Hey Everyone!
It was a great Christmas week, filled with lots of food and weight gaining experiences ha ha. I think for 3 days all we did was eat! On Tuesday we went to Olongapo for our Christmas Conference which was fun. We saw a lot of the other missionaries that we haven't seen in a long while coming from 4 different zones. We had a big discussion on a bunch of topics that we had questions on. It is always amazing to see how the spirit comes thru. When you have a discussion like that, there is no set curriculum and you don't know what exactly your gonna teach but you just have to prepare for anything and rely on the spirit. President Aquino has worked for the CES for a long time, most of his life and so he is a very effective teacher. A couple of weeks ago I planned to do that with the district, just see where they needed help in their areas and work then teach to their needs, I thought we could all focus on 1-2 subjects/principles. When I asked what their needs were, they threw out problems that I had never seen coming. But as I erased the board I just heard something say "it will be alright just listen" So that's what I did and somehow I managed to tie 4-5 scattered subjects together. The Spirit is such a sweet ride!
Anyways back to the week, we went to the Balanga Christmas party right after the Christmas Conference, where we lead the games and stuff, it was fun. Its a good thing that Elder Cagayanan is good with that kinds of stuff so he was able to take charge.
Friday and Saturday we couldn't teach anyone because of the Holiday. Here in the Philippines they celebrate Christmas on the 24th at 12:00 am. Then just spend time sleeping and time with family on the 25th. As for me I went to bed at about 9 on the 24th and the 25th we went and bonded with the members and ate food. ha ha. Including the Stake President, and the bishops family. It was a lot of fun.
We are trying to start getting things sorted out in this branch and get them strengthened. Yesterday I saw the Elders Quorum President give a list of new Home Teaching Companionship's. I was so excited. Things just might take off here, I know that the RS presidency is visiting people. So things are looking up. They'll stand by and lend a helping hand where they can.
I'll be transferred tomorrow. Its mixed feelings. I'm leaving probably my roughest area thus far and I don't feel like I've finished what I need to do here but the Lord thinks otherwise so I'll be helping somewhere else. Elder Cagayanan will continue to strengthen this area and I know he will do fine. He cried earlier when he found out I was transferring. Transfers are probably the hardest part of the mission but good always comes from them. So I can't complain.
I want to tell you about Dondon. I mentioned him a while ago. He's 10 years old, optimistic, thinks like a grown up, very interested in the gospel, feels he has a mission here on earth. They found a tumor on his Brain when he was 9 years old then it grew, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down and blind. Nevertheless he was always smiling brightly when we made the long walk to his house. About a month ago, he started to get worse, his hearing weakened and his voice went away. He had a little smile but not a very big one. I sadly watched for a few weeks as he slowly deteriorated. I thought death was inevitable for him, he was always in my prayers and his family too. Then one time when we were out there something just said, don't feel bad, give him a blessing. So we did. Nothing happened until 2 weeks ago we went out to his house and I came around the corner and yelled "Dondon!" he replied, "What?" I was shocked, I said "You heard me?" "Yeah." I was so excited. We shared with him and his dad and I know it was because of the Blessing. His family took him to the Herb Doctor, and strangely after that he got better but I don't know. I'm thinking it was because of the blessing.
I won't be able to see him again but I did what I could for him and I'll see him on the other side.
I hope you had a Merry Christmas, and have a Happy New Year.
I love you all!
Elder Chase
Monday, December 27, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
20 Dec 2010
Hey Everyone!
Well this month has just flown by again like none other. It has been a crazy one too, Friday and Saturday we had Christmas parties, then tomorrow we will go to Olongapo for the Christmas Conference then hurry back to Balanga for our Ward Christmas party then on Saturday we don't really have anything planned except going to a members house, Valero family to celebrate Elder Cagayanan's Birthday. I hope everyone is ready for Christmas because it is really close. It has been really easy surprisingly to get into the Christmas Spirit.
Last week we got the Elders Quorum President to work with us on Tuesday so that was a nice change. We went around in this one Barangay and found all the members that were on the CMIS, we had a ton that ran and hid from us. That's one thing about the Filipino culture, its nicer to hide from you than to just come out and tell you that they don't want to talk to you. I guess there's just some things I'll never understand. But we did get a referral from one of them so that was good too.
Today made up for the slowness of the week. We got up at 3:00 this morning and went to Orani for a 1 day Mission where we went to this one Barangay, and did a little program and then got to go teach them all, about the Book of Mormon, there were so many people that were willing to listen and are ready to hear the gospel. They were all Aitas, which is the native Filipinos. They are really dark skinned and have Curly hair. They were soo nice! I hope they will be able to go back there and teach them again. We had like 10 missionaries there and we all took members and split up so we were able to talk to a lot more people.
As for the missionary work in our area. The work with investigators has kind of stopped. It does us no good to baptize if the people just go inactive right after their baptism. So we have been working with strengthening the ward then when they have a little bit of unity, then we will go back to finding and teaching investigators. The mission wants all our lessons to be with members and no other lessons but we are not doing very good at that right now. Its only a matter of time though.
We have no one that invited us over for Christmas it kinda blows. Last year we had a bunch of people and we had to turn some down. But oh well. One thing that I've kinda noticed is that we have a trunky missionary in our apartment and my companion is catching on to things that he does so I'm gonna have to spend next transfer breaking of stuff that he can't be doing. It kinda blows that I have to be the bad guy but I guess its better its me than someone else. Hopefully he will thank me someday.
Merry Christmas to you all this week. Remember the true meaning of Christmas and Why we have it.
Love you all
Elder Chase
Well this month has just flown by again like none other. It has been a crazy one too, Friday and Saturday we had Christmas parties, then tomorrow we will go to Olongapo for the Christmas Conference then hurry back to Balanga for our Ward Christmas party then on Saturday we don't really have anything planned except going to a members house, Valero family to celebrate Elder Cagayanan's Birthday. I hope everyone is ready for Christmas because it is really close. It has been really easy surprisingly to get into the Christmas Spirit.
Last week we got the Elders Quorum President to work with us on Tuesday so that was a nice change. We went around in this one Barangay and found all the members that were on the CMIS, we had a ton that ran and hid from us. That's one thing about the Filipino culture, its nicer to hide from you than to just come out and tell you that they don't want to talk to you. I guess there's just some things I'll never understand. But we did get a referral from one of them so that was good too.
Today made up for the slowness of the week. We got up at 3:00 this morning and went to Orani for a 1 day Mission where we went to this one Barangay, and did a little program and then got to go teach them all, about the Book of Mormon, there were so many people that were willing to listen and are ready to hear the gospel. They were all Aitas, which is the native Filipinos. They are really dark skinned and have Curly hair. They were soo nice! I hope they will be able to go back there and teach them again. We had like 10 missionaries there and we all took members and split up so we were able to talk to a lot more people.
As for the missionary work in our area. The work with investigators has kind of stopped. It does us no good to baptize if the people just go inactive right after their baptism. So we have been working with strengthening the ward then when they have a little bit of unity, then we will go back to finding and teaching investigators. The mission wants all our lessons to be with members and no other lessons but we are not doing very good at that right now. Its only a matter of time though.
We have no one that invited us over for Christmas it kinda blows. Last year we had a bunch of people and we had to turn some down. But oh well. One thing that I've kinda noticed is that we have a trunky missionary in our apartment and my companion is catching on to things that he does so I'm gonna have to spend next transfer breaking of stuff that he can't be doing. It kinda blows that I have to be the bad guy but I guess its better its me than someone else. Hopefully he will thank me someday.
