitated with one of the commandments that we've taught her but has seemed to have lived them throughout her whole life without really knowing why. She is just a smiley, happy, darling person. I love her and couldn't be more thrilled for the decision she has made to take upon her the name of Christ and stand as a witness of god throughout her life.
Juan Carlos is still reading the book of Mormon and really seeking to get that answer and conviction that only comes to the honest seeker of truth through the still, small voice. He will get that witness, It is only a matter of time and how badly he wants to know. How badly he wants it to be true. We're wondering if he truly does want it all that bad. He's grown up memorizing the bible and loves every word of it but he's having hard with another testament of Jesus Christ. We have yet to pull out 2 nephi chapter 29 and think we still may hold off on that for a little while. Maybe he'll stumble upon it....? Ha. He'll get baptized as well. Rafael. He has gotten his answer!! He just is not recognizing it at the "moment" but he will. Maybe even tomorrow. I know he will. We left him Alma 32 to read and know that something in there will penetrate his heart and he won't deny it. How sweet would it be to be here for each of their baptisms. I'm going to have to get right to work when I get home to save up so money so that I can come back. We are teaching many more people at the moment but they seem to be our focus right now. Wes told me yesterday that he's moving back to Mexico. I asked him when. He told me the twenty first of September. Oh Wes, I just love the man with everything I have! I wanted to just bawl when he told me that. Our ward hasn't been too quick to get home teachers over there. He needs them. He needs more support than he's getting. I know he'll be fine but I'm a little nervous for him.
Well, I love you all so much and want you to know how much I love this work. I love every min of it. Even every second. I'm so thankful for the time I have left and for the miracles that have yet to come. They are coming. We are seeing them. We see them every day and it is the sweetest testimony of the love that our heavenly father has for us and for each of his children here on the earth. The gospel is true. There is safety in keeping the commandments and covenants we make with the lord. The Book of Mormon is the word of god and contains power and doctrine that can change ones life if they will follow and live the principles that are taught. You're all so wonderful and I hope you have a successful week! Love you love you!
Love, Lou
Lindsey: Letter 62
Hello my dear family!
Wow, I feel like I was here typing away just yesterday. Hm..... I'm telling you. It's pretty cruel the way time marches along.
We just finished a wonderful meeting with a couple of the zones in the mission, the mission president, and his assistants. We are focused on finding. We are finding the tens of thousands that the lord has prepared to receive the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. The plan that we've come up with as a mission is to take one hour starting at 6:00 p.m. have a sincere, heart felt prayer with a member family in the ward that we will find those that are ready to accept the gospel and then from there go out and track like crazy. It will be a powerful thing when we, as a mission in unity, go out and have the same purpose and goal in mind. When we are all driven towards the same cause there are miraculous results. We are excited to put it into practice tonight and for the next couple of weeks.
Yesterday we learned how to make papusas at the Garciaguirres home. Wow. Definitely not an easy task but so yummy! I love Salvadorian food. I love the culture of every Latin country. I love the Latinos. What amazing people they are. I'm so thankful for the privilege and opportunity that I've had to be able to communicate with them, as poor as my Spanish is, they know that I love them and so they don't mind using a little extra Patience to try and understand what I am saying. What a gift the Latino people are to this earth. So full of love and charity, willing to give you anything and everything for your happiness. They really are Celestial people and I love them with all of my heart and soul.
We are just on our way to an appointment and so there is not a whole lot of time but I just want to fill you in on a little of what is going on. We are still teaching teaching teaching. Mina is getting baptized on Sunday and she is excited as ever. Talk about prepared. Yes, it is true. There are people ripe and ready to dive into the font. She is one of the many. Mina is a member referral and full of love for her lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She's never hesitated with one of the commandments that we've taught her but has seemed to have lived them throughout her whole life without really knowing why. She is just a smiley, happy, darling person. I love her and couldn't be more thrilled for the decision she has made to take upon her the name of Christ and stand as a witness of god throughout her life.
Juan Carlos is still reading the book of Mormon and really seeking to get that answer and conviction that only comes to the honest seeker of truth through the still, small voice. He will get that witness, It is only a matter of time and how badly he wants to know. How badly he wants it to be true. We're wondering if he truly does want it all that bad. He's grown up memorizing the bible and loves every word of it but he's having hard with another testament of Jesus Christ. We have yet to pull out 2 nephi chapter 29 and think we still may hold off on that for a little while. Maybe he'll stumble upon it....? Ha. He'll get baptized as well. Rafael. He has gotten his answer!! He just is not recognizing it at the "moment" but he will. Maybe even tomorrow. I know he will. We left him Alma 32 to read and know that something in there will penetrate his heart and he won't deny it. How sweet would it be to be here for each of their baptisms. I'm going to have to get right to work when I get home to save up so money so that I can come back. We are teaching many more people at the moment but they seem to be our focus right now. Wes told me yesterday that he's moving back to Mexico. I asked him when. He told me the twenty first of September. Oh Wes, I just love the man with everything I have! I wanted to just bawl when he told me that. Our ward hasn't been too quick to get home teachers over there. He needs them. He needs more support than he's getting. I know he'll be fine but I'm a little nervous for him.
Well, I love you all so much and want you to know how much I love this work. I love every min of it. Even every second. I'm so thankful for the time I have left and for the miracles that have yet to come. They are coming. We are seeing them. We see them every day and it is the sweetest testimony of the love that our heavenly father has for us and for each of his children here on the earth. The gospel is true. There is safety in keeping the commandments and covenants we make with the lord. The Book of Mormon is the word of god and contains power and doctrine that can change ones life if they will follow and live the principles that are taught. You're all so wonderful and I hope you have a successful week! Love you love you!
Love, Lou
Wow, I feel like I was here typing away just yesterday. Hm..... I'm telling you. It's pretty cruel the way time marches along.
We just finished a wonderful meeting with a couple of the zones in the mission, the mission president, and his assistants. We are focused on finding. We are finding the tens of thousands that the lord has prepared to receive the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. The plan that we've come up with as a mission is to take one hour starting at 6:00 p.m. have a sincere, heart felt prayer with a member family in the ward that we will find those that are ready to accept the gospel and then from there go out and track like crazy. It will be a powerful thing when we, as a mission in unity, go out and have the same purpose and goal in mind. When we are all driven towards the same cause there are miraculous results. We are excited to put it into practice tonight and for the next couple of weeks.
Yesterday we learned how to make papusas at the Garciaguirres home. Wow. Definitely not an easy task but so yummy! I love Salvadorian food. I love the culture of every Latin country. I love the Latinos. What amazing people they are. I'm so thankful for the privilege and opportunity that I've had to be able to communicate with them, as poor as my Spanish is, they know that I love them and so they don't mind using a little extra Patience to try and understand what I am saying. What a gift the Latino people are to this earth. So full of love and charity, willing to give you anything and everything for your happiness. They really are Celestial people and I love them with all of my heart and soul.
We are just on our way to an appointment and so there is not a whole lot of time but I just want to fill you in on a little of what is going on. We are still teaching teaching teaching. Mina is getting baptized on Sunday and she is excited as ever. Talk about prepared. Yes, it is true. There are people ripe and ready to dive into the font. She is one of the many. Mina is a member referral and full of love for her lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She's never hesitated with one of the commandments that we've taught her but has seemed to have lived them throughout her whole life without really knowing why. She is just a smiley, happy, darling person. I love her and couldn't be more thrilled for the decision she has made to take upon her the name of Christ and stand as a witness of god throughout her life.
Juan Carlos is still reading the book of Mormon and really seeking to get that answer and conviction that only comes to the honest seeker of truth through the still, small voice. He will get that witness, It is only a matter of time and how badly he wants to know. How badly he wants it to be true. We're wondering if he truly does want it all that bad. He's grown up memorizing the bible and loves every word of it but he's having hard with another testament of Jesus Christ. We have yet to pull out 2 nephi chapter 29 and think we still may hold off on that for a little while. Maybe he'll stumble upon it....? Ha. He'll get baptized as well. Rafael. He has gotten his answer!! He just is not recognizing it at the "moment" but he will. Maybe even tomorrow. I know he will. We left him Alma 32 to read and know that something in there will penetrate his heart and he won't deny it. How sweet would it be to be here for each of their baptisms. I'm going to have to get right to work when I get home to save up so money so that I can come back. We are teaching many more people at the moment but they seem to be our focus right now. Wes told me yesterday that he's moving back to Mexico. I asked him when. He told me the twenty first of September. Oh Wes, I just love the man with everything I have! I wanted to just bawl when he told me that. Our ward hasn't been too quick to get home teachers over there. He needs them. He needs more support than he's getting. I know he'll be fine but I'm a little nervous for him.
Well, I love you all so much and want you to know how much I love this work. I love every min of it. Even every second. I'm so thankful for the time I have left and for the miracles that have yet to come. They are coming. We are seeing them. We see them every day and it is the sweetest testimony of the love that our heavenly father has for us and for each of his children here on the earth. The gospel is true. There is safety in keeping the commandments and covenants we make with the lord. The Book of Mormon is the word of god and contains power and doctrine that can change ones life if they will follow and live the principles that are taught. You're all so wonderful and I hope you have a successful week! Love you love you!
