Heyho, howdy!
WELL, it snowed again. Rats.
I really don't feel like its been an honest 7 days since last Tuesday, someone must be messing with the earth's rotation or something - maybe the earthquake in Chile affected more than they thought (we heard it actually moved the earth's tilt like 5 milimeters, intense...)
Jeffrey, feel free to clean up my side of the room. We have a whole house here to clean, so...
Lets see, what happened this week... good lessons, exchanges (other missionaries almost crashing our car, good stuff), met a guy who alternates between being Dan and Danielle, etc... I'm way tired, can't really think straight, I mentioned that we have two missionaries that moved in, and that the prank potential would go up... well, it certainly has, and its been war for 7 days straight. Pretty awesome, buckets of soapy water on top of half open doors, messing with the power breaker while people are taking a shower, slamming a twinkie in someone's face, many belt wars (painful), hiding and scaring people, setting alarms for 3 am, running in and waving a flashlight in sleeping people's faces while dragging them and their sheets toward the stairs, leaving live worms on people's desks... its all pretty epic, and probably should stop... but hey, what can you do?
Two baptisms this coming saturday, Leticia and Leslie, the ones from the hospital. Very solid. Leticia calls us her "angels" kinda weird, but she says she feels the Spirit way strong when we are around. Should be good.
Well, Miss Frary is getting hitched?!?!?!? That's pretty crazy, but expected. Actually, I KNOW Lehi Yanez's parents, and his brother - his brother's family goes to our branch, also called the Yanez family (Ja-nyez). The parents visited here once, nice people, very funny. Madeleine mentioned she had come up here to Layton a few times, and the Yanez's were talking about some girl at BYU that knew his brother Lehi, that she'd always come up and their two kids would go crazy yelling "Maddie!" It was pretty weird when we figured out we knew the same people. I figured she was getting married pretty soon, they should come up and do it in Ogden, that'd be sweet to go attend! I wonder how that'll work, if she'll be learning Spanish... hopefully Lehi speaks English too. Haha. Best of luck to 'em, that's crazy!
FIX BOOMPF.
Man, those stories are hilarious. Good times, don't miss high school at all, good job with the fence Alex.
That's cool Holly, seems like a lot of people are bringing up the Church when they're around you! You're doing a good job being a missionary, we're proud of you here!
Steven... missionary?... everyone's growing up FAST.
Layna is smart, Shamra should take pictures and send them to me of Europe, and I knew about Kayla's mission thoughts. Awesome!
Wow, I'm kinda without things to say today, so I guess we'll wrap this up. We met a man yesterday that basically was a friend of Korihor [a man in the Book of Mormon who denied there was a God]: I don't believe in a God, you can't prove it, show me a real miraculous sign and I'll believe, its all just garbage, I don't need God and I can figure out my life best on MY OWN. It was intesne, we spoke of feeling the Spirit, of faith, but he just couldn't accept that. Hardened. He had let life and things get to him, and now can't feel the Spirit, can't accept that type of answer, has no faith. I think we take for granted how much faith we have in the Lord. Some people want signs, but if even they have them, they won't believe. In contrast, if we believe, I know we will see signs, miracles, things outside our control. We taught a lady yesterday, strong in another religion, but we shared our testimonies the best we could about what the Prophet Joseph Smith saw, and that God lives and of His truth - and as has happened weekly to people that we teach for a year now, she said "I feel something... peace. Tranquility. It just came while he was talking..." That's the Spirit, my friends. I've seen people try to "convince" or speak with great emotion or eloquence, and it doesn't produce the same thing that simple, sincere, heartfelt testimony does: the Spirit enters the room, children stop crying, loud music next door gets softer, and everyone feels peace. I know that God lives. I know that this is the truth. Its not always easy to accept and live it, its not easy to share it, its not easy period, but its true, and its worth it. As we put the Savior first, have faith in Him, and move forward obediently, I have faith we will receive answers. Everyone that I have asked to do that, and they have done it sincerely with effort, recieves that witness. I know its true. Share it with your friends!
Love, Elder Thelin
(I got here in the mission field 1 year ago....)
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
NEVER STAY INSIDE IF YOU CAN GO OUT AND TALK TO SOMEONE!
The world is green in Virginia? We thought we were getting to that point.... then yesterday at 6 it started crazy raining, and we got out of a lesson around 9 and everything was covered in 4 inches of snow! Fun trying to fishtail our way up hills in the trailer park we were in, took a while getting home.... sheesh. Who the heck is still praying for snow, its not like they will get out of school for it :)
SO Conference Weekend was cool. In a surprise turn of events our mission president made a new rule: Attending Conference in Salt Lake City is fair game, so we we scrambled, found miracle tickets, and took Leticia and Leslie (the family that got blessed at the hospital that I talked about last week) and also a family E. Baquedano baptized in Hyrum, and we went down for the Sat Morning session. Pretty cool, being there with like 20,000 people, and the Mormon Tab. Choir... Intense. I think we got a picture in the Ensign, we'll see. But it was cool, being there with investigators that had no idea what was going on and explaining "This is a conference for our church shown throughout the whole world. That is Pres. Monson--he is a prophet of God on the earth today..." Leslie was really impressed with how funny President Monson is. True! Cool stuff. And the rest of Conference was awesome. Jeffrey R Holland is hilarious, a tough topic well handled ("and some invite bad thoughts in for tea and crumpets... we shouldn't be serving tea anyhow..." haha) Priesthood was incredible, talked about how we get called as missionaries. Helped boost testimony that we aren't here just randomly. God really wants me here in Ogden. Easter Sunday was good too! All good!