Merry Christmas to you all this week. Remember the true meaning of Christmas and Why we have it.
Love you all
Elder Chase
Sunday, December 12, 2010
13 Dec 2010
Hey everybody,
Well we got another week done and to be honest I don't have much to report on this week. I went and did exchanges in Bagac on Friday. Last week the Zone Leaders told us that President was gonna come and work with us on Tuesday so we went to the area we would be working and set up appointments for Tuesday so that we would have sure appointments and avoid getting punted. We canceled our dinner appointment and we were feeling ready then on Tuesday during the Specialized training he didn't end up coming with us. I guess that's a good thing because it means that he didn't see anything wrong with what we were doing. It was funny, and it turns out that the ZL's were just joking with us. They just wanted to make us sweat. It was cool though because we had a full schedule of work and we were able to leave an imprint on the people we taught because we had a member with us. Brother Valero, the 1st counselor in the Bishopric.
Yesterday we went to Orani in the morning so that I could do a baptismal Interview and when we got done, the lady came out of the room crying. So the sisters got mad at me. To tell the truth she was crying nearly the entire interview. But the good news is, not because of me! No, it turns out that her husband left her and her kids for another woman. So that was sad because her kids kinda went off the deep end when their dad went bad. Its sad how busy Satan is right now attacking family on every end. I hope it doesn't happen to anyone that is reading this email.
We went back to Balanga for church, which was kind of a let down, because no one came to church. But it got better after church because we got to go watch the 1st presidency Christmas devotional. It actually made me start to miss my family a little bit. Just a little bit
. But it also made me start to feel the Christmas spirit a lot more. I don't know why I never really watched the devotional before because it was really good.
Elder Cagayanan is still getting along well. He has been getting a little crazy lately so I had to talk to him but he's still doing good. ha ha. I am blessed to have him as a companion. I have so much to learn from him.
Sorry I haven't written anyone lately, I haven't forgotten you, I just haven't had time to write anyone.
Thank you for your support. Green Valley 1st Ward, thank you for the Christmas package! You guys are awesome!
Well I gotta run.
Love you all
Elder Chase
Well we got another week done and to be honest I don't have much to report on this week. I went and did exchanges in Bagac on Friday. Last week the Zone Leaders told us that President was gonna come and work with us on Tuesday so we went to the area we would be working and set up appointments for Tuesday so that we would have sure appointments and avoid getting punted. We canceled our dinner appointment and we were feeling ready then on Tuesday during the Specialized training he didn't end up coming with us. I guess that's a good thing because it means that he didn't see anything wrong with what we were doing. It was funny, and it turns out that the ZL's were just joking with us. They just wanted to make us sweat. It was cool though because we had a full schedule of work and we were able to leave an imprint on the people we taught because we had a member with us. Brother Valero, the 1st counselor in the Bishopric.
Yesterday we went to Orani in the morning so that I could do a baptismal Interview and when we got done, the lady came out of the room crying. So the sisters got mad at me. To tell the truth she was crying nearly the entire interview. But the good news is, not because of me! No, it turns out that her husband left her and her kids for another woman. So that was sad because her kids kinda went off the deep end when their dad went bad. Its sad how busy Satan is right now attacking family on every end. I hope it doesn't happen to anyone that is reading this email.
We went back to Balanga for church, which was kind of a let down, because no one came to church. But it got better after church because we got to go watch the 1st presidency Christmas devotional. It actually made me start to miss my family a little bit. Just a little bit
Elder Cagayanan is still getting along well. He has been getting a little crazy lately so I had to talk to him but he's still doing good. ha ha. I am blessed to have him as a companion. I have so much to learn from him.
Sorry I haven't written anyone lately, I haven't forgotten you, I just haven't had time to write anyone.
Thank you for your support. Green Valley 1st Ward, thank you for the Christmas package! You guys are awesome!
Well I gotta run.
Love you all
Elder Chase
Monday, December 6, 2010
5 Dec 2010
Hey Everyone
Okay, I officially say that we can start celebrating Christmas. We've hit December. ha ha I am such a Grinch its not even funny.
Well it was a great Sunday yesterday. We had 4 confirmations, 1 baby blessing, and 3 great potential priesthood investigators attend church. The confirmations and the baby blessing really set a great mood for the sacrament service and Elder Cagayanan did a great job with his first confirmation. One of the investigators, Brother Alvero, came to church for the first time and last week was the first time we taught him. ha ha. He's great! Then one of the others that came, was baptized over a year ago, but never confirmed, then his wife left him, then he became inactive and started drinking to try and drown the pain. He was singing a whiskey lullaby. ha ha sorry mom.
We got to attend Ward council yesterday and we brought up the concern about Home Teaching and Visiting Teaching. Then we worked with them to realized that they needed to reorganize their programs. The very last testimony of the day was a big let down. This Sister got up and basically told everyone that the leaders of the church are not good and told a sob story about how she went inactive and no one followed up on her or visited her. I can understand her frustration, and the leaders should have done their job and followed up with members especially when they ask for someone to come visit them but then again she should have brought that up in private not in front our investigators and all the new members. We told her that last night when we went to her house. She apologized and its a good thing that my companion is around, he handled the situation perfect. I sure hope that everyone that is members of the church are fulfilling their callings. Because you are not the only ones that suffer if you don't. Don't be selfish and say that you are too busy because we don't want the Lord to say that he is too busy for us.
We just got back from Mt Samat earlier. It is so cool up there!!!! Oh my gosh, and its cold. The Cross puts you way up in the air and you can see 3 of the towns around the area. ha ha. I got some cool pictures and a cool T-shirt. Then we went down into the museum and looked at all the guns and pictures of the POW's and the Philippines at the time of the war. It was crazy. It kinda made me sad thinking about how evil people get sometimes.
I'm outta time I love you all
Elder Westwood.
Okay, I officially say that we can start celebrating Christmas. We've hit December. ha ha I am such a Grinch its not even funny.
Well it was a great Sunday yesterday. We had 4 confirmations, 1 baby blessing, and 3 great potential priesthood investigators attend church. The confirmations and the baby blessing really set a great mood for the sacrament service and Elder Cagayanan did a great job with his first confirmation. One of the investigators, Brother Alvero, came to church for the first time and last week was the first time we taught him. ha ha. He's great! Then one of the others that came, was baptized over a year ago, but never confirmed, then his wife left him, then he became inactive and started drinking to try and drown the pain. He was singing a whiskey lullaby. ha ha sorry mom.
We got to attend Ward council yesterday and we brought up the concern about Home Teaching and Visiting Teaching. Then we worked with them to realized that they needed to reorganize their programs. The very last testimony of the day was a big let down. This Sister got up and basically told everyone that the leaders of the church are not good and told a sob story about how she went inactive and no one followed up on her or visited her. I can understand her frustration, and the leaders should have done their job and followed up with members especially when they ask for someone to come visit them but then again she should have brought that up in private not in front our investigators and all the new members. We told her that last night when we went to her house. She apologized and its a good thing that my companion is around, he handled the situation perfect. I sure hope that everyone that is members of the church are fulfilling their callings. Because you are not the only ones that suffer if you don't. Don't be selfish and say that you are too busy because we don't want the Lord to say that he is too busy for us.
We just got back from Mt Samat earlier. It is so cool up there!!!! Oh my gosh, and its cold. The Cross puts you way up in the air and you can see 3 of the towns around the area. ha ha. I got some cool pictures and a cool T-shirt. Then we went down into the museum and looked at all the guns and pictures of the POW's and the Philippines at the time of the war. It was crazy. It kinda made me sad thinking about how evil people get sometimes.
