This week went by quickly; I feel like time is speeding up, or at least the weeks are. It's hard to explain and to understand. Even for me.
We taught R. this week, we re-taught him about the Word of Wisdom because he didn't understand that giving up coffee is part of the bargain. It was amazing to watch the Spirit work within him, because at first his heart was hardened toward the idea of giving up his cup of coffee. He said, "The Word of Wisdom is obnoxious." (I can't remember the word he used, but it was something along those lines, as if the Word of Wisdom is asking too much). But by the end of the lesson, slowly but surely, his demeanor changed, and he WANTED to do it; he had the faith that he could try for at least a week. So that was cool. I am excited to see him be baptized. He is slow-moving, but it's because he wants to do things right. I know he is prepared, he just needs to act on his faith, because he believes everything he's learned. He just is having a hard time giving things up.
We also had a ward activity on Saturday that was a great success. We had 7 investigators show up! The activity was initially meant for in-actives, but only one of the less active families showed up. But we still had a lot of fun, and all the investigators that showed up LOVED it. M., one of which, even said that she feels like she's "among family," in the Church. And for good reason, too, because her brother, P., just got baptized, and a lot of her extended family are members in the U.S. I really want M. and her daughter O. and her sons J. and J.(who just so happens to be J.'s oldest child), to be baptized. And they will eventually. We've got the Lord's angels working with us in this family on both sides of the veil.
Yesterday, Sunday, was the best day of the week for me. We had 3 surprise visitors there in our Sacrament Meeting: President Smartt showed up with his family, the Stake President, and the Area 70, President Anderson. I'm not sure why they came to the Pontezuela ward, but it was really special because J. was confirmed. He felt really special that the President came, too, since he had conducted his baptismal interview, and when he learned who the other two men are, he was really humbled. I don't exactly think they were there for that, but still.
I loved seeing J. receive the Holy Ghost. It's weird. You feel for your investigators what a parent must feel for their kid. I'm sure that it's not exactly the same, but the love I feel for these people is something so different and so special. I love watching these people change their lives for what they know is true. J's mom, A., shared an experience with me yesterday, too, she said that J. had gone out with some friends, but he came back and said he didn't drink any of the alcohol there because he had made covenants with God. When she told me that, I couldn't even contain my joy! My little seedling has grown so much in the past little month, and especially since his baptism a week ago! I'm so proud of him! :)
Speaking of A. (J's Mom), though, I am SO excited for her! She is an incredible woman. I don't know what it is about J. and all of his extended family, but I feel like they're all being prepared by the hand of the Lord, and it's amazing. There definitely are not any coincidences in this work. I love seeing the Lord's hand in it all, too! It's amazing! The Lord has a purpose in this family and I am very excited about it. I'm just glad Hermana Gutierrez and I got to get the ball rolling. We taught her the Restoration yesterday, and she's got a baptismal date for the 11th of August. I dunno if it'll happen because we can only meet with her once a week, but we'll see what we can do. President Smartt said that J. could baptize her, too! So that'd be super special.
I'll answer your questions now. Thanks so much for writing to me!
First of all, about Carmen's family. I'm really disappointed that the missionaries in Levittown haven't contacted M. yet. She is a super nice lady, and I'll be sure to give her a call today. I'll call the missionaries, too. I don't think I'm technically supposed to, but I don't think the Zone Leaders got the information to them because we were right in the middle of transfers and things were crazy since President decided to change everything up. He even picked new assistants. So everyone was all over the place for a good week and a half. But if Carmen wants to send the directions to all her family she wants visited, I can get missionaries to them for her. And in a few weeks I'll know if I'm being moved or not, too, so I can keep one of the references if I just so happen to be moved to one of those areas. I wrote the areas down, too, so I'll keep her family in mind. She's so great! Thank her for me, k?
My exact area is Carolina. (Pontezuela is a little pueblo within it).
I remember Delton. He bought me and Rachel stuffed animals at one of the family reunions in Idaho. I named the stuffed animal he gave me after him. Thank goodness for the Plan of Salvation and the peace that comes from knowing where we go after this life. I love this Gospel!
And I'm SO excited for Madeline to get married to the man of her dreams tomorrow! Congratulate her for me. I wish I could be there! I got her wedding invitation last week and haven't been able to stop thinking about her! The picture was beautiful and I am so excited! I wish her and Tyler the happiest marriage ever! I look forward to the pictures you will be sending me of the reception :) I wish I could go to the sealing! I'm so sad to be missing out on it. Oh, but Dad, I ate a donut to make me feel better. So no worries! Hehehe.
ALSO! Yesterday, Hna. G and I were out and about contacting, and someone's front door was wide open, and they were watching LITTLE HOUSE! I chuckled to myself. Oh how I miss it. :) I guess we'll see what happens when Christmas comes around... Hint hint.
Well anywho, that's just about all I've got to say. Thanks so much for everything and keeping me updated about stuff. It's nice. And thanks for all the pictures, too!
I love you all so much. Keep being amazing and progressing in the Lord!
I'll be sending pictures in another email. Peace out!
-Hermana Erickson
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
#19 [Pontezuela - 17] July 22nd, 2013
Hi fam bam!
So obviously, this was a big week for us as J was baptized this past Sunday. It was a really great day, a little stressful since it was my very first baptism ever, but it went well. I am so excited that J got baptized, and I know he's going to be a big blessing for the ward.