The week went well - we just had two English missionaires move in with us last night, now life is way more fun and a lot less sane. Pranking should be more fun with 4... haha.
OH, cool, we were at home yesterday waiting for the others to come move in, and we had 10 minutes. We debated staying there and doing some planning or something, or going out on a walk for 10 minutes. We decided a walk would be more productive, so we went out. First person we saw, we talked to. She said: "Oh yeah, I read the Book of Mormon a LOT, I'm halfway through. I actually went to Buenaventura branch for like a year (my first area) but the Elders got switched and then we moved here. I tried going to church, but they were in English." We showed her where the Spanish branch is, and asked if she was baptized. Nope. But was preparing before. THen she said "Yeah, I've missed it a lot. I'm still reading. I think that if the church wasn't true, it wouldnt be growing so much." HECK yeah, most amazing miracle contact ever. I'm convinced she's getting baptized in 3 weeks. God gave us exaclty the miracle we were hoping for in the exact time we had. NEVER stay inside if you can go out and talk to someone!
Got the package, was great! Elder Baquedano stained his hands good with dye. I've got a good Elder Egg (Misiohuevo if anyone gets that...) The candy is sweet, the spinner from the Maguras is much loved for all its value... ha, but my companion got sick of the song and ran it over with the car or something like that while I was on exchanges. Greatness lived and died...
Glad everything is well with you all. Mole projects, plays, Turkey, roller coasters... man, life's crazy. THANKS for the letter Heidi, I'll write back I promise. I miss Culpeper I do admit, the "Ground Hog Dinner" looked like a blast... holy cow, Culpeper rules...
Please keep praying for Karla. We visited her last week, and asked how if her baptism was what she was expecting. She said much much better - because of what she felt. Everyone talked about the change of peace in her face from before and after. She's so strong, but still facing trials at home. Just please continue to pray for her father to have his heart softened or something. You always read stories about these kinds of things, but its different when you know the person... and you were the one that invited the person to make that choice. But we and she prayed, and the Spirit confirmed strongly how right the choice and the timing was, so we'll keep trusting. Please pray.
I love you all, and wish you a good week! You're the best. God loves us, and we can trust in Him. Jesus Christ is the Savior, and this is His church. The Spirit confirms it powerfully.
Love, Elder Thelin
SO Conference Weekend was cool. In a surprise turn of events our mission president made a new rule: Attending Conference in Salt Lake City is fair game, so we we scrambled, found miracle tickets, and took Leticia and Leslie (the family that got blessed at the hospital that I talked about last week) and also a family E. Baquedano baptized in Hyrum, and we went down for the Sat Morning session. Pretty cool, being there with like 20,000 people, and the Mormon Tab. Choir... Intense. I think we got a picture in the Ensign, we'll see. But it was cool, being there with investigators that had no idea what was going on and explaining "This is a conference for our church shown throughout the whole world. That is Pres. Monson--he is a prophet of God on the earth today..." Leslie was really impressed with how funny President Monson is. True! Cool stuff. And the rest of Conference was awesome. Jeffrey R Holland is hilarious, a tough topic well handled ("and some invite bad thoughts in for tea and crumpets... we shouldn't be serving tea anyhow..." haha) Priesthood was incredible, talked about how we get called as missionaries. Helped boost testimony that we aren't here just randomly. God really wants me here in Ogden. Easter Sunday was good too! All good!
The week went well - we just had two English missionaires move in with us last night, now life is way more fun and a lot less sane. Pranking should be more fun with 4... haha.
OH, cool, we were at home yesterday waiting for the others to come move in, and we had 10 minutes. We debated staying there and doing some planning or something, or going out on a walk for 10 minutes. We decided a walk would be more productive, so we went out. First person we saw, we talked to. She said: "Oh yeah, I read the Book of Mormon a LOT, I'm halfway through. I actually went to Buenaventura branch for like a year (my first area) but the Elders got switched and then we moved here. I tried going to church, but they were in English." We showed her where the Spanish branch is, and asked if she was baptized. Nope. But was preparing before. THen she said "Yeah, I've missed it a lot. I'm still reading. I think that if the church wasn't true, it wouldnt be growing so much." HECK yeah, most amazing miracle contact ever. I'm convinced she's getting baptized in 3 weeks. God gave us exaclty the miracle we were hoping for in the exact time we had. NEVER stay inside if you can go out and talk to someone!
Got the package, was great! Elder Baquedano stained his hands good with dye. I've got a good Elder Egg (Misiohuevo if anyone gets that...) The candy is sweet, the spinner from the Maguras is much loved for all its value... ha, but my companion got sick of the song and ran it over with the car or something like that while I was on exchanges. Greatness lived and died...
Glad everything is well with you all. Mole projects, plays, Turkey, roller coasters... man, life's crazy. THANKS for the letter Heidi, I'll write back I promise. I miss Culpeper I do admit, the "Ground Hog Dinner" looked like a blast... holy cow, Culpeper rules...