I'm outta time I love you all
Elder Westwood.
Monday, November 29, 2010
29 Nov 2010
Hey everyone,Well its been an okay week. Elder Cagayanan is still learning lots and we haven't gotten sick of each other. He decided he wanted to come out of his shell this week. He is sooo funny. Oh my gosh. He's so...Makulit!. I don't know how to describe that in English. Sorry.
Our work with the members kinda blew this week. We only got to teach 2 lessons the whole week with members. Its because all the SA that usually work with us all had to go back to school this week.
One of our investigators said yesterday morning that he was gonna go to church so we were all excited and flying high that we got him to go to church. He never came, but he sent his daughter with this next door neighbor. I was a little discouraged but we'll see him again tomorrow and see whats up.
We met a few members this week that I knew by face but not by name. That was nice. This one sister last night she bore her testimony to us in a way and her faith is so dang strong its amazing. I told her don't be surprised if we call on you to have you help us. She was all for it so we'll see what we can do.
We have a baptism on Tuesday night so that will be cool. 3 children of the covenant and 2 convert baptisms but one of the children of covenant we taught. Next week I'll let you know how it goes.
Love you all
Elder Westwood.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
22 November 2010
My my how time flies!
I figured out the secret. I just don't think about what I'm gonna do, or what I'm gonna say, or what's gonna happen to me. Rather I think about what He's gonna do, what He's gonna say or what will happen to Him if I screw this transfer up! That's what I need to do. Forget myself. Then the sickness, the worries, the things I don't like, go away.
Another week in the books and another new companion for me to torture. ha ha. Just kidding! On Tuesday morning I accompanied Elder Memes to the Bus Station in Olongapo, I shipped him off up north to Iba, then I hung out till about 1 and I went to the mission home. We had trainers training till Thursday when we came back to our areas with our new companions. During the training we were instructed on how to be better teachers and how to help the new missionaries start off their missions well.
My new companions name is Elder Cagayanan, he's from Bacolod, that's the same place that Elder Memes was from, but they didn't know each other. However, he does speak the same language as Elder Memes. He's kinda shy but I can already see him coming out of his shell. He's a good kid and I think we did pretty well for only being able to work for a couple days this week. We are working on getting a good relationship with the bishop.
We started working on Friday afternoon, because in the morning we had a district leadership training so Elder Cagayanan got to hear about all the problems of the districts in our zone on his first day! Great ha ha. But he can't quite speak fluent Tagalog so I still have to help him a lil but he is humble and teachable. I know he will adjust right away and have no problems. He will also start helping me with district leader stuff so he will know what he is doing when he becomes a district leader.
It is really fun being a trainer. At the training President Aquino said that our trainees will be a carbon copy of us, I commented "oh that's not good." he replied quickly, "well not of your face." It was funny, everyone got a good laugh out of it. I was suffering from sleep deprivation so I wasn't exactly doing my top notch work; I think President noticed and I think he was a little irritate/worried. He told me as I was walking by him that I needed to "step up." I'm still trying to figure out exactly what he meant but it will come to me. No worries! I'm rested up now and back to 100%.
On a sad note, yesterday morning we were going to one of the members house to get a ride to church and we came upon a wreck on a very busy highway. It happened in front of a military base so the military were the first on the scene and they knew what they were doing. I saw a man laying there and I'm pretty sure that he wasn't breathing, or if he was he wasn't for very long after I saw him. It was a pretty bad sight. When we went back to see what happened, we learned that one of the people was drag racing on the highway when one tried to overtake another and got into a head-on with another motorcycle. I just hope that the innocent one wasn't the one I saw. Moral of the story: Don't do anything stupid. Seek for things that will bring eternal happiness not a momentary thrill; especially when other peoples lives could be at stake as well.
To end on a good note, we have a baptism next week so that should be really good. I'm excited and hopefully I can get the kids to let Elder Cagayanan baptize them so I don't have to. Then Elder Cagayanan can experience it. ha ha.
I love you all.
Elder Westwood
I figured out the secret. I just don't think about what I'm gonna do, or what I'm gonna say, or what's gonna happen to me. Rather I think about what He's gonna do, what He's gonna say or what will happen to Him if I screw this transfer up! That's what I need to do. Forget myself. Then the sickness, the worries, the things I don't like, go away.
Another week in the books and another new companion for me to torture. ha ha. Just kidding! On Tuesday morning I accompanied Elder Memes to the Bus Station in Olongapo, I shipped him off up north to Iba, then I hung out till about 1 and I went to the mission home. We had trainers training till Thursday when we came back to our areas with our new companions. During the training we were instructed on how to be better teachers and how to help the new missionaries start off their missions well. My new companions name is Elder Cagayanan, he's from Bacolod, that's the same place that Elder Memes was from, but they didn't know each other. However, he does speak the same language as Elder Memes. He's kinda shy but I can already see him coming out of his shell. He's a good kid and I think we did pretty well for only being able to work for a couple days this week. We are working on getting a good relationship with the bishop.
We started working on Friday afternoon, because in the morning we had a district leadership training so Elder Cagayanan got to hear about all the problems of the districts in our zone on his first day! Great ha ha. But he can't quite speak fluent Tagalog so I still have to help him a lil but he is humble and teachable. I know he will adjust right away and have no problems. He will also start helping me with district leader stuff so he will know what he is doing when he becomes a district leader.
It is really fun being a trainer. At the training President Aquino said that our trainees will be a carbon copy of us, I commented "oh that's not good." he replied quickly, "well not of your face." It was funny, everyone got a good laugh out of it. I was suffering from sleep deprivation so I wasn't exactly doing my top notch work; I think President noticed and I think he was a little irritate/worried. He told me as I was walking by him that I needed to "step up." I'm still trying to figure out exactly what he meant but it will come to me. No worries! I'm rested up now and back to 100%.
On a sad note, yesterday morning we were going to one of the members house to get a ride to church and we came upon a wreck on a very busy highway. It happened in front of a military base so the military were the first on the scene and they knew what they were doing. I saw a man laying there and I'm pretty sure that he wasn't breathing, or if he was he wasn't for very long after I saw him. It was a pretty bad sight. When we went back to see what happened, we learned that one of the people was drag racing on the highway when one tried to overtake another and got into a head-on with another motorcycle. I just hope that the innocent one wasn't the one I saw. Moral of the story: Don't do anything stupid. Seek for things that will bring eternal happiness not a momentary thrill; especially when other peoples lives could be at stake as well.
To end on a good note, we have a baptism next week so that should be really good. I'm excited and hopefully I can get the kids to let Elder Cagayanan baptize them so I don't have to. Then Elder Cagayanan can experience it. ha ha.
I love you all.
Elder Westwood
Sunday, November 14, 2010
15 Nov 2010
Hey everyone,
Well I'm sad to hear that Paula passed away this week. We actually had a member pass away last week, and it kind of dawned on me that we are really lucky that we have the knowledge of the Plan of Salvation. We know exactly where we are going to go and we can trace a person every step of the way. It is hard to loose our friends and relatives, but we will see them again. Its up to us if we live with them for eternity. When Great Grandma Westwood passed, Mom said, "we can't cry because died, because she is happy now, she's not sick anymore, the reason we cry is because she's not here anymore with us, it is only temporary though."