Yesterday, after Church, we had a meeting with the ward council, where we presented some of our ideas. Our ward is really struggling. First of all, their ward mission plan is 3 years old, and almost all the baptisms they had within the past year are inactive now. The retention rate in this ward is zero to none, and so we found the root of the problem: we don't have ward missionaries! We don't even have enough active members right now to call any either. All of the active members in the ward have 2 or 3 callings within the ward already. SO we came up with a new home teaching plan, where all the priesthood will be re-teaching lessons to the recent converts so they understand the doctrine. I love the quote in Preach My Gospel which says "True doctrine, when understood, changes behavior." And it's so true. If all the ward members (recent converts, actives, and less active members) truly understood the doctrine, this ward would still be one of the strongest ones on the island. I don't know what changed, because this ward used to have about 90-100 active members weekly, but that was years ago. We've got about 30 members who attend weekly now on average. So we're going to try to fix things. There's lots of work to do here, and I'm excited about the new changes in home teaching. Hopefully all the ward members will be willing to implement them.
Our next baptism will hopefully be with our investigator named R. He's come to Church twice now, but is scared to give up his Church; he still goes to Sunday Mass every Sunday morning before our service. He's committed to a baptismal date, too, but he thinks that being baptized so soon is premature, since he still doesn’t feel like he knows enough yet. Hopefully he can settle his doubts this week.
About Carmen's family: they live outside of my area, BUT I gave all their information to the sisters who live over there in Levittown. I did call Maria, though, and she was super nice. I was sad I wouldn't be able to meet her. Hopefully I'll get transferred over there at some point! Tell Carmen thank you so much!
Speaking of journals: I bought a new one cuz I filled up the one I'd brought from home. So that's one of the reasons I spent so much money last week.
Thanks for keeping me updated with all the Facebook news.
We had a super cool thing happen this week. So J (the guy who got baptized on Sunday) has a son who lives in the area with his mom, and we got a reference from the Carolina Elders last Sunday in his area. We went to the apartment buildings, and right outside our car was J's son, J. He remembered/recognized us, and said he'd help us find the apartment we were looking for. Well, to make a long story short, we had been referred to HIS family, and HIS apartment, because his Mom's uncle or something is a member of the Carolina ward, and they had attended Church there last Sunday and loved it and wanted us to come teach them! There are no coincidences in the Lord's work, and it was cool to know that they were the family we were looking for when we've been teaching J these past few weeks. THE CHURCH IS TRUE! The Lord definitely does work in His vineyard with His servants. (Jacob 5).
Tell Josh that I'm proud that he's working his tail off. Maybe I'll work there with him when I get back. Jokes :) Hope he has fun at EFY this week.
This past week, we had a mini hurricane. It rained ALL day, and the roads were flooded. I took pictures. It was insane! I can't even imagine what it'll be like when a REAL hurricane hits, cuz apparently, this was nothing. Just lots of water, thunder, and intense lightning. It was exciting.
I dunno if you ever received a picture message from my Mission President, but we were with him on Friday night because he interviewed Joe for his baptismal interview. He took a picture of us and said he'd send it to you, Mom, and I gave him my old phone number. I almost couldn't remember it. But hopefully you got that. If not, oh well. Someone else probably did. :)
I got to go to a wedding with Hna. Butler (Hna. Esquen's new companion). The wedding was Saturday night, and it was one of Hna. Butler's former investigators getting married, so they could get baptized. It was a lot of fun, and it made me want to get married. Maybe I'll come home...? Hehe jokes. (Mom, Dad, don't have a heart attack.) :) No matter how much I'd like to, I’m not ready (to get married) yet. But wow, the wedding was so cute! I'm so sad I'll be missing Madeline's! You guys need to go and eat lots of food! Take pictures, too, k?
Well anywho, I love you lots, and that's about all I've got to say. Thank you for everything you have done for me and continue to do for me on a daily basis. Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for being active members in the Church. I love this Gospel and I know the Church is true. I LOVE YOU!
-Hermana Erickson
So obviously, this was a big week for us as J was baptized this past Sunday. It was a really great day, a little stressful since it was my very first baptism ever, but it went well. I am so excited that J got baptized, and I know he's going to be a big blessing for the ward.
Our next baptism will hopefully be with our investigator named R. He's come to Church twice now, but is scared to give up his Church; he still goes to Sunday Mass every Sunday morning before our service. He's committed to a baptismal date, too, but he thinks that being baptized so soon is premature, since he still doesn’t feel like he knows enough yet. Hopefully he can settle his doubts this week.
About Carmen's family: they live outside of my area, BUT I gave all their information to the sisters who live over there in Levittown. I did call Maria, though, and she was super nice. I was sad I wouldn't be able to meet her. Hopefully I'll get transferred over there at some point! Tell Carmen thank you so much!
Speaking of journals: I bought a new one cuz I filled up the one I'd brought from home. So that's one of the reasons I spent so much money last week.
Thanks for keeping me updated with all the Facebook news.
We had a super cool thing happen this week. So J (the guy who got baptized on Sunday) has a son who lives in the area with his mom, and we got a reference from the Carolina Elders last Sunday in his area. We went to the apartment buildings, and right outside our car was J's son, J. He remembered/recognized us, and said he'd help us find the apartment we were looking for. Well, to make a long story short, we had been referred to HIS family, and HIS apartment, because his Mom's uncle or something is a member of the Carolina ward, and they had attended Church there last Sunday and loved it and wanted us to come teach them! There are no coincidences in the Lord's work, and it was cool to know that they were the family we were looking for when we've been teaching J these past few weeks. THE CHURCH IS TRUE! The Lord definitely does work in His vineyard with His servants. (Jacob 5).
