AREA: Central Tucson
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Friends and Family,
Monday: Pday was pretty typical. This morning we did laundry at Roy's,
went shopping, and then hung out with the other missionaries. Said
goodbyes to some of the missionaries that were leaving the are.
Tuesday: Today was alright... This morning we went over to the
transfer site to bring something to one of the elders. Had a good time
saying goodbye to the missionaries leaving. We then went to the food
bank which was fun as usual. Called to confirm our appointment with
Vicente but he got kicked out of his apartment because he wasn't able
to pay rent. Went looking for him and wasn't able to find him. Had a
lesson with our new investigators Rafael and Olivia which was okay...
They weren't very focused in on what we were saying. Found out Rafael
has autism or something, Olivia is alright though, she's just shy.
That was pretty much our day.
Wednesday: This morning we had district meeting and it was Elder
Kapeles first time doing a training as district leader. He did a very
good job. Went home, changed out of our suits, went out to see some
people, and had dinner. After dinner we gave a little girl a blessing
who was sick. Roy was super awesome and bought us some frozen yogurt.
Thursday: 9 months out today... Dang... This morning was pretty good,
had an appointment with the Doctor, drove home past the temple being
built and they're almost done with the outside it looks like. Went to
pep boys today to get the brakes changed and literally spent 2 hours
for them to bring the car in the garage, take the rims off, and look
at the brakes to tell us they needed to be changed again... Finally
got done and went to dinner and then went to a move immediately after
that. Helped the people move some stuff into a storage unit which was
fun.
Friday: Woke up and helped another family move... Loaded a big Uhaul.
After the move we went home and pretty much weekly planned all day
which went really well. We have a pretty busy week planned next week.
Had dinner at Taco Bell for dinner and ran into a less active member
and ate dinner with him which was nice. He invited us to come over to
his house sometime. After we ate we went and talked to this guy
sitting on the curb outside a Walgreens. Talked with him about the
Gospel for about 30 min. Interesting conversation because he was
atheist... Gave him a Book of Mormon and said he would read it. We
then went looking for Vicente again and couldn't find him.
Saturday: This morning was fun, did some service at a park pulling
weeds at a park. There was a baptism this morning for some other
elders in the area. We gave the 5 minute teaching moment there which
was good. Had a very awkward law of chastity lesson with our
investigator Jason. This lesson isn't normally awkward... But for some
reason it was awkward this time. Had dinner at Roy's again and I
cooked burgers for everyone.
Sunday: Pretty good sabbath day, Jason was at church which was
exciting. Pretty sure he had a good time. After church we went home
and did studies. Kapele was sick though and took a nap. Went to dinner
and talked about Minnesota a lot... Brother Vincent served his mission
there awhile ago Hmong speaking and will be visiting the area around
July. Will be visiting the Hmong branch that meets by lake Jarvis so
Rick look out for the Vincent family. After dinner we went looking for
Vicente and found him! Sucky thing is that he was hand cuffed and
sitting on the curb with a cop standing by him... Ghetto life.
Hopefully he gets a hold of us after he gets out of jail. Just had a
warrant for his arrest from like 5 years ago for a DUI... Trying to
change his life around and been having a rough couple weeks.
Really good scripture I came across this week that I liked It's Moroni 7:13
13 But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good
continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do
good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God.
Share your thoughts with me what this scripture means to you:) I'll
try to respond next week.
Hope you have a great week! Love you all!
Love,
Elder Smith
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
Week 39
AREA: Central Tucson
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Monday: Today was pretty good, this morning we just went to Roy's, did
laundry, and ate some lunch there. We had a multi zone basketball
tournament and I watched... Haha was pretty fun to watch. Had a lesson
with Jason which was pretty good. Gave him a prayer rock and he really
likes it.
Tuesday: Pretty busy day. Had Foodbank after studies which was fun.
After Foodbank we went to Buffalo Wild Wings with everyone and had
horrible service. Had a lesson with Vicente which went great. Things
with him are going great and he is on track to being baptized on the
28th. We then went to Lee's for new member lessons which was good.
Tried to go and visit our new investigators Rafael and Olivia but they
were sick so we rescheduled for another day.
Wednesday: Today we didn't do a whole lot. This morning we did our
normal routine... We didn't have district meeting today so we decided
to meet up as a district and have district lunch. Went to a Sanoran
Hotdog stand, super good. It's a hotdog wrapped in bacon with a bunch
of toppings on it. It's the Chicago styled hotdog of Tucson. Had an
unexpected lesson with Matt continuing to answer more of his
questions. Kinda a bible bash session but not really at the same time.
Thursday: Kevins birthday! He can buy cigarettes now;) haha Went to
Foodbank again, it was pretty cool. Folded a bunch of boxes. After
Foodbank we went over to Vicente's and taught the law of Chastity with
Roy. Vicente really wants to get baptized and is very accepting of the
things we're inviting him to do. Had dinner and then went over to
Lee's for a new member lesson. Tried to go too another lesson that was
scheduled for tonight and it canceled again.
Friday: Had a half mission conference today. Woke up and immediately
headed over to the stake center where we were having the conference.
Really good conference, we were once again visited by a member of the
70. His name was Elder Foster and he spoke on member missionary work
and how to affectively involve them in the work. Really fun seeing all
the other missionaries too. We then had a lesson with Jason which went
well, met up with the AP's to grab a package from them.
Saturday: After studies we went over to a members house to help them
take their pool cover off. Brother Larson is 93 years old, a retired
dentist, and a WWII veteran. They were awesome and brought us to smash
burger after helping them out. Tried to go to a lesson but it
canceled... There was a huge food drive today that we volunteered at.
It was at the post office and we helped move sooo much food. Dinner
bailed on us so Travis the guy that works at the Foodbank gave us
money to go out. While we're were out to eat a lady came up and gave
us a piece of paper with scriptures on it about our purpose in life.
It was very nice of her. Tonight was transfer calls and were staying
together again. Elder Kapele is now the district leader though which
is cool.
Sunday: Today was pretty good, gave a talk in church that was based
off a talk called "stay by the tree" by Elder Pearson. Very good talk
about enduring to the end. I would recommend reading it and studying
it for sure. After church we changed and then went back to the church
for lunch with a member where they stuffed us with food. It was very
good. Rest of the day we tried to go visit I people.