Love, Lou
Monday, August 29, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 61
Hello my sweet family!
How is everything going? Does anyone know If Lances Baptism went through last week? I've been praying that it would. I wish I heard from him a little more. Don't tell him that because I know that he is busy but maybe you could send a couple of his past letters. I just don't feel very updated as far as my brother goes. Ryan sounds like he's doing amazing! 6-5 with a beard huh? Wow. That wouldn't surprise me a bit. A lot can happen in a year and a half. I bet he's just an amazing football player. It will be fun to make it to one of his games. Will he still be playing for the next little bit? Mom! That's so exciting that you had the sisters over to your house! How are the missionaries in your area? They sound like they are doing amazing. Are you helping them find the elect? Did you give them referrals? Did they ask? Where are they from? Thank you for having them over. I can't wait to meet them.
Hermana Casaday and I are still doing great! I just love her more than I can say. I'm sad that we're not going home at the same time but Houston needs her testimony and her darling personality. She will bless many people as she continues to seek out those that are ready to hear the message of the restored gospel, whether they be members or not. There are so many that are lost and need to be found. Oh boy, how they need to be found. We're finding them, we'll continue to do so as long as we are living. The lord will put them in our path because he trusts us to carry his message. The message of hope and salvation to a world that is void of light and true happiness. They have no clue what true happiness is. That is not all true. They have their families and they know that they love them. They know that they are happy when they are with them but they couldn't tell you why.... They don't know that they knew them before and that those relationships that they form here can continue throughout the eternities. They don't know that they will see their loved ones again. They have no clue that they can be free of burdens that they've been carrying around for a long time. They don't know that they have a father in heaven who knows them personally and loves them beyond anything that they are capable of imaging. They don't know that threes a reason for their sufferings and trials. They have no idea about the purpose of life. They don't know that we're representatives of the living Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. They might hear the words from our mouths but they don't get it. It doesn't sink in. They don't know what they're rejecting and refusing to listen to. They need to see and witness others live it. Yes, we can invite people all day but unless they see the blessings of the gospel in someones life they're not going to get it. Yes, the lord has prepared many people with hearts to feel and ears to hear the message of the restoration of the gospel from missionaries on the street. But I know and testify that it is through the members that this work is going to spread through the world. It is a team effort. The missionaries should be finding but it shouldn't be through knocking doors. Their finding should be through the members and when the members are there to support and answer question that the investigator may have things take off. People are baptized and lives are changed.
What an amazing work we are involved in. We are blessed to be a part of it. What a blessing to see the miracle of the atonement work in someones life, to feel the love that our heavenly father has for his children. I'm so thankful for the gospel of Jesus Christ. I'm thankful for my Savior and for his love and tender mercy. For his capacity to continue to bless me even amongst all the weaknesses that so often get in the way. He doesn't care where we've been. He's takes us from where we are now and as long as we have that desire and are pointed in the right direction he can lead us safely along and heal us.
You're all so wonderful! Thank you for your love and encouragement and your prayers. They are needed. Xiomara will be baptized this Saturday and Mina will follow on the 8th of September. We are working with many amazing people and I know that everything will click really soon and when it does they will wonder what they ever did without it. I love you! Have an amazing week!
How is everything going? Does anyone know If Lances Baptism went through last week? I've been praying that it would. I wish I heard from him a little more. Don't tell him that because I know that he is busy but maybe you could send a couple of his past letters. I just don't feel very updated as far as my brother goes. Ryan sounds like he's doing amazing! 6-5 with a beard huh? Wow. That wouldn't surprise me a bit. A lot can happen in a year and a half. I bet he's just an amazing football player. It will be fun to make it to one of his games. Will he still be playing for the next little bit? Mom! That's so exciting that you had the sisters over to your house! How are the missionaries in your area? They sound like they are doing amazing. Are you helping them find the elect? Did you give them referrals? Did they ask? Where are they from? Thank you for having them over. I can't wait to meet them.
Hermana Casaday and I are still doing great! I just love her more than I can say. I'm sad that we're not going home at the same time but Houston needs her testimony and her darling personality. She will bless many people as she continues to seek out those that are ready to hear the message of the restored gospel, whether they be members or not. There are so many that are lost and need to be found. Oh boy, how they need to be found. We're finding them, we'll continue to do so as long as we are living. The lord will put them in our path because he trusts us to carry his message. The message of hope and salvation to a world that is void of light and true happiness. They have no clue what true happiness is. That is not all true. They have their families and they know that they love them. They know that they are happy when they are with them but they couldn't tell you why.... They don't know that they knew them before and that those relationships that they form here can continue throughout the eternities. They don't know that they will see their loved ones again. They have no clue that they can be free of burdens that they've been carrying around for a long time. They don't know that they have a father in heaven who knows them personally and loves them beyond anything that they are capable of imaging. They don't know that threes a reason for their sufferings and trials. They have no idea about the purpose of life. They don't know that we're representatives of the living Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. They might hear the words from our mouths but they don't get it. It doesn't sink in. They don't know what they're rejecting and refusing to listen to. They need to see and witness others live it. Yes, we can invite people all day but unless they see the blessings of the gospel in someones life they're not going to get it. Yes, the lord has prepared many people with hearts to feel and ears to hear the message of the restoration of the gospel from missionaries on the street. But I know and testify that it is through the members that this work is going to spread through the world. It is a team effort. The missionaries should be finding but it shouldn't be through knocking doors. Their finding should be through the members and when the members are there to support and answer question that the investigator may have things take off. People are baptized and lives are changed.
What an amazing work we are involved in. We are blessed to be a part of it. What a blessing to see the miracle of the atonement work in someones life, to feel the love that our heavenly father has for his children. I'm so thankful for the gospel of Jesus Christ. I'm thankful for my Savior and for his love and tender mercy. For his capacity to continue to bless me even amongst all the weaknesses that so often get in the way. He doesn't care where we've been. He's takes us from where we are now and as long as we have that desire and are pointed in the right direction he can lead us safely along and heal us.
You're all so wonderful! Thank you for your love and encouragement and your prayers. They are needed. Xiomara will be baptized this Saturday and Mina will follow on the 8th of September. We are working with many amazing people and I know that everything will click really soon and when it does they will wonder what they ever did without it. I love you! Have an amazing week!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 60
Hi momma!
How are you? It sounds like everyone is doing well! I can't believe Carlee is starting another year of school ALREADY. Isn't crazy how fast time goes by? Lance just sent me a letter! oh my word. I can't tell you what a relief it was to hear from him. I try to write him every week. I know he is super busy and can't respond back for awhile but it is so good to get a letter every now and then, even if they're just little notes. Isn't he great? Don't we have a great family? I love each of you more than I can express and I pray that everything is going well. How is it having Paige and Bryce there at the home? I'm certain that you're enjoying every min of it. Heather sent me a few pictures from Paiges Blog and it was an absolute delight to see them. They are getting so so big! Haha, she sent the picture of Lucy trying to lift Logan up onto the cupcake. Oh my word, I laughed until I cried. That was hilarious! Tell me one more time why they had to leave Michigan? Their birthdays are coming up so so soon! Tell them there is a card on its way.
Everything is going extremely well. Wes is doing great! He's just excited about everything he is learning. We are teaching a man named Juan Carlos. He is amazing. I love him. He has tons of questions about the book of mormon and authority and lots of other things. I pray that he really is interested in finding the truth instead of proving it wrong. We're teaching him tonight so we'll see:) We also recieved a referral from one of the recent converts who I taught in Woodlands. His past girlfriend has been asking him about the change that has come over him and what has caused it. He asked her if she really wanted to know and she responded Yes! I really do! He told her that the missionaries are going to have to tell you. So at the baptism of Humberto Castillo he gave us her information and basically wished us luck. We're going over there tonight at five. I'm excited!
Xiomara is progressing rapidly and just excited as ever to be baptized. She really has the most amazing spirit and I'm thrilled to be one of the lucky ones to know her here in this life. I can't wait for all of you to get to meet these people! I don't know when it will be but it will be a sweet day.
Rafael, well, I don't really know what to say about him...? I can tell you with one doubt in my mind that he will be baptized. I just can't give you a date. I don't know that I'll be here to see it but he better call me and tell me. I'll do all I can to fly back here and witness it. I love Rafael. He's an amazing person. Just a little slower to act. Maybe my prayers aren't strong enough. Maybe the lord has a different plan.
Mina. Mina Mina Mina. She just barely switched jobs and will be working every Sunday morning from now on. Sunday morning is church. Sunday is the sabbath day. There is everything wrong with that. It's interesting that we had to keep pushing the date back. Both Hermana Casaday and I were confused about why that was. Now we understand a little more. She just doesn't really get it yet. I don't think she's ready for baptism. She will be but once again, It may take some time.
All is going well. We're happy and healthy and loving the work. I wish I had more time to write a few experiences but maybe later today I'll get to sit and write a little letter. I love you all with my whole soul. Be strong. Open your mouths. Pray more fervently for the lords guidance and direction in your life. He loves you and is aware of you and can use you if you will let him. The gospel is true!