This past week, we had a mini hurricane. It rained ALL day, and the roads were flooded. I took pictures. It was insane! I can't even imagine what it'll be like when a REAL hurricane hits, cuz apparently, this was nothing. Just lots of water, thunder, and intense lightning. It was exciting.
I dunno if you ever received a picture message from my Mission President, but we were with him on Friday night because he interviewed Joe for his baptismal interview. He took a picture of us and said he'd send it to you, Mom, and I gave him my old phone number. I almost couldn't remember it. But hopefully you got that. If not, oh well. Someone else probably did. :)
I got to go to a wedding with Hna. Butler (Hna. Esquen's new companion). The wedding was Saturday night, and it was one of Hna. Butler's former investigators getting married, so they could get baptized. It was a lot of fun, and it made me want to get married. Maybe I'll come home...? Hehe jokes. (Mom, Dad, don't have a heart attack.) :) No matter how much I'd like to, I’m not ready (to get married) yet. But wow, the wedding was so cute! I'm so sad I'll be missing Madeline's! You guys need to go and eat lots of food! Take pictures, too, k?
Well anywho, I love you lots, and that's about all I've got to say. Thank you for everything you have done for me and continue to do for me on a daily basis. Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for being active members in the Church. I love this Gospel and I know the Church is true. I LOVE YOU!
-Hermana Erickson
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
#18 [Pontezuela - 16] July 15th, 2013
Okay, I’m going to be super fast because we don’t have ANY time today. I’m sorry for that, but here’s the biggest news:
We have a baptism this weekend; my very first one!! His name is J. and he is so awesome! I am so excited for him to be baptized and am so thankful to my Heavenly Father we found him! We contacted him while looking for his mom one day, cuz we’d contacted her in the street, but when we got to her house, she wasn’t there, but he was, and so we talked to him. He was really interested in the Book of Mormon, and invited us over two days later to talk more about it and to share the Gospel with him. He’s never been baptized, and he’s really excited to make his very first covenant with God. He loves Church, and is excited to serve. We taught him about callings in the church yesterday, and he was excited to receive one after his baptism! He really is so awesome and it’s been really cool to see him change his life. He doesn’t smoke, or drink, or drink coffee or tea, so it’s insane how easily he accepted all of the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. He was definitely prepared by the Lord. You could say he was already a member, he just hadn’t found his religion yet.
We had a weird thing happen this week, Pres. Smartt called and transferred Hna. Brotherson, and she’ll be serving in Mayaguez with my trainer, Hna. Flores. I’m not sure why they did transfers early, but I’m excited to be working in a three-some this week with Hermana G.and Hermana E. It’ll be a great learning experience. I’ll be working with Hna. G. for another six weeks, too. I’m thankful for her and am learning a lot.
Well, anywho, I didn’t have time to read your email, but I love you and hope all is well!
BYE!
-Hna Erickson
We have a baptism this weekend; my very first one!! His name is J. and he is so awesome! I am so excited for him to be baptized and am so thankful to my Heavenly Father we found him! We contacted him while looking for his mom one day, cuz we’d contacted her in the street, but when we got to her house, she wasn’t there, but he was, and so we talked to him. He was really interested in the Book of Mormon, and invited us over two days later to talk more about it and to share the Gospel with him. He’s never been baptized, and he’s really excited to make his very first covenant with God. He loves Church, and is excited to serve. We taught him about callings in the church yesterday, and he was excited to receive one after his baptism! He really is so awesome and it’s been really cool to see him change his life. He doesn’t smoke, or drink, or drink coffee or tea, so it’s insane how easily he accepted all of the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. He was definitely prepared by the Lord. You could say he was already a member, he just hadn’t found his religion yet.
We had a weird thing happen this week, Pres. Smartt called and transferred Hna. Brotherson, and she’ll be serving in Mayaguez with my trainer, Hna. Flores. I’m not sure why they did transfers early, but I’m excited to be working in a three-some this week with Hermana G.and Hermana E. It’ll be a great learning experience. I’ll be working with Hna. G. for another six weeks, too. I’m thankful for her and am learning a lot.
Well, anywho, I didn’t have time to read your email, but I love you and hope all is well!
BYE!
-Hna Erickson
Saturday, July 13, 2013
#17 [Pontezuela - 15] July 8th, 2013
THIS WEEK WAS AWFUL!
Jokes! This week was actually one of the best ones I've had in a very long time. So lemme tell you about it! We had a week full of miracles and it was absolutely amazing!
The first miracle we saw this week is named R. Hna G. and I contacted him within her first week here, and we taught him a resumed version of the Restoration and gave him a Book of Mormon. He said he is already a member of a different church, but that he'd read the book and that he was excited about it. It'd been a few weeks since we'd gone to see him since the first visit, so we went to his house a week ago and set up an appointment with him and asked how his reading was going. He said he'd been reading the book, and we set up an appointment for Monday.
When we taught him on Monday, it was amazing because the Spirit was so strong. He didn't agree to come to Church with us on Sunday, because he said that his cousin is the pastor in his church, but that he'd like to try it out someday. But honestly, we didn't think he'd progress at all. Then, on Thursday, out of the blue, we got a phone call during companionship study. It was HIM!