I would like to share a quick message about how through Christ we can
be perfected. Our loving Heavenly Father has given us a savior who
atoned for all of our sins. Through our savior Jesus Christ we can be
perfected if we are willing to repent. There is an amazing scripture
in Moroni 10:32
32 Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves
of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all
ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then
is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect
in Christ; and if by the grace of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can
in nowise deny the power of God.
I love this scripture! I know that Christ is real and if we let him
into our hearts, through him we can perfected. I love my Savior Jesus
Christ and so thankful for all that he has done for us.
Hope you have a great week everyone!
Love,
Elder Smith
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Monday: Today was pretty good, this morning we just went to Roy's, did
laundry, and ate some lunch there. We had a multi zone basketball
tournament and I watched... Haha was pretty fun to watch. Had a lesson
with Jason which was pretty good. Gave him a prayer rock and he really
likes it.
Tuesday: Pretty busy day. Had Foodbank after studies which was fun.
After Foodbank we went to Buffalo Wild Wings with everyone and had
horrible service. Had a lesson with Vicente which went great. Things
with him are going great and he is on track to being baptized on the
28th. We then went to Lee's for new member lessons which was good.
Tried to go and visit our new investigators Rafael and Olivia but they
were sick so we rescheduled for another day.
Wednesday: Today we didn't do a whole lot. This morning we did our
normal routine... We didn't have district meeting today so we decided
to meet up as a district and have district lunch. Went to a Sanoran
Hotdog stand, super good. It's a hotdog wrapped in bacon with a bunch
of toppings on it. It's the Chicago styled hotdog of Tucson. Had an
unexpected lesson with Matt continuing to answer more of his
questions. Kinda a bible bash session but not really at the same time.
Thursday: Kevins birthday! He can buy cigarettes now;) haha Went to
Foodbank again, it was pretty cool. Folded a bunch of boxes. After
Foodbank we went over to Vicente's and taught the law of Chastity with
Roy. Vicente really wants to get baptized and is very accepting of the
things we're inviting him to do. Had dinner and then went over to
Lee's for a new member lesson. Tried to go too another lesson that was
scheduled for tonight and it canceled again.
Friday: Had a half mission conference today. Woke up and immediately
headed over to the stake center where we were having the conference.
Really good conference, we were once again visited by a member of the
70. His name was Elder Foster and he spoke on member missionary work
and how to affectively involve them in the work. Really fun seeing all
the other missionaries too. We then had a lesson with Jason which went
well, met up with the AP's to grab a package from them.
Saturday: After studies we went over to a members house to help them
take their pool cover off. Brother Larson is 93 years old, a retired
dentist, and a WWII veteran. They were awesome and brought us to smash
burger after helping them out. Tried to go to a lesson but it
canceled... There was a huge food drive today that we volunteered at.
It was at the post office and we helped move sooo much food. Dinner
bailed on us so Travis the guy that works at the Foodbank gave us
money to go out. While we're were out to eat a lady came up and gave
us a piece of paper with scriptures on it about our purpose in life.
It was very nice of her. Tonight was transfer calls and were staying
together again. Elder Kapele is now the district leader though which
is cool.
Sunday: Today was pretty good, gave a talk in church that was based
off a talk called "stay by the tree" by Elder Pearson. Very good talk
about enduring to the end. I would recommend reading it and studying
it for sure. After church we changed and then went back to the church
for lunch with a member where they stuffed us with food. It was very
good. Rest of the day we tried to go visit I people.
I would like to share a quick message about how through Christ we can
be perfected. Our loving Heavenly Father has given us a savior who
atoned for all of our sins. Through our savior Jesus Christ we can be
perfected if we are willing to repent. There is an amazing scripture
in Moroni 10:32
32 Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves
of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all
ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then
is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect
in Christ; and if by the grace of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can
in nowise deny the power of God.
I love this scripture! I know that Christ is real and if we let him
into our hearts, through him we can perfected. I love my Savior Jesus
Christ and so thankful for all that he has done for us.
Hope you have a great week everyone!
Love,
Elder Smith
 |
| Tow Mater |
 |
| Me and Elder Baker(his dad was my stake president for a long time) |
 |
| Jason and his prayer rock |
Week 38
AREA: Central Tucson
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
This week was an adventurous one... Was sick most of the time sadly
but still tried my hardest to get out and work.
Monday: Got a haircut today finally... Decided to go shorter than
usual which I'm glad I did. I think it turned out pretty good. After
the haircut we went and got lunch, and then went to the church to
spend time with other missionaries. We deep cleaned the apartment
which was much needed... Glad we did that except the apartment then
smelled like bleach which was annoying.
Tuesday: First day of feeling sick... Threw up, slept, couldn't eat,
and threw up more. Super fun day.
Wednesday: Day two of feeling sick... Even though I still felt sick we
went to zone meeting which wasn't so bad. Felt nauseous the whole time
but was able to pay attention and do what I needed to do. Still not
able to eat a whole lot.
Thursday: Day three of feeling sick... Didn't want to lay in bed all
day and do nothing so I got out of bed and went to work. Went to
Foodbank today which was fun and at the same time exhausting... No
food for 2 days I didn't have a lot of energy. Had a lesson with
Vicente, stopped by goodwill to get him an alarm clock so he had
something to wake him up on Sunday's for church. Taught him the Word
of Wisdom which went very well and agreed to living it. Had dinner at
Roy's tonight which was alright... I tried to eat as much as I could
which wasn't a lot. After Roy's we went through the Potential List and
actually found two people to teach. It was a part member family with
two kids that wanted to start taking the lessons and get baptized:)
Friday: Feeling better but not normal. Had a lesson with Jodi this
morning which went well, weekly planned. During lunch we went down in
this tunnel that is under the gym, it was so cool. The thing is
probably about 100 ft long After planning we had a lesson with Jason
that went well, we taught the Gospel of Jesus Christ which I feel went
great. Had dinner with Lee and taught him his first new member lesson
:) really amazing to see how strong of a testimony he has.
Saturday: Woke up feeling better than the rest of the week. This
morning I actually ate breakfast which was nice for a change. After
eating breakfast we did studies went out and got to work. Stopped at
Jimmy Johns for lunch and had a miracle happen. An employee came up to
us and asked if he could meet with him after his shift. We met up with
him at a park and taught the Restoration. Very interesting
experience... He had been exposed to a lot of false doctrine and had a
lot of questions about our faith. Tried our best to answer the
questions, we will be visiting with him again sometime next week to
answer more questions.
