From: Elder Andrushka Pearce Dated: March 23, 2009
Dear Family
this week i reached 19 months on my mission. I cant believe that i am coming to an end. I look at it all that i have 6 months more to give it all i have. To be honest i hope that my system holds up on pushing as hard i am pushing to help.
This week Vladimir got better from Varisela and we got back to work with him visiting his friends. We had another baptism a sister of Vladimir. Her name is Yaoska and she has a cute little daughter of 3 years old. She was a huge help for us on helping baptize. The first time we came by to talk to her she didn't really want much or to talk to us we only got in 5 or 10 wards making an invitation. Then each time we came back inviting little by little to church. We came by one day and invited the daughter and she went of telling her mom. I want to go to church so she went to church. There are only a few more left in this family to be the whole family members. It was a lovely baptism and i know that the lord is blessing us a lot.
I had a chance to give a talk this Sunday and it went well i could feel the spirit helping me give the talk. Do to all that needs to be done i wanted to give a talk on Sabbath day. as i stood up to give a talk a whole other theme came out and it was a very good talk on fallowing our savior Jesus Christ through all. To be willing to give your life for his name sake. Then also inviting all to give all to the work of the lord and not hold anything back.
Then we had a classes and since we called a teacher we can supervise and have a little less of stress. So i got to be a little part of primary and watch out for little once. Then we divided for Priesthood. We taught how to tie ties and it was a great class. Teaching the importance of white shirt and a tie to be ready to serve the Lord Sundays. We also confirmed 3 more to the Melchizedek Priesthood. SO we are with 7 we need 9 to send our papers in to become a branch.
We are very exited to keep pushing forward this work. We have two more in mind to help become we are hoping in two weeks to be ready. We have made a DVD to send also and the papers with the goals completed as there were giving to us. We also this week found a new house to move into next week. We are very exited because we have found a lower price and a very nice house with a swimming pool to baptize here in Mateares making it more part of our ward to participate in baptisms. Write now we have to go far and pay to travel for every baptism. I have seen the Hand of the Lord in this work as he helps us to make the work more efficient. How i love this work.
Walking to the District meeting today i heard my name as a convert that i help baptize shouted my name. At first i was a little scared because the man was dressed with a guard uniform with a pistol and everything. We talked for a little while and i let him know that with my mom and dad we will be passing by. I love this work. How i wish i could have more to give it. Well Better then wishing is preparing for the feature to be the best i can be. This is the True Church. I know it by the Holy Ghost. Elder Pearce I love you all and hope all is well.
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, January 19, 2009
Miracles in Mateares
From Elder Andrushka Pearce Dated: January 19th 2009
Dear Family
The work just moves along as the members of mateares set History this week. I wish i could explain the spirit that runs through my body as it testifys to me that this is his work and how blessed i am to be here to witnes this little town write their history of the church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints. Well this week started out as last week we envited President Fraatz to the meating. We wernt to sure if he was coming the members got the word out that he might be coming and set it in there minds that yes he was coming.
Wendsday we had the zone leader call him. He came back telling us that he wont be able to come because he has a meating with the 70ty. As i got back thinking to my self we cant let it just go like that. He has taught all out mission if you want to do something find a ways to do it and dont take no for an awnser. I ask the permision from the leaders and gave him a call. As he awnserd he told me he wouldent be able that he will send his first counsler. Thinking before i asked him what time the meating would be done he told me 3 i asked if we could have the sacrament meating at 5 and he told me yes.
We jumped the first part getting president come to our meating its 50 minutes or so from the city. Then we went to work cleaning and dacorating the place and pouting pictures up it looked very good organized and evrything the house. Then we got all the members informed and let them know that they could write the history of the church. The week went by realy fast as we were getting ready for the president and inviting all we could to the meating pouting plans together how are we going to reach our goal of 80 poeple at church.
We also had a baptizim this week that was a 22 year old reporter of mateares that has gone to church 19 times but never has goten baptized we found him and started talking. He told us the reason he hasent got baptized is that its always saturday and he is realy hard to find this day. I let him know that what ever day he wanted we could baptized. we invited him to be baptized tomarow and he accepted. We got the members ready in the morning sunday they were all exited that he was finaly getting baptized. We got up in the morning and he wasent there. He had a call and raised of to work. So then we started to looke for him. We got to a members house and there boy told us that there was an acident in the road so we raised of knowing he would be there to film it. We got there and wasent there so we left the members in charge to find him and give us a call. As we had to move with all energy if we wanted to reach our goal this week.
We went and found some of the members that we have never taught or new they were members of the church. They told us they would be reay to go to church at 5. The classes started at three and pres comes at 5 also the houre of the sacrament meating. They found him called us we got there raise of to the church of the zone leaders and baptized him. How i love this work and love over coming what comes in the way. The members are amazing here how i love them and hope i wont be changed from this area. Coming back we called evryone for a meating explaining and we gave a talk how this day is very importent for mateares and how it will change the lives of there kids and make all the difrence how they work together 27 of the members went to work inviting there family friends and all they could. They went of from that meating realy exited to go find all and reach the goal that we may have a chapel here in mateares.
We started the church i gave a class on 10 comandements we had about 70 before 4:00 then we went out to invite more investigatores my comp stayed as we did devisions with the priests i went out to make sure that all are coming. As i was gone president and his wife came and all there children. Also our branch president came from nagarote. As i was walking in the streats the poeple were walking for the church. What a site it was to se so many poeple in the church as i got back it was filled poeple were seated on the stairs and in evry part there were poeple in the back revrently waiting for the president and his wife to speak. 113 or more poeple came some didnt make it all the way trough for there kids were sick or screaming. The meating was full. It truly was history in mateares as 113 poeple came to church in a small town of mateares.
President loved it and made some great coments thanked us for our work and told us we need to find a map as soon as posible and that we will be making this unity a branch as soon as posible. It truly was the greatest experiance to work with the members as the meating got done all the members went and president stayed back a little talking with us. Lovly family they are i had a great time sitting on the stand with president it was a great honer for me. the work here moves along they have also just made plans to make here a district with other parts close by.
I am so glad to be here working and that i am growing. It trys my faith to work and be so tired but i love the lord and give all i have to him. How i am thankfull for all that the lord has given me in my life. I love this work. I love you all and hope that all is well.
Happy birthday tomi 30. It has bin 30 years filled with great example for all of us. Love you and hope and pray that your family will keep as great as they are doing. I love you all and let me know whats going on. i cant belive that i will be compliting 17 months on my mission it has gone by so fast and i am thankfull for the next 8 months that i have to give it all i have.
Dear Family
The work just moves along as the members of mateares set History this week. I wish i could explain the spirit that runs through my body as it testifys to me that this is his work and how blessed i am to be here to witnes this little town write their history of the church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints. Well this week started out as last week we envited President Fraatz to the meating. We wernt to sure if he was coming the members got the word out that he might be coming and set it in there minds that yes he was coming.