HE CALLED US TO ASK US FOR A RIDE TO CHURCH ON SUNDAY! WHO DOES THAT!?!? Definitely not anyone I've ever met here in Puerto Rico. It was seriously so unexpected, and such a wonderful surprise. But I'll write about what happened on Sunday later, to keep you in suspense and what not... :)
Investigator #2: A. We contacted her one afternoon and she let us in to teach. So we taught her the Restoration, and she really loved it. We've been teaching her twice a week, but she hasn't come to Church yet since she goes with her daughter to a different one every week. But we suggested doing a tour of the chapel, and she loved the idea. So we went over to her house one afternoon and took her to the chapel, where we showed her everything: the chapel, the baptismal font, the classrooms, the Relief Society room. She felt the Spirit so strongly, and so did we. We prayed and sang a hymn in the chapel. It was unlike anything I've ever experienced before, and then we taught the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She committed to be baptized July 28th! She's SO excited to be a member of the Church and I can't wait for her to attend Church next Sunday!
Okay, Investigator #3: His name is J. This past week, we taught him twice, too. J. is super cool. We found him through his mom, who we'd initially intended on teaching, but then when we went over to her house randomly one day, we found him instead, and gave him a Book of Mormon. He was amazed to find out that there were prophets in the ancient Americas. He agreed to another appointment. Well anyway, long story short, he's got a baptismal date for the 21st, and he is SUPER excited to be a member of the Church, too. He's never been baptized, even though he was raised as a Catholic/Evangelicalist. He's very smart, and loves learning about the Gospel. We taught him the ten commandments last night, and he said, "That was easy. Teach me something that's going to be difficult." I thought, "Just wait till we teach you about the Word of Wisdom and the Law of Chastity, then." Hehehe... BUT anywho, I'm just so excited to see him change his life! He's already an awesome person, and the Gospel is just making him even more awesome!
Okay, so now, the good news! Sunday! R. came to Church and loved it! He felt so much peace! We have an appointment with him on Tuesday, and we're planning to extend a baptismal date. J. came as well, and brought his 9 year-old son along, too! So that was an unexpected surprise. But it was an amazing Fast and Testimony meeting, too. Just a very special meeting all in all.
Then, after Church, we had a lesson with a new investigator named O. At first, he said, "I don't have a lot of time right now, but you guys can come in for a half hour." So we went in and ended up teaching him TWO lessons! The Spirit was so strong, and I don't even know how it happened, but then, BAM! ANOTHER BAPTISMAL DATE. July 28th is when he wanted to do it. I've never seen someone accept the Gospel so easily. But for him, he just kept saying, "It makes sense," and all this stuff, and "Now I understand!" It was just really awesome. I am really excited to see how far he progresses within the next few weeks.
But yeah, it was pretty much a super awesome week and I'm so excited to see what will happen in the next month.
Okay, now I will write you all back!
Heather: Thanks for your update about EFY! I didn't read through all of it yet, but if I finish this email in time, I'll be sure to read it! I'm glad you had such a good time. EFY is such a fun experience. And way to go on your first French braid! It looked awesome!
I DIED laughing here in the computer lab because of the photo-shopped picture of me with the Wardies. (Madeline, Ashlyn, Chel, and Tor). I love them! I've been having super weird dreams about Madeline's wedding. I'm sad I'll be missing it! But I'm so excited for her! To my dear friends: YOU ALL LOOK BEAUTIFUL AND I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Be sure to send me pictures from your iPad of the wedding and all, k? I wanna see the dress and the ring! AND EVERYTHING! :) Such an exciting time!
Still no sign of the scripture covers yet. I haven't been to the office to see if I got any packages or any mail for like, two weeks. So who knows.
I also almost died laughing again when I saw the GOODBYE LITTLE HOUSE ice cream cake. I'm glad you took my advice! Hopefully Santa will bring all 10 seasons (or however many there are) for Christmas... :)
AWW! Missionaries knocked on our door? That's precious! Where were they from? I'll bet it'd be hard to work in Utah.
I haven't been able to contact any of Carmen's family yet, but now that you've sent me the valid number, I'll try again and let you know how it goes! We'll do it tomorrow!
To answer your question, yes we got to meet the new mission President. PRESIDENT SMARTT! We met him and his family on Tuesday at a last-minute meeting. They are a super young family, their oldest daughter is 12. She reminded me of Heather. I admire them a lot; I can't even imagine how hard it'd be to pick up your family and leave. Leaving by yourself is hard enough, but taking 3 other people with you, two of whom being so young, that would be difficult. AND learning a new language. Sis. Smartt was so cute, she'd written her talk in Spanish and could hardly pronounce a thing, but she tried. I admire them so much and can't wait to get to know them more. They are amazing people and I have a lot of respect for them.
Well anyway, wow. I just feel like I wrote so much! It was a week of amazing miracles that I know only God performed. For the past three months, I've had such a hard time, but wow, the Lord DOES answer prayers, and He DOES comfort us right when we need it. The trials He gives us truly are for our benefit. I love the Lord so much and I love this work. It is incredible how the Spirit can soften people's hearts. THIS IS SO AWESOME!
And now, since I can, I will share some of the scriptures I read today, and I did LIKEN them unto myself... :)
Alma 38:2 And now, MY DAUGHTER, I trust that I shall have great joy in you, because of your steadiness and your faithfulness unto God; for as you have commenced in your youth to look to the Lord your God, even so I hope that you will continue in keeping his commandments; for blessed is he that endureth to the end.
Alma 38:3 I say unto you, MY DAUGHTER, that I have had great joy in thee already, because of thy faithfulness and thy diligence, and thy patience and thy long-suffering among the PUERTO RICANS.
Alma 38:5 And now MY DAUGHTER, MARISSA, I would that ye should remember, that as much as ye shall put your trust in God even so much ye shall be delivered out of your trials, and your troubles, and your afflictions, and ye shall be lifted up at the last day.