Sunday: Church was great! We had 4 investigators at church! All of
which I'm pretty sure enjoyed it and will definitely be coming back:)
After church Elder Kapele Skyped home for Mother's Day while I just
sat and talked with Roy. That was pretty fun.... After that we had
dinner then went home to do studies since we hadn't had the chance to
do it.
Yesterday was Mother's Day which is one of the most important days of
the year after Christmas and Easter. This is the day we put aside just
to recognize how amazing our mothers are. I just want to say that I am
so great full for my mom and all she has done for me. She has been
patient with me and continued to show her love for me everyday. So
thankful for her being so supportive of me on a mission and shows her
love for me every week through her weekly emails. Love you so much
mom!! Everyone make it a goal to tell your mom everyday, she deserves
it after putting up with you for so long;) haha Have a great week
everyone!
Love you!!
Elder Smith
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
This week was an adventurous one... Was sick most of the time sadly
but still tried my hardest to get out and work.
Monday: Got a haircut today finally... Decided to go shorter than
usual which I'm glad I did. I think it turned out pretty good. After
the haircut we went and got lunch, and then went to the church to
spend time with other missionaries. We deep cleaned the apartment
which was much needed... Glad we did that except the apartment then
smelled like bleach which was annoying.
Tuesday: First day of feeling sick... Threw up, slept, couldn't eat,
and threw up more. Super fun day.
Wednesday: Day two of feeling sick... Even though I still felt sick we
went to zone meeting which wasn't so bad. Felt nauseous the whole time
but was able to pay attention and do what I needed to do. Still not
able to eat a whole lot.
Thursday: Day three of feeling sick... Didn't want to lay in bed all
day and do nothing so I got out of bed and went to work. Went to
Foodbank today which was fun and at the same time exhausting... No
food for 2 days I didn't have a lot of energy. Had a lesson with
Vicente, stopped by goodwill to get him an alarm clock so he had
something to wake him up on Sunday's for church. Taught him the Word
of Wisdom which went very well and agreed to living it. Had dinner at
Roy's tonight which was alright... I tried to eat as much as I could
which wasn't a lot. After Roy's we went through the Potential List and
actually found two people to teach. It was a part member family with
two kids that wanted to start taking the lessons and get baptized:)
Friday: Feeling better but not normal. Had a lesson with Jodi this
morning which went well, weekly planned. During lunch we went down in
this tunnel that is under the gym, it was so cool. The thing is
probably about 100 ft long After planning we had a lesson with Jason
that went well, we taught the Gospel of Jesus Christ which I feel went
great. Had dinner with Lee and taught him his first new member lesson
:) really amazing to see how strong of a testimony he has.
Saturday: Woke up feeling better than the rest of the week. This
morning I actually ate breakfast which was nice for a change. After
eating breakfast we did studies went out and got to work. Stopped at
Jimmy Johns for lunch and had a miracle happen. An employee came up to
us and asked if he could meet with him after his shift. We met up with
him at a park and taught the Restoration. Very interesting
experience... He had been exposed to a lot of false doctrine and had a
lot of questions about our faith. Tried our best to answer the
questions, we will be visiting with him again sometime next week to
answer more questions.
Sunday: Church was great! We had 4 investigators at church! All of
which I'm pretty sure enjoyed it and will definitely be coming back:)
After church Elder Kapele Skyped home for Mother's Day while I just
sat and talked with Roy. That was pretty fun.... After that we had
dinner then went home to do studies since we hadn't had the chance to
do it.
Yesterday was Mother's Day which is one of the most important days of
the year after Christmas and Easter. This is the day we put aside just
to recognize how amazing our mothers are. I just want to say that I am
so great full for my mom and all she has done for me. She has been
patient with me and continued to show her love for me everyday. So
thankful for her being so supportive of me on a mission and shows her
love for me every week through her weekly emails. Love you so much
mom!! Everyone make it a goal to tell your mom everyday, she deserves
it after putting up with you for so long;) haha Have a great week
everyone!
Love you!!
Elder Smith
 |
| The tunnel under the church |
 |
| The whole mission with Elder Holland |
Tuesday, May 3, 2016
Week 37
AREA: Central Tucson
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Monday: Today was super busy and fun. This morning we went to Roy's to
do laundry and he made breakfast for everyone which was nice. We then
did all our shopping and stuff so we could then go bowling with the
district. That was tons of fun and we had a great time. I was super
close to beating Elder Wilstead who is really good at Bowling. We then
spent the rest of the pday hanging out at the church and talking. Had
dinner this today which was nice for a change. I also picked up my new
suits which was awesome.
Tuesday: Loving my new area so much! This morning we did our normal
routine and then we went over to a recent converts place for a new
member lesson. The relief society president was nice enough to come
with us to help us teach the lesson. Had Foodbank as usual which was
fun. We then rushed home to eat so we could pick Joe(a ward
missionary)up for a lesson with Vicente. Vicente has been progressing
very well and has really taken an interest in the gospel. He has a
baptism date still for May 28 and looks like he will make it to that
date no problem. We had dinner after that with some members at chick
filet. Went over to Lees for a lesson to help prepare him for his
baptism.
Wednesday: Had to wake up earlier than usual to drive to the North
Stake Center. We were having a huge mission conference with all the
missionaries in the mission. When we got there it was ridiculous how
many missionaries were there. Took a mission pick which was super cool
and then we met Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the twelve
apostles! Probably one of the coolest experiences of my mission! Never
thought he would come visit my mission. He spoke to all of us about
his mission and get a very detailed lesson on the Atonement. He just
walked up and down the chapel talking, teaching us about the
atonement. Very powerful talk and I loved it! There is an Elder
Ballard in my mission who looked super familiar and turns out his dad
was President Ballard, my old stake president when I first moved to
Minnesota. The rest of the day we visited some people, had dinner, and
visited some other people.
Thursday: This morning we had our normal routine, went to Brother
Donaldsons for breakfast and a ward mission meeting, and then the
Foodbank. After that we had a lesson with Vicente which went great!
Talk the Gospel of Jesus Christ and is still very much enjoying the
spirit he feels. Joe came to help with the lesson again which was
nice. After dinner we had a lesson with Lee that was pretty good,
showed him a video on the atonement, and did some last minute things
to prepare for his baptism. Then had a lesson with a new investigator
who is kinda crazy... He's fun to teach but kinda scary. Brought Joe
with us which was comforting.