How are you? It sounds like everyone is doing well! I can't believe Carlee is starting another year of school ALREADY. Isn't crazy how fast time goes by? Lance just sent me a letter! oh my word. I can't tell you what a relief it was to hear from him. I try to write him every week. I know he is super busy and can't respond back for awhile but it is so good to get a letter every now and then, even if they're just little notes. Isn't he great? Don't we have a great family? I love each of you more than I can express and I pray that everything is going well. How is it having Paige and Bryce there at the home? I'm certain that you're enjoying every min of it. Heather sent me a few pictures from Paiges Blog and it was an absolute delight to see them. They are getting so so big! Haha, she sent the picture of Lucy trying to lift Logan up onto the cupcake. Oh my word, I laughed until I cried. That was hilarious! Tell me one more time why they had to leave Michigan? Their birthdays are coming up so so soon! Tell them there is a card on its way.
Everything is going extremely well. Wes is doing great! He's just excited about everything he is learning. We are teaching a man named Juan Carlos. He is amazing. I love him. He has tons of questions about the book of mormon and authority and lots of other things. I pray that he really is interested in finding the truth instead of proving it wrong. We're teaching him tonight so we'll see:) We also recieved a referral from one of the recent converts who I taught in Woodlands. His past girlfriend has been asking him about the change that has come over him and what has caused it. He asked her if she really wanted to know and she responded Yes! I really do! He told her that the missionaries are going to have to tell you. So at the baptism of Humberto Castillo he gave us her information and basically wished us luck. We're going over there tonight at five. I'm excited!
Xiomara is progressing rapidly and just excited as ever to be baptized. She really has the most amazing spirit and I'm thrilled to be one of the lucky ones to know her here in this life. I can't wait for all of you to get to meet these people! I don't know when it will be but it will be a sweet day.
Rafael, well, I don't really know what to say about him...? I can tell you with one doubt in my mind that he will be baptized. I just can't give you a date. I don't know that I'll be here to see it but he better call me and tell me. I'll do all I can to fly back here and witness it. I love Rafael. He's an amazing person. Just a little slower to act. Maybe my prayers aren't strong enough. Maybe the lord has a different plan.
Mina. Mina Mina Mina. She just barely switched jobs and will be working every Sunday morning from now on. Sunday morning is church. Sunday is the sabbath day. There is everything wrong with that. It's interesting that we had to keep pushing the date back. Both Hermana Casaday and I were confused about why that was. Now we understand a little more. She just doesn't really get it yet. I don't think she's ready for baptism. She will be but once again, It may take some time.
All is going well. We're happy and healthy and loving the work. I wish I had more time to write a few experiences but maybe later today I'll get to sit and write a little letter. I love you all with my whole soul. Be strong. Open your mouths. Pray more fervently for the lords guidance and direction in your life. He loves you and is aware of you and can use you if you will let him. The gospel is true!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Lance Letter 8.16.11
Mom,
You are so great! Thank you for everything you do. We just got back from a Zone Conference with a General Authority, Elder Gavarett? I think that was his name. He personally interviewed a couple of missionaries and I was blessed to be one of them. He met Grandpa Hammond in Bolivia a long time ago and he loves him! Ha, ha! Who doesn't?!
We taught Sergio a few more times and he IS getting baptized on Saturday, which is a huge blessing!
I Love Elder Annias. He is Excited to get Baptisms'; so we're working hard to do so. We are talking with everyone we pass on the street and inviting everyone to come unto Christ. It's so sweet!
I get letters from Lindsey a lot. She is doing good. She's finishing strong. Only a month or so left! It will be fast. Honestly, it has been so great serving with my sister as missionaries for the Lord. She has given me so much support, just like you have. The mission is so much easier with the Love and support of your family.
Life right now is good. A little stressful, but hey; that's what life is! Elder Annias is wonderful but I babysit a lot. His mind is 7 years old. It's funny. Before I was blessed to be with him, Pres. Watkins took the Zone Leaders and me aside and just wept. He told me I was in for it! Ha, ha. He said, "This will be the hardest thing you will ever do in your life, and you can do hard things." He then asked me if I was willing. Of course I will never turn down a calling. Being With Elder Annias has been one of the greatest things I've ever been through. I have learned so much about myself and what I need to improve on. I receive help from a great District who are patient. We go to counseling every week for Elder Annias, so we are progressing.
I Love this work and it is work! I can't express to you enough how much I love teaching and serving others. Drawing souls unto Christ has led me to Him and will do so forever. I love the Lord. I know He is disappointed in me at times, but His pure love lifts me up upon the highest mountain and the tallest tower. He is my Savior and Redeemer. I will forever be indebted to Him. All I have to give him is my will and my all so why Hold Back?
I love you all and can't express enough my love to you!
Thank you,
Love, Lance
You are so great! Thank you for everything you do. We just got back from a Zone Conference with a General Authority, Elder Gavarett? I think that was his name. He personally interviewed a couple of missionaries and I was blessed to be one of them. He met Grandpa Hammond in Bolivia a long time ago and he loves him! Ha, ha! Who doesn't?!
We taught Sergio a few more times and he IS getting baptized on Saturday, which is a huge blessing!
I Love Elder Annias. He is Excited to get Baptisms'; so we're working hard to do so. We are talking with everyone we pass on the street and inviting everyone to come unto Christ. It's so sweet!
I get letters from Lindsey a lot. She is doing good. She's finishing strong. Only a month or so left! It will be fast. Honestly, it has been so great serving with my sister as missionaries for the Lord. She has given me so much support, just like you have. The mission is so much easier with the Love and support of your family.
Life right now is good. A little stressful, but hey; that's what life is! Elder Annias is wonderful but I babysit a lot. His mind is 7 years old. It's funny. Before I was blessed to be with him, Pres. Watkins took the Zone Leaders and me aside and just wept. He told me I was in for it! Ha, ha. He said, "This will be the hardest thing you will ever do in your life, and you can do hard things." He then asked me if I was willing. Of course I will never turn down a calling. Being With Elder Annias has been one of the greatest things I've ever been through. I have learned so much about myself and what I need to improve on. I receive help from a great District who are patient. We go to counseling every week for Elder Annias, so we are progressing.
I Love this work and it is work! I can't express to you enough how much I love teaching and serving others. Drawing souls unto Christ has led me to Him and will do so forever. I love the Lord. I know He is disappointed in me at times, but His pure love lifts me up upon the highest mountain and the tallest tower. He is my Savior and Redeemer. I will forever be indebted to Him. All I have to give him is my will and my all so why Hold Back?
I love you all and can't express enough my love to you!
Thank you,
Love, Lance
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 59
hola mi querida familia! Como estan ustedes!? Estoy super bien! Todo esta bien aqui en la mision. Yo no creo que podria ser mejor. En realmente estoy muy contenta y llena de alegria. No se porque pero tal vez debido de la obra que estoy haciendo.....
How is everyone doing? I hope that everyone is happy and excited about life.
Yes! I received the recorder! Thank you thank you so much for getting that to me. It is on its way back to you. I'm sorry if its not all that interesting but.... hopefully you'll get something out of it.
Everything is going extremely well. Honestly Hermana Casaday and I are busier than ever. We are finding it hard to fit people into our schedule. We may have to do splits with the members. Wencesloa and Stephanie will be baptized this Saturday (they're both so excited) Maximina will be baptized the following week (if all goes well). Xiomara and Rafael will follow after her into the waters of baptism. Ashley and Santos have accepted the invitation to be baptized but we have yet to set the date. I will keep you posted on that... We are finding the lords elect and it has been the greatest blessing. I love our ward and this area. Hermana Casaday and I work extremely well together and I pray that the lord finds it in our best interest to stick together. I would be thrilled to finish up my time on the mission here in hafer.
I feel like there is so much to talk about! I know this sounds awful but it may just have to wait for a couple of months. I pray that I can remember everything. I'm really trying to write in my journal every night and I hope that I can just flip to some of those pages and give you a better Idea of those things that have occurred here in the last year and a half.
My goodness, what can I tell you? I honestly can't express the joy and happiness that Hermana Casaday and I are experiencing right now. There is nothing like it. Not one thing. I'm so sorry to say this but the thought of leaving is not an appetizing one. I don't like it one bit. Wow, I feel like I could write 10 pages about why I'm so happy right now. I won't.... but I could. I love you all. The gospel is true. Jesus Christ lives and loves us. There indeed is a purpose in this life and we come to understand it more and more as we keep the commandments and participate in the ordinances of the gospel.
You're all so wonderful. I hope that you have a successful week and we'll talk to you next week! I'm sorry this email was so short.. We're in the mission office and once again, it is crowded with elders and I can't hear myself think.
How is everyone doing? I hope that everyone is happy and excited about life.
Yes! I received the recorder! Thank you thank you so much for getting that to me. It is on its way back to you. I'm sorry if its not all that interesting but.... hopefully you'll get something out of it.