Wendsday we had the zone leader call him. He came back telling us that he wont be able to come because he has a meating with the 70ty. As i got back thinking to my self we cant let it just go like that. He has taught all out mission if you want to do something find a ways to do it and dont take no for an awnser. I ask the permision from the leaders and gave him a call. As he awnserd he told me he wouldent be able that he will send his first counsler. Thinking before i asked him what time the meating would be done he told me 3 i asked if we could have the sacrament meating at 5 and he told me yes.
We jumped the first part getting president come to our meating its 50 minutes or so from the city. Then we went to work cleaning and dacorating the place and pouting pictures up it looked very good organized and evrything the house. Then we got all the members informed and let them know that they could write the history of the church. The week went by realy fast as we were getting ready for the president and inviting all we could to the meating pouting plans together how are we going to reach our goal of 80 poeple at church.
We also had a baptizim this week that was a 22 year old reporter of mateares that has gone to church 19 times but never has goten baptized we found him and started talking. He told us the reason he hasent got baptized is that its always saturday and he is realy hard to find this day. I let him know that what ever day he wanted we could baptized. we invited him to be baptized tomarow and he accepted. We got the members ready in the morning sunday they were all exited that he was finaly getting baptized. We got up in the morning and he wasent there. He had a call and raised of to work. So then we started to looke for him. We got to a members house and there boy told us that there was an acident in the road so we raised of knowing he would be there to film it. We got there and wasent there so we left the members in charge to find him and give us a call. As we had to move with all energy if we wanted to reach our goal this week.
We went and found some of the members that we have never taught or new they were members of the church. They told us they would be reay to go to church at 5. The classes started at three and pres comes at 5 also the houre of the sacrament meating. They found him called us we got there raise of to the church of the zone leaders and baptized him. How i love this work and love over coming what comes in the way. The members are amazing here how i love them and hope i wont be changed from this area. Coming back we called evryone for a meating explaining and we gave a talk how this day is very importent for mateares and how it will change the lives of there kids and make all the difrence how they work together 27 of the members went to work inviting there family friends and all they could. They went of from that meating realy exited to go find all and reach the goal that we may have a chapel here in mateares.
We started the church i gave a class on 10 comandements we had about 70 before 4:00 then we went out to invite more investigatores my comp stayed as we did devisions with the priests i went out to make sure that all are coming. As i was gone president and his wife came and all there children. Also our branch president came from nagarote. As i was walking in the streats the poeple were walking for the church. What a site it was to se so many poeple in the church as i got back it was filled poeple were seated on the stairs and in evry part there were poeple in the back revrently waiting for the president and his wife to speak. 113 or more poeple came some didnt make it all the way trough for there kids were sick or screaming. The meating was full. It truly was history in mateares as 113 poeple came to church in a small town of mateares.
President loved it and made some great coments thanked us for our work and told us we need to find a map as soon as posible and that we will be making this unity a branch as soon as posible. It truly was the greatest experiance to work with the members as the meating got done all the members went and president stayed back a little talking with us. Lovly family they are i had a great time sitting on the stand with president it was a great honer for me. the work here moves along they have also just made plans to make here a district with other parts close by.
I am so glad to be here working and that i am growing. It trys my faith to work and be so tired but i love the lord and give all i have to him. How i am thankfull for all that the lord has given me in my life. I love this work. I love you all and hope that all is well.
Happy birthday tomi 30. It has bin 30 years filled with great example for all of us. Love you and hope and pray that your family will keep as great as they are doing. I love you all and let me know whats going on. i cant belive that i will be compliting 17 months on my mission it has gone by so fast and i am thankfull for the next 8 months that i have to give it all i have.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Baptizing two new families
From: Elder Andrey Pearce Dated: December 8, 2008
Dear Family
My hart is swelled with all the love that i have recived from my family and from my loved ones. Heavenly Father has blessed me so so much this week. I feal so joyful i feal like crying with joy. ( i am in cyber so i wont) This week the greatest news is that we had 5 baptizims. Familia Sanches and Family Sevilla. What a week saturday we had a baptizim pland for 11 in the morming as it fell through we saved it to do at 5. We got to there house 4 and started to see how we can help them get ready and how there were with evrything. We got there and Pedro wasent there so we were woried we saw him come home with his son whos a pastor or a preacher for another church. We talked with pacions and peace and they got ready ate and we went of to the stake center to baptize. The greatest part of this day that the members of Nindiri saported us in all our strugles as they changed there plans to be there 5pm. The baptizim went well the maria has 53 years and husband Pedro 62. Then we helped them get on transpertation for there house and we tooke a taxi to 21 for The family Sanches. We got there and the family was ready. As we were walking to there friends who were going to give them a ride who came from managua. Lisa told us she didnt want to get baptized she had some chalenges. So we started to talk to her. She reminds me of Lydia alot. She has 14 years old. We talked and i let her know that she will have the chanse to talk to the zone leader who will interview her again if she wanted. So we got to the chapel it was 7 y 30 then we helped her to meat with the zone leader as he talk to her. The family got dressed ready to take pictures. She got back and sat down saying no. so we as companionship desided to talk to her one more time. It was a very spiritual lesson that we gave her that i will remember good part of my life. As she told us she will get baptized. She asked if she could make a call she made the call got dreased and the whole family got baptized. What a mericle that the lord gave ua. Albin who is her step dad thanked us for helping her. What a bryte happy family they are. The part that they live there isent many members so they will be one of the first family there i know they will help the work move along. Love the mission and all the work that my Heavenly Father has helped me to be part of. I hope that i have a chance to serve him all my life. Well my thoughts are not all together i am a bit tired from last week but realy happy. Another great thing hapend we went to the christmas devotional as the stake president pout his arm around me and told me that he was very thankfull for all the work that we are doing in Nindiri and for teaching his poeple. I could feal a great spirit with the stake president. I am thankful to the lord and my mom and dad for all that they have tought me. i am so blessed in my life. Hope to honer my Heavenly Father in this life work hard to do all the good that i can. Thank you for all your letters i love you all. I cant belive that i am 21 i feal a little old. I love my sister carissa and the great example that she has given me in my life and the apertunity that i had to share the same day with her. I know that she is happy. I thank my Savior Jesus Christ for all that he did for me. Love you all have a great week.