Friday: Happy baptism day! This morning we did our normal routine and
then had weekly planning all day. That wasn't a very fun part of the
day, except it had to be done. After planning and everything we went
to the church to fill the font up and get everything ready for Lee's
baptism. We then had the baptism and it was great:) I had the
opportunity to baptize him and it was perfect. The spirit was so
strong I had the chills for like 5 minutes after and Lee said he felt
the same way. Amazing experience and I hope I get another opportunity
to do it.
Saturday: pretty boring day... We didn't do much except finding. We
did find a new investigator through a referral from some other
missionaries. His name is Ben and he's been taught by the missionaries
before and it's been about 2 years since he met with them. Excited to
start teaching him and see where things go. We also taught a 5 minute
teaching moment after a baptism of some other missionaries.
Sunday: Happy Sunday. I don't know if it's bad to say but I'm so glad
I only have 3 hours of church again. Having 6 hours is like déjà vu.
So glad I don't have to do that anymore. Church was really good, Lee
was confirmed a member of the church and given the gift of the Holy
Ghost. Had the opportunity to stand in the circle for that, it was
very spiritual and a happy moment for Lee. After church since my
parents will be on a cruise next week I got to Skype them today:)
super fun to see all their faces and talk with them for alittle.
This week I had the opportunity to baptize Lee. It was one of the most
spiritual moments of my life. Knowing that Lee is on a path that our
Heavenly Father wants us to be on and how important it was for him to
take the step of being baptized by the proper priesthood authority. So
glad we all have the opportunity to follow the gospel of Jesus Christ,
even if we didn't get a chance to on the earth, we will get a chance
to follow him in the spirit world. The temples are crucial for this to
work, we must all do family history work and go to the temple and do
their work. I don't get to do their work while I'm on my mission as
much as you all do! Work hard and get to the temple! Love you all!
Love,
Elder Smith
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Monday: Today was super busy and fun. This morning we went to Roy's to
do laundry and he made breakfast for everyone which was nice. We then
did all our shopping and stuff so we could then go bowling with the
district. That was tons of fun and we had a great time. I was super
close to beating Elder Wilstead who is really good at Bowling. We then
spent the rest of the pday hanging out at the church and talking. Had
dinner this today which was nice for a change. I also picked up my new
suits which was awesome.
Tuesday: Loving my new area so much! This morning we did our normal
routine and then we went over to a recent converts place for a new
member lesson. The relief society president was nice enough to come
with us to help us teach the lesson. Had Foodbank as usual which was
fun. We then rushed home to eat so we could pick Joe(a ward
missionary)up for a lesson with Vicente. Vicente has been progressing
very well and has really taken an interest in the gospel. He has a
baptism date still for May 28 and looks like he will make it to that
date no problem. We had dinner after that with some members at chick
filet. Went over to Lees for a lesson to help prepare him for his
baptism.
Wednesday: Had to wake up earlier than usual to drive to the North
Stake Center. We were having a huge mission conference with all the
missionaries in the mission. When we got there it was ridiculous how
many missionaries were there. Took a mission pick which was super cool
and then we met Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the twelve
apostles! Probably one of the coolest experiences of my mission! Never
thought he would come visit my mission. He spoke to all of us about
his mission and get a very detailed lesson on the Atonement. He just
walked up and down the chapel talking, teaching us about the
atonement. Very powerful talk and I loved it! There is an Elder
Ballard in my mission who looked super familiar and turns out his dad
was President Ballard, my old stake president when I first moved to
Minnesota. The rest of the day we visited some people, had dinner, and
visited some other people.
Thursday: This morning we had our normal routine, went to Brother
Donaldsons for breakfast and a ward mission meeting, and then the
Foodbank. After that we had a lesson with Vicente which went great!
Talk the Gospel of Jesus Christ and is still very much enjoying the
spirit he feels. Joe came to help with the lesson again which was
nice. After dinner we had a lesson with Lee that was pretty good,
showed him a video on the atonement, and did some last minute things
to prepare for his baptism. Then had a lesson with a new investigator
who is kinda crazy... He's fun to teach but kinda scary. Brought Joe
with us which was comforting.
Friday: Happy baptism day! This morning we did our normal routine and
then had weekly planning all day. That wasn't a very fun part of the
day, except it had to be done. After planning and everything we went
to the church to fill the font up and get everything ready for Lee's
baptism. We then had the baptism and it was great:) I had the
opportunity to baptize him and it was perfect. The spirit was so
strong I had the chills for like 5 minutes after and Lee said he felt
the same way. Amazing experience and I hope I get another opportunity
to do it.
Saturday: pretty boring day... We didn't do much except finding. We
did find a new investigator through a referral from some other
missionaries. His name is Ben and he's been taught by the missionaries
before and it's been about 2 years since he met with them. Excited to
start teaching him and see where things go. We also taught a 5 minute
teaching moment after a baptism of some other missionaries.
Sunday: Happy Sunday. I don't know if it's bad to say but I'm so glad
I only have 3 hours of church again. Having 6 hours is like déjà vu.
So glad I don't have to do that anymore. Church was really good, Lee
was confirmed a member of the church and given the gift of the Holy
Ghost. Had the opportunity to stand in the circle for that, it was
very spiritual and a happy moment for Lee. After church since my
parents will be on a cruise next week I got to Skype them today:)
super fun to see all their faces and talk with them for alittle.
This week I had the opportunity to baptize Lee. It was one of the most
spiritual moments of my life. Knowing that Lee is on a path that our
Heavenly Father wants us to be on and how important it was for him to
take the step of being baptized by the proper priesthood authority. So
glad we all have the opportunity to follow the gospel of Jesus Christ,
even if we didn't get a chance to on the earth, we will get a chance
to follow him in the spirit world. The temples are crucial for this to
work, we must all do family history work and go to the temple and do
their work. I don't get to do their work while I'm on my mission as
much as you all do! Work hard and get to the temple! Love you all!
Love,
Elder Smith
 |
| Lee's baptism--Ryan, Lee, and Elder Kapele |
 |
| Elder Smith and Lee |
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Week 36
AREA: Central Tucson
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Monday: Super busy day today... This morning we woke up and did our
normal routine. Went over to Roy's house to do laundry. So glad I
don't have to pay for laundry. While our stuff was being washed we
went shopping and stuff. Got my new suits measured and gunna pick them
up later. After that we went on a hike, sent some pictures of that
last week. After the hike we took care of some other things we had to
do then went back to work after dinner.
Tuesday: today was my 8 month mark. Pretty good day as well, this
morning we did our normal routine and then left for the food bank.