We just got back from Abucay at the transfer meeting where we found out that my companion will be transferred, one of my old companions, Elder Cuartocruz, and one of my batch mates, Sister Suminguit. Sister S will be training like me but her training will be a lot harder, she is going to be opening a new area for proselyting with her new companion. My trainer will be training again for the 4th time. That is a new record.
I'm a little nervous to be training but it will be fun. I know that I can make the difference in this new missionaries whole mission, and I'll either be the companion that he loves, or the companion that he hates. I'm hoping for first. I will go up to the mission home tomorrow where we will have trainers training, then Thursday, I'll come back here with him, and we'll break him in. I sure hope he's ready ha ha. Don't worry I'll be nice, but I won't baby him.
Honestly not much happened this week, we taught a lot, my companion got sick with LBM so we spent one afternoon in the apartment while he sat on the toilet.
Last night we went to a members and they threw a little party for my companion and for a missionary that goes home. That was fun. well I'm sure I'll have lots to report next week, the new companion, his first experience tracting and stuff like that.
Until next week.
Elder Westwood.
Well I'm sad to hear that Paula passed away this week. We actually had a member pass away last week, and it kind of dawned on me that we are really lucky that we have the knowledge of the Plan of Salvation. We know exactly where we are going to go and we can trace a person every step of the way. It is hard to loose our friends and relatives, but we will see them again. Its up to us if we live with them for eternity. When Great Grandma Westwood passed, Mom said, "we can't cry because died, because she is happy now, she's not sick anymore, the reason we cry is because she's not here anymore with us, it is only temporary though."
We just got back from Abucay at the transfer meeting where we found out that my companion will be transferred, one of my old companions, Elder Cuartocruz, and one of my batch mates, Sister Suminguit. Sister S will be training like me but her training will be a lot harder, she is going to be opening a new area for proselyting with her new companion. My trainer will be training again for the 4th time. That is a new record.
I'm a little nervous to be training but it will be fun. I know that I can make the difference in this new missionaries whole mission, and I'll either be the companion that he loves, or the companion that he hates. I'm hoping for first. I will go up to the mission home tomorrow where we will have trainers training, then Thursday, I'll come back here with him, and we'll break him in. I sure hope he's ready ha ha. Don't worry I'll be nice, but I won't baby him.
Honestly not much happened this week, we taught a lot, my companion got sick with LBM so we spent one afternoon in the apartment while he sat on the toilet.
Last night we went to a members and they threw a little party for my companion and for a missionary that goes home. That was fun. well I'm sure I'll have lots to report next week, the new companion, his first experience tracting and stuff like that.
Until next week.
Elder Westwood.
Monday, November 8, 2010
8 Nov 2010
Hello Everyone,
In case you didn't know already, fasting works!!!! Oh my, last week we had 2 investigators come to church, yesterday: 9! Its not a record by any means but its good for this area and we were way excited, especially Elder Memes. He hasn't had a lot of chances to fast here in the mission, so he was flying high yesterday (high on life of course). We had a baptism scheduled for next week but we're gonna have to push it back a little because they are not quite ready, but its alright, I'd rather have them prepared than not.
One of the families that came to church yesterday, has a son that is blind, and he can't walk, he started puking in Sunday school yesterday, so that wasn't very good, but after he did it, he felt fine and it didn't happen again. Then Sister Fe's 2 nieces came too and loved it. When asked if they were gonna come to church again, they replied, "yes, every week" it was really cool.
We actually had a fight yesterday too, ha ha 2 of the pioneer members, got in an argument about doctrine, the base problem was they were both really prideful and didn't want to admit that they were wrong or the other was right, one brother started swearing and stormed out of class and said he wanted his name taken off the records. That is one of the weakness' here and I think everywhere, sometimes we get to the point where, when we've been in the church we get proud of what we know, then we get a little too confident and people start getting offended. I think we all need to remember that we are all converts, all investigators, just at different spots on the conversion path. Neither conversion nor humility will happen over night it is a life long process that we all need to continually strive to do and perfect our ways and attitudes.
Last night and Friday night we were coming in from a place in our area that is really close to the sea, its high tide season right now and both days this week we have walked barefoot home. ha ha With water up to our knees, last night we had a member with us, she walked through the flooded streets in her heels. ha ha I was astounded, but it was cool.
We won't be having specialized training this week, which means that we get to work for the whole week. We are way excited. Hopefully this week will be a memorable one, because Elder Memes is transferring next transfer. Oh yeah, I'm training next transfer. It is pretty crazy, I'm a little nervous, but I've been wanting to try it for a little while now. I'm still nervous though.
Last week, after we went and emailed, we went to this really high mountain, hiked to the top and took pictures, we didn't end up going to the monument, that I think will be next transfer, or possibly next Monday, it was still really pretty where we went, we could see the whole city of Mariveles on one side. On the other side we could see Quezon or Maynila. Ang Ganda Naman!
I went and did exchanges last week with a new missionary, that kid is soo teachable it was crazy. He was a sponge, he sucked in everything I told him.
It was a pretty good week, now for next week and preparation for next transfer. Wish me luck.
Elder Westwood
In case you didn't know already, fasting works!!!! Oh my, last week we had 2 investigators come to church, yesterday: 9! Its not a record by any means but its good for this area and we were way excited, especially Elder Memes. He hasn't had a lot of chances to fast here in the mission, so he was flying high yesterday (high on life of course). We had a baptism scheduled for next week but we're gonna have to push it back a little because they are not quite ready, but its alright, I'd rather have them prepared than not.
One of the families that came to church yesterday, has a son that is blind, and he can't walk, he started puking in Sunday school yesterday, so that wasn't very good, but after he did it, he felt fine and it didn't happen again. Then Sister Fe's 2 nieces came too and loved it. When asked if they were gonna come to church again, they replied, "yes, every week" it was really cool.
We actually had a fight yesterday too, ha ha 2 of the pioneer members, got in an argument about doctrine, the base problem was they were both really prideful and didn't want to admit that they were wrong or the other was right, one brother started swearing and stormed out of class and said he wanted his name taken off the records. That is one of the weakness' here and I think everywhere, sometimes we get to the point where, when we've been in the church we get proud of what we know, then we get a little too confident and people start getting offended. I think we all need to remember that we are all converts, all investigators, just at different spots on the conversion path. Neither conversion nor humility will happen over night it is a life long process that we all need to continually strive to do and perfect our ways and attitudes.
Last night and Friday night we were coming in from a place in our area that is really close to the sea, its high tide season right now and both days this week we have walked barefoot home. ha ha With water up to our knees, last night we had a member with us, she walked through the flooded streets in her heels. ha ha I was astounded, but it was cool.
We won't be having specialized training this week, which means that we get to work for the whole week. We are way excited. Hopefully this week will be a memorable one, because Elder Memes is transferring next transfer. Oh yeah, I'm training next transfer. It is pretty crazy, I'm a little nervous, but I've been wanting to try it for a little while now. I'm still nervous though.
Last week, after we went and emailed, we went to this really high mountain, hiked to the top and took pictures, we didn't end up going to the monument, that I think will be next transfer, or possibly next Monday, it was still really pretty where we went, we could see the whole city of Mariveles on one side. On the other side we could see Quezon or Maynila. Ang Ganda Naman!
I went and did exchanges last week with a new missionary, that kid is soo teachable it was crazy. He was a sponge, he sucked in everything I told him.
It was a pretty good week, now for next week and preparation for next transfer. Wish me luck.