Please keep praying for Karla. We visited her last week, and asked how if her baptism was what she was expecting. She said much much better - because of what she felt. Everyone talked about the change of peace in her face from before and after. She's so strong, but still facing trials at home. Just please continue to pray for her father to have his heart softened or something. You always read stories about these kinds of things, but its different when you know the person... and you were the one that invited the person to make that choice. But we and she prayed, and the Spirit confirmed strongly how right the choice and the timing was, so we'll keep trusting. Please pray.
I love you all, and wish you a good week! You're the best. God loves us, and we can trust in Him. Jesus Christ is the Savior, and this is His church. The Spirit confirms it powerfully.
Love, Elder Thelin
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
IS ALL THIS REAL?
Soooooo How're y'all doing today? Sounds better, staying out of the hospital and such. Glad you decided that nonsense wasn't any fun.
Holly, that missionary story is awesome. That's how to be a missionary, no fear, just say what you know!
Man, ok, so cool stuff this week: I may or may not have mentioned this, but back in December, we were invited to a hospital. A recent convert had a friend whose 8 year old daughter was getting surgery. We were reluctantly invited to come and give a blessing. It was so cool. The whole family was there watching, and as we began, the Spirit came so so strong. The girl, Leslie, just started sobbing, feeling huge peace and joy. Two days later she was fine and left the hospital.
Now, I pretty much figured that the seed was sown and maybe years later this family would remember that moment... but two weeks ago they came to a family night at the church. And then to church on Sunday. We set up a lesson with Leslie and her mom. We figured it would be hard to get them going.... but we sat down with them, and the mom began to talk. She talked about that moment in the hospital, and how she's thought and thought about that Spirit they all felt. Her recent convert friend loaned her all the videos from the church, and she watched them all, and felt peace confirming they were true. She said everytime she thought about the Church, or the two of us, or how happy her friend is, she felt something amazing in her, telling her to keep learning. That was the most spiritual lesson of my mission. The Spirit was so strong as we testified of Joseph Smith as a prophet, and the Restoration of the Church. Then we testified of coming unto Christ and being baptized by one who now holds the proper authority... and by baptism, coming unto Christ and covenanting with Him to follow and obey. She just started crying, the Spirit was so strong. Its cool - sometimes as missionaries, talking to so many people and hearing so much false doctrine that is in the world, one thinks, well, is this all real? Moments like that confirm it all. Its so cool to ask how someone is feeling, and see the tears come and them saying, without knowing much at all, that something they've never felt before is filling their heart, and testifying that is the Holy Ghost, that God is testifying to them. She is getting baptized the 17th of April, without reservations! We are teaching her to read the scriptures and pray about it to get a even more solid testimony, but she talks about her baptism every time we see her.
Karla's baptism went well. None of her family came. It was cool though. Elder Preciado came down from Logan to baptize her, and I confirmed her. Thank you so much for the prayers, they helped so much. I wish I could talk more but the ride is here. I love you all, and I know that this work is true. This is the true Church of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the head of this church, not a man. He lives. He is the Savior, and through Him, we can be cleansed. Keep sharing the light with others. Sometimes they may not understand at first, but when they humbly ask God, I know that answers come. I see it happen right before my eyes every day. All can know truth through the Spirit of God.
Love you all,
Elder Thelin
Ps Grandma Pat rocks. Tell her thanks for the package! As far as what she said about my amazing hair, I think I started using gel is all.
Holly, that missionary story is awesome. That's how to be a missionary, no fear, just say what you know!
Man, ok, so cool stuff this week: I may or may not have mentioned this, but back in December, we were invited to a hospital. A recent convert had a friend whose 8 year old daughter was getting surgery. We were reluctantly invited to come and give a blessing. It was so cool. The whole family was there watching, and as we began, the Spirit came so so strong. The girl, Leslie, just started sobbing, feeling huge peace and joy. Two days later she was fine and left the hospital.
Now, I pretty much figured that the seed was sown and maybe years later this family would remember that moment... but two weeks ago they came to a family night at the church. And then to church on Sunday. We set up a lesson with Leslie and her mom. We figured it would be hard to get them going.... but we sat down with them, and the mom began to talk. She talked about that moment in the hospital, and how she's thought and thought about that Spirit they all felt. Her recent convert friend loaned her all the videos from the church, and she watched them all, and felt peace confirming they were true. She said everytime she thought about the Church, or the two of us, or how happy her friend is, she felt something amazing in her, telling her to keep learning. That was the most spiritual lesson of my mission. The Spirit was so strong as we testified of Joseph Smith as a prophet, and the Restoration of the Church. Then we testified of coming unto Christ and being baptized by one who now holds the proper authority... and by baptism, coming unto Christ and covenanting with Him to follow and obey. She just started crying, the Spirit was so strong. Its cool - sometimes as missionaries, talking to so many people and hearing so much false doctrine that is in the world, one thinks, well, is this all real? Moments like that confirm it all. Its so cool to ask how someone is feeling, and see the tears come and them saying, without knowing much at all, that something they've never felt before is filling their heart, and testifying that is the Holy Ghost, that God is testifying to them. She is getting baptized the 17th of April, without reservations! We are teaching her to read the scriptures and pray about it to get a even more solid testimony, but she talks about her baptism every time we see her.