Alma 38:10 And now, as ye have begun to teach the word even so I would that ye should continue to teach; and I would that ye would be diligent and temperate in all things.
Alma 38:11 See that ye are not lifted up unto pride; yea, see that ye do not boast in your own wisdom, nor of your much strength.
Alma 38:12 Use boldness, but not overbearance; and also see that ye bridle all your passions, that ye may be filled with love; see that ye refrain from idleness.
I just love the scriptures. :)
I love you and miss you a lot. Thank you for everything you do for me! Keep being awesome! I LOVE YOU!
-Hermana Erickson
Jokes! This week was actually one of the best ones I've had in a very long time. So lemme tell you about it! We had a week full of miracles and it was absolutely amazing!
The first miracle we saw this week is named R. Hna G. and I contacted him within her first week here, and we taught him a resumed version of the Restoration and gave him a Book of Mormon. He said he is already a member of a different church, but that he'd read the book and that he was excited about it. It'd been a few weeks since we'd gone to see him since the first visit, so we went to his house a week ago and set up an appointment with him and asked how his reading was going. He said he'd been reading the book, and we set up an appointment for Monday.
When we taught him on Monday, it was amazing because the Spirit was so strong. He didn't agree to come to Church with us on Sunday, because he said that his cousin is the pastor in his church, but that he'd like to try it out someday. But honestly, we didn't think he'd progress at all. Then, on Thursday, out of the blue, we got a phone call during companionship study. It was HIM!
HE CALLED US TO ASK US FOR A RIDE TO CHURCH ON SUNDAY! WHO DOES THAT!?!? Definitely not anyone I've ever met here in Puerto Rico. It was seriously so unexpected, and such a wonderful surprise. But I'll write about what happened on Sunday later, to keep you in suspense and what not... :)
Investigator #2: A. We contacted her one afternoon and she let us in to teach. So we taught her the Restoration, and she really loved it. We've been teaching her twice a week, but she hasn't come to Church yet since she goes with her daughter to a different one every week. But we suggested doing a tour of the chapel, and she loved the idea. So we went over to her house one afternoon and took her to the chapel, where we showed her everything: the chapel, the baptismal font, the classrooms, the Relief Society room. She felt the Spirit so strongly, and so did we. We prayed and sang a hymn in the chapel. It was unlike anything I've ever experienced before, and then we taught the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She committed to be baptized July 28th! She's SO excited to be a member of the Church and I can't wait for her to attend Church next Sunday!
Okay, Investigator #3: His name is J. This past week, we taught him twice, too. J. is super cool. We found him through his mom, who we'd initially intended on teaching, but then when we went over to her house randomly one day, we found him instead, and gave him a Book of Mormon. He was amazed to find out that there were prophets in the ancient Americas. He agreed to another appointment. Well anyway, long story short, he's got a baptismal date for the 21st, and he is SUPER excited to be a member of the Church, too. He's never been baptized, even though he was raised as a Catholic/Evangelicalist. He's very smart, and loves learning about the Gospel. We taught him the ten commandments last night, and he said, "That was easy. Teach me something that's going to be difficult." I thought, "Just wait till we teach you about the Word of Wisdom and the Law of Chastity, then." Hehehe... BUT anywho, I'm just so excited to see him change his life! He's already an awesome person, and the Gospel is just making him even more awesome!
Okay, so now, the good news! Sunday! R. came to Church and loved it! He felt so much peace! We have an appointment with him on Tuesday, and we're planning to extend a baptismal date. J. came as well, and brought his 9 year-old son along, too! So that was an unexpected surprise. But it was an amazing Fast and Testimony meeting, too. Just a very special meeting all in all.
Then, after Church, we had a lesson with a new investigator named O. At first, he said, "I don't have a lot of time right now, but you guys can come in for a half hour." So we went in and ended up teaching him TWO lessons! The Spirit was so strong, and I don't even know how it happened, but then, BAM! ANOTHER BAPTISMAL DATE. July 28th is when he wanted to do it. I've never seen someone accept the Gospel so easily. But for him, he just kept saying, "It makes sense," and all this stuff, and "Now I understand!" It was just really awesome. I am really excited to see how far he progresses within the next few weeks.
But yeah, it was pretty much a super awesome week and I'm so excited to see what will happen in the next month.
Okay, now I will write you all back!
Heather: Thanks for your update about EFY! I didn't read through all of it yet, but if I finish this email in time, I'll be sure to read it! I'm glad you had such a good time. EFY is such a fun experience. And way to go on your first French braid! It looked awesome!
I DIED laughing here in the computer lab because of the photo-shopped picture of me with the Wardies. (Madeline, Ashlyn, Chel, and Tor). I love them! I've been having super weird dreams about Madeline's wedding. I'm sad I'll be missing it! But I'm so excited for her! To my dear friends: YOU ALL LOOK BEAUTIFUL AND I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Be sure to send me pictures from your iPad of the wedding and all, k? I wanna see the dress and the ring! AND EVERYTHING! :) Such an exciting time!
Still no sign of the scripture covers yet. I haven't been to the office to see if I got any packages or any mail for like, two weeks. So who knows.
I also almost died laughing again when I saw the GOODBYE LITTLE HOUSE ice cream cake. I'm glad you took my advice! Hopefully Santa will bring all 10 seasons (or however many there are) for Christmas... :)
AWW! Missionaries knocked on our door? That's precious! Where were they from? I'll bet it'd be hard to work in Utah.
I haven't been able to contact any of Carmen's family yet, but now that you've sent me the valid number, I'll try again and let you know how it goes! We'll do it tomorrow!