Everything is going extremely well. Honestly Hermana Casaday and I are busier than ever. We are finding it hard to fit people into our schedule. We may have to do splits with the members. Wencesloa and Stephanie will be baptized this Saturday (they're both so excited) Maximina will be baptized the following week (if all goes well). Xiomara and Rafael will follow after her into the waters of baptism. Ashley and Santos have accepted the invitation to be baptized but we have yet to set the date. I will keep you posted on that... We are finding the lords elect and it has been the greatest blessing. I love our ward and this area. Hermana Casaday and I work extremely well together and I pray that the lord finds it in our best interest to stick together. I would be thrilled to finish up my time on the mission here in hafer.
I feel like there is so much to talk about! I know this sounds awful but it may just have to wait for a couple of months. I pray that I can remember everything. I'm really trying to write in my journal every night and I hope that I can just flip to some of those pages and give you a better Idea of those things that have occurred here in the last year and a half.
My goodness, what can I tell you? I honestly can't express the joy and happiness that Hermana Casaday and I are experiencing right now. There is nothing like it. Not one thing. I'm so sorry to say this but the thought of leaving is not an appetizing one. I don't like it one bit. Wow, I feel like I could write 10 pages about why I'm so happy right now. I won't.... but I could. I love you all. The gospel is true. Jesus Christ lives and loves us. There indeed is a purpose in this life and we come to understand it more and more as we keep the commandments and participate in the ordinances of the gospel.
You're all so wonderful. I hope that you have a successful week and we'll talk to you next week! I'm sorry this email was so short.. We're in the mission office and once again, it is crowded with elders and I can't hear myself think.
Lance Letter 8.3.11
Hola Mi Familia!
Wow, this week went by so quickly! We are continuing to teach Sergio Roman the Gospel and are preparing for his baptism on Saturday night at 6pm. Sergio asked me to baptize him. I feel so overwhelmed with the many blessings the Lord has given me. Although Sergio still has a smoking problem, I feel confident that the Gift of the Holy Ghost will comfort him and help him along the way. We will go over to his house tonight and give him a blessing.
Like I said before, this week went by way too fast.....I guess this is where the mission starts to pick up the pace and just fly!
My new companion, Elder Annias, is so great and is excited to be here. He has ADHD and OCD and is super awkward with people but I still love him to death. I have so many imperfections that I've had to realize being with Elder Annias and I'm really learning the Christ- like attribute of 'Patience' ha,ha! I"ve been out a year and I still feel so new and inexperienced.
Everything sounds great at home and I'm happy that everyone remains busy and productive. Tons of stuff is happening here, and I am so excited to be apart of it. Working shoulder to shoulder with the Lord is the most uplifting work and experience anyone can ever ask for. The Lord is working miracles and I'm blessed to be a witness of them; also very humbled. I love this work! I love the mission! I love the Gospel and all that appertains to it. It is centered on the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ and it is what we teach and invite people to do... We invite all men and women to come unto Christ and rely on His blood, shed for them in Gethsemane and on Calvary; that they might be saved in the Celestial Kingdom of the Father. What a calling and privilege we as members of this church have, to share this message Boldly to all the world! I love it, I live for it, and will live for it; forever!
I love and miss you just as much but the 'missing you', worry and your lack of presence is swallowed up in Christ and I am filled with His love, assurance and confidence that you are all well and safe. I love you my dear family and may the Lord bless you as you go throughout this week.
Love Elder Porter
Wow, this week went by so quickly! We are continuing to teach Sergio Roman the Gospel and are preparing for his baptism on Saturday night at 6pm. Sergio asked me to baptize him. I feel so overwhelmed with the many blessings the Lord has given me. Although Sergio still has a smoking problem, I feel confident that the Gift of the Holy Ghost will comfort him and help him along the way. We will go over to his house tonight and give him a blessing.
Like I said before, this week went by way too fast.....I guess this is where the mission starts to pick up the pace and just fly!
My new companion, Elder Annias, is so great and is excited to be here. He has ADHD and OCD and is super awkward with people but I still love him to death. I have so many imperfections that I've had to realize being with Elder Annias and I'm really learning the Christ- like attribute of 'Patience' ha,ha! I"ve been out a year and I still feel so new and inexperienced.
Everything sounds great at home and I'm happy that everyone remains busy and productive. Tons of stuff is happening here, and I am so excited to be apart of it. Working shoulder to shoulder with the Lord is the most uplifting work and experience anyone can ever ask for. The Lord is working miracles and I'm blessed to be a witness of them; also very humbled. I love this work! I love the mission! I love the Gospel and all that appertains to it. It is centered on the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ and it is what we teach and invite people to do... We invite all men and women to come unto Christ and rely on His blood, shed for them in Gethsemane and on Calvary; that they might be saved in the Celestial Kingdom of the Father. What a calling and privilege we as members of this church have, to share this message Boldly to all the world! I love it, I live for it, and will live for it; forever!
I love and miss you just as much but the 'missing you', worry and your lack of presence is swallowed up in Christ and I am filled with His love, assurance and confidence that you are all well and safe. I love you my dear family and may the Lord bless you as you go throughout this week.
Love Elder Porter
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 58
Hi momma!
How are you?! Thank you for the sweet email this week! I love hearing how everyone is doing (STILL) Don't feel like just because the time is drawing nigh that those need to stop. Keep the letters and support coming. Especially in these last couple of months. We are working harder than ever to find those that the lord wants in his church. We ARE finding them. Where to even start with all the Miracles and experiences of the mission?! I don't think I could. Like I say, it has truly all just been one sweet experience.
You wouldn't recognize Wencesloa if you knew him 5 weeks ago. He is a completely different person. He is 52 years old. When we walked into his home for the first time you would have thought that he was at least 82. That is not a lie. He had no life in him. He could barely speak and now... wow. I can't even begin to tell you what the knowledge of the gospel has done to him. The knowledge and testimony of his Savior Jesus Christ. He's amazing and happy. One of the many miracles that we witnessed this week was from Wencesloa. He has been separated from his wife for many many years. They are still married but not living together. She lives in Veracruz Mexico and they haven't had a sweet relationship since they were married 30 years ago. He called her yesterday before church to tell her about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. She told him that for the last 2 weeks she has been receiving visits from the Elders of the Mormon church and they visited for 2 HOURS about it! He was so happy and excited to tell us. He said that he wants to go back to be with his wife and he also told us how close the church is there from his home in Mexico and that the temple is not far either. Is that just the greatest news that you've ever heard! That is some sweet joy right there.
There are many more stories that I want to share from this week but I have to go cut a few of the elders hair.... Yay for service!
I love each of you so much. I'm so thrilled to hear that all is going well and that you're healthy and happy. I'm excited to hear your voices on the recorder. That will be too fun. Mom, I'm so thrilled that you had the opportunity to talk to Tabitha in the temple! Oh my word, what an amazing person she is, and in the Celestial room of all places! She was one of my favorite companions. If you ever see her again tell her that I love her and think that she is just the very greatest. I feel like I'm missing something... Like there is something I need to tell you but my mind is drawing a blank so it must not be that important. I love you and hope to hear from you soon! Hug Ryan for me I miss that boy! Kiss him too!
How are you?! Thank you for the sweet email this week! I love hearing how everyone is doing (STILL) Don't feel like just because the time is drawing nigh that those need to stop. Keep the letters and support coming. Especially in these last couple of months. We are working harder than ever to find those that the lord wants in his church. We ARE finding them. Where to even start with all the Miracles and experiences of the mission?! I don't think I could. Like I say, it has truly all just been one sweet experience.
You wouldn't recognize Wencesloa if you knew him 5 weeks ago. He is a completely different person. He is 52 years old. When we walked into his home for the first time you would have thought that he was at least 82. That is not a lie. He had no life in him. He could barely speak and now... wow. I can't even begin to tell you what the knowledge of the gospel has done to him. The knowledge and testimony of his Savior Jesus Christ. He's amazing and happy. One of the many miracles that we witnessed this week was from Wencesloa. He has been separated from his wife for many many years. They are still married but not living together. She lives in Veracruz Mexico and they haven't had a sweet relationship since they were married 30 years ago. He called her yesterday before church to tell her about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. She told him that for the last 2 weeks she has been receiving visits from the Elders of the Mormon church and they visited for 2 HOURS about it! He was so happy and excited to tell us. He said that he wants to go back to be with his wife and he also told us how close the church is there from his home in Mexico and that the temple is not far either. Is that just the greatest news that you've ever heard! That is some sweet joy right there.
There are many more stories that I want to share from this week but I have to go cut a few of the elders hair.... Yay for service!
I love each of you so much. I'm so thrilled to hear that all is going well and that you're healthy and happy. I'm excited to hear your voices on the recorder. That will be too fun. Mom, I'm so thrilled that you had the opportunity to talk to Tabitha in the temple! Oh my word, what an amazing person she is, and in the Celestial room of all places! She was one of my favorite companions. If you ever see her again tell her that I love her and think that she is just the very greatest. I feel like I'm missing something... Like there is something I need to tell you but my mind is drawing a blank so it must not be that important. I love you and hope to hear from you soon! Hug Ryan for me I miss that boy! Kiss him too!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 57
Hello Hello!
It sounds like everyone is doing wonderful! So good to hear! Mom, will you please tell Lisa thank you thank you for sending me the simple truths forward about staying positive? I loved it and It made my day.