Karla's baptism went well. None of her family came. It was cool though. Elder Preciado came down from Logan to baptize her, and I confirmed her. Thank you so much for the prayers, they helped so much. I wish I could talk more but the ride is here. I love you all, and I know that this work is true. This is the true Church of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the head of this church, not a man. He lives. He is the Savior, and through Him, we can be cleansed. Keep sharing the light with others. Sometimes they may not understand at first, but when they humbly ask God, I know that answers come. I see it happen right before my eyes every day. All can know truth through the Spirit of God.
Love you all,
Elder Thelin
Ps Grandma Pat rocks. Tell her thanks for the package! As far as what she said about my amazing hair, I think I started using gel is all.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
ELDER BQ--ROUND 2
Wow, you people know how to live a full day... glad everyone got through ok. Try not to all fall apart over there, ok?
Hmm, where to start? Long week, Elder Preciado left last week to Logan, excited to teach the cows... and Elder Baquedano for round two with Elder Thelin, came in Wednesday. Sweet stuff, its been pretty fun. He's super upbeat and a hard hard worker, so it really helps to lift the spirits and help get things done right.
Hm, so as far as lessons and such go, last week kinda was rough, but we were working hard trying to find people and stuff. By Saturday night I figured that no one was coming to church and felt like dirt. Even Karla called us to tell us she couldnt go - we thought for sure her father was refusing now to let her go to church. We prayed for someone to come to church, and hoped for the best. Its cool how the Lord does His part. Sunday morning we got to church, and lo and behold a whole family came, invited by an American schoolteacher. They have lived in Utah their whole lives and DONT know about the Church. Amazing. Willing to listen. We have a lesson tonight with them. They don't know it yet, but they are all getting baptized. Then another family came - we gave their daughter the most spiritual blessing ever at a hospital in December. the daughter has informed her mom that she wants to be baptized and it is the right thing. They asked US if we can come over Friday. Yes. AND Karla came. Her father was in a car accident and she was going to stay to take care of him, but he told her to go to church. and then, yesterday in our lesson with her, we had no idea what to commit her to do or anything, so we prayed for the Lord to guide the lesson and fill our mouths. We went in, and just started talking... and turns out there's a lot of stuff happening in her life. She's had dreams, read a LOT of the Book of Mormon, stuff like that... and yesterday, her father for the first time brought up baptism, and just asked her "Do you feel sure about that?" GOOD sign, he might trust her to do it... We invited her to pray and just ask if this Sunday is the right day, and if it is, her father will accept. She agreed. I have no doubt she is getting baptized Sunday night! It was really cool, the Spirit was there, and everything is coming together there. Thanks for the prayers, we've asked you, people in letters we write, all the members possible (without divulging too much), all the missionaries here, and even some investigators to pray. It was pretty cool telling her how many people were praying for her miracle, a faith booster. so, thanks!
Well, I hope all is well in VA, stop getting sick and going to the hospital and such. Feed the missionaries well.
I love you guys, and know the gospel is true. Heavenly Father has answered that many times on my mission, in many ways. I know that He will always answer if we come to Him, trusting as a child. Jesus is the Savior, and can heal all things. I've heard a lot about how scary the world is right now. Everyone needs these things, even if they seem to be "all right."
Peace,
Elder Thelin
Ps THANKS for the st patty's package, was sweet, we ate the girl scout cookies in like 10 minutes, but it was awesome. Also all the pics were fun, looks like a lot of snow. And the peeps projects were pretty professional, I couldn't believe you guys made those... let me know when they win.
Psssh annnnd thanks for the stickers that are on the way and the other package and such :)
Psheigh Its really fun to hide around corners and wait until other people come by and leap out with a loud hog snort. They freak out. especially companions.
Pshejhifhghhh saw a drugged out guy dancing in his room, with the police surrounding his house, shouting for him to open up and shut off the music, with lights and stuff on the window, and him, oblivious, just dancing with his shades on and the beer in his hand... kinda pathetic...
Pss Elder Baquedano invited his aunt to hear the missionaries before he left - she just sent a email saying she's getting baptized on the 10th!!
Hmm, where to start? Long week, Elder Preciado left last week to Logan, excited to teach the cows... and Elder Baquedano for round two with Elder Thelin, came in Wednesday. Sweet stuff, its been pretty fun. He's super upbeat and a hard hard worker, so it really helps to lift the spirits and help get things done right.
Hm, so as far as lessons and such go, last week kinda was rough, but we were working hard trying to find people and stuff. By Saturday night I figured that no one was coming to church and felt like dirt. Even Karla called us to tell us she couldnt go - we thought for sure her father was refusing now to let her go to church. We prayed for someone to come to church, and hoped for the best. Its cool how the Lord does His part. Sunday morning we got to church, and lo and behold a whole family came, invited by an American schoolteacher. They have lived in Utah their whole lives and DONT know about the Church. Amazing. Willing to listen. We have a lesson tonight with them. They don't know it yet, but they are all getting baptized. Then another family came - we gave their daughter the most spiritual blessing ever at a hospital in December. the daughter has informed her mom that she wants to be baptized and it is the right thing. They asked US if we can come over Friday. Yes. AND Karla came. Her father was in a car accident and she was going to stay to take care of him, but he told her to go to church. and then, yesterday in our lesson with her, we had no idea what to commit her to do or anything, so we prayed for the Lord to guide the lesson and fill our mouths. We went in, and just started talking... and turns out there's a lot of stuff happening in her life. She's had dreams, read a LOT of the Book of Mormon, stuff like that... and yesterday, her father for the first time brought up baptism, and just asked her "Do you feel sure about that?" GOOD sign, he might trust her to do it... We invited her to pray and just ask if this Sunday is the right day, and if it is, her father will accept. She agreed. I have no doubt she is getting baptized Sunday night! It was really cool, the Spirit was there, and everything is coming together there. Thanks for the prayers, we've asked you, people in letters we write, all the members possible (without divulging too much), all the missionaries here, and even some investigators to pray. It was pretty cool telling her how many people were praying for her miracle, a faith booster. so, thanks!