To answer your question, yes we got to meet the new mission President. PRESIDENT SMARTT! We met him and his family on Tuesday at a last-minute meeting. They are a super young family, their oldest daughter is 12. She reminded me of Heather. I admire them a lot; I can't even imagine how hard it'd be to pick up your family and leave. Leaving by yourself is hard enough, but taking 3 other people with you, two of whom being so young, that would be difficult. AND learning a new language. Sis. Smartt was so cute, she'd written her talk in Spanish and could hardly pronounce a thing, but she tried. I admire them so much and can't wait to get to know them more. They are amazing people and I have a lot of respect for them.
Well anyway, wow. I just feel like I wrote so much! It was a week of amazing miracles that I know only God performed. For the past three months, I've had such a hard time, but wow, the Lord DOES answer prayers, and He DOES comfort us right when we need it. The trials He gives us truly are for our benefit. I love the Lord so much and I love this work. It is incredible how the Spirit can soften people's hearts. THIS IS SO AWESOME!
And now, since I can, I will share some of the scriptures I read today, and I did LIKEN them unto myself... :)
Alma 38:2 And now, MY DAUGHTER, I trust that I shall have great joy in you, because of your steadiness and your faithfulness unto God; for as you have commenced in your youth to look to the Lord your God, even so I hope that you will continue in keeping his commandments; for blessed is he that endureth to the end.
Alma 38:3 I say unto you, MY DAUGHTER, that I have had great joy in thee already, because of thy faithfulness and thy diligence, and thy patience and thy long-suffering among the PUERTO RICANS.
Alma 38:5 And now MY DAUGHTER, MARISSA, I would that ye should remember, that as much as ye shall put your trust in God even so much ye shall be delivered out of your trials, and your troubles, and your afflictions, and ye shall be lifted up at the last day.
Alma 38:10 And now, as ye have begun to teach the word even so I would that ye should continue to teach; and I would that ye would be diligent and temperate in all things.
Alma 38:11 See that ye are not lifted up unto pride; yea, see that ye do not boast in your own wisdom, nor of your much strength.
Alma 38:12 Use boldness, but not overbearance; and also see that ye bridle all your passions, that ye may be filled with love; see that ye refrain from idleness.
I just love the scriptures. :)
I love you and miss you a lot. Thank you for everything you do for me! Keep being awesome! I LOVE YOU!
-Hermana Erickson
Friday, July 12, 2013
#16 [Pontezuela - 14] July 1st, 2013
Hello, Erickson fambly!
Usually, I write to the Mission President first before beginning my letter to you guys, but I dunno, seeing as we got a new Mission President, it's weird because I haven't met him yet. President Smartt got here yesterday afternoon. We will get to meet him tomorrow at 10 a.m. in the office in Bayamon. It's going to be strange, but I am excited, too, because I know he is just what Puerto Rico needs right now. I will miss President Alvarado, and I am thankful for his service.
So I'll reply to your email! What an exciting week you all had! Thank you, Dad, for keeping me informed in such great detail! It's always fun to read about everything happening at home, and I always find myself giggling at what you say.
First of all: JOSH! Congrats on getting your job! That's so awesome! I'm glad you're not playing video games all day! And you can make some money! Hurray! I'm just so proud of you! I've got a little brother in uniform!
Jeff, you should probably shave. That's disgusting. I hope you're feeling better, though. Don't die, okay? Did you guys find out what he had?
Thanks for the scripture cases, too. Hopefully those will arrive this week. When we went shopping today all I could find were Bible cases with crosses all over them. Those wouldn't do. So thanks a bunch! I don't care what color they are, either. But thanks!
HURRAY FOR DISNEYLAND! Do you know when you guys will be going? Dad, you need to practice on sounding excited! I know you've won dozens of times, but still. Think about the losers and how sad they feel, and just be glad you aren't one of them this time! That should make you excited! ;) Hehehe
That's great that Jacob could stop by and get his stuff! Thanks for visiting with him! He's so awesome.
Dad, congrats, again, on your 14-year anniversary with Financial Fusion! You should celebrate with cake!
Mom, I miss hearing from you. You should write more. Stop being so involved in Jake's life. Jokes! I'm glad you're magnifying your calling, Mom! It'll make all the difference in Jake's life to know you were there for him.
So I'll answer your questions:
Best part of the week: Me and Hna. G. got lunch at McD's this week because we just wanted to, and I had a KitKat McFlurry, and it is officially my go-to dessert. Super good. Caramel, vanilla ice cream, and KitKat pieces. I don't even like McD's! But they did that one right, that's for sure. I feel like we've been eating out a lot lately, which is probably true, but don't judge me.
Best/worst food: Speaking of food... :) We went over to a member's house on Sunday evening and had dinner there. Angel, a 19 year-old young man, is leaving on his mission on Wednesday to Idaho, and he'll be entering the Provo MTC, made us dinner! It was super good. We don't eat at members houses often, but it was super good. None of the food here is complicated, but it's super flavorful, and I love it and have no idea how they make the beans taste so good, or how they cook the rice so perfectly, but it's always yummy and I eat a lot. :)
Funniest thing that happened: Hna G. is really clumsy. I think I've told you that before. She just does all these little awkward things, I can't really pinpoint a specific time within the week where it was hilarious, but there's always something every day that she does that's just so awkward, you just have to laugh.
We found a coqui today! (The little frog that makes the little chirping noise!) It was in the chapel at our District Meeting this morning! I took pictures. Hna G. held it in her hand while I took the picture.