mom & dad i havent goten any of the packedges i think they are waiting to give them all for christmas. Thank you for all that you do for me
Dear Family
My hart is swelled with all the love that i have recived from my family and from my loved ones. Heavenly Father has blessed me so so much this week. I feal so joyful i feal like crying with joy. ( i am in cyber so i wont) This week the greatest news is that we had 5 baptizims. Familia Sanches and Family Sevilla. What a week saturday we had a baptizim pland for 11 in the morming as it fell through we saved it to do at 5. We got to there house 4 and started to see how we can help them get ready and how there were with evrything. We got there and Pedro wasent there so we were woried we saw him come home with his son whos a pastor or a preacher for another church. We talked with pacions and peace and they got ready ate and we went of to the stake center to baptize. The greatest part of this day that the members of Nindiri saported us in all our strugles as they changed there plans to be there 5pm. The baptizim went well the maria has 53 years and husband Pedro 62. Then we helped them get on transpertation for there house and we tooke a taxi to 21 for The family Sanches. We got there and the family was ready. As we were walking to there friends who were going to give them a ride who came from managua. Lisa told us she didnt want to get baptized she had some chalenges. So we started to talk to her. She reminds me of Lydia alot. She has 14 years old. We talked and i let her know that she will have the chanse to talk to the zone leader who will interview her again if she wanted. So we got to the chapel it was 7 y 30 then we helped her to meat with the zone leader as he talk to her. The family got dressed ready to take pictures. She got back and sat down saying no. so we as companionship desided to talk to her one more time. It was a very spiritual lesson that we gave her that i will remember good part of my life. As she told us she will get baptized. She asked if she could make a call she made the call got dreased and the whole family got baptized. What a mericle that the lord gave ua. Albin who is her step dad thanked us for helping her. What a bryte happy family they are. The part that they live there isent many members so they will be one of the first family there i know they will help the work move along. Love the mission and all the work that my Heavenly Father has helped me to be part of. I hope that i have a chance to serve him all my life. Well my thoughts are not all together i am a bit tired from last week but realy happy. Another great thing hapend we went to the christmas devotional as the stake president pout his arm around me and told me that he was very thankfull for all the work that we are doing in Nindiri and for teaching his poeple. I could feal a great spirit with the stake president. I am thankful to the lord and my mom and dad for all that they have tought me. i am so blessed in my life. Hope to honer my Heavenly Father in this life work hard to do all the good that i can. Thank you for all your letters i love you all. I cant belive that i am 21 i feal a little old. I love my sister carissa and the great example that she has given me in my life and the apertunity that i had to share the same day with her. I know that she is happy. I thank my Savior Jesus Christ for all that he did for me. Love you all have a great week.
mom & dad i havent goten any of the packedges i think they are waiting to give them all for christmas. Thank you for all that you do for me
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
I'll Be Home for Christmas
From Elder Paul Freeman, dated October 1, 2008
Dear Mom,
I appreciate your email very much. I'm glad the power is back on and you and Dad can get back to regular every day living. And, these pictures are amazing. The new Park has a volley ball net?! That is terribly exciting. Ever since I got transferred out of the Samoan ward I haven't played volleyball.
Oh, as far as jury duty goes, I might as well stick to that date and get it over with. I'm not sure if you read about it in my last letter, but I checked my application status online a couple weeks ago and it said I had been denied to BYU Provo. I'm not really sure where to go from there, but going to school in Idaho doesn't sound all that appealing. I check out both the University of Texas and Sam Houston University, but still I'm not convinced one way or the other. I've got the idea that I can start out like Adam did in community college and see where it takes me from there. Especially because I really don't know what career I want. I know I've got plenty of time to figure it all out and only two months at home doesn't sound nearly enough to get grounded before heading out to school. I'll leave it at that for now.
I always say there is plenty of time to think about those things on the plane ride home.
We've spent the last week here in Upland, searching for new investigators. At times it feels like we're not doing as well as we should be. That just means I need to step back and remember that this is the Lord's work. All I have to do is make sure I'm focused on doing it His way. Whenever, I try to take over to do it my way it hardly ever works out. We've talked to really great people who are sincere about learning the gospel. I feel so blessed when we finally find someone like that. Each time is a miracle and a breath of fresh air. It feels like I've been out forever, but I really wouldn't have it any other way because I know I have been about my Father's business.
I'm so grateful for everyone who has made this possible. Especially my parents.
Thank you both Mom and Dad.
Love,
Elder Freeman
Dear Mom,
I appreciate your email very much. I'm glad the power is back on and you and Dad can get back to regular every day living. And, these pictures are amazing. The new Park has a volley ball net?! That is terribly exciting. Ever since I got transferred out of the Samoan ward I haven't played volleyball.
Oh, as far as jury duty goes, I might as well stick to that date and get it over with. I'm not sure if you read about it in my last letter, but I checked my application status online a couple weeks ago and it said I had been denied to BYU Provo. I'm not really sure where to go from there, but going to school in Idaho doesn't sound all that appealing. I check out both the University of Texas and Sam Houston University, but still I'm not convinced one way or the other. I've got the idea that I can start out like Adam did in community college and see where it takes me from there. Especially because I really don't know what career I want. I know I've got plenty of time to figure it all out and only two months at home doesn't sound nearly enough to get grounded before heading out to school. I'll leave it at that for now.
I always say there is plenty of time to think about those things on the plane ride home.
We've spent the last week here in Upland, searching for new investigators. At times it feels like we're not doing as well as we should be. That just means I need to step back and remember that this is the Lord's work. All I have to do is make sure I'm focused on doing it His way. Whenever, I try to take over to do it my way it hardly ever works out. We've talked to really great people who are sincere about learning the gospel. I feel so blessed when we finally find someone like that. Each time is a miracle and a breath of fresh air. It feels like I've been out forever, but I really wouldn't have it any other way because I know I have been about my Father's business.
I'm so grateful for everyone who has made this possible. Especially my parents.
Thank you both Mom and Dad.
Love,
Elder Freeman
Monday, September 29, 2008
New Area
From Elder Andrushka Pearce Dated: Sept. 29, 2008
Dear Family
Noooo I changed area and now I am in Masay. I love this area but miss the old one. It’s called Nindiri. My companion has 6 months and his name is Elder Garza. He is a very good missionary. We went right down in planning what we are going to do for this branch. Yes, it’s my first branch and I hope and pray that I will have 6 months here.
We got to know the branch president. He is a returned missionary and knows what missionary work is like. We have to do a lot of work to win the confidence of all the members here. I think the missionaries have a not very good reputation.
It is a very beautiful department (area?). The weather is colder and drier. I am starting to get used to it.
I have got a feeling that in this area we are going to reach miracles. I have been thinking a lot how fast my mission has passed me by. This area I hope to arise to a new sense of urgency. Believe me when I say I do have it. One year more is not enough time. I want to bless as many lives as I can. I have become a little hard. Meaning I preach repentance but this week I have put a goal to teach with more love.
I think sometimes it’s hard to make all the difference with love but that is what makes all the difference. I have come to realize the work of Mom and Dad. That it was hard. I have been feeling lately how blessed I am to have such a wonderful family. I love you all. Thank you Dad and Mom for all that you do.
Oh, we also opened this area. It was closed. What a wonderful experience. This life is full of experiences. The only thing we do is choose what we do. Will we rise to the challenge or will we run and hide?
I love my Savior. I love this work. It is truly the Lords church.
To you all who can read these words, Love You!