Elder Westwood
Monday, November 1, 2010
1 Nov 2010
Hey everyone,
Well I got one more week done and we saw some great things happen, where we were in the right place at the right time. One time, was on Friday, I thought I was just hungry, we had missed lunch and I was really craving this thing called "Fish bowl" they are really good and I sweet talked a member into making the sauce for me. I would just buy it on the street but they just bawal-ed it, or ban it. it really blows! Anyways, so we thought we were going to buy fish bowl and we found squid bowl too! so a double bonus. Then as I was standing in the check-out line, I had this lady start talking to me, come to find out that she was a member, that had been excommunicated. I don't know why she got excommunicated but her husband committed adultery. I only know half the story but she expressed her desire to be baptized and go to church again for her children, then she told me she was an RM. To make a long story short, I told her that there was still hope, and not to lose hope, she has been told 10 different things from 10 different people, but I gave her the number to the Mission President, and I'll follow-up tomorrow if she called him or not.
In another one, Saturday, we went to get haircuts, the place we usually get our haircuts from was still closed so we were just kind of roaming around. We walked by this barber-shop in the market and had one of the barbers run after us and asked us if we were Mormons. We replied "yes" then he gave us a Book of mormon that someone had left in the CR across from their little shop. It was cool. We are looking for its owner right now, but it opened a door for us to be able to share and meet those men, and we got good looking haircuts as well! (double bonus again) ha ha.
Well I'm writing you guys from a little place called Mariveles today, it is beautiful. It's just a small little place surrounded by ocean/sea and its all green and mountainous, and stuff, I love it! We are going up to a monument after we get done emailing and stuff so that should be fun. The Elders are getting ready to move apartments and so president sent me and my comp. as well as the ZL's down to clean the apartment, and fix the stuff, it was fun. I let a little blood, sweat, but luckily no swear words. I even got invitations for marriage to 4 different girls ha ha.
Yesterday in church I got assigned to talk. The bishop came up to me and asked, Elder I have something to ask of you, I was like whats up? He said is there anyway you can speak today, I replied, "yeah no problem, how long? 5-10 minutes," he kind of looked away for a second, then was like can you speak for 15 minutes? I was like, hmmm, I'll try, I actually only ended up speaking for 10 minutes but it went by really quickly. Its probably a good thing he didn't tell me sooner, I tried preparing a talk a week before I was supposed to give it, it was soooo BORING! I lost everyone's attention. From that I learned, its easier to just get up and start talking, then let the Spirit take the wheel. ha ha. I talked about missionary work and how we needed to members help. I was bold but not overbearing...I think.
Last week I mentioned an old lady that we had given a blessing to because we were in the right place at the right time, well, I'm happy to report that she is okay now, but she is still in the hospital because her family can't pay the bill yet. I asked her son-in-law yesterday how much it was and he said 100,000 plus! I was like holy cow that's a lot of money, even in US dollars that's expensive, so hopefully they can find a way to pay it or come up with the money soon.
Well thats all I can think about this week, We opened up a new area for proselyting this week and we found a bunch of inactive members so hopefully we can give some projects to the Elders Quorum and the Relief Society.
Until next week
Elder Westwood.
Well I got one more week done and we saw some great things happen, where we were in the right place at the right time. One time, was on Friday, I thought I was just hungry, we had missed lunch and I was really craving this thing called "Fish bowl" they are really good and I sweet talked a member into making the sauce for me. I would just buy it on the street but they just bawal-ed it, or ban it. it really blows! Anyways, so we thought we were going to buy fish bowl and we found squid bowl too! so a double bonus. Then as I was standing in the check-out line, I had this lady start talking to me, come to find out that she was a member, that had been excommunicated. I don't know why she got excommunicated but her husband committed adultery. I only know half the story but she expressed her desire to be baptized and go to church again for her children, then she told me she was an RM. To make a long story short, I told her that there was still hope, and not to lose hope, she has been told 10 different things from 10 different people, but I gave her the number to the Mission President, and I'll follow-up tomorrow if she called him or not.
In another one, Saturday, we went to get haircuts, the place we usually get our haircuts from was still closed so we were just kind of roaming around. We walked by this barber-shop in the market and had one of the barbers run after us and asked us if we were Mormons. We replied "yes" then he gave us a Book of mormon that someone had left in the CR across from their little shop. It was cool. We are looking for its owner right now, but it opened a door for us to be able to share and meet those men, and we got good looking haircuts as well! (double bonus again) ha ha.
Well I'm writing you guys from a little place called Mariveles today, it is beautiful. It's just a small little place surrounded by ocean/sea and its all green and mountainous, and stuff, I love it! We are going up to a monument after we get done emailing and stuff so that should be fun. The Elders are getting ready to move apartments and so president sent me and my comp. as well as the ZL's down to clean the apartment, and fix the stuff, it was fun. I let a little blood, sweat, but luckily no swear words. I even got invitations for marriage to 4 different girls ha ha.
Yesterday in church I got assigned to talk. The bishop came up to me and asked, Elder I have something to ask of you, I was like whats up? He said is there anyway you can speak today, I replied, "yeah no problem, how long? 5-10 minutes," he kind of looked away for a second, then was like can you speak for 15 minutes? I was like, hmmm, I'll try, I actually only ended up speaking for 10 minutes but it went by really quickly. Its probably a good thing he didn't tell me sooner, I tried preparing a talk a week before I was supposed to give it, it was soooo BORING! I lost everyone's attention. From that I learned, its easier to just get up and start talking, then let the Spirit take the wheel. ha ha. I talked about missionary work and how we needed to members help. I was bold but not overbearing...I think.
Last week I mentioned an old lady that we had given a blessing to because we were in the right place at the right time, well, I'm happy to report that she is okay now, but she is still in the hospital because her family can't pay the bill yet. I asked her son-in-law yesterday how much it was and he said 100,000 plus! I was like holy cow that's a lot of money, even in US dollars that's expensive, so hopefully they can find a way to pay it or come up with the money soon.
Well thats all I can think about this week, We opened up a new area for proselyting this week and we found a bunch of inactive members so hopefully we can give some projects to the Elders Quorum and the Relief Society.
Until next week
Elder Westwood.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
25 October 2010
Hey everyone,
A couple weeks ago it was as if time had slowed down a ton, but not anymore, it is back to going very very fast. Holy cow. We went to Specialized training last Friday and had a good time. Learned a lot. And actually got to teach a little bit this week
We've been battling typhoons lately. That's been pretty fun. Getting soaked. It wasn't bad here (dang it), but up in Pangasisinan, where I came from, It was a signal 2 There was quite a bit of damage from what I heard. Then 1 missionary in my District is from Isabela, where the typhoon hit hardest (signal 4). So we are hoping that his family is okay.
Last week I fixed electric fans, and rewired some broken outlets in the house. I've got more to do this week. I had to bum some electrical wire off a member that is kind of a Mcgiver (I don't know how to spell his name, the guy that fixes anything). Me and Brother Valero get along really well. We go to his house every Thursday.
Work is still good here in Balanga, This area has farm land, and city in it, so i really look forward to the days that we are in the bukid, it gives me a chance to breath and relax a little.
Yesterday we went to pick up an investigator that is blind and he can't walk because of a brain tumor that he had when he was 9 years old. He's 10 now, well we went clear out to his house and couldn't find his mom, so they weren't able to go to church, it kinda stunk, If it weren't for PMG I'd say that we wasted our time going out there, but it says in PMG that "No effort is Wasted" at least we showed them our determination to get them to church. Satan is hard at work. He's affecting this work in so many ways. ahhh!! The health of the missionaries, the minds of the missionaries, the last minute problems that arise so that the member can't give the investigators a ride to church.