Well, I hope all is well in VA, stop getting sick and going to the hospital and such. Feed the missionaries well.
I love you guys, and know the gospel is true. Heavenly Father has answered that many times on my mission, in many ways. I know that He will always answer if we come to Him, trusting as a child. Jesus is the Savior, and can heal all things. I've heard a lot about how scary the world is right now. Everyone needs these things, even if they seem to be "all right."
Peace,
Elder Thelin
Ps THANKS for the st patty's package, was sweet, we ate the girl scout cookies in like 10 minutes, but it was awesome. Also all the pics were fun, looks like a lot of snow. And the peeps projects were pretty professional, I couldn't believe you guys made those... let me know when they win.
Psssh annnnd thanks for the stickers that are on the way and the other package and such :)
Psheigh Its really fun to hide around corners and wait until other people come by and leap out with a loud hog snort. They freak out. especially companions.
Pshejhifhghhh saw a drugged out guy dancing in his room, with the police surrounding his house, shouting for him to open up and shut off the music, with lights and stuff on the window, and him, oblivious, just dancing with his shades on and the beer in his hand... kinda pathetic...
Pss Elder Baquedano invited his aunt to hear the missionaries before he left - she just sent a email saying she's getting baptized on the 10th!!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
LOVIN' LAYTON
"ONNNNNEEEE WEEEEEEEEEK!!!!!"
That's the main idea of the song Elder P has been singing for well the past week, awaiting transfers. He's hilarious, actually admitted these have been the best transfers of his mission, but he sure has tried to act like he's being released from torture, haha. Oh man, I'm gonna miss him. He has had a rough mission, fought a lot with people, hated it for a while, and even asked a few times to President "can I go home yet?" But he's come a long long way. He only has 2 years in the Church, his mom has cancer, and he decided to go on a mission. Amazing. Anyhow, we've learned a lot together. I wanted to kill him a few times, ha, but we've learned patience and how to bite our tongues and think twice about what we say. And he's like amazing with the people, all the members and English elders LOVE him, he's really quite hilarious in his own way. President told him in interviews last week that he was leaving (nice, he tells us ahead of time now) and he's been saying goodbye to everyone, singing songs, leaving members crying like he's one of the family, very funny. Hope you guys can meet him someday. Well, he'll be here when you pick me up next year (what?) Fun transfers.
SO. Preciado to Logan. I stay here! And to here.... from the depths of Hyrum, born there in October, and has been there since the beginning of his mission, for 6 months, comes.... ELDER BAQUEDANO!!!! Its CRAZY, I was his trainer, his first companion 6 months ago, and we're going to serve together AGAIN. I'm psyched, he was so cool. I didn't appreciate it at the time, and didn't take advantage of his super enthusiasm and love for the Lord and the people... then I got a harder companion, then got a HARDEr companion... and in retrospect, Elder Baquedano is awesome. So, I'm excited for a second chance with him. He's psyched too. 6 months in the smallest city in Utah, I don't know how he still found Spanish people to teach there after 6 months...
Hmm, so yes, transfers will be crazy again, as always - but exciting. I'm SO happy to stay here in Layton. I love the people here. I know every street, I think, all the apartments and trailers. We've started just taking "adventures" and walking down random streets and finding random people. Works. The ward here is awesome too. Our converts are firm. Carla and her family brought cousins to church, and paid tithing for the 2nd time in two weeks. Jesus Lagunas 1) reactivated his less active neighbors (before being baptized; he went over every sunday and pounded the door till they got up and went with him to church) and now 2) is bringing his sister and a friend to church. Its sweet. The Dazza family will love the letter Mom- their kids can translate it (heck, I can translate it) but I don't have the address on me.
Jeffrey seems to have had an adventure in Graceland, sounds fun... and brother Montgomery is the man. Fun family, you should find out where in Ogden they lived.
Good luck with the homework guys...Masses of moles is ridiculous. And why do we need to learn famous Virginians and such? I learned books of such nonsense, and remember probably only a vague outline of history and basic math functions. And how to read. All I learned in Kindergarten...
Once again, Bishop Henry sounds awesome. Last night was an Elder's last night, Elder Alvarez. Hilarious Elder, stayed over at our apartment, and we stayed up talking about the second coming, and all the prophecies about the last days and such. Pretty intense.
I love you all, and wish you all a good week. Just be firm, seek to keep the Spirit and our testimonies, and don't let the world distract us ever. The Savior is the center of it all, and will help us keep our focus if we consecrate our hearts to Him in faith.
Ps. Yes we can play laser tag. Yes. Lip has healed though wasn't friendly to salsa.