Elder Pearce
Dear Family
Noooo I changed area and now I am in Masay. I love this area but miss the old one. It’s called Nindiri. My companion has 6 months and his name is Elder Garza. He is a very good missionary. We went right down in planning what we are going to do for this branch. Yes, it’s my first branch and I hope and pray that I will have 6 months here.
We got to know the branch president. He is a returned missionary and knows what missionary work is like. We have to do a lot of work to win the confidence of all the members here. I think the missionaries have a not very good reputation.
It is a very beautiful department (area?). The weather is colder and drier. I am starting to get used to it.
I have got a feeling that in this area we are going to reach miracles. I have been thinking a lot how fast my mission has passed me by. This area I hope to arise to a new sense of urgency. Believe me when I say I do have it. One year more is not enough time. I want to bless as many lives as I can. I have become a little hard. Meaning I preach repentance but this week I have put a goal to teach with more love.
I think sometimes it’s hard to make all the difference with love but that is what makes all the difference. I have come to realize the work of Mom and Dad. That it was hard. I have been feeling lately how blessed I am to have such a wonderful family. I love you all. Thank you Dad and Mom for all that you do.
Oh, we also opened this area. It was closed. What a wonderful experience. This life is full of experiences. The only thing we do is choose what we do. Will we rise to the challenge or will we run and hide?
I love my Savior. I love this work. It is truly the Lords church.
To you all who can read these words, Love You!
Elder Pearce
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
A Marvelous Work and a Wonder
From Elder Paul Freeman, dated August 27, 2008
Note: Elder Freeman's birthday was August 26, 2008
Dear Mom,
What fantastic things you've been up to! I so appreciate everything you've done. I'm very impressed with the website and thank you for all the neat video clips. Unfortunately, the computers at the library don't have speakers and missionaries don't have headphones, so I'll have to figure out something.
But, I want to let you know that I have re-applied for BYU in Provo and Idaho. I was super excited to find that they still had my application from 2005 when I first applied. All I had to do was long on with my user name, after calling for help with my forgotten password, then I found all the information was there from 3 years ago. I only changed a few things, the ones that have to do with serving a mission, and revamped my essay. They still had my ACT score and my high school transcript.
The only thing that was no longer valid was the ecclesiastical endorsement. So I printed off the form and sent it to President Sanchez. Hopefully he will send a positive endorsement :) . The deadline for applying for winter semester in January is October 1st.
Exciting still was the 30$ I payed last time to process the application is still good. I thought about taking a shot at Hawaii, but just decided not to. You were absolutely right on the family blog when you said I change my mind with my socks. But, there are a lot of things that are drawing me to BYU and really only one thing keeping me back and that's finances. However, I'll continue to pray about it, and if BYU is the place for me I won't worry to much about money. I don't want to be impoverished, but I know that money isn't everything. I'm not even sure what I want to study.
Anyway, that stuff will all work itself out in time. It's more difficult than I thought putting it to the back of my mind. The last thing I want is to lose focus this last transfer and bum out like so many others. One of our roommates complimented me on my lack of "trunkiness" and now I feel frustrated because 1) he spoke too soon and 2) now I have to live up to that :) . But seriously, there is so much to enjoy while still engaged in this work.
Thank you for sending the package. No, I haven't received it yet but yes, I just barely got a CD player from a garage sale for 5$. And my companion can't wait to send me home so he can have all my stuff.
Thanks again for everything mom, you're the greatest.
Love,
Elder Freeman
Note: Elder Freeman's birthday was August 26, 2008
Dear Mom,
What fantastic things you've been up to! I so appreciate everything you've done. I'm very impressed with the website and thank you for all the neat video clips. Unfortunately, the computers at the library don't have speakers and missionaries don't have headphones, so I'll have to figure out something.
But, I want to let you know that I have re-applied for BYU in Provo and Idaho. I was super excited to find that they still had my application from 2005 when I first applied. All I had to do was long on with my user name, after calling for help with my forgotten password, then I found all the information was there from 3 years ago. I only changed a few things, the ones that have to do with serving a mission, and revamped my essay. They still had my ACT score and my high school transcript.
The only thing that was no longer valid was the ecclesiastical endorsement. So I printed off the form and sent it to President Sanchez. Hopefully he will send a positive endorsement :) . The deadline for applying for winter semester in January is October 1st.
Exciting still was the 30$ I payed last time to process the application is still good. I thought about taking a shot at Hawaii, but just decided not to. You were absolutely right on the family blog when you said I change my mind with my socks. But, there are a lot of things that are drawing me to BYU and really only one thing keeping me back and that's finances. However, I'll continue to pray about it, and if BYU is the place for me I won't worry to much about money. I don't want to be impoverished, but I know that money isn't everything. I'm not even sure what I want to study.
Anyway, that stuff will all work itself out in time. It's more difficult than I thought putting it to the back of my mind. The last thing I want is to lose focus this last transfer and bum out like so many others. One of our roommates complimented me on my lack of "trunkiness" and now I feel frustrated because 1) he spoke too soon and 2) now I have to live up to that :) . But seriously, there is so much to enjoy while still engaged in this work.
Thank you for sending the package. No, I haven't received it yet but yes, I just barely got a CD player from a garage sale for 5$. And my companion can't wait to send me home so he can have all my stuff.
Thanks again for everything mom, you're the greatest.
Love,
Elder Freeman
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Lehi's Dream
From, Elder Paul Freeman, dated August 20, 2008
[note: Paul's paternal grandfather died on Saturday, August 16, 2008, at the age of 94].
Dear Mom,
[note: Paul's paternal grandfather died on Saturday, August 16, 2008, at the age of 94].
Dear Mom,
Your latest letter was very much appreciated. It was masterfully composed. I found it most uplifting and reassuring. I really enjoy hearing about everything that is going on.
I found out about Grandpa's death when I called President Sanchez on Monday to ask him about something unrelated. He told me he had news that Grandpa passed and that you wanted me to know. I appreciated it very much and thanked him. The thought didn't even cross my mind to grieve or feel sad, because I know the plan of salvation. That's how amazing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that Grandpa was a good man and Grandma had been waiting, and it all makes the plan that much more real. I'm eternally thankful for the power and mercy of our Heavenly Father that allows families to be sealed for time and eternity. The last time did talk to Grandpa he said he wanted to try to make it to 100 yrs old. He came pretty dang close.
I also got excited to hear about Eric and Leanne's new arrival, even though I could have been spare a few details. :) And Adam and Ariane are finally moving in. I can't wait to see it all put together.
I'm also excited to hear about your efforts with Dallas and Lynda. I hardly know anything about want went on over the past year. But, I look forward to staying in contact more when I get I'm. I still haven't settle on what school I want to go to. I'll take a little time now to look at application deadlines for BYU.
Thanks again mom. I Love you.
Love,
Elder Freeman
Monday, August 18, 2008
Touched by the Spirit
From Elder Andrushka Dated: 08.18.08
Dear Family,
Yay! I can’t wait to get to know my new family members (He just found out about Amelia being born and Eliza being imminent).