I had an interview with President Aquino on Friday, he got mad at me for doctoring myself. ha ha. I burnt my warts off with a nail and he got mad at me for that. Then on the other one, I cut the top off with scalpel blade then cauterized it. ha ha. He told me to buy silver nitrate then stick it on it.
On Tuesday, we were tracting, and all of a sudden the rain just came pouring down. So we ran to the Stake President's house to wait out the rain. They ended up feeding us dinner, Sinigang it is delicious. Then I kept thinking, we oughta go as soon as the rain lets up. But every time, I got ready to go, it got strong again. So we stayed, then we were talking about King Benjamin with President Baluyot, and His mother in law started having a really hard time breathing. Then everyone started running around crazy. Brother had to run and get the tricycle, Me and Elder gave her a blessing then we ran her out to the tricycle and they ran her to the hospital and me and Elder Memes walked home. When we were in the middle of nowhere the rain came shooting out of the sky like bullets and we got drenched! oh my gosh. There wasn't any skin that wasn't wet, then a Jeepnee driver had mercy on us and gave us a ride into the banyan. The cool part of the story is that we were supposed to stay at President's house so that we could bless sister. I am happy to report that Sister is doing fine now.
Yesterday we had a whopping 50 people at church, but the great thing is we got the bishop to call 2 more branch missionaries, and we had a great PEC meeting with him. I still have a lot of things I want to help them do before I transfer but we'll see how much the Lord lets me do.
Well, I gotta run. I love you all, Thank you for your support.
Elder Chase
A couple weeks ago it was as if time had slowed down a ton, but not anymore, it is back to going very very fast. Holy cow. We went to Specialized training last Friday and had a good time. Learned a lot. And actually got to teach a little bit this week
We've been battling typhoons lately. That's been pretty fun. Getting soaked. It wasn't bad here (dang it), but up in Pangasisinan, where I came from, It was a signal 2 There was quite a bit of damage from what I heard. Then 1 missionary in my District is from Isabela, where the typhoon hit hardest (signal 4). So we are hoping that his family is okay.
Last week I fixed electric fans, and rewired some broken outlets in the house. I've got more to do this week. I had to bum some electrical wire off a member that is kind of a Mcgiver (I don't know how to spell his name, the guy that fixes anything). Me and Brother Valero get along really well. We go to his house every Thursday.
Work is still good here in Balanga, This area has farm land, and city in it, so i really look forward to the days that we are in the bukid, it gives me a chance to breath and relax a little.
Yesterday we went to pick up an investigator that is blind and he can't walk because of a brain tumor that he had when he was 9 years old. He's 10 now, well we went clear out to his house and couldn't find his mom, so they weren't able to go to church, it kinda stunk, If it weren't for PMG I'd say that we wasted our time going out there, but it says in PMG that "No effort is Wasted" at least we showed them our determination to get them to church. Satan is hard at work. He's affecting this work in so many ways. ahhh!! The health of the missionaries, the minds of the missionaries, the last minute problems that arise so that the member can't give the investigators a ride to church.
I had an interview with President Aquino on Friday, he got mad at me for doctoring myself. ha ha. I burnt my warts off with a nail and he got mad at me for that. Then on the other one, I cut the top off with scalpel blade then cauterized it. ha ha. He told me to buy silver nitrate then stick it on it.
On Tuesday, we were tracting, and all of a sudden the rain just came pouring down. So we ran to the Stake President's house to wait out the rain. They ended up feeding us dinner, Sinigang it is delicious. Then I kept thinking, we oughta go as soon as the rain lets up. But every time, I got ready to go, it got strong again. So we stayed, then we were talking about King Benjamin with President Baluyot, and His mother in law started having a really hard time breathing. Then everyone started running around crazy. Brother had to run and get the tricycle, Me and Elder gave her a blessing then we ran her out to the tricycle and they ran her to the hospital and me and Elder Memes walked home. When we were in the middle of nowhere the rain came shooting out of the sky like bullets and we got drenched! oh my gosh. There wasn't any skin that wasn't wet, then a Jeepnee driver had mercy on us and gave us a ride into the banyan. The cool part of the story is that we were supposed to stay at President's house so that we could bless sister. I am happy to report that Sister is doing fine now.
Yesterday we had a whopping 50 people at church, but the great thing is we got the bishop to call 2 more branch missionaries, and we had a great PEC meeting with him. I still have a lot of things I want to help them do before I transfer but we'll see how much the Lord lets me do.
Well, I gotta run. I love you all, Thank you for your support.
Elder Chase
Sunday, October 17, 2010
18 Oct 2010
Hi Everyone!
Oh my gosh I love general Conference! We finally got to watch it yesterday and Saturday. There were so many talks that helped me so much with my investigators and helped me as well.
This last week has been a lot of travelling. I am so tired! Yesterday I was struggling to work. I couldn't keep my eyes open! Friday, Saturday, and Sunday we had to go to Orani which was about 1 hour away and we spent the whole day over there sitting and listening. On Friday we had Specialized training where I had to give a workshop. So that was fun. I have to do it again this week on Revelation thru the Book of Mormon. That should be an adventure.
On Tuesday I taught Elder Memes to extend the baptismal invitation. Ha ha every place we go he invites them to be baptized. It reminds me of Elder Calhoun in Best 2 Years. ha ha but our "investigators with a
baptismal Date" went from 4 to 15 ha ha. So that's good. We just need them to keep their commitments so they will be ready for baptism.
We have 1 investigator, 10 years old, and last year they found a tumor on his brain, leaving him blind and not being able to walk. But I tell you what. He is such a smart kid and he's so positive. ha ha I have never heard any negative thing come out of his mouth. He has a sweet personality. ha ha He'll sit there and joke with us and tell us secrets about his family. Next week we are gonna start going to his house and carrying to a nearby member so that he can go to church.
One sweet thing that happened. On Sunday, our funds were suffering a little bit, but luckily we ended up riding with some members and they took care of our fare. That was such a blessing. Oh my gosh. The members are really good to the missionaries over here just as long as they know you are doing your job as missionaries.
I'm finally getting used to life in the City.
Sorry this is short but we gotta go to a neighboring zone and clean their apartment and I gotta fix the broken appliances. Ha ha I'm the mission fix-it Elder.
Well gotta run.
Elder Chase.
Oh my gosh I love general Conference! We finally got to watch it yesterday and Saturday. There were so many talks that helped me so much with my investigators and helped me as well.
This last week has been a lot of travelling. I am so tired! Yesterday I was struggling to work. I couldn't keep my eyes open! Friday, Saturday, and Sunday we had to go to Orani which was about 1 hour away and we spent the whole day over there sitting and listening. On Friday we had Specialized training where I had to give a workshop. So that was fun. I have to do it again this week on Revelation thru the Book of Mormon. That should be an adventure.
On Tuesday I taught Elder Memes to extend the baptismal invitation. Ha ha every place we go he invites them to be baptized. It reminds me of Elder Calhoun in Best 2 Years. ha ha but our "investigators with a
baptismal Date" went from 4 to 15 ha ha. So that's good. We just need them to keep their commitments so they will be ready for baptism.
We have 1 investigator, 10 years old, and last year they found a tumor on his brain, leaving him blind and not being able to walk. But I tell you what. He is such a smart kid and he's so positive. ha ha I have never heard any negative thing come out of his mouth. He has a sweet personality. ha ha He'll sit there and joke with us and tell us secrets about his family. Next week we are gonna start going to his house and carrying to a nearby member so that he can go to church.