Psndoigjsssss. Holly is awesome.
SDlkfeojhfkjkjkljpssssss. So is everyone else
Ps3 I decided I can see fine. Wore glasses for a week.
Psss5 Annnnnnnd favor: I have to write letters weekly, and always have to write the mission address.... and being kinda lazy in these aspects, could you print out some address labels or stickers or something??? just with the address, because sometimes I put my name and sometimes I put President's name or something, but just:
Utah Ogden Mission
2133 Washington Blvd
Ogden, UT 84401
That would be AMAZING.
Pgdspgssssssssss Keep praying for our investigator Karla. Father told her that if she gets baptized, she has to find a new place to live. Help. What do you say to someone in that situation? Crazy. Pray.
That's the main idea of the song Elder P has been singing for well the past week, awaiting transfers. He's hilarious, actually admitted these have been the best transfers of his mission, but he sure has tried to act like he's being released from torture, haha. Oh man, I'm gonna miss him. He has had a rough mission, fought a lot with people, hated it for a while, and even asked a few times to President "can I go home yet?" But he's come a long long way. He only has 2 years in the Church, his mom has cancer, and he decided to go on a mission. Amazing. Anyhow, we've learned a lot together. I wanted to kill him a few times, ha, but we've learned patience and how to bite our tongues and think twice about what we say. And he's like amazing with the people, all the members and English elders LOVE him, he's really quite hilarious in his own way. President told him in interviews last week that he was leaving (nice, he tells us ahead of time now) and he's been saying goodbye to everyone, singing songs, leaving members crying like he's one of the family, very funny. Hope you guys can meet him someday. Well, he'll be here when you pick me up next year (what?) Fun transfers.
SO. Preciado to Logan. I stay here! And to here.... from the depths of Hyrum, born there in October, and has been there since the beginning of his mission, for 6 months, comes.... ELDER BAQUEDANO!!!! Its CRAZY, I was his trainer, his first companion 6 months ago, and we're going to serve together AGAIN. I'm psyched, he was so cool. I didn't appreciate it at the time, and didn't take advantage of his super enthusiasm and love for the Lord and the people... then I got a harder companion, then got a HARDEr companion... and in retrospect, Elder Baquedano is awesome. So, I'm excited for a second chance with him. He's psyched too. 6 months in the smallest city in Utah, I don't know how he still found Spanish people to teach there after 6 months...
Hmm, so yes, transfers will be crazy again, as always - but exciting. I'm SO happy to stay here in Layton. I love the people here. I know every street, I think, all the apartments and trailers. We've started just taking "adventures" and walking down random streets and finding random people. Works. The ward here is awesome too. Our converts are firm. Carla and her family brought cousins to church, and paid tithing for the 2nd time in two weeks. Jesus Lagunas 1) reactivated his less active neighbors (before being baptized; he went over every sunday and pounded the door till they got up and went with him to church) and now 2) is bringing his sister and a friend to church. Its sweet. The Dazza family will love the letter Mom- their kids can translate it (heck, I can translate it) but I don't have the address on me.
Jeffrey seems to have had an adventure in Graceland, sounds fun... and brother Montgomery is the man. Fun family, you should find out where in Ogden they lived.
Good luck with the homework guys...Masses of moles is ridiculous. And why do we need to learn famous Virginians and such? I learned books of such nonsense, and remember probably only a vague outline of history and basic math functions. And how to read. All I learned in Kindergarten...
Once again, Bishop Henry sounds awesome. Last night was an Elder's last night, Elder Alvarez. Hilarious Elder, stayed over at our apartment, and we stayed up talking about the second coming, and all the prophecies about the last days and such. Pretty intense.
I love you all, and wish you all a good week. Just be firm, seek to keep the Spirit and our testimonies, and don't let the world distract us ever. The Savior is the center of it all, and will help us keep our focus if we consecrate our hearts to Him in faith.
Ps. Yes we can play laser tag. Yes. Lip has healed though wasn't friendly to salsa.
Psndoigjsssss. Holly is awesome.
SDlkfeojhfkjkjkljpssssss. So is everyone else
Ps3 I decided I can see fine. Wore glasses for a week.
Psss5 Annnnnnnd favor: I have to write letters weekly, and always have to write the mission address.... and being kinda lazy in these aspects, could you print out some address labels or stickers or something??? just with the address, because sometimes I put my name and sometimes I put President's name or something, but just:
Utah Ogden Mission
2133 Washington Blvd
Ogden, UT 84401
That would be AMAZING.
Pgdspgssssssssss Keep praying for our investigator Karla. Father told her that if she gets baptized, she has to find a new place to live. Help. What do you say to someone in that situation? Crazy. Pray.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
THE 10 MINUTE UPDATE
Hey family, How are you doing? So I've got like 10 minutes today, sorry, here we go!
1)A bus ride to Memphis? Jeffrey is crazy.
2) Dentist situation: so I went, apparently a sealing on a back tooth cracked and something got in, he cleaned it out - hah, had 2 shots of novacaine, the first didnt do it, I still felt pain, haha, my face was numb the whole day. I probably could have chewed my lip off and not felt it. Feels better now.
3) Night on Broadway sounds intense, I'll have to see that later...
4) Not sure if I mentioned it, but went to a lazer tag place and someone punched me in the face with their gun on accident, split my lip nicely, but its better now.