The work goes on and it got more intensified as we dedicated to work harder here and in Leon.
This week we had an amazing baptism. His name is Guillermo. I remember the first time we talked to him. It was four months ago. He didn’t want to hear about baptism, letting us know that he was baptized and he didn’t see a reason to change. He is the husband of a lovely lady that is a really strong member and has wanted to go to the temple and to be sealed as a family for awhile now. We have come to learn that when the Spirit touches someone’s heart, they get ready to be baptized. As much as we spoke as much as we could do, without the Spirit, we could not have helped him.
The baptism was lovely as lots of members were present. This ward each Sunday looks stronger and stronger.
So this week at the end of the sacrament, the first counselor asked me if I could give the Gospel Doctrine class or the Book of Mormon class. I looked at the manual and I don’t know why I said yes, but I did. I was given 5 minutes to prepare for class. As I started thinking to myself “What am I going to teach?” The Spirit came to me and let me know what the lesson was about and what I should talk about and teach. As I stood in front of all, I started to tremble, thinking how am I going to teach in Spanish? So we sang a song and started off into the lesson. I know that the Spirit was present. The class was lovely and interesting. I know that Spirit helped me a lot.
I also learned that’s why we plan on our mission. I love the work and each progression. I hope this second part of my mission will be just as great or greater. I hope that I will learn all I need to help the kingdom of God here on Earth. Love the Savior and His work. Love being a representative of Him. Hope to be a better one. Thanks for your prayers!
Dear Family,
Yay! I can’t wait to get to know my new family members (He just found out about Amelia being born and Eliza being imminent).
The work goes on and it got more intensified as we dedicated to work harder here and in Leon.
This week we had an amazing baptism. His name is Guillermo. I remember the first time we talked to him. It was four months ago. He didn’t want to hear about baptism, letting us know that he was baptized and he didn’t see a reason to change. He is the husband of a lovely lady that is a really strong member and has wanted to go to the temple and to be sealed as a family for awhile now. We have come to learn that when the Spirit touches someone’s heart, they get ready to be baptized. As much as we spoke as much as we could do, without the Spirit, we could not have helped him.
The baptism was lovely as lots of members were present. This ward each Sunday looks stronger and stronger.
So this week at the end of the sacrament, the first counselor asked me if I could give the Gospel Doctrine class or the Book of Mormon class. I looked at the manual and I don’t know why I said yes, but I did. I was given 5 minutes to prepare for class. As I started thinking to myself “What am I going to teach?” The Spirit came to me and let me know what the lesson was about and what I should talk about and teach. As I stood in front of all, I started to tremble, thinking how am I going to teach in Spanish? So we sang a song and started off into the lesson. I know that the Spirit was present. The class was lovely and interesting. I know that Spirit helped me a lot.
I also learned that’s why we plan on our mission. I love the work and each progression. I hope this second part of my mission will be just as great or greater. I hope that I will learn all I need to help the kingdom of God here on Earth. Love the Savior and His work. Love being a representative of Him. Hope to be a better one. Thanks for your prayers!
Monday, August 4, 2008
The Church is True and Life is Crazy!
From Elder BJ Bernards, dated August 4, 2008
Dear Mom,
I don't want to put any undue stress on you but I really need garments. I heard that if you put what you really want in the beginning of the letter it shows how important it is.
Thank you for supporting me on my mission. It is going great! We are really working hard and feeling the Spirit guide us and inspire us every day and this district were leading is doing better than ever, and so is our area. We have been able to find two more families to teach as well as a couple individuals that are really neat, spiritual all, and we got to watch them teach themselves with the Spirit.
I am excited for the move thingy but sad too. Not sad like I'm gonna mope around all the time kinda sad, but the sad that it's the end of a beautiful phase kinda sad, like you wish a awesome day or time would never end but you've got to say goodbye I guess. I say goodbye, I committed my life into the hands of the Lord and just like He is preserving you and Dad and the family from day to day and even though I miss your goodness and all the changes that are happening I know that I will be fine. God has never ever ever let me down yet and I don't think he plans on doing so anytime soon. Life passes me by, and I will wave bye-bye with sweet gratitude for my Savior and this most compelling and mind-absorbing work of his. I leave my life and give my life so that others might achieve theirs, and in doing so I achieve mine. It's true that the more you sacrifice the more committed you are to it.
Can I get some pictures from you? I would want pictures of the house, the changes made to it inside and out, my bedroom please as well as the loft and pictures taken from the windows looking out at the vista of Alpine. Pictures of all the kids and you and Dad. That may be the only time I'll ever have to look from those places with those people ever again. Would you do that for me? Or assign someone else to do so? To tell you the truth and to be frank and honest with you, I feel like my requests get sucked down a black hole and never get back. I have to fight so hard in the short space I have to get what I need. I know my problems may not be as bad or as dire as some other people, but if I could get those things I would feel grateful to you and the family.
And I always do. You have given me the things that really get me through. The supplies that never run out and the nourishment that never ceases.
I really have to go.
Thanks, Please send me that stuff if possible?
Ben sent me some pics which was really awesome, I saw Kiki had a camera. Maybe Kiki can send me some too. Don't forget!
Love,
Elder Bernards
Dear Mom,
I don't want to put any undue stress on you but I really need garments. I heard that if you put what you really want in the beginning of the letter it shows how important it is.
Thank you for supporting me on my mission. It is going great! We are really working hard and feeling the Spirit guide us and inspire us every day and this district were leading is doing better than ever, and so is our area. We have been able to find two more families to teach as well as a couple individuals that are really neat, spiritual all, and we got to watch them teach themselves with the Spirit.
I am excited for the move thingy but sad too. Not sad like I'm gonna mope around all the time kinda sad, but the sad that it's the end of a beautiful phase kinda sad, like you wish a awesome day or time would never end but you've got to say goodbye I guess. I say goodbye, I committed my life into the hands of the Lord and just like He is preserving you and Dad and the family from day to day and even though I miss your goodness and all the changes that are happening I know that I will be fine. God has never ever ever let me down yet and I don't think he plans on doing so anytime soon. Life passes me by, and I will wave bye-bye with sweet gratitude for my Savior and this most compelling and mind-absorbing work of his. I leave my life and give my life so that others might achieve theirs, and in doing so I achieve mine. It's true that the more you sacrifice the more committed you are to it.
Can I get some pictures from you? I would want pictures of the house, the changes made to it inside and out, my bedroom please as well as the loft and pictures taken from the windows looking out at the vista of Alpine. Pictures of all the kids and you and Dad. That may be the only time I'll ever have to look from those places with those people ever again. Would you do that for me? Or assign someone else to do so? To tell you the truth and to be frank and honest with you, I feel like my requests get sucked down a black hole and never get back. I have to fight so hard in the short space I have to get what I need. I know my problems may not be as bad or as dire as some other people, but if I could get those things I would feel grateful to you and the family.