I'm so glad that Ryan had the opportunity to go to EFY. My word, I absolutely loved every summer of my youth because of EFY. One with Heather, one with McCally, one with Britt. Too much fun. Its something that every youth needs to experience at least once.
Momma, what a relief to hear that your heart is feeling better. I knew that everything would be fine. You are loved and watched out for.
I think this week has been the very fastest one on the mission. I truly felt as though I was sitting here in this same spot the day before yesterday, typing out a few words of report and here I am again doing the exact same thing. This better not be a pattern for the next little while or I'll just bawl! I don't know what else to do. The harder we work the faster the time goes and if I choose to ignore it I go to sleep, wake up and realize that its one week later. It is just the most bizarre thing and I will never understand it.
We've experienced quite a few miracles this week. Truly the blessings are pouring down here in the hafer area. We were going through some old investigators in the area book the first week I came to the area of Hafer and pulled 3 from the pile, we decided to stick them in the car and if there ever came an opportunity to go and find them that's what we would do. Well yesterday we were on our way to an appointment that lived out of our area and I wouldn't be able to tell you why other than I just felt like we should do something else with our time.. (the holy ghost) We grabbed our pile of old investigators and realized that we were on the exact street as the first paper on the top. His name is Rafael. We drove into his apartment complex and knocked on his door. I can't describe the feeling that overcame me when he opened his door. It was just sweet. He had a big smile on his face. What a sweet man! We asked if we could speak with him outside. There were already two chairs so he went to grab another one. When he came back he had two plates of Papusas and two glasses of Gatorade. We visited for a min about his experience with the missionaries and then testified that everything they taught was true. We went on to give our own testimonies and committed him to be baptized on the thirteenth of August. He accepted and we walked away feeling humbled and grateful that we are apart of this glorious work. It is GLORIOUS! Even the greatest thing any of us could ever hope of doing. Being in the service of god. Being in tune to the whisperings of the holy ghost. Finding those that are ready to accept the lords gospel and join in building the kingdom of god on the earth. There is no way that my time ends in two months. The lord will continue to put people in my path and I will continue inviting people to come unto Christ. It is our job as members of his church to find those that are ready. That is our responsibility. Keep your eyes open. There are hundreds of thousands around you that have been prepared. Start opening your mouths. Talk about family home evening, talk about mutual and youth conference, Ryan, talk about EFY. People will get curious and start asking questions. You don't need to come right out and invite people to church but give them a reason for why you're so happy all the time, why you're so confident in your future, why you're so confident in your kids future. I don't know? Just pray. Pray for the opportunities and then take them when they come. This is not your work, it is the lords and he will take care of it. He will give you the ideas and the words. Just open your mouth and he'll take over from there.
I love you dear family. I love you for all that you do and have done and will continue to do throughout your lives because of your love for the Lord and his work. Stay strong. Read your scriptures, say your prayers, and go to church. Lift those around you and you will be happy. Have an amazing week!
It sounds like everyone is doing wonderful! So good to hear! Mom, will you please tell Lisa thank you thank you for sending me the simple truths forward about staying positive? I loved it and It made my day.
I'm so glad that Ryan had the opportunity to go to EFY. My word, I absolutely loved every summer of my youth because of EFY. One with Heather, one with McCally, one with Britt. Too much fun. Its something that every youth needs to experience at least once.
Momma, what a relief to hear that your heart is feeling better. I knew that everything would be fine. You are loved and watched out for.
I think this week has been the very fastest one on the mission. I truly felt as though I was sitting here in this same spot the day before yesterday, typing out a few words of report and here I am again doing the exact same thing. This better not be a pattern for the next little while or I'll just bawl! I don't know what else to do. The harder we work the faster the time goes and if I choose to ignore it I go to sleep, wake up and realize that its one week later. It is just the most bizarre thing and I will never understand it.
We've experienced quite a few miracles this week. Truly the blessings are pouring down here in the hafer area. We were going through some old investigators in the area book the first week I came to the area of Hafer and pulled 3 from the pile, we decided to stick them in the car and if there ever came an opportunity to go and find them that's what we would do. Well yesterday we were on our way to an appointment that lived out of our area and I wouldn't be able to tell you why other than I just felt like we should do something else with our time.. (the holy ghost) We grabbed our pile of old investigators and realized that we were on the exact street as the first paper on the top. His name is Rafael. We drove into his apartment complex and knocked on his door. I can't describe the feeling that overcame me when he opened his door. It was just sweet. He had a big smile on his face. What a sweet man! We asked if we could speak with him outside. There were already two chairs so he went to grab another one. When he came back he had two plates of Papusas and two glasses of Gatorade. We visited for a min about his experience with the missionaries and then testified that everything they taught was true. We went on to give our own testimonies and committed him to be baptized on the thirteenth of August. He accepted and we walked away feeling humbled and grateful that we are apart of this glorious work. It is GLORIOUS! Even the greatest thing any of us could ever hope of doing. Being in the service of god. Being in tune to the whisperings of the holy ghost. Finding those that are ready to accept the lords gospel and join in building the kingdom of god on the earth. There is no way that my time ends in two months. The lord will continue to put people in my path and I will continue inviting people to come unto Christ. It is our job as members of his church to find those that are ready. That is our responsibility. Keep your eyes open. There are hundreds of thousands around you that have been prepared. Start opening your mouths. Talk about family home evening, talk about mutual and youth conference, Ryan, talk about EFY. People will get curious and start asking questions. You don't need to come right out and invite people to church but give them a reason for why you're so happy all the time, why you're so confident in your future, why you're so confident in your kids future. I don't know? Just pray. Pray for the opportunities and then take them when they come. This is not your work, it is the lords and he will take care of it. He will give you the ideas and the words. Just open your mouth and he'll take over from there.
I love you dear family. I love you for all that you do and have done and will continue to do throughout your lives because of your love for the Lord and his work. Stay strong. Read your scriptures, say your prayers, and go to church. Lift those around you and you will be happy. Have an amazing week!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Lance Letter 7.5.11
Happy 4th!
Happy birthday Ryan!! 16 years old......wow....Are you driving and dating and working hard and getting a job and everything that comes with being 16!??!! I'm sure you are. You are the sweetest kid I know and I'm honored to be called your brother.
Mom I will pray for you. I'm sorry to hear you were not feeling well. I know the Lord loves you and will comfort you at this time.
We are working and striving to find the elect. President Watkins is way different then president Jackson but the mantle, power, authority and zeal are all there. I love him already.
I'm still in Gilroy (my 2nd area) with Elder Bludworth. He's my 5th companion. We get along great! I Love Gilroy and would stay here forever if I could but transfers are in two weeks and I might be transferred then.
We are trying to teach Brandon's mom and step dad. Hopefully they will accept the message as Brandon did.
I'm so glad that Mom and Dad will have the opportunity to visit Nauvoo and other places. Let me know how it goes. I'm going to send the tape recorder back as soon as I can. I'll also send my camera chip so you can look at the pic's and videos I've been taking.
I Love the Gospel. I know it's true. Reading the Book of Mormon has built my testimony leaps and bounds. Being able to teach people a way to improve their lives brings the greatest joy to me and I wouldn't trade it for the world! I love you all and thank you for all the support you have given me.
Love, Lance
Happy birthday Ryan!! 16 years old......wow....Are you driving and dating and working hard and getting a job and everything that comes with being 16!??!! I'm sure you are. You are the sweetest kid I know and I'm honored to be called your brother.
Mom I will pray for you. I'm sorry to hear you were not feeling well. I know the Lord loves you and will comfort you at this time.
We are working and striving to find the elect. President Watkins is way different then president Jackson but the mantle, power, authority and zeal are all there. I love him already.
I'm still in Gilroy (my 2nd area) with Elder Bludworth. He's my 5th companion. We get along great! I Love Gilroy and would stay here forever if I could but transfers are in two weeks and I might be transferred then.
We are trying to teach Brandon's mom and step dad. Hopefully they will accept the message as Brandon did.
I'm so glad that Mom and Dad will have the opportunity to visit Nauvoo and other places. Let me know how it goes. I'm going to send the tape recorder back as soon as I can. I'll also send my camera chip so you can look at the pic's and videos I've been taking.
I Love the Gospel. I know it's true. Reading the Book of Mormon has built my testimony leaps and bounds. Being able to teach people a way to improve their lives brings the greatest joy to me and I wouldn't trade it for the world! I love you all and thank you for all the support you have given me.
Love, Lance
Lindsey: Letter 56
Hello hello!
I just wrote a letter to you and so I feel like I would be repeating myself here in the email if I wrote it all over again. First of all. My sweet momma. Your little heart is going to be just fine because guess what? I have those heart problems too! Surprise surprise. It is a little scary but I feel and have felt for a long time that the lord is not finished with me and he still has a few people I need to talk to here on the earth. My children being a part of the group.... Speaking of my children and the necessities of their lives. They will indeed need their grandmother to love them and spoil them as they sneak out of the house for fear that their impatient mother will continue spanking them. Are you excited for little slumber parties with you future grand kids?! Even the cutest grand kids you've ever seen. I know Lucy and Logan are pretty dang cute but you've forgotten how good looking mine are. The veil gets a little thick in that area. Don't worry, it will all come back to you as they come down one by one. I will pray my little heart out that you feel comforted and that you won't worry for a second about this little health issue you're having. The lords got it taken care of my sweet mother.