Happiest moment: We had a really spiritual lesson this week with a 17 year-old girl named E. We taught her the Restoration but for some reason didn't have a Book of Mormon to give her, so we came back on Saturday night and gave her the book. Then, we decided to invite her to be baptized and she said that if she got an answer to her prayers, she would be. And then J., another investigator we've been teaching, accepted a date: the 21st of July. The coolest thing about teaching these people is being able to see the potential they have. I love watching people change their lives. That's what makes me happy.
Testimony-building experience: We were teaching J. yesterday about the Gospel of Jesus Christ and all week I've been feeling really lame because my Spanish was just not coming. I hadn't really struggled until now, but all of the sudden I'm forgetting words mid-sentence, but with J., it didn't happen, and it was awesome because my mind was clear and the words just came out. The Spirit was really strong during the lesson and I felt like Hna G. and I both had an equal part in teaching as well; we were more unified than we've ever been before, so it was a cool experience with the Spirit. I really do love doing this work. I love learning more about the Gospel and being able to share it with other people.
We have a lot of less-actives in this area, but on Sunday I got to go to a different ward because I got to sing in President Alvarado's ward for his last talk as a mission president. I attended a ward that was the complete opposite of the one I'm in right now; progressing, baptizing weekly, and the members are participating a TON. It was really awesome: you could FEEL a difference. I don't even know where I'm going with this, but I know I've been called to Pontezuela for a reason. I got to see a vision of what the ward WILL be, if not now, in a few years, and it made me excited. I've been studying the Plan of Salvation a lot, about the kingdoms of glory in Doctrine and Covenants 76, and it is really sad to read about those who weren't faithful to their covenants with the Lord. Hopefully all the less-actives will buckle down and take their baptismal covenants seriously so we can turn the Pontezuela ward into a powerhouse. Moral of the story: STAY STRONG! We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength! :)
And to answer your question, things are getting better. I'm doing okay. Thank you for your prayers and support. I can feel myself getting back to normal.
I've gotta go now, it's time to write to the new President! My hands are sweaty cuz I'm nervous! Jokes. :) Well, have a nice week. Love you all! Thanks for everything! BYE!
-Hermana Erickson
Usually, I write to the Mission President first before beginning my letter to you guys, but I dunno, seeing as we got a new Mission President, it's weird because I haven't met him yet. President Smartt got here yesterday afternoon. We will get to meet him tomorrow at 10 a.m. in the office in Bayamon. It's going to be strange, but I am excited, too, because I know he is just what Puerto Rico needs right now. I will miss President Alvarado, and I am thankful for his service.
So I'll reply to your email! What an exciting week you all had! Thank you, Dad, for keeping me informed in such great detail! It's always fun to read about everything happening at home, and I always find myself giggling at what you say.
First of all: JOSH! Congrats on getting your job! That's so awesome! I'm glad you're not playing video games all day! And you can make some money! Hurray! I'm just so proud of you! I've got a little brother in uniform!
Jeff, you should probably shave. That's disgusting. I hope you're feeling better, though. Don't die, okay? Did you guys find out what he had?
Thanks for the scripture cases, too. Hopefully those will arrive this week. When we went shopping today all I could find were Bible cases with crosses all over them. Those wouldn't do. So thanks a bunch! I don't care what color they are, either. But thanks!
HURRAY FOR DISNEYLAND! Do you know when you guys will be going? Dad, you need to practice on sounding excited! I know you've won dozens of times, but still. Think about the losers and how sad they feel, and just be glad you aren't one of them this time! That should make you excited! ;) Hehehe
That's great that Jacob could stop by and get his stuff! Thanks for visiting with him! He's so awesome.
Dad, congrats, again, on your 14-year anniversary with Financial Fusion! You should celebrate with cake!
Mom, I miss hearing from you. You should write more. Stop being so involved in Jake's life. Jokes! I'm glad you're magnifying your calling, Mom! It'll make all the difference in Jake's life to know you were there for him.
So I'll answer your questions:Best part of the week: Me and Hna. G. got lunch at McD's this week because we just wanted to, and I had a KitKat McFlurry, and it is officially my go-to dessert. Super good. Caramel, vanilla ice cream, and KitKat pieces. I don't even like McD's! But they did that one right, that's for sure. I feel like we've been eating out a lot lately, which is probably true, but don't judge me.
Best/worst food: Speaking of food... :) We went over to a member's house on Sunday evening and had dinner there. Angel, a 19 year-old young man, is leaving on his mission on Wednesday to Idaho, and he'll be entering the Provo MTC, made us dinner! It was super good. We don't eat at members houses often, but it was super good. None of the food here is complicated, but it's super flavorful, and I love it and have no idea how they make the beans taste so good, or how they cook the rice so perfectly, but it's always yummy and I eat a lot. :)
Funniest thing that happened: Hna G. is really clumsy. I think I've told you that before. She just does all these little awkward things, I can't really pinpoint a specific time within the week where it was hilarious, but there's always something every day that she does that's just so awkward, you just have to laugh.
We found a coqui today! (The little frog that makes the little chirping noise!) It was in the chapel at our District Meeting this morning! I took pictures. Hna G. held it in her hand while I took the picture.
Happiest moment: We had a really spiritual lesson this week with a 17 year-old girl named E. We taught her the Restoration but for some reason didn't have a Book of Mormon to give her, so we came back on Saturday night and gave her the book. Then, we decided to invite her to be baptized and she said that if she got an answer to her prayers, she would be. And then J., another investigator we've been teaching, accepted a date: the 21st of July. The coolest thing about teaching these people is being able to see the potential they have. I love watching people change their lives. That's what makes me happy.