Food bank was a lot of fun as usual. After that we had interviews with
our mission president which was really fun. Learned a little more
about what we can do to help the work in our ward. We then went
through the huge list of potential investigators we have to try to
weed out the people who aren't interested in meeting with us. Sadly
most of the people are not real people. After it was too dark to cold
knock people's houses we stopped by our investigators Jonathan and
Jasmine's house. They were busy so we started to leave and then ran
into a guy from the martial islands named Nakki who said he had met
with the missionaries when he was living there. Scheduled an
appointment to go and visit him the next day.
Wednesday: Good day, district meeting and then we met up with the
Traveling Trainer Elder Judy so he could follow us around for a few
days to show us his ways. Really good missionary and I learned a lot
from him just the first day. While going to visit someone in a complex
we talked with them for awhile at their door and then talked with
someone else who was just sitting on the bench. I've always wanted to
talk with people who were just sitting there but was always afraid
too. Elder Judy knocked it out of us and we met Kat. Going over
tomorrow to share the restoration.
Thursday:Today was pretty amazing to be honest. This morning was
pretty normal, after all the normal stuff we went over to a recent
converts named Jodi to start new member lessons. The lesson went great
and the spirit was strong. I had an appointment with Dr. Johnson so we
drove down to Oro Valley, got some lunch, and then went to the
doctors. Went to go see Kat from yesterday and we couldn't find where
she lived. We think we might have been given the wrong information
sadly. We did a thing today called appointment with the lord which was
a lot of fun and really built my testimony on the power of the spirit.
What you do is set 30 min out of your day where you pray and go where
you feel you're directed to go. We ended up in front of a less actives
house where we went and talked to her and she invited us over that
evening. She brought her son and daughter in laws to listen to the
lesson. The lesson was great and the spirit was strong. We now have a
new investigator because of this experience.
Friday: Today was pretty great:) This morning was Lee's baptismal
interview:) he was found worthy to be baptized and he asked me to
baptize him:) Super excited to baptize my first concert baptism:) We
then had to go to Pep boys to get the brakes changed. That took
forever... We were literally there for about 3 hours. While we were
waiting we weekly planned. Got a lot out of our planning session even
though we didn't finish all the way. Elder Judy had a lot of tips on
how to help things with our investigators and ward. Judy went back to
the AP's apartment for the time being until he goes to another set of
missionaries place.
Saturday: This morning was pretty challenging. I haven't been sleeping
very well the past few days because I have a canker sore the size of
the sun and it hurts like crazy. This morning after studies we
finished the rest of weekly planning. We then went to our Ward mission
leaders house for a meeting which was okay... After that we went to
pick up Joe a recent convert to come out with us so that we could go
though the potential list and cut down how many people are on there.
Finished doing that and then went to dinner. After dinner we went to
go visit a investigator, she wasn't home but we ended up talking to a
guy sitting outside his apartment. Said to stop by anytime.
Sunday: Best day of the week:) Such an amazing day, it me and
Savannah's 1 year anniversary and she got me a present.church was
great as usual, Lee came to church with his two boys. Seems like he is
really starting to fit in with the ward and he's making friends. Some
random guy came into church today, something felt off about him
though... He didn't want to meet with us. Later found out he has been
known for going around to different wards and trying to get money from
the church. Super sad, it was exciting at first. After church we ate
lunch and took a quick nap. Joe the recent convert wasn't at church so
we went to his place to see what was up. He just slept in on accident.
We then asked him to come out with us again. We had a goal of making
it to 3 member presents and we thought we only had 1. We rushed over
to a potentials named Vicente, the guy we talked to outside his
apartment, taught him the restoration and invited him to be baptized.
He will be getting baptized may 28! Super exciting! We then saw that
Esmeralda was home so went up to there apartment and read scriptures
with them and set a return appointment.
Super amazing week and my testimony grew so much. This coming week Lee
will be getting baptized! He is taking a step closer to eternal
salvation. One day he will have the opportunity to be sealed with his
family for time and all eternity. Even in just the 3 weeks I have been
here I have seen the light of Christ come into his life and bring him
happiness he can't even explain. I love the light that this Gospel
brings into our lives. This light the gospel brings is for everyone
and our Heavenly Father has blessed us with it to be happier than we
can even comprehend. In Mosiah 2:41
41 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed
and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For
behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual;
and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into
heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of
never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are
true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.
Love you all!! Have a great week!
Love,
Elder Smith
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Monday: Super busy day today... This morning we woke up and did our
normal routine. Went over to Roy's house to do laundry. So glad I
don't have to pay for laundry. While our stuff was being washed we
went shopping and stuff. Got my new suits measured and gunna pick them
up later. After that we went on a hike, sent some pictures of that
last week. After the hike we took care of some other things we had to
do then went back to work after dinner.
Tuesday: today was my 8 month mark. Pretty good day as well, this
morning we did our normal routine and then left for the food bank.
Food bank was a lot of fun as usual. After that we had interviews with
our mission president which was really fun. Learned a little more
about what we can do to help the work in our ward. We then went
through the huge list of potential investigators we have to try to
weed out the people who aren't interested in meeting with us. Sadly
most of the people are not real people. After it was too dark to cold
knock people's houses we stopped by our investigators Jonathan and
Jasmine's house. They were busy so we started to leave and then ran
into a guy from the martial islands named Nakki who said he had met
with the missionaries when he was living there. Scheduled an
appointment to go and visit him the next day.
Wednesday: Good day, district meeting and then we met up with the
Traveling Trainer Elder Judy so he could follow us around for a few
days to show us his ways. Really good missionary and I learned a lot
from him just the first day. While going to visit someone in a complex
we talked with them for awhile at their door and then talked with
someone else who was just sitting on the bench. I've always wanted to
talk with people who were just sitting there but was always afraid
too. Elder Judy knocked it out of us and we met Kat. Going over
tomorrow to share the restoration.
Thursday:Today was pretty amazing to be honest. This morning was
pretty normal, after all the normal stuff we went over to a recent
converts named Jodi to start new member lessons. The lesson went great
and the spirit was strong. I had an appointment with Dr. Johnson so we
drove down to Oro Valley, got some lunch, and then went to the
doctors. Went to go see Kat from yesterday and we couldn't find where
she lived. We think we might have been given the wrong information
sadly. We did a thing today called appointment with the lord which was
a lot of fun and really built my testimony on the power of the spirit.