I don't know that I wrote a whole lot about my area in my letter. The area I am currently serving in now is called Hafer. The address will be on the letter that I just sent. I love it here! We are seeing success left and right. Miracle after miracle. We knocked on a door across the street of our appointment that "cancelled" and to our pleasant surprise found a man on the other side grinning from ear to ear and filled with the light of Christ. What a special person. We had a sweet conversation about the gospel on the door step and set up an appointment to come back this Saturday. His name is Fransisco Lopez. He'll come to church with us on Sunday and feel the power of the spirit and he'll then ask us where the font is... We'll fill it right up, grab one of the men that hold the aaronic priesthood and down into the water they'll go! That is what is going to happen. I'll write you next week and let you know how it went;) If all doesn't go as planned, we'll at least give him a book of Mormon and he will read it and have heaven sent questions for us and we will have heaven sent answers and all will be edified and it will be a sweet experience.
We had 4 investigators come to church last week, 3 of which have baptismal dates. A few health issues seem to be getting in the way of a couple of them but with the lord all things are possible. Our frail bodies, aren't they funny?
Honestly everything is going great! My companion and I could not be getting along better. We're both just happy and enjoying every second of the work and each other. Honestly, Hermana Casaday is one of the most pleasant people to be around. We just laugh and laugh and laugh. She is so funny! The lord has blessed me with the greatest companions while on the mission.
I wrote you an entire page about the new President and his family in the letter that I sent yesterday. I don't think I will repeat everything I wrote but know that we're just excited to have him. Even thrilled! He's incredible and excited as ever to be here.
Carlee! How exciting that you and Tim are going to be in Provo for the next three years! Congratulations! I'm so happy for you both and know that there are amazing things to come. How fun that you'll be dirt poor through law school. Isn't that exciting?! Maybe I'll come and live with you:) That might be awkward.... I know you're still in the newly married stage and may be for quite some time. I may have to rethink that thought.
I'm glad to hear that Ryan had such a wonderful birthday! Tell him to be extra careful. Did he get my card?
I love you all! The gospel is true. Its true its true its true. You're all so wonderful and I hope to hear from you soon!
I just wrote a letter to you and so I feel like I would be repeating myself here in the email if I wrote it all over again. First of all. My sweet momma. Your little heart is going to be just fine because guess what? I have those heart problems too! Surprise surprise. It is a little scary but I feel and have felt for a long time that the lord is not finished with me and he still has a few people I need to talk to here on the earth. My children being a part of the group.... Speaking of my children and the necessities of their lives. They will indeed need their grandmother to love them and spoil them as they sneak out of the house for fear that their impatient mother will continue spanking them. Are you excited for little slumber parties with you future grand kids?! Even the cutest grand kids you've ever seen. I know Lucy and Logan are pretty dang cute but you've forgotten how good looking mine are. The veil gets a little thick in that area. Don't worry, it will all come back to you as they come down one by one. I will pray my little heart out that you feel comforted and that you won't worry for a second about this little health issue you're having. The lords got it taken care of my sweet mother.
I don't know that I wrote a whole lot about my area in my letter. The area I am currently serving in now is called Hafer. The address will be on the letter that I just sent. I love it here! We are seeing success left and right. Miracle after miracle. We knocked on a door across the street of our appointment that "cancelled" and to our pleasant surprise found a man on the other side grinning from ear to ear and filled with the light of Christ. What a special person. We had a sweet conversation about the gospel on the door step and set up an appointment to come back this Saturday. His name is Fransisco Lopez. He'll come to church with us on Sunday and feel the power of the spirit and he'll then ask us where the font is... We'll fill it right up, grab one of the men that hold the aaronic priesthood and down into the water they'll go! That is what is going to happen. I'll write you next week and let you know how it went;) If all doesn't go as planned, we'll at least give him a book of Mormon and he will read it and have heaven sent questions for us and we will have heaven sent answers and all will be edified and it will be a sweet experience.
We had 4 investigators come to church last week, 3 of which have baptismal dates. A few health issues seem to be getting in the way of a couple of them but with the lord all things are possible. Our frail bodies, aren't they funny?
Honestly everything is going great! My companion and I could not be getting along better. We're both just happy and enjoying every second of the work and each other. Honestly, Hermana Casaday is one of the most pleasant people to be around. We just laugh and laugh and laugh. She is so funny! The lord has blessed me with the greatest companions while on the mission.
I wrote you an entire page about the new President and his family in the letter that I sent yesterday. I don't think I will repeat everything I wrote but know that we're just excited to have him. Even thrilled! He's incredible and excited as ever to be here.
Carlee! How exciting that you and Tim are going to be in Provo for the next three years! Congratulations! I'm so happy for you both and know that there are amazing things to come. How fun that you'll be dirt poor through law school. Isn't that exciting?! Maybe I'll come and live with you:) That might be awkward.... I know you're still in the newly married stage and may be for quite some time. I may have to rethink that thought.
I'm glad to hear that Ryan had such a wonderful birthday! Tell him to be extra careful. Did he get my card?
I love you all! The gospel is true. Its true its true its true. You're all so wonderful and I hope to hear from you soon!
Monday, July 4, 2011
Lance Letter 6.28.11
Dear Porters
President And Sister Jackson are on their way home as we speak. Our new mission President is Pres. Walkins. I haven't met or heard from him yet. But on Friday we will meet him. He's from Alpine Utah. He's a young, retired, wealthy accountant. He will be great. I will miss pres. Jackson.
We are teaching several people who are all really cool but wont come to church. so we have a lot of work to do.
Ryan is in good hands. He has the best parents in the world to rear him in the right ways. But it's the little things that keep people on the straight and narrow. (read the scrips and pray) if your doing those things it's hard for the adversary to get to you.
The gospels true,What more can i say. I Love you all .
Thank you for your love and prayers
Love Lance
President And Sister Jackson are on their way home as we speak. Our new mission President is Pres. Walkins. I haven't met or heard from him yet. But on Friday we will meet him. He's from Alpine Utah. He's a young, retired, wealthy accountant. He will be great. I will miss pres. Jackson.
We are teaching several people who are all really cool but wont come to church. so we have a lot of work to do.
Ryan is in good hands. He has the best parents in the world to rear him in the right ways. But it's the little things that keep people on the straight and narrow. (read the scrips and pray) if your doing those things it's hard for the adversary to get to you.
The gospels true,What more can i say. I Love you all .
Thank you for your love and prayers
Love Lance
Monday, June 27, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 55
Hello Momma! How are you?! To answer your question about when I'm coming home. I'm a little nervous to set anything in stone at this point for fear that the lord may have other plans within the next month so as far as shruggin of the shoulders goes, I'm right there with you:) You just keep on shruggin and I will do the same until the lord makes me decide. Would you call that Procrastination....? More like I just don't want to think about it until I absolutely have to.
Hermana Jenny Bullock came into town on Friday. Oh my word, I missed her. She and her parents got permission from president to take me and my new companion out to lunch. What a sweet time that was. I love her dearly. She seems to be doing great! I know that she misses the mission like crazy but she has continued faithful and is no less of a missionary now than she was a couple of months ago. She's a delight and will continue to be throughout her life.
My new area! I love it! I loved it the second I hugged my companion for the first time. What a special person she is. Truly and honestly, one of thee most patient people I have ever come into contact with. What a blessing she is in my life. There have been a couple of instances where she's had to exercise that patience more than she would like I'm sure but she's handled me like a champ. We get along beautifully and just laugh and laugh. Oh my word, she is hilarious! I was rolling on the floor laughing so hard the other night as she told me a story about the MTC. Please, don't let me forget to tell you one day. Hahaha. You will die. I died! She is so excited about the work and ready to get out and baptize the world and that is just what we are going to do! We had two investigators come to church yesterday and it was a sweet experience. Hermana Casaday thrilled beyond words. She's been here six weeks and has not yet had one investigator come to church so it was a great day!
We have a few people that we are working with at the moment. Weceslao, Mina, and Jose Ortiz. They are our top 3 progressing investigators. Oh how I love them! We told Weceslao that we would come to his home on Sunday so that he could follow us to church. Sure enough, the second we pulled into his coldasac there he was, waiting in his truck, ready to go. What a sweet man with a celestial heart. I love him dearly. Turns out his battery was dead when he tried to start up the engine so we were so thrilled to be there to help him jump it with some cable cords. He loved it and I believe he will be baptized soon. Mina is a member referral and is so excited to be baptized. She is about 60 years old. She doesn't really understand that there are certain things she needs to learn before getting into the water. She doesn't have a lot of time to meet with us but that is ok. We'll figure it out! Jose Ortiz. Oh boy. Jose is just sweet. He loves his Savior Jesus Christ and think any religion that preaches his name is the right one. Its going to take a little more time with him but he is happy to have us in his home. That is a start.