Testimony-building experience: We were teaching J. yesterday about the Gospel of Jesus Christ and all week I've been feeling really lame because my Spanish was just not coming. I hadn't really struggled until now, but all of the sudden I'm forgetting words mid-sentence, but with J., it didn't happen, and it was awesome because my mind was clear and the words just came out. The Spirit was really strong during the lesson and I felt like Hna G. and I both had an equal part in teaching as well; we were more unified than we've ever been before, so it was a cool experience with the Spirit. I really do love doing this work. I love learning more about the Gospel and being able to share it with other people.
We have a lot of less-actives in this area, but on Sunday I got to go to a different ward because I got to sing in President Alvarado's ward for his last talk as a mission president. I attended a ward that was the complete opposite of the one I'm in right now; progressing, baptizing weekly, and the members are participating a TON. It was really awesome: you could FEEL a difference. I don't even know where I'm going with this, but I know I've been called to Pontezuela for a reason. I got to see a vision of what the ward WILL be, if not now, in a few years, and it made me excited. I've been studying the Plan of Salvation a lot, about the kingdoms of glory in Doctrine and Covenants 76, and it is really sad to read about those who weren't faithful to their covenants with the Lord. Hopefully all the less-actives will buckle down and take their baptismal covenants seriously so we can turn the Pontezuela ward into a powerhouse. Moral of the story: STAY STRONG! We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength! :)
And to answer your question, things are getting better. I'm doing okay. Thank you for your prayers and support. I can feel myself getting back to normal.
I've gotta go now, it's time to write to the new President! My hands are sweaty cuz I'm nervous! Jokes. :) Well, have a nice week. Love you all! Thanks for everything! BYE!
-Hermana Erickson
#15 [Pontezuela - 13] June 24th, 2013
 |
| On the streets of Old San Juan |
How'd Joshy's High Adventure camp go? And Head's girl's camp? I miss girl's camp; she needs to enjoy it while it lasts. And tell her I want more info about EFY! I'm so happy she got to go! And did Jeff have fun river rafting? Since when was he the outdoorsy type? Jokes, jokes! :)
Jake, I miss watching movies with you! I hope you aren't too lonely, bud!
We did get to watch the worldwide broadcast of the Work of Salvation. It was AMAZING! I seriously can't even describe how it feels to be a part of this, on the front lines so to speak. And seeing all these changes in missionary work! And member missionary work! I just want to be a part of it all! We are so lucky to live in this dispensation! I love reading Jacob 5 when I think about the work rolling forward like this. It's incredible and so exciting! And about the Facebook thing, it makes me nervous, to be honest. But we'll see how it goes I guess. I'll let you know when all that is announced for our mission.
Dad! Congrats on 100% home teaching two months in a row! That's awesome! Keep it up!
Yeah, we'll be getting a new President next Sunday. That's when they arrive, and it's gonna be exciting! I'm excited to meet him. I'm really sad President Alvarado is leaving, but I know that President Smartt is the man called of God to lead the mission as the current chapter of the Puerto Rico San Juan mission ends. It's gonna be an exciting next few weeks!
And you're right, we've been given a new schedule. I like it a lot better, it's more organized. We are at the house until after lunch – studying: 8 am - Personal Study; 9 am - Companionship; 10 am - 12-week training program; 11 am - Language study; 12 pm - Lunch. After lunch, we're unleashed into the world of darkness! Muahahaa :) I'm so weird.
My address is:
#AA16 Calle Castilla, Carolina, PR
I dunno the zip code thing, but it's probably 00959. And I dunno if it's "Carolina," or "Pontezuela,"but you should find it. My house is orange, with two floors. We live on the top floor. It's so ghetto ;)
Tell Tanner Nielsen congrats for me! He'll be a great missionary! And let my friends know, please that I'll be replying to their letters soon; my 40-day fast is almost over! And it's been GREAT! I urge everyone to try it: give something up for 40 days and dedicate the time normally spent on that to the Lord, and see how your life will change. It's awesome!
I trust the Lord completely in the fact that I am supposed to learn something from this. Or maybe she is? I dunno. Either way, it's a learning experience for SOMEONE. And it's okay. Just keep praying for me, K? Thanks.
We went to Old San Juan today and spent half of our P-day there as an entire mission as a kind of final mission activity. It was a BLAST! And it also just so happened to be the first day on record that I didn't put on sun screen, so I am fried. My poor face is just as pink as my dress. (And p.s. it's not my dress. It's Hna. Tuitavake's, but she left it in our apartment, so I figured I'd put it to good use! Tee hee) So I'll send the pics. But it was a really fun p-day!
Well anyway, thanks so much for everything. I love you all so so much and I pray for you all the time. Keep being awesome! I'm the luckiest girl ever and have been so blessed to have been born into a family that is so strong in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know this truly is God's work. I know Christ lives and that He loves ALL His children. I am so happy and feel so humbled to be a part of this sacred work. THE CHURCH IS SO TRUE!
Until next week,
Hermana Erickson
Oh, and as far as progressing investigators go, we have none. We're teaching a TON of people, contacting and teaching. It's been crazy how many Books of Mormon we've been giving out lately. But we're taking the mandate seriously to Preach to all who will receive you. The most important thing we can do is preach the Gospel, share the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon is the most incredible gift we've been given aside from the actual restoration of the Gospel. It is a witness that God truly is the same yesterday, today, and forever. I love sharing it with people. So that's what we've been doing in the work here in Pontezuela. Hopefully we'll be having some investigators show up at Church next week, any ideas on how to get them to come?
Okay, that's all my time. Love you!
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