And I always do. You have given me the things that really get me through. The supplies that never run out and the nourishment that never ceases.
I really have to go.
Thanks, Please send me that stuff if possible?
Ben sent me some pics which was really awesome, I saw Kiki had a camera. Maybe Kiki can send me some too. Don't forget!
Love,
Elder Bernards
Monday, July 28, 2008
The Church is True
From Elder BJ Bernards, dated July 28, 2008
Dear Family and Friends,
I love being a missionary! Yesterday after church when we were taking a lunch break, we listened to the new Mo-Tab [Mormon Tabernacle Choir] CD called "Called to Serve" and the songs on there rang true with my soul. It stirred me up and as we went out I felt more bold than ever and the excitement of serving the Lord and proclaiming His gospel of Love filled my soul.
to work towards his baptism at the end of We were able to see some cool miracles happen too. Mike Corte didn't come to church again so we took a new elder who leaves for Switzerland in August with us to see him and he wasn't home. So right as we were pulling away he rolls in and invites us in and before we even said a prayer, a sermon comes out of my mouth as if I had practised and practised and memorised those scriptures and worked hard to organize it, and the Spirit aided us all as we taught Mike about repentance and baptism and getting a clean new life to start over with. He seems recommitted to work towards his baptism at the end of September and were seeing him tomorrow.
We were able also to see Peggy finally after a couple of days of no contact with her and she is loving us more and listening and responding more than ever. Usually she just changes the subject or refuses to answer, but her heart is softening up and she is growing and getting answers to her prayers.
Rohit Khada gave us a scare because we weren't sure if he could get baptised because he wont leave his traditions of Hinduism behind but claims that it supports his worship of God and Jesus Christ whom he believes in and prays to. So we called Pres. Newman and he told us that he is pretty sure it comes down to who you worship and keeping the commandments so he's pretty sure that he can be baptised. But, he alled the Church Headquarters to ask them for clarification and they counseled him to call India and ask them how they deal with Hindu's there so we can give Rohit good advice for his future.
We found a family last night as we followed out in our back-up plans. As we planned the night before we felt that we needed to see Dee who we had dropped from lack of interest, who lives in our apartment complex right at 8:30. Our plans earlier in the day were all shuffled around but it it all worked together for our good and ended up being there at 8:30 and her lights were on so we knew she was home! But she didn't come to the door.
Then the thought came to me to try a door of a lady we had briefly talked to in our parking lot and she gave us a date to come back but she was sick and didn't seemed too interested other times we saw her. But we knocked on her door and she said, "come in come in! This is my husband Bob, and he'll turn off the TV and here are our daughters, and sit down sit down lets talk." So we did, and had a wonderful time as we discussed revelation and answers to prayers and the gospel blessing families and extended a commitment to read Lehi's Dream and were coming back tonight with a couple in our ward.
We're also seeing Debra Baron who is a referral from Salt Lake who we saw earlier this week and who told us that she had read the chapter we had left, loved it and wanted another one and for us to come back tonight! That same couple is coming with us.
While we were over at the bishop's house last night for dinner, their neighbor girl who is 18 burst in and said, " Oh, I'm so glad you Elders are here cause I really need to talk to you guys. You remember when you ate at our house two days ago and you asked me about my friend who might be interested? She came to me with a billion questions and I was scared and unprepared and she wants to meet with you guys next Monday night at our house!" Holy cow, that is awesome.
We also had a great lesson at the bishop's home whee we taught the Restoration which never fails to invite the sweet spirit of Christ into the room and it uplifted everyone there.
I am grateful to be a servant of the Lord and know and witness that He lives and that He guides us in our daily endeavors. I got a letter from Sydney Bently who is the girl I baptised in North Platte who said " Every were I go I can feel the Holy Ghost with me! It is so awesome and I love every day. I have never felt this happy before in my whole life! Thank you and Elder Fallon for teaching me Sooooo much!"
I shared with the bishop's family last night the conversion story of Sydney and how she received a witness of the Book of Mormon's divinity as we read together 3 Nephi 11. We were inspired of the Lord to read it with her, and the Holy Finger of the Lord reached into her sweet heart and touched it and purified it and sanctified her soul and she knew then that this is the true and living church of God upon the earth, restored by the prophet Joseph Smith.
I love you family and I love your examples of enduring to the end. Please pray for me as I strive to work hard and be diligent for the next few months of my life. I need them.
Love,
Elder Bernards
Dear Family and Friends,
I love being a missionary! Yesterday after church when we were taking a lunch break, we listened to the new Mo-Tab [Mormon Tabernacle Choir] CD called "Called to Serve" and the songs on there rang true with my soul. It stirred me up and as we went out I felt more bold than ever and the excitement of serving the Lord and proclaiming His gospel of Love filled my soul.
to work towards his baptism at the end of We were able to see some cool miracles happen too. Mike Corte didn't come to church again so we took a new elder who leaves for Switzerland in August with us to see him and he wasn't home. So right as we were pulling away he rolls in and invites us in and before we even said a prayer, a sermon comes out of my mouth as if I had practised and practised and memorised those scriptures and worked hard to organize it, and the Spirit aided us all as we taught Mike about repentance and baptism and getting a clean new life to start over with. He seems recommitted to work towards his baptism at the end of September and were seeing him tomorrow.
We were able also to see Peggy finally after a couple of days of no contact with her and she is loving us more and listening and responding more than ever. Usually she just changes the subject or refuses to answer, but her heart is softening up and she is growing and getting answers to her prayers.
Rohit Khada gave us a scare because we weren't sure if he could get baptised because he wont leave his traditions of Hinduism behind but claims that it supports his worship of God and Jesus Christ whom he believes in and prays to. So we called Pres. Newman and he told us that he is pretty sure it comes down to who you worship and keeping the commandments so he's pretty sure that he can be baptised. But, he alled the Church Headquarters to ask them for clarification and they counseled him to call India and ask them how they deal with Hindu's there so we can give Rohit good advice for his future.
We found a family last night as we followed out in our back-up plans. As we planned the night before we felt that we needed to see Dee who we had dropped from lack of interest, who lives in our apartment complex right at 8:30. Our plans earlier in the day were all shuffled around but it it all worked together for our good and ended up being there at 8:30 and her lights were on so we knew she was home! But she didn't come to the door.
Then the thought came to me to try a door of a lady we had briefly talked to in our parking lot and she gave us a date to come back but she was sick and didn't seemed too interested other times we saw her. But we knocked on her door and she said, "come in come in! This is my husband Bob, and he'll turn off the TV and here are our daughters, and sit down sit down lets talk." So we did, and had a wonderful time as we discussed revelation and answers to prayers and the gospel blessing families and extended a commitment to read Lehi's Dream and were coming back tonight with a couple in our ward.
We're also seeing Debra Baron who is a referral from Salt Lake who we saw earlier this week and who told us that she had read the chapter we had left, loved it and wanted another one and for us to come back tonight! That same couple is coming with us.