What you do is set 30 min out of your day where you pray and go where
you feel you're directed to go. We ended up in front of a less actives
house where we went and talked to her and she invited us over that
evening. She brought her son and daughter in laws to listen to the
lesson. The lesson was great and the spirit was strong. We now have a
new investigator because of this experience.
Friday: Today was pretty great:) This morning was Lee's baptismal
interview:) he was found worthy to be baptized and he asked me to
baptize him:) Super excited to baptize my first concert baptism:) We
then had to go to Pep boys to get the brakes changed. That took
forever... We were literally there for about 3 hours. While we were
waiting we weekly planned. Got a lot out of our planning session even
though we didn't finish all the way. Elder Judy had a lot of tips on
how to help things with our investigators and ward. Judy went back to
the AP's apartment for the time being until he goes to another set of
missionaries place.
Saturday: This morning was pretty challenging. I haven't been sleeping
very well the past few days because I have a canker sore the size of
the sun and it hurts like crazy. This morning after studies we
finished the rest of weekly planning. We then went to our Ward mission
leaders house for a meeting which was okay... After that we went to
pick up Joe a recent convert to come out with us so that we could go
though the potential list and cut down how many people are on there.
Finished doing that and then went to dinner. After dinner we went to
go visit a investigator, she wasn't home but we ended up talking to a
guy sitting outside his apartment. Said to stop by anytime.
Sunday: Best day of the week:) Such an amazing day, it me and
Savannah's 1 year anniversary and she got me a present.church was
great as usual, Lee came to church with his two boys. Seems like he is
really starting to fit in with the ward and he's making friends. Some
random guy came into church today, something felt off about him
though... He didn't want to meet with us. Later found out he has been
known for going around to different wards and trying to get money from
the church. Super sad, it was exciting at first. After church we ate
lunch and took a quick nap. Joe the recent convert wasn't at church so
we went to his place to see what was up. He just slept in on accident.
We then asked him to come out with us again. We had a goal of making
it to 3 member presents and we thought we only had 1. We rushed over
to a potentials named Vicente, the guy we talked to outside his
apartment, taught him the restoration and invited him to be baptized.
He will be getting baptized may 28! Super exciting! We then saw that
Esmeralda was home so went up to there apartment and read scriptures
with them and set a return appointment.
Super amazing week and my testimony grew so much. This coming week Lee
will be getting baptized! He is taking a step closer to eternal
salvation. One day he will have the opportunity to be sealed with his
family for time and all eternity. Even in just the 3 weeks I have been
here I have seen the light of Christ come into his life and bring him
happiness he can't even explain. I love the light that this Gospel
brings into our lives. This light the gospel brings is for everyone
and our Heavenly Father has blessed us with it to be happier than we
can even comprehend. In Mosiah 2:41
41 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed
and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For
behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual;
and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into
heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of
never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are
true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.
Love you all!! Have a great week!
Love,
Elder Smith
 |
| Planning session with Elders Judy and Kapele |
 |
| Progress on the Arizona Tucson Temple |
 | |
| Elder Judy blowing up his air mattress because he was staying with us for only 2 nights |
 |
| GoPro Selfie |
 |
| Lizard I caught on the hike |
 |
| Me and Kapele on the hike |
 |
| Lunch with the guys in my zone |
Wednesday, April 20, 2016
Week 35
AREA: Central Tucson
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Monday: Much needed Pday... Super tired from all the work from the
week before. Really good pday though. Got my guitar fixed, there was
some issues with my suit so I brought them to men's wearhouse and
they're replacing them for free:) After all the pday things we went to
the sister missionaries apartment to give one of the sisters a
blessing.
Tuesday: Today was Foodbank day, we did that for accouple hours, went
home, changed, and then went though a huge list of potential
investigators that we have. Today I bought a bike that another
missionary is selling. I'm not in a biking area but I could be in the
next coming transfers. Thought I would take advantage of the good
deal. Had a lesson with Lee today that went really well. Helping him
to prepare for his baptism on the 29th. He has an interview set up and
everything, it's really amazing to see the progress that he has made
in the short amount of time I've been here.
Wednesday: Temple trip #3. Was pretty amazing, you always get more out
of each temple trip you make. On the way to the temple we stopped at
the trailer to pick up some stuff I left and on the way back stopped
at Shannon's auto to get a tire leak patched. Had dinner at Roy's
where I cooked chicken again. Super funny, we fed some of the leftover
chicken to Roy's chickens. Really messed up but something about it was
extremely entertaining. Roy was nice enough to bring us out for frozen
yogurt. We then went to a lesson that didn't end up showing up... Went
home after that.
Thursday: I've been trying to get back into the habit of waking up and
working out in the morning and I finally did it! Woke up and went on a
1 mile run and then did some 7 min workout from this app I have. Did
all of our studies and then went to district meeting. Learned more
about obedience and the importance of it. Feel like I have been doing
pretty good with that, pretty proud of myself there. We then went to
the food bank and had a blast making boxes. The worker at the Foodbank
was pretty cool, his name is Travis, he isn't a member but I feel like
he could be one day... Seems like a good potential. Went to our Lee
with lesson and helped him prepare for his baptism more. Planning a
baptism is fun. Went and saw some more potentials, have a good lead,
his name is Hiram who said we could come back sometime. We were about
to head home for the night but instead Elder Kapele said we should go
see a part member family who ended up being home and we taught the
Plan of salvation and set a baptism date with Jason a 9 year old kid.
Great night.
Friday: Pretty good day today for weekly planning. This morning we
went on a run again and did a little workout. After doing our weekly
planning, since we share a ward with another set of Elders we met up
with them and went over our plans for the week. Went and visited some
people after that but sadly nobody was home.
Saturday: This morning we woke up, worked out, did studies, and were
able to visit a lot of the potential investigators on our list. Sadly
not a lot of people lived at the places the lead said or they were
interest but we are getting closer to finishing the list of people.
There was some people that we did meet with who were less active and
invited them too church and they came! It was great to see them at
church. We set up a meeting with the ward mission leader to discuss
the work in the ward. Things are getting better with him. Went to
Roy's to drop of a list of people he gave us and ended up eating at
his house again. Drove to a recent converts we have been trying to get
a hold of to find out she wasn't even available.
Sunday: Feels like I haven't taken the sacrament in a long time
because of General Conference and Stake Conference. Was weird to go
two weeks without it but a good experience at the same time. Makes you
more appreciative of it. After church we went home for lunch and then
went out to visit more potentials. Lee's wife Amber wasn't feeling
good so we went to their house to give her a blessing. Went to a
recent converts house who is a ward missionary leader and he talked
with us about some ideas of what we can do to get more investigators.