5) Hmm, what else? Carla (who got baptized) paid tithing AGAIN, and Jesus brought his sister to church...
6) Other Karla needs prayers, she is unsure, and her atheist father isn't pleased again. Was going to be baptized Saturday, but we need to see now...
7) Transfers are next Wednesday - my companion is singing a song he wrote "One Weeeeeeeek, one Weeeeeeek" makes me feel quite loved, but that's how Elder P is. Ha. Pray for him. Sheesh.
8) Thanks Dad, I'll send something to Grandma Pat. I'm not sure how effective of a missionary I am, but I'm trying, and trying to think more like the investigators. Its hard to do, but it helps. Its crazy thinking how many people have come into this world without any knowledge of why they are here, and this is their chance to know why. I always had this vision of the mission being perfect beginning to end, and me being at my peak the whole time - I'm learning that we don't become perfect on the mission, that's not the point. The success is helping others come to Christ, focus on them. We need to always do better at putting Jesus Christ first in our lives. Onward... Thanks!
Love, Chris the Elder
Ps Stefan is awesome.
1)A bus ride to Memphis? Jeffrey is crazy.
2) Dentist situation: so I went, apparently a sealing on a back tooth cracked and something got in, he cleaned it out - hah, had 2 shots of novacaine, the first didnt do it, I still felt pain, haha, my face was numb the whole day. I probably could have chewed my lip off and not felt it. Feels better now.
3) Night on Broadway sounds intense, I'll have to see that later...
4) Not sure if I mentioned it, but went to a lazer tag place and someone punched me in the face with their gun on accident, split my lip nicely, but its better now.
5) Hmm, what else? Carla (who got baptized) paid tithing AGAIN, and Jesus brought his sister to church...
6) Other Karla needs prayers, she is unsure, and her atheist father isn't pleased again. Was going to be baptized Saturday, but we need to see now...
7) Transfers are next Wednesday - my companion is singing a song he wrote "One Weeeeeeeek, one Weeeeeeek" makes me feel quite loved, but that's how Elder P is. Ha. Pray for him. Sheesh.
8) Thanks Dad, I'll send something to Grandma Pat. I'm not sure how effective of a missionary I am, but I'm trying, and trying to think more like the investigators. Its hard to do, but it helps. Its crazy thinking how many people have come into this world without any knowledge of why they are here, and this is their chance to know why. I always had this vision of the mission being perfect beginning to end, and me being at my peak the whole time - I'm learning that we don't become perfect on the mission, that's not the point. The success is helping others come to Christ, focus on them. We need to always do better at putting Jesus Christ first in our lives. Onward... Thanks!
Love, Chris the Elder
Ps Stefan is awesome.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
OF DOGS AND DENTISTS
Hello Family,
Glad you liked the package! Sorry it took so stinking long, youd be amazed how hard it is to go by the post office, finally just did it before a district meeting. Will try to get a pic of Rocky the killer dog. Usually eats Elder Preciado's hand when we go by, or slobbers on pants, steals our tortillas while we're eating, etc. The only thing its afraid of are helium balloons - the family had some for Valentine's day, and whenever Rocky came to swipe something from our plate we'd bounce a balloon over and it got terrified and ran to hide. Hilarious.
Wow, sounds like the Washington Post Peep contest is in for some intense competition this year! I've heard a lot about this new Chipmunk movie, a bunch of Spanish kids are always coming up with it in their hands: "Cheep-moonks!!!!" Cute. Holly that sounds crazy, good job. And the Terra Cotta Peep warriors, man, no one will ever know that they are looking at the tomb of a Peep emperor that actually has a Peep inside. Heidi, that sounds intense. Wow. Get some good pics of these, will ya?
Jeffrey, way to keep up the charmed life, congrats on All-State Choir and Varsity Soccer--how the heck do you think straight?
Culpeper missionaries doing magic tricks, eh? We do one about baptism, have water (us, pure) but we make mistakes (pour in red koolaid) then are baptized and washed clean (pour in clorox, all turns clear again) It was the trick that helped Carla's two kids to decide to be baptized, so hey, gets the point across.
All 4 were just confirmed, good stuff. They are so firm. We overheard Carla asking the ward secretary how to submit tithing. Never heard of a convert doing that the day they get confirmed. Wow.
Found more people that are getting closer - could use some prayers - one was going to be baptized Saturday, but now we wait till the 13th, didn't go to church on Sunday. She knows its true, but her atheist father is against it, none of her family can understand.
We've heard a lot about Chile. I mean, there are people in Layton with family there. Rough. The world is getting restless. Yikes.
Cool thing this week: all mission leadership was summoned to a 1st time ever Leadership Conference in Ogden. We met with the director of the MTC in Provo, and the Worldwide MTC coordinator. They evaluated our mission and said it is one of the best in the world as far as focus on our real purpose (bring people to Christ by faith, repentance, baptism, etc) and obedience. They were highly impressed. Then they said they had consulted with President Olson for a few days and identified some areas the mission needs to progress in. We are going to change our focus slightly. We learned that we are too focused on ourselves - we always evaluate our lessons based on what scriptures WE shared, how clearly WE taught, how many questions WE made. It kinda has felt sometimes like we are there with a wall between us and the investigators, and we are there presenting everything so well, and they miss the boat completely. We learned about focusing on THEM, and how to seek revelation for them. In the Book of Mormon, Alma 26:22 talks about having "mysteries" revealed to us through prayer and faith. Always thought that was talking about some great and hard to comprehend doctrine. They pointed out that mysteries can be people's thoughts, desires, needs, the words they are dying to hear from the Lord. In His service, THESE are the mysteries we should seek answers to in order to help lead others to Him. Cool.