I wish I had more time to email you but I'm afraid time is not on our side here on the mission. There is never enough of it. I'm so thrilled that you get to go to Nauvoo! That will be too fun. Enjoy every second of it. I too am a little nervous about Ryan. You tell him to read his scriptures and say his prayers every morning and night and he will have the armor needed to combat the temptations of Satan and his crew. Please tell him to be safe and wise. Know that he is a smart boy and wouldn't do anything to jeopardize his chances of serving a mission. Oh what a sad boy he would be.
Please have a wonderful week and know that all is well here in Houston Texas. A little hot but very very well:) I love you all and will talk to you next week!
Hermana Jenny Bullock came into town on Friday. Oh my word, I missed her. She and her parents got permission from president to take me and my new companion out to lunch. What a sweet time that was. I love her dearly. She seems to be doing great! I know that she misses the mission like crazy but she has continued faithful and is no less of a missionary now than she was a couple of months ago. She's a delight and will continue to be throughout her life.
My new area! I love it! I loved it the second I hugged my companion for the first time. What a special person she is. Truly and honestly, one of thee most patient people I have ever come into contact with. What a blessing she is in my life. There have been a couple of instances where she's had to exercise that patience more than she would like I'm sure but she's handled me like a champ. We get along beautifully and just laugh and laugh. Oh my word, she is hilarious! I was rolling on the floor laughing so hard the other night as she told me a story about the MTC. Please, don't let me forget to tell you one day. Hahaha. You will die. I died! She is so excited about the work and ready to get out and baptize the world and that is just what we are going to do! We had two investigators come to church yesterday and it was a sweet experience. Hermana Casaday thrilled beyond words. She's been here six weeks and has not yet had one investigator come to church so it was a great day!
We have a few people that we are working with at the moment. Weceslao, Mina, and Jose Ortiz. They are our top 3 progressing investigators. Oh how I love them! We told Weceslao that we would come to his home on Sunday so that he could follow us to church. Sure enough, the second we pulled into his coldasac there he was, waiting in his truck, ready to go. What a sweet man with a celestial heart. I love him dearly. Turns out his battery was dead when he tried to start up the engine so we were so thrilled to be there to help him jump it with some cable cords. He loved it and I believe he will be baptized soon. Mina is a member referral and is so excited to be baptized. She is about 60 years old. She doesn't really understand that there are certain things she needs to learn before getting into the water. She doesn't have a lot of time to meet with us but that is ok. We'll figure it out! Jose Ortiz. Oh boy. Jose is just sweet. He loves his Savior Jesus Christ and think any religion that preaches his name is the right one. Its going to take a little more time with him but he is happy to have us in his home. That is a start.
I wish I had more time to email you but I'm afraid time is not on our side here on the mission. There is never enough of it. I'm so thrilled that you get to go to Nauvoo! That will be too fun. Enjoy every second of it. I too am a little nervous about Ryan. You tell him to read his scriptures and say his prayers every morning and night and he will have the armor needed to combat the temptations of Satan and his crew. Please tell him to be safe and wise. Know that he is a smart boy and wouldn't do anything to jeopardize his chances of serving a mission. Oh what a sad boy he would be.
Please have a wonderful week and know that all is well here in Houston Texas. A little hot but very very well:) I love you all and will talk to you next week!
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Lance Letter 6.24.11
HEY HEY!!
This week was a testimony builder, WE GOT OUR BIKES STOLEN!!
I'm so happy you got to meet Brandon. He's such a good kid. As well as his friends who really were the ones’ who brought him into the Gospel. They said they were going to drive through St. George, and I begged them to make a quick pit stop to the Porter home.
But yes, we had our bikes stolen. On Friday morning we parked them real quick outside the Zone Leaders apartment to give them something and just a few minutes later they were gone. We asked everyone and even reported them stolen to the police. We went home later and knelt down and said a sincere prayer. Elder Bludworth had a sweet bike too. President Jackson gave Elder Bludworth and me permission to call home and get some money for new bikes. Elder Bludworth called and got a little BMX bike. I was about to call but I just had this feeling our bikes were going to turn up so I didn’t call; but kept praying throughout the day.
The next morning the Zone Leaders called and said "Do you want your bikes back, because we're looking right at them." We bolted over to their apartment and it turns out the bikes were taken by the neighbors and put in their yard (which looks just like "the sand lot" junk yard). Anyway, they were taken apart with some of the parts still missing. So we called the cops and they came and got our bikes for us… It was a 16 year old kid and his friend who took them. We had asked both of them the day before if they saw our bikes, but they said, ‘nope’. Anyway, we got them back. I'm still missing the back wheel, but they said they'll get me a new one. Oh, and the best part . . .the Spanish Elders are now teaching the family.
I'm telling you prayer works!
Other than that, not too many things have happened. We're trying to work with the Ward more in finding people to teach. It's moving slowly but surely. We have a lot of work to do. We're still on bikes. I've been on a bike my entire mission for which I'm grateful; but it's HOT! 97*+!!!
Everyone sounds great but busy which is good. Ryan got his own bench!!?? He's gonna be huge when I get home! We have a little weight room in our apartment with a bench and such but I have had a hard time using it. I am so weak! Ryan is going to beat me up when I get home. I'm still at like 200lbs but it’s all fat ha, ha. You'd think since I've been on a bike so long I would have at least maintained the same weight. “I say unto you nay,” being on a bike just makes me hungry! Maybe now that it's so hot, I’ll sweat it all off? Yeah, maybe that . . .
Okay, we are working and praying like mad and I know you are too. Thank you!
I love you all!
Love, LANCE
This week was a testimony builder, WE GOT OUR BIKES STOLEN!!
I'm so happy you got to meet Brandon. He's such a good kid. As well as his friends who really were the ones’ who brought him into the Gospel. They said they were going to drive through St. George, and I begged them to make a quick pit stop to the Porter home.
But yes, we had our bikes stolen. On Friday morning we parked them real quick outside the Zone Leaders apartment to give them something and just a few minutes later they were gone. We asked everyone and even reported them stolen to the police. We went home later and knelt down and said a sincere prayer. Elder Bludworth had a sweet bike too. President Jackson gave Elder Bludworth and me permission to call home and get some money for new bikes. Elder Bludworth called and got a little BMX bike. I was about to call but I just had this feeling our bikes were going to turn up so I didn’t call; but kept praying throughout the day.
The next morning the Zone Leaders called and said "Do you want your bikes back, because we're looking right at them." We bolted over to their apartment and it turns out the bikes were taken by the neighbors and put in their yard (which looks just like "the sand lot" junk yard). Anyway, they were taken apart with some of the parts still missing. So we called the cops and they came and got our bikes for us… It was a 16 year old kid and his friend who took them. We had asked both of them the day before if they saw our bikes, but they said, ‘nope’. Anyway, we got them back. I'm still missing the back wheel, but they said they'll get me a new one. Oh, and the best part . . .the Spanish Elders are now teaching the family.
I'm telling you prayer works!
Other than that, not too many things have happened. We're trying to work with the Ward more in finding people to teach. It's moving slowly but surely. We have a lot of work to do. We're still on bikes. I've been on a bike my entire mission for which I'm grateful; but it's HOT! 97*+!!!
Everyone sounds great but busy which is good. Ryan got his own bench!!?? He's gonna be huge when I get home! We have a little weight room in our apartment with a bench and such but I have had a hard time using it. I am so weak! Ryan is going to beat me up when I get home. I'm still at like 200lbs but it’s all fat ha, ha. You'd think since I've been on a bike so long I would have at least maintained the same weight. “I say unto you nay,” being on a bike just makes me hungry! Maybe now that it's so hot, I’ll sweat it all off? Yeah, maybe that . . .
Okay, we are working and praying like mad and I know you are too. Thank you!
I love you all!
Love, LANCE
Monday, June 20, 2011
Lindsey: Letter 54
Hello Hello one and all!
How has your week been? This one has been an interesting one for us. A few of our investigators dropped off the face of the earth and they all live in the same complex.... we're wondering if they got together and planned it. Hmm.... Sneaky little buggers they are. No, they really are wonderful and we're praying that they will start answering the door soon and their phone for that matter. Interesting. We are working with a DARLING girl named Miriam. She is about 18 years old and cute cute cute. She goes to the Lake Woodlands church (don't ask me what that means) I think its a Christian church and she wants to get baptized there. We pulled out the book of Mormon and read with her 2 nephi chapter 31. She sat back after we were through and said. I've never learned so much in my life! We explained the holy ghost to her and that he was teaching her. We taught her about the authority to baptize and what happened to the church when that authority was taken from the earth. We left her with a chapter to read from the book of Mormon and she is very excited to learn more. She has a twin that we hope to be teaching soon! Honestly, they are beautiful and need to get married in the temple!
I'll tell you what. I've never been happier to know how to cut hair than on my mission. It gets us in so many doors! I'm sad I didn't ask sooner if that's something I could do, but better late than never. People don't always want to know what you have to say but someone always wants a haircut! After a little act of service they are perfectly willing and content to sit and listen to what you have to say. Its a blessing. We have found many new investigators through service and I'm so glad that the lord is able to get us in through something so simple. Yeah for cutting hair!