One sweet thing that happened. On Sunday, our funds were suffering a little bit, but luckily we ended up riding with some members and they took care of our fare. That was such a blessing. Oh my gosh. The members are really good to the missionaries over here just as long as they know you are doing your job as missionaries.
I'm finally getting used to life in the City.
Sorry this is short but we gotta go to a neighboring zone and clean their apartment and I gotta fix the broken appliances. Ha ha I'm the mission fix-it Elder.
Well gotta run.
Elder Chase.
Monday, October 11, 2010
11 Oct 2010
Hey guys!
Well, I made it through my first week in my new area! Barely! I'm assigned in an area called Balanga, Bataan. And its a City. ahhh. Can you believe it? I'm trying to still come to terms with it but I'll be okay. The Lord saw it fit to put me here and boy is it going to be a project.
We need to find a bunch of new investigators and help the ward out a ton. No problem though, its kind of the same situation I was in when I got assigned in Bani. The people are way nice here and yesterday we had the Primary program. We, as priesthood holders got to be part of it and stand in front of everyone and sing. The Bishop wasn't around though, they said he was at work. I dunno. But the stake president was there so I got to meet him. He's a very nice guy.
Last Tuesday I left Alaminos with 3 other missionaries; 2 of which traveled clear to Balanga with me. We got here about 4 pm that afternoon, wow was it a long day. Then we went to a couple appointments after I got here.
My Companion is from Bacolod, his first language is not Tagolog, so we're working on that, and his english. Then he does have the Philippino accent so he's helping me with that. After 6 months with an american I lost it and people couldn't really understand what I was saying. His last companion was trunky and ready to go home so he didn't learn to much from him. So I've had to train him again on a few things. Its gonna be fun. He's a good kid and he's pretty agressive, he'll talk to anyone anywhere. So that should pay off.
One cool thing is that everyone thinks I'm Filipino cuz I have squinty eyes and dark hair and I'm skinny, and kind of dark skin. I LOVE it!
Wish me luck on my project and until next week.
Elder Westwood.
Well, I made it through my first week in my new area! Barely! I'm assigned in an area called Balanga, Bataan. And its a City. ahhh. Can you believe it? I'm trying to still come to terms with it but I'll be okay. The Lord saw it fit to put me here and boy is it going to be a project.
We need to find a bunch of new investigators and help the ward out a ton. No problem though, its kind of the same situation I was in when I got assigned in Bani. The people are way nice here and yesterday we had the Primary program. We, as priesthood holders got to be part of it and stand in front of everyone and sing. The Bishop wasn't around though, they said he was at work. I dunno. But the stake president was there so I got to meet him. He's a very nice guy.
Last Tuesday I left Alaminos with 3 other missionaries; 2 of which traveled clear to Balanga with me. We got here about 4 pm that afternoon, wow was it a long day. Then we went to a couple appointments after I got here.
My Companion is from Bacolod, his first language is not Tagolog, so we're working on that, and his english. Then he does have the Philippino accent so he's helping me with that. After 6 months with an american I lost it and people couldn't really understand what I was saying. His last companion was trunky and ready to go home so he didn't learn to much from him. So I've had to train him again on a few things. Its gonna be fun. He's a good kid and he's pretty agressive, he'll talk to anyone anywhere. So that should pay off.
One cool thing is that everyone thinks I'm Filipino cuz I have squinty eyes and dark hair and I'm skinny, and kind of dark skin. I LOVE it!
Wish me luck on my project and until next week.
Elder Westwood.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
4 October 2010
Hey everyone,
Well we had the baptism yesterday for Mary Jane Bautista. It was sad because only a few members stuck around for it but she seemed pretty excited still, I was disappointed though. But that’s how it goes sometimes. She will be confirmed in 2 weeks. I hate waiting that long but that’ll be how it has to be because next week we have General Conference. Sadly I will not be around for the confirmation.
Today we just got out of our transfer meeting and I will be transferred. I am so sad about it but I know that the Lord needs me in another area to help someone else. This last couple transfers have been very rewarding, Our area is flourishing and we have been having 10+ investigators at church lately. Even though I am leaving I know that I am leaving the area in good hands.
Christmas season has now started here in the Philippines. Ahhh. Elder Pennock is already singing Christmas songs ha ha ha. I don’t know why but I’m such a scrooge. Its crazy how much times flies.
Saturday we went to Bolinao to do a baptismal interview because they told us that it was gonna be at 10 on Saturday. When we got there, we found out that there were no people at the church. Then the Eders showed up and were like we moved the time to 1:00 because our CSP time got changed, I was a lil frustrated. There is a serious lack of communication here in the Philippines that I really have a hard time with. It is so ingrained in their culture, I don’t know that it will ever change but one thing I try and teach to my companions is to be on-time always or run on gospel time. And always let people know what’s going on.
The husband of the lady that got baptized last week, he is golden! Oh my gosh. Since we taught him the first lesson. He has been reading the Book of Mormon every day. He cooks breakfast for his family and then sits and reads. The joy of his family is indescribable, he used to drink but not anymore and when he saw his wife get baptized he said that he wanted that to happen to him too. And he wanted the same feeling that he felt when she went under the water. We told him that it will happen and he will have the same feeling every day of his life, as long as he stays worthy. My only regret is that I won’t be around to see him be baptized but he is ready and will be baptized and that will have to be enough.
Huellas family is about there too and I think that they will be baptized soon enough. I just am praying that they will continue to investigate and grow in the gospel after I am gone.
Well I gotta run.
Until next week, in my new area,
Elder Westwood
Well we had the baptism yesterday for Mary Jane Bautista. It was sad because only a few members stuck around for it but she seemed pretty excited still, I was disappointed though. But that’s how it goes sometimes. She will be confirmed in 2 weeks. I hate waiting that long but that’ll be how it has to be because next week we have General Conference. Sadly I will not be around for the confirmation.
Today we just got out of our transfer meeting and I will be transferred. I am so sad about it but I know that the Lord needs me in another area to help someone else. This last couple transfers have been very rewarding, Our area is flourishing and we have been having 10+ investigators at church lately. Even though I am leaving I know that I am leaving the area in good hands.
Christmas season has now started here in the Philippines. Ahhh. Elder Pennock is already singing Christmas songs ha ha ha. I don’t know why but I’m such a scrooge. Its crazy how much times flies.
Saturday we went to Bolinao to do a baptismal interview because they told us that it was gonna be at 10 on Saturday. When we got there, we found out that there were no people at the church. Then the Eders showed up and were like we moved the time to 1:00 because our CSP time got changed, I was a lil frustrated. There is a serious lack of communication here in the Philippines that I really have a hard time with. It is so ingrained in their culture, I don’t know that it will ever change but one thing I try and teach to my companions is to be on-time always or run on gospel time. And always let people know what’s going on.
The husband of the lady that got baptized last week, he is golden! Oh my gosh. Since we taught him the first lesson. He has been reading the Book of Mormon every day. He cooks breakfast for his family and then sits and reads. The joy of his family is indescribable, he used to drink but not anymore and when he saw his wife get baptized he said that he wanted that to happen to him too. And he wanted the same feeling that he felt when she went under the water. We told him that it will happen and he will have the same feeling every day of his life, as long as he stays worthy. My only regret is that I won’t be around to see him be baptized but he is ready and will be baptized and that will have to be enough.
Huellas family is about there too and I think that they will be baptized soon enough. I just am praying that they will continue to investigate and grow in the gospel after I am gone.
Well I gotta run.