While we were over at the bishop's house last night for dinner, their neighbor girl who is 18 burst in and said, " Oh, I'm so glad you Elders are here cause I really need to talk to you guys. You remember when you ate at our house two days ago and you asked me about my friend who might be interested? She came to me with a billion questions and I was scared and unprepared and she wants to meet with you guys next Monday night at our house!" Holy cow, that is awesome.
We also had a great lesson at the bishop's home whee we taught the Restoration which never fails to invite the sweet spirit of Christ into the room and it uplifted everyone there.
I am grateful to be a servant of the Lord and know and witness that He lives and that He guides us in our daily endeavors. I got a letter from Sydney Bently who is the girl I baptised in North Platte who said " Every were I go I can feel the Holy Ghost with me! It is so awesome and I love every day. I have never felt this happy before in my whole life! Thank you and Elder Fallon for teaching me Sooooo much!"
I shared with the bishop's family last night the conversion story of Sydney and how she received a witness of the Book of Mormon's divinity as we read together 3 Nephi 11. We were inspired of the Lord to read it with her, and the Holy Finger of the Lord reached into her sweet heart and touched it and purified it and sanctified her soul and she knew then that this is the true and living church of God upon the earth, restored by the prophet Joseph Smith.
I love you family and I love your examples of enduring to the end. Please pray for me as I strive to work hard and be diligent for the next few months of my life. I need them.
Love,
Elder Bernards
Monday, July 14, 2008
Missionary Work is Hard~New Companion
From: Elder Andrushka Sent: July 14th, 2008
It sounds like the family had a blast! I will be there for the 2010 reunion.
Well the missionary work is hard. I have realized how the prophets felt as they went out to declare repentance and the people didn’t want to hear. I love standing in the places that I get experience and understanding of this gospel.
We had a baptism fall through this week and I felt heart broken. The work of the Lord is tough. It takes all mental, physical and spiritual day to day giving all that you have. I have come to realize through all the experiences, what kind of person I want to be.
We are still working with 2 great families that have been progressing very well.
My new companion’s name is Elder Flores M. He is awesome. He has been on his mission for 20 months. I will be learning a lot from him.
Well, love and miss all! I LOVE my FAMILY!
Elder Pearce
It sounds like the family had a blast! I will be there for the 2010 reunion.
Well the missionary work is hard. I have realized how the prophets felt as they went out to declare repentance and the people didn’t want to hear. I love standing in the places that I get experience and understanding of this gospel.
We had a baptism fall through this week and I felt heart broken. The work of the Lord is tough. It takes all mental, physical and spiritual day to day giving all that you have. I have come to realize through all the experiences, what kind of person I want to be.
We are still working with 2 great families that have been progressing very well.
My new companion’s name is Elder Flores M. He is awesome. He has been on his mission for 20 months. I will be learning a lot from him.
Well, love and miss all! I LOVE my FAMILY!
Elder Pearce
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
I Love Teaching People
From Elder Andrushka Dated June 26, 2008
I hope you are all getting my letters.
This week has been amazing. We worked so hard to finish all our goals. We had many investigators come to church which means they are ready to be baptized.
This week we have some baptisms lined up. The work of our Heavenly Father is just rolling as the Spirit touches the people’s lives. It is humbling to be learning each day something new. It is humbling to be in the gospel. It is hard work to be working with people but the reward is each day you go to bed tired. You know you gave it all you could.
There are some times you pour your love out and the people reject it. Times like that you can understand how our Savior felt. Also our Heavenly Father showing and showing His love and many reject it. How blessed I am to be learning all these things on my mission. I love teaching people. I love exhorting. I love testifying.
I have come to know that this gospel is true. That this is His work. The families we find, the people we teach are given as responsibility to us to nurture and help them.
The Juarez family I think will be going for next week if all is well. We have to teach them with the Spirit to help them progress. I will let you know next week how all went with them.
Well, hope all is well at home. I haven’t heard much. I love each and every one of you.
Elder Pearce
I hope you are all getting my letters.
This week has been amazing. We worked so hard to finish all our goals. We had many investigators come to church which means they are ready to be baptized.
This week we have some baptisms lined up. The work of our Heavenly Father is just rolling as the Spirit touches the people’s lives. It is humbling to be learning each day something new. It is humbling to be in the gospel. It is hard work to be working with people but the reward is each day you go to bed tired. You know you gave it all you could.
There are some times you pour your love out and the people reject it. Times like that you can understand how our Savior felt. Also our Heavenly Father showing and showing His love and many reject it. How blessed I am to be learning all these things on my mission. I love teaching people. I love exhorting. I love testifying.
I have come to know that this gospel is true. That this is His work. The families we find, the people we teach are given as responsibility to us to nurture and help them.
The Juarez family I think will be going for next week if all is well. We have to teach them with the Spirit to help them progress. I will let you know next week how all went with them.
Well, hope all is well at home. I haven’t heard much. I love each and every one of you.
Elder Pearce
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
The Blessings of Obedience
From Elder Paul Freeman, dated June 18, 2008
Dear Mom,
Everything is going really well. I'm getting adjusted to the new area and it's pretty fun. I've almost forgotten the excitement of being completely unfamiliar with an area and its people. My companion is really cool and helps a lot. We've got a lot of names of people that have been contacted before by the missionaries and we have to follow up with all of them. I guess it's a pretty big area for the regular English wards. There are a lot of less active and part member families. In fact it used to be two wards but one of them got dissolved into the other. The active members are really great though. We are trying to familiarize them with Preach My Gospel, so they can go out and find people for us to teach.
Yesterday, we had zone conference and half the time they talked about being healthy. They emphasized diet and exercise. It really is something I need to focus on. I've gained about 30 lbs since my mission and the cloths aren't fitting anymore. It'll be easier in the palangi ward I just need to focus and be determined. I've got into a habit of stuffing my face at dinners to make the people happy, but the cost was far too great. I've already been taking small steps to get back into better habits, but I've got to step up my game if I want to see any results.
Anyway, I'm glad to hear Adam's house is going up well. That's really exciting, especially considering how the economy is going. We talk to so many people who are having a hard time. It kinda makes the future look a little dim, but I've always been able to rely on the awesome examples my brothers set. Dallas and Lynda getting married is another one. We work with so many people who cant be baptized because they're not married. Maybe there's a correlation. Everyone should just get married and we should see what happens to the economy. That's just my crazy on-the-spot idea.
This transfer we're focusing on Joseph Smith and all the truths that have been restored through him to benefit all mankind. Marriage and strong family values are definitely at the top. I'm so grateful to have such a wonderful family that has exposed me to all of that. I'll always remember it, and I love being able to use that when I teach.
Thanks for everything mom.
This transfer we're focusing on Joseph Smith and all the truths that have been restored through him to benefit all mankind. Marriage and strong family values are definitely at the top. I'm so grateful to have such a wonderful family that has exposed me to all of that. I'll always remember it, and I love being able to use that when I teach.