Things in the area are slowly starting to progress and I'm excited to
see where it goes.
Spiritual thought for today comes from the scripture Mathew 5:16
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good
works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
This week when we met with the recent convert Joe while talking about
ideas of how we can get more investigators and it was by doing just
this. Sometimes as missionaries we feel like what we say is more
important than the things we do. As servants of the Lord we are to be
as much like our savior as we can. We are representatives of Jesus
Christ. If we follow his example by not just teaching but serving
people and let our light shine forth before men, then we will be able
to more successful with the work. Doing this is not just important
when it comes to full time missionary work but to daily life in the
"real world". I invite you all to look for selfless acts of service
you can do this week and I promise you will be happy with the
blessings you receive from doing so. Love you all!
Have a great week!
Love,
Elder Smith
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Monday: Much needed Pday... Super tired from all the work from the
week before. Really good pday though. Got my guitar fixed, there was
some issues with my suit so I brought them to men's wearhouse and
they're replacing them for free:) After all the pday things we went to
the sister missionaries apartment to give one of the sisters a
blessing.
Tuesday: Today was Foodbank day, we did that for accouple hours, went
home, changed, and then went though a huge list of potential
investigators that we have. Today I bought a bike that another
missionary is selling. I'm not in a biking area but I could be in the
next coming transfers. Thought I would take advantage of the good
deal. Had a lesson with Lee today that went really well. Helping him
to prepare for his baptism on the 29th. He has an interview set up and
everything, it's really amazing to see the progress that he has made
in the short amount of time I've been here.
Wednesday: Temple trip #3. Was pretty amazing, you always get more out
of each temple trip you make. On the way to the temple we stopped at
the trailer to pick up some stuff I left and on the way back stopped
at Shannon's auto to get a tire leak patched. Had dinner at Roy's
where I cooked chicken again. Super funny, we fed some of the leftover
chicken to Roy's chickens. Really messed up but something about it was
extremely entertaining. Roy was nice enough to bring us out for frozen
yogurt. We then went to a lesson that didn't end up showing up... Went
home after that.
Thursday: I've been trying to get back into the habit of waking up and
working out in the morning and I finally did it! Woke up and went on a
1 mile run and then did some 7 min workout from this app I have. Did
all of our studies and then went to district meeting. Learned more
about obedience and the importance of it. Feel like I have been doing
pretty good with that, pretty proud of myself there. We then went to
the food bank and had a blast making boxes. The worker at the Foodbank
was pretty cool, his name is Travis, he isn't a member but I feel like
he could be one day... Seems like a good potential. Went to our Lee
with lesson and helped him prepare for his baptism more. Planning a
baptism is fun. Went and saw some more potentials, have a good lead,
his name is Hiram who said we could come back sometime. We were about
to head home for the night but instead Elder Kapele said we should go
see a part member family who ended up being home and we taught the
Plan of salvation and set a baptism date with Jason a 9 year old kid.
Great night.
Friday: Pretty good day today for weekly planning. This morning we
went on a run again and did a little workout. After doing our weekly
planning, since we share a ward with another set of Elders we met up
with them and went over our plans for the week. Went and visited some
people after that but sadly nobody was home.
Saturday: This morning we woke up, worked out, did studies, and were
able to visit a lot of the potential investigators on our list. Sadly
not a lot of people lived at the places the lead said or they were
interest but we are getting closer to finishing the list of people.
There was some people that we did meet with who were less active and
invited them too church and they came! It was great to see them at
church. We set up a meeting with the ward mission leader to discuss
the work in the ward. Things are getting better with him. Went to
Roy's to drop of a list of people he gave us and ended up eating at
his house again. Drove to a recent converts we have been trying to get
a hold of to find out she wasn't even available.
Sunday: Feels like I haven't taken the sacrament in a long time
because of General Conference and Stake Conference. Was weird to go
two weeks without it but a good experience at the same time. Makes you
more appreciative of it. After church we went home for lunch and then
went out to visit more potentials. Lee's wife Amber wasn't feeling
good so we went to their house to give her a blessing. Went to a
recent converts house who is a ward missionary leader and he talked
with us about some ideas of what we can do to get more investigators.
Things in the area are slowly starting to progress and I'm excited to
see where it goes.
Spiritual thought for today comes from the scripture Mathew 5:16
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good
works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
This week when we met with the recent convert Joe while talking about
ideas of how we can get more investigators and it was by doing just
this. Sometimes as missionaries we feel like what we say is more
important than the things we do. As servants of the Lord we are to be
as much like our savior as we can. We are representatives of Jesus
Christ. If we follow his example by not just teaching but serving
people and let our light shine forth before men, then we will be able
to more successful with the work. Doing this is not just important
when it comes to full time missionary work but to daily life in the
"real world". I invite you all to look for selfless acts of service
you can do this week and I promise you will be happy with the
blessings you receive from doing so. Love you all!
Have a great week!
Love,
Elder Smith
 |
| Went on a hike today, will tell you more about it next week. |
 |
| The desert landscape |
 |
| Elders Smith and Kapele at the temple |
Saturday, April 16, 2016
Week 34
AREA: Central Tucson
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Hello Family & Friends,
Monday: Didn't do a whole lot today... Spent most of the day packing
and getting ready for the transfer. Said goodbye to some people which
was fun. Said goodbye to the Al and Sandy which was sad:( Also Said
goodbye to Kristina, Richard, and Richie. That's pretty much all I
did...
Tuesday: Transfers was today... Finished up all my packing and then
went over to the church where the transfer was going to happen. Got to
the transfer sight way early so we decided to go say goodbye to
Brother Barney. Said goodbye then went to the transfer sight, got in
the van and sat in the van for like 4 hours going in a big circle...
Finally made it to Tucson and had a blast unpacking and making my new
apartment home.
Wednesday: First official day in the new area. Pretty awesome, zone
meeting was today which was fun. Got to meet the new zone and meet
some new people. After zone meeting we went out for lunch as a
district, went home to change, saw a member from the ward, had dinner,
and then we had a set lesson for 7:00 but they weren't home so we box
knocked around the house. That was a cool experience... Nobody wanted
to really talk to us but it was fun. We then met up with the other
missionaries that share the ward I'm in and had a lesson.