We have 3 Russians that live in our complex and they are ALWAYS using the computers on Monday. Whether it be skyping their families or using the face book the computers are occupied. We've had to learn how to share but they are just the cutest things you've ever seen. They can speak a few words of English but its tough to hold a conversation with them. Last week we walked in and were not surprised to find them seated in the computer room. They just smiled and held up 10 fingers as if to say, 10 more min. As we were walking out we looked at each other and said how can we share the gospel with them?! Inspiration from above came pouring down and Hermana Coogan pulled out the Joseph Smith movie! We walked right back in and showed them the movie and one of them understood that we wanted to watch it with them. It was WONDERFUL! We had a wonderful lessons with lots of facial expressions, hand movements, and pictures. Darling boys. They'll get baptized one day:) Haha, One just came in and asked where he can find work. I told him to move to Utah! (Heather, will you pass the message onto James and Rachel that I'm sending them 3 Russians.
Ok so now for the news. I will be leaving The Woodlands. Its an interesting sensation. I don't know how happy I am about it but i don't have too much to say concerning the matter. My companion and I have had the greatest 5 weeks together and have become dear dear friends. We have seen miracles and continue to see them daily. They will come whether or not I am serving here in the Woodlands. I will see them in my new area and with my new companion Hermana Casaday. Its weird thinking that this next area may be my last. There is a lot to do and I know that the lord can use me wherever seemeth him good. Here is the exciting part. Hermana Donkin (my sweet, darling friend) will be coming up to the Woodlands to greenie break Hermana Coogan and they together will train a brand-new missionary, straight out of the MTC. Hermana Coogan is so nervous! She'll be amazing and Hermana Donkin is incredible. I'm excited to see what things the lord has in store for the Woodlands Area. These Sisters are just going to transform it and I get butterflies thinking about it! (the good kind) Isn't that exciting? I'm excited! It's all exciting! I think it's odd how ok I am with change. Bring it on! I get a little antsy when things stay the same for too long. We are here to learn and grow and to be stretched. I need it more than anyone. There are however a few things that I'm not thrilled about. #1. Loosing the Walkers. Oh boy, that will be a sad day. They have been my dearest friends while serving out here. I know that the lord allowed them to serve here because he knew I would need them. I love them and will miss them terribly. Good thing we have planes to fly around in! I don't know what I would do if there was a chance that we wouldn't see each other again. Yikes. I suppose its another good thing that this life is so short. I'm really starting to miss some people. Most of them I haven't known on this earth but I know there are many strong relationships that were formed long before I came into this life. What a blessing. #2. Losing the Hansens. Oh boy, what amazing people they are. I know that they will be replaced by another beautiful, chosen couple to come and carry the work of the lord forward in power and with the spirit. The Hansens have been an incredible influence for good and have changed many missionaries lives as well as their own I believe. I'm thrilled that they're no further than an email or a phone call away. I love them and am so thankful for the relationship that we've formed over the time that we've been able to serve together. #3. I'm losing Hermana Coogan for a time! Ah! What a blast and a special time it has been to serve along side this wonderful, sweet girl. She is a powerhouse and a light. I am thankful for the opportunities that the lord gives us. for the people that he puts in our path so that we can learn and grow and progress. So that we can enjoy our precious time on this earth. I have been surrounded by incredible people my entire life. I believe it will continue on that way. Heavenly Father has some amazing children on the earth at this time and It has been a pleasure to rub shoulders with many of them. Oh the lessons we can learn from each one. They're all so different, all have their gifts and talents, their likes and dislikes, insights and ideas. I love them all.
I'm so sorry this has become rather long but I want you to know how much I love you and miss each one of you! You're all so wonderful! I'm thrilled to hear that dad recieved his Fathers Day card. Haha. It was just silly but when my eyes spotted it I couldn't resist. You' are all so special to me and I hope that things are going well and that everyone is healthy and strong! Have an amazing week and I will talk to you soon!
How has your week been? This one has been an interesting one for us. A few of our investigators dropped off the face of the earth and they all live in the same complex.... we're wondering if they got together and planned it. Hmm.... Sneaky little buggers they are. No, they really are wonderful and we're praying that they will start answering the door soon and their phone for that matter. Interesting. We are working with a DARLING girl named Miriam. She is about 18 years old and cute cute cute. She goes to the Lake Woodlands church (don't ask me what that means) I think its a Christian church and she wants to get baptized there. We pulled out the book of Mormon and read with her 2 nephi chapter 31. She sat back after we were through and said. I've never learned so much in my life! We explained the holy ghost to her and that he was teaching her. We taught her about the authority to baptize and what happened to the church when that authority was taken from the earth. We left her with a chapter to read from the book of Mormon and she is very excited to learn more. She has a twin that we hope to be teaching soon! Honestly, they are beautiful and need to get married in the temple!
I'll tell you what. I've never been happier to know how to cut hair than on my mission. It gets us in so many doors! I'm sad I didn't ask sooner if that's something I could do, but better late than never. People don't always want to know what you have to say but someone always wants a haircut! After a little act of service they are perfectly willing and content to sit and listen to what you have to say. Its a blessing. We have found many new investigators through service and I'm so glad that the lord is able to get us in through something so simple. Yeah for cutting hair!
We have 3 Russians that live in our complex and they are ALWAYS using the computers on Monday. Whether it be skyping their families or using the face book the computers are occupied. We've had to learn how to share but they are just the cutest things you've ever seen. They can speak a few words of English but its tough to hold a conversation with them. Last week we walked in and were not surprised to find them seated in the computer room. They just smiled and held up 10 fingers as if to say, 10 more min. As we were walking out we looked at each other and said how can we share the gospel with them?! Inspiration from above came pouring down and Hermana Coogan pulled out the Joseph Smith movie! We walked right back in and showed them the movie and one of them understood that we wanted to watch it with them. It was WONDERFUL! We had a wonderful lessons with lots of facial expressions, hand movements, and pictures. Darling boys. They'll get baptized one day:) Haha, One just came in and asked where he can find work. I told him to move to Utah! (Heather, will you pass the message onto James and Rachel that I'm sending them 3 Russians.
Ok so now for the news. I will be leaving The Woodlands. Its an interesting sensation. I don't know how happy I am about it but i don't have too much to say concerning the matter. My companion and I have had the greatest 5 weeks together and have become dear dear friends. We have seen miracles and continue to see them daily. They will come whether or not I am serving here in the Woodlands. I will see them in my new area and with my new companion Hermana Casaday. Its weird thinking that this next area may be my last. There is a lot to do and I know that the lord can use me wherever seemeth him good. Here is the exciting part. Hermana Donkin (my sweet, darling friend) will be coming up to the Woodlands to greenie break Hermana Coogan and they together will train a brand-new missionary, straight out of the MTC. Hermana Coogan is so nervous! She'll be amazing and Hermana Donkin is incredible. I'm excited to see what things the lord has in store for the Woodlands Area. These Sisters are just going to transform it and I get butterflies thinking about it! (the good kind) Isn't that exciting? I'm excited! It's all exciting! I think it's odd how ok I am with change. Bring it on! I get a little antsy when things stay the same for too long. We are here to learn and grow and to be stretched. I need it more than anyone. There are however a few things that I'm not thrilled about. #1. Loosing the Walkers. Oh boy, that will be a sad day. They have been my dearest friends while serving out here. I know that the lord allowed them to serve here because he knew I would need them. I love them and will miss them terribly. Good thing we have planes to fly around in! I don't know what I would do if there was a chance that we wouldn't see each other again. Yikes. I suppose its another good thing that this life is so short. I'm really starting to miss some people. Most of them I haven't known on this earth but I know there are many strong relationships that were formed long before I came into this life. What a blessing. #2. Losing the Hansens. Oh boy, what amazing people they are. I know that they will be replaced by another beautiful, chosen couple to come and carry the work of the lord forward in power and with the spirit. The Hansens have been an incredible influence for good and have changed many missionaries lives as well as their own I believe. I'm thrilled that they're no further than an email or a phone call away. I love them and am so thankful for the relationship that we've formed over the time that we've been able to serve together. #3. I'm losing Hermana Coogan for a time! Ah! What a blast and a special time it has been to serve along side this wonderful, sweet girl. She is a powerhouse and a light. I am thankful for the opportunities that the lord gives us. for the people that he puts in our path so that we can learn and grow and progress. So that we can enjoy our precious time on this earth. I have been surrounded by incredible people my entire life. I believe it will continue on that way. Heavenly Father has some amazing children on the earth at this time and It has been a pleasure to rub shoulders with many of them. Oh the lessons we can learn from each one. They're all so different, all have their gifts and talents, their likes and dislikes, insights and ideas. I love them all.
I'm so sorry this has become rather long but I want you to know how much I love you and miss each one of you! You're all so wonderful! I'm thrilled to hear that dad recieved his Fathers Day card. Haha. It was just silly but when my eyes spotted it I couldn't resist. You' are all so special to me and I hope that things are going well and that everyone is healthy and strong! Have an amazing week and I will talk to you soon!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)