Well, thank you for your conintual support and love. I'm grateful for the restored gospel, and the Savior Jesus Christ. I know its true.
Hasta luego,
Elder Thelin
Ps Parents, do I have dental insurance? I need to see a dentist, I have a back molar that hurts when I bite, my whole jaw, think I should get it checked out. If we dont have insurance, I might be able to get a deal as a missioanry, but I need to know if we have it. And what plan, group, stuff like that. Maybe you could email it to President Olson, or call the mission office or something? It would be much appreciated (YES I have flossed, mouthwashed and brushed diligently. Grr.)
Ppps They were pineapples with little... windows? and doors? they looked like pineapple houses! "Hey doesnt Spongebob live in one of these?" Holly wondered to herself. Suddenly something covered the sun above, and before she knew it, she was scooped up, the rest of the gang was trying to get there as quick as possible but before they got there they just heard an evil voice crying "I am PLANKTON, and you are my PRISONER!!!"
Glad you liked the package! Sorry it took so stinking long, youd be amazed how hard it is to go by the post office, finally just did it before a district meeting. Will try to get a pic of Rocky the killer dog. Usually eats Elder Preciado's hand when we go by, or slobbers on pants, steals our tortillas while we're eating, etc. The only thing its afraid of are helium balloons - the family had some for Valentine's day, and whenever Rocky came to swipe something from our plate we'd bounce a balloon over and it got terrified and ran to hide. Hilarious.
Wow, sounds like the Washington Post Peep contest is in for some intense competition this year! I've heard a lot about this new Chipmunk movie, a bunch of Spanish kids are always coming up with it in their hands: "Cheep-moonks!!!!" Cute. Holly that sounds crazy, good job. And the Terra Cotta Peep warriors, man, no one will ever know that they are looking at the tomb of a Peep emperor that actually has a Peep inside. Heidi, that sounds intense. Wow. Get some good pics of these, will ya?
Jeffrey, way to keep up the charmed life, congrats on All-State Choir and Varsity Soccer--how the heck do you think straight?
Culpeper missionaries doing magic tricks, eh? We do one about baptism, have water (us, pure) but we make mistakes (pour in red koolaid) then are baptized and washed clean (pour in clorox, all turns clear again) It was the trick that helped Carla's two kids to decide to be baptized, so hey, gets the point across.
All 4 were just confirmed, good stuff. They are so firm. We overheard Carla asking the ward secretary how to submit tithing. Never heard of a convert doing that the day they get confirmed. Wow.
Found more people that are getting closer - could use some prayers - one was going to be baptized Saturday, but now we wait till the 13th, didn't go to church on Sunday. She knows its true, but her atheist father is against it, none of her family can understand.
We've heard a lot about Chile. I mean, there are people in Layton with family there. Rough. The world is getting restless. Yikes.
Cool thing this week: all mission leadership was summoned to a 1st time ever Leadership Conference in Ogden. We met with the director of the MTC in Provo, and the Worldwide MTC coordinator. They evaluated our mission and said it is one of the best in the world as far as focus on our real purpose (bring people to Christ by faith, repentance, baptism, etc) and obedience. They were highly impressed. Then they said they had consulted with President Olson for a few days and identified some areas the mission needs to progress in. We are going to change our focus slightly. We learned that we are too focused on ourselves - we always evaluate our lessons based on what scriptures WE shared, how clearly WE taught, how many questions WE made. It kinda has felt sometimes like we are there with a wall between us and the investigators, and we are there presenting everything so well, and they miss the boat completely. We learned about focusing on THEM, and how to seek revelation for them. In the Book of Mormon, Alma 26:22 talks about having "mysteries" revealed to us through prayer and faith. Always thought that was talking about some great and hard to comprehend doctrine. They pointed out that mysteries can be people's thoughts, desires, needs, the words they are dying to hear from the Lord. In His service, THESE are the mysteries we should seek answers to in order to help lead others to Him. Cool.
Well, thank you for your conintual support and love. I'm grateful for the restored gospel, and the Savior Jesus Christ. I know its true.
Hasta luego,
Elder Thelin
Ps Parents, do I have dental insurance? I need to see a dentist, I have a back molar that hurts when I bite, my whole jaw, think I should get it checked out. If we dont have insurance, I might be able to get a deal as a missioanry, but I need to know if we have it. And what plan, group, stuff like that. Maybe you could email it to President Olson, or call the mission office or something? It would be much appreciated (YES I have flossed, mouthwashed and brushed diligently. Grr.)
Ppps They were pineapples with little... windows? and doors? they looked like pineapple houses! "Hey doesnt Spongebob live in one of these?" Holly wondered to herself. Suddenly something covered the sun above, and before she knew it, she was scooped up, the rest of the gang was trying to get there as quick as possible but before they got there they just heard an evil voice crying "I am PLANKTON, and you are my PRISONER!!!"
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