Thursday:Today was a really good service day. We went to the food bank
and were there for a long time. We helped move over 16,000 lbs of
food. After that we had lunch and then helped someone move. Had dinner
and then went to the ward missionaries house and had the most awkward
meeting ever... Just told us his expectations of us which was like
insanely high.
Friday: TODAY WAS AWESOME:) We spent most of the day weekly planning
which was great. As we talked about each person we were planning for
we prayed for each one individually. After weekly planning we had
dinner, oh my was that fun... The sister that fed us was very old and
doesn't know how to cook... Very appreciative of her feeding us
though. After dinner we went and tried to see some of the
investigators that we haven't seen in awhile and nobody was home.
Elder Kapele felt that we should go see Eric one of those
investigators. We get to his apartment and he wasn't home... As we
were walking back to the car we see a young couple moving into the
apartment complex so we offered to help them move in. Helped them move
in and ended up teaching them the Resotration! It was awesome! We are
going back on Wednesday to teach the plan of Salvation.
Saturday: Not as great of a day as yesterday... This morning we had a
lesson that was a complete failure... She dropped us hardcore so that
was fun... We then went to a baptism for the other set of missionaries
in our ward. The baptism was great except we had to give the 5 minute
teaching moment and the thing our ward mission leader talked about on
Wednesday was how we need to blow everyone away with the spirit with
our teaching... Not only was the ward mission leader there our mission
president was there. I was super nervous and so was Kapele and we did
a horrible job at our 5 minute teaching moment. The evening was not as
bad... We went to Roy's for dinner and I cooked everyone chicken, The
chicken was pretty good if you ask me. We had the adult session of
stake conference which was pretty good.
Sunday: Stake conference was today. We had an investigator at church
which was super exciting:) He brought 3 of his kids and they did a
pretty good job at staying calm. We did have to distract them a few
times... After conference we went home to eat lunch and took a lunch
nap. We then went and visited a bunch of potential investigators. The
list we have is huge and we're trying to figure out who is real and
who isn't. Got through a lot of them which was a bit of a relief.
Sadly none of the people had addresses that worked.
My spiritual thought this week is the power of the Restoration. No
matter how many times I teach and study the Restoration of the Gospel
of Jesus Christ I learn something new or have a different spiritual
moment. I know that God is our loving Heavenly Father and he blesses
us with families to learn and grow in the gospel. He blesses us with
prophets to lead and guide us. They communicate with our Heavenly
Father to know what we need to do to return to live with our Heavenly
Father. I know that through the Joseph Smith, Jesus Christ's church
was restored to the earth. I am so grateful for this Gospel and the
blessings that it has brought to my life. I love you all! Hope you
have a great week!
Love,
Elder Smith
COMPANION: Elder Kapele
Hello Family & Friends,
Monday: Didn't do a whole lot today... Spent most of the day packing
and getting ready for the transfer. Said goodbye to some people which
was fun. Said goodbye to the Al and Sandy which was sad:( Also Said
goodbye to Kristina, Richard, and Richie. That's pretty much all I
did...
Tuesday: Transfers was today... Finished up all my packing and then
went over to the church where the transfer was going to happen. Got to
the transfer sight way early so we decided to go say goodbye to
Brother Barney. Said goodbye then went to the transfer sight, got in
the van and sat in the van for like 4 hours going in a big circle...
Finally made it to Tucson and had a blast unpacking and making my new
apartment home.
Wednesday: First official day in the new area. Pretty awesome, zone
meeting was today which was fun. Got to meet the new zone and meet
some new people. After zone meeting we went out for lunch as a
district, went home to change, saw a member from the ward, had dinner,
and then we had a set lesson for 7:00 but they weren't home so we box
knocked around the house. That was a cool experience... Nobody wanted
to really talk to us but it was fun. We then met up with the other
missionaries that share the ward I'm in and had a lesson.
Thursday:Today was a really good service day. We went to the food bank
and were there for a long time. We helped move over 16,000 lbs of
food. After that we had lunch and then helped someone move. Had dinner
and then went to the ward missionaries house and had the most awkward
meeting ever... Just told us his expectations of us which was like
insanely high.
Friday: TODAY WAS AWESOME:) We spent most of the day weekly planning
which was great. As we talked about each person we were planning for
we prayed for each one individually. After weekly planning we had
dinner, oh my was that fun... The sister that fed us was very old and
doesn't know how to cook... Very appreciative of her feeding us
though. After dinner we went and tried to see some of the
investigators that we haven't seen in awhile and nobody was home.
Elder Kapele felt that we should go see Eric one of those
investigators. We get to his apartment and he wasn't home... As we
were walking back to the car we see a young couple moving into the
apartment complex so we offered to help them move in. Helped them move
in and ended up teaching them the Resotration! It was awesome! We are
going back on Wednesday to teach the plan of Salvation.
Saturday: Not as great of a day as yesterday... This morning we had a
lesson that was a complete failure... She dropped us hardcore so that
was fun... We then went to a baptism for the other set of missionaries
in our ward. The baptism was great except we had to give the 5 minute
teaching moment and the thing our ward mission leader talked about on
Wednesday was how we need to blow everyone away with the spirit with
our teaching... Not only was the ward mission leader there our mission
president was there. I was super nervous and so was Kapele and we did
a horrible job at our 5 minute teaching moment. The evening was not as
bad... We went to Roy's for dinner and I cooked everyone chicken, The
chicken was pretty good if you ask me. We had the adult session of
stake conference which was pretty good.
Sunday: Stake conference was today. We had an investigator at church
which was super exciting:) He brought 3 of his kids and they did a
pretty good job at staying calm. We did have to distract them a few
times... After conference we went home to eat lunch and took a lunch
nap. We then went and visited a bunch of potential investigators. The
list we have is huge and we're trying to figure out who is real and
who isn't. Got through a lot of them which was a bit of a relief.
Sadly none of the people had addresses that worked.
My spiritual thought this week is the power of the Restoration. No
matter how many times I teach and study the Restoration of the Gospel
of Jesus Christ I learn something new or have a different spiritual
moment. I know that God is our loving Heavenly Father and he blesses
us with families to learn and grow in the gospel. He blesses us with
prophets to lead and guide us. They communicate with our Heavenly
Father to know what we need to do to return to live with our Heavenly
Father. I know that through the Joseph Smith, Jesus Christ's church
was restored to the earth. I am so grateful for this Gospel and the
blessings that it has brought to my life. I love you all! Hope you
have a great week!
Love,
Elder Smith
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