Thanks for everything mom.
Love,
Elder Freeman
Transfers
From Elder Paul Freeman, dated June 11, 2008
Dear Mom,
Gmail acted up today, so I revert to my back up. Hopefully you get it anyway.
So, believe it or not I've been transferred out of the Samoan Wards. It's been a pretty big change. I haven't been in a new area for over seven months and I've been used to being able to travel pretty much anywhere in the mission. But, fortunately they stuck me someplace I never been before, Ontario. My new companion's name is Elder Goodwin and he's from San Antonio. He's already been here a transfer and knows the area pretty well.
Being in a palangi ward is a lot different from being in a Samoan Ward. For one it's a lot harder to impress the palangis. All I had to do with the Samoans is chat it up a little in Samoan and they're amazed. Samoans are generally a lot more relaxed and I'm used to the culture. I know I should be used to palangi culture, but its funny how almost foreign it seems. Another funny thing, we have dinner tonight with the Freeman family. I have no idea who they are, but it sure was weird hearing my companion calling up our dinner appointment and asking for Sister Freeman. They'll get a kick out of it I'm sure.
I'm looking forward to at least two transfers here and rumor has it that they'll send me back for my last transfer. I really am excited for this last stretch. I guess President Sanchez talked to Salt Lake and they're working on getting my release date fixed, so I'll keep you updated on everything.
Thanks again Mom for all the wonderful things you do.
Love,
Elder Freeman
Dear Mom,
Gmail acted up today, so I revert to my back up. Hopefully you get it anyway.
So, believe it or not I've been transferred out of the Samoan Wards. It's been a pretty big change. I haven't been in a new area for over seven months and I've been used to being able to travel pretty much anywhere in the mission. But, fortunately they stuck me someplace I never been before, Ontario. My new companion's name is Elder Goodwin and he's from San Antonio. He's already been here a transfer and knows the area pretty well.
Being in a palangi ward is a lot different from being in a Samoan Ward. For one it's a lot harder to impress the palangis. All I had to do with the Samoans is chat it up a little in Samoan and they're amazed. Samoans are generally a lot more relaxed and I'm used to the culture. I know I should be used to palangi culture, but its funny how almost foreign it seems. Another funny thing, we have dinner tonight with the Freeman family. I have no idea who they are, but it sure was weird hearing my companion calling up our dinner appointment and asking for Sister Freeman. They'll get a kick out of it I'm sure.
I'm looking forward to at least two transfers here and rumor has it that they'll send me back for my last transfer. I really am excited for this last stretch. I guess President Sanchez talked to Salt Lake and they're working on getting my release date fixed, so I'll keep you updated on everything.
Thanks again Mom for all the wonderful things you do.
Love,
Elder Freeman
The Gate
From Elder Paul Freeman, dated June 4, 2008
Love,
Elder Freeman
Dear Mom,
It truly was a week to remember. We spent most of the week preparing the family for baptism. It was straight up crazy. We had to pretty much pull everything together last minute. But it all worked out and many prayers have been answered.
The service was packed. We didn't expect so many people. Some people had to sit out in the hall. I had forgotten how nerve-wracking baptisms can be, and by the end of it I was pretty spent. All the stress had got to me and I was somewhat disappointed when we went home that night. But the next day at Sacrament Meeting we got to confirm them. After that I was flying pretty high. I knew what the family did was right and everything had worked out.
We had been through quite a bit with this family. It'll be the last thing I forget about my mission. There were times where we were struggling pretty bad trying to figure what they need and what would help them the most. There were other times when the Spirit was strong as ever. Now, they are the newest members of the ward and have the greatest potential. I want to come back in a year and see how they turned out.
The Gospel is designed to bring us closer to our Heavenly Father and our Savior. It is also designed to bring us closer to one another. The more people realize that, the more zealous they will be about being obedient to the laws and ordinances of the gospel. I'm more grateful than ever to know this. I can look back and see what wonderful things it has done for our family and I truly can testify to other with greater power.
Thank you mom for everything that you do. I really wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for you and Dad.
The service was packed. We didn't expect so many people. Some people had to sit out in the hall. I had forgotten how nerve-wracking baptisms can be, and by the end of it I was pretty spent. All the stress had got to me and I was somewhat disappointed when we went home that night. But the next day at Sacrament Meeting we got to confirm them. After that I was flying pretty high. I knew what the family did was right and everything had worked out.
We had been through quite a bit with this family. It'll be the last thing I forget about my mission. There were times where we were struggling pretty bad trying to figure what they need and what would help them the most. There were other times when the Spirit was strong as ever. Now, they are the newest members of the ward and have the greatest potential. I want to come back in a year and see how they turned out.
The Gospel is designed to bring us closer to our Heavenly Father and our Savior. It is also designed to bring us closer to one another. The more people realize that, the more zealous they will be about being obedient to the laws and ordinances of the gospel. I'm more grateful than ever to know this. I can look back and see what wonderful things it has done for our family and I truly can testify to other with greater power.
Thank you mom for everything that you do. I really wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for you and Dad.
Love,
Elder Freeman
"Going for a Swim"
From Elder Paul Freeman, Dated May 28, 2008
Dear Mom,
Dear Mom,
It's been a good week. That family of 6 we've been working with had sucessful interviews yesterday and everything is set for their baptism on Saturday. It's the most exciting thing that's happend in a long time. It's the end of the transfer as well, so things will all wrap up pretty nicely. Rumor has it I will be getting transfered. I guess the office is still working on my release date. As much as I love this work and I know I'll miss it dearly, I don't think it'll work staying out an extra two months. I'll continue to follow up with President Sanchez and find out what's going on.
Thanks for the email. It wouldn't show me the pictures from Facebook. It just showed me the message and said there was other stuff it couldn't show me because it was private or something. But, it's good to hear that everything [a wedding open house] worked out all right. Everything is going just fine over here. I look forward to pounding out the last five months.
Thanks for your continued love and support.
Thanks for your continued love and support.
Love,
Elder Freeman
In Samoan we say "Faalavelave"
From Elder Paul Freeman, dated April 30, 2008 [four days prior to his brother's wedding]
Dear Mom,
Dear Mom,
Thanks for the letters and pictures. Everything is going well. I really don't know how crazy everything will be for you over the weekend. I can only imagine you running around trying to make everyone as comfortable and happy as possible. You really are a champ. I do regret not being able to be there. I'm certain Adam has his hands full as it is, and Dallas isn't going to be of any help, so I am sorry I cannot be there. Just hold out for the next week and everything should be downhill from there. I also hope you and Dad find all the happiness to make it worth while.
Mothers' Day is coming up in a couple of weeks and you can get me the real scoop on how it all went down. Send the family my love.
Love,
Elder Freeman
p.s. "Faalavelave" means a big interruption of daily life that lasts for days, like weddings and funerals.
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