Until next week, in my new area,
Elder Westwood
Monday, September 27, 2010
27 Sept 2010
Hey everyone,
We opened the gate of salvation for 2 more children of God yesterday. It was right after church service and after the baptismal ordinance, Sister Cynthia Humilde got up and gave a beautiful testimony about the change that has happened to her. It was amazing and her daughters and her mom, who are all members, were all crying and I almost did but it didn't happen. Her husband who is an awesome person also came to church and stayed for the baptism. He said, after the baptism, to his family that he wants to get baptized and there was 1 other person, their neighbor, and loved it there at church. After that we walked forever and a day, up in the mountains, and through a resort and through a river to find a referral that the sister missionaries in Alaminos had given us last week. And when we got there, they were waiting for us, as well as some of her member friends. It was crazy, they literally live in the middle of no-where! ha ha. We missed the fireside that we were supposed to be at yesterday but we had fun and it was a lot more profitable to find that referral.
One of our investigators that was supposed to get baptized came down with the flu on Saturday and text the members and said she wouldn't be able to get baptized yesterday, so we told her thats fine. She'll be baptized next week. Then on the 9-10 we have General Conference. If I get transferred I'll be in another Area for it. If not. Great!
In other happenings this week, I went on exchanges this week up to Bolinao again. Me and Elder Berueta tore it up, up there. Me and him are both makulit, which means loud, happy, and crazy! It was a good time.
We had members work with us almost every day this week, therefore our lessons with members were way high this week and it gave them all a chance to get better at teaching to prepare for their missions. Then on Sunday (yesterday) we had 2 priesthood members that said they wanted to work with us this week. Which was a great! I'm way excited for that. Usually its just the YW that work. Then on Wednesday President Balad is gonna come down and work with us. We're gonna focus on finding the long lost members that are supposedly part of our branch. It will be busy but I know that we will see the rewards from it, even if we can only get 2 families back to church.
Well I gotta run. Love you all
Elder Chase.
We opened the gate of salvation for 2 more children of God yesterday. It was right after church service and after the baptismal ordinance, Sister Cynthia Humilde got up and gave a beautiful testimony about the change that has happened to her. It was amazing and her daughters and her mom, who are all members, were all crying and I almost did but it didn't happen. Her husband who is an awesome person also came to church and stayed for the baptism. He said, after the baptism, to his family that he wants to get baptized and there was 1 other person, their neighbor, and loved it there at church. After that we walked forever and a day, up in the mountains, and through a resort and through a river to find a referral that the sister missionaries in Alaminos had given us last week. And when we got there, they were waiting for us, as well as some of her member friends. It was crazy, they literally live in the middle of no-where! ha ha. We missed the fireside that we were supposed to be at yesterday but we had fun and it was a lot more profitable to find that referral.
One of our investigators that was supposed to get baptized came down with the flu on Saturday and text the members and said she wouldn't be able to get baptized yesterday, so we told her thats fine. She'll be baptized next week. Then on the 9-10 we have General Conference. If I get transferred I'll be in another Area for it. If not. Great!
In other happenings this week, I went on exchanges this week up to Bolinao again. Me and Elder Berueta tore it up, up there. Me and him are both makulit, which means loud, happy, and crazy! It was a good time.
We had members work with us almost every day this week, therefore our lessons with members were way high this week and it gave them all a chance to get better at teaching to prepare for their missions. Then on Sunday (yesterday) we had 2 priesthood members that said they wanted to work with us this week. Which was a great! I'm way excited for that. Usually its just the YW that work. Then on Wednesday President Balad is gonna come down and work with us. We're gonna focus on finding the long lost members that are supposedly part of our branch. It will be busy but I know that we will see the rewards from it, even if we can only get 2 families back to church.
Well I gotta run. Love you all
Elder Chase.
Monday, September 20, 2010
20 Sept 2010
Hey everyone,
Sorry, no fish bone stories this week. I was careful about what I ate.
Oh its been a busy week though! Holy cow!(banal na baka) that doesn’t directly translate and make sense in tagalog. On Saturday we went and did a service project at an elementary school. It was pretty fun. We painted, and cleaned and I got to use a hammer to hang stuff up in a classroom. It was actually a decent size hammer too! Ha ha. We had 3 investigators come to it and I think that they all had fun.
Yesterday we had 3 investigators get passed off for baptism. They will be baptized next Sunday. Elder Guevarra, the missionary that interviewed them said that they were all “Ang Galing” which basically means that they were great! That is good to hear because it means that at least most of what we are teaching is sinking in to their heads. One of them is an investigator that has 3 daughters that are members. I am way excited for her. As we were reviewing the baptismal interview questions with her she was struggling a little bit but her husband who had just come from work and had drunk a little bit answered every question about the commandments. He will not be far behind her getting baptized then 1 year after that they will go to the temple. I’m hoping to come back for that.
We gave a baptismal date to a gal this week that everybody says is homosexual. But I don’t know, we taught Law of Chastity and she didn’t say anything to us, but this week we will teach her the baptismal questions and covenants and hopefully if there is a concern we will be able to handle it no problems. It was really neat because when we went there we asked her to pray and she gave a beautiful prayer and actually started crying! I was like WOW!
On Thursday, we came down for yet another specialized training. We had to teach Elder and Sister Ashcraft…in ENGLISH!!!! It was so hard! Oh my gosh! But we got it done. I had a few struggling moments, or as we like to call them, Nose bleeds. But the Spirit came through for me and touched them and us. It was fun with just our Zone, everyone was making comments on how I have been here for so long. Me and one other sister, Sister Suniega, are the pioneers up here. She’s been up here for 9 months and Me, 7 ½ months. Transfers are in 2 weeks but I don’t really feel like I’m leaving yet. But we’ll see. The members start getting all worked up when I mention transfers. Ha ha ha. I suppose that’s a good thing.
We went to a birthday yesterday and I’m happy to say that there were no drunkards there. Absolutely no alak or alcohol. It was quiet but I think sister Dianne had a good time. It helped that her mom had passed her interview that day.
Well I gotta run. Love you all
Elder Chase
Sorry, no fish bone stories this week. I was careful about what I ate.
Oh its been a busy week though! Holy cow!(banal na baka) that doesn’t directly translate and make sense in tagalog. On Saturday we went and did a service project at an elementary school. It was pretty fun. We painted, and cleaned and I got to use a hammer to hang stuff up in a classroom. It was actually a decent size hammer too! Ha ha. We had 3 investigators come to it and I think that they all had fun.
Yesterday we had 3 investigators get passed off for baptism. They will be baptized next Sunday. Elder Guevarra, the missionary that interviewed them said that they were all “Ang Galing” which basically means that they were great! That is good to hear because it means that at least most of what we are teaching is sinking in to their heads. One of them is an investigator that has 3 daughters that are members. I am way excited for her. As we were reviewing the baptismal interview questions with her she was struggling a little bit but her husband who had just come from work and had drunk a little bit answered every question about the commandments. He will not be far behind her getting baptized then 1 year after that they will go to the temple. I’m hoping to come back for that.
We gave a baptismal date to a gal this week that everybody says is homosexual. But I don’t know, we taught Law of Chastity and she didn’t say anything to us, but this week we will teach her the baptismal questions and covenants and hopefully if there is a concern we will be able to handle it no problems. It was really neat because when we went there we asked her to pray and she gave a beautiful prayer and actually started crying! I was like WOW!
On Thursday, we came down for yet another specialized training. We had to teach Elder and Sister Ashcraft…in ENGLISH!!!! It was so hard! Oh my gosh! But we got it done. I had a few struggling moments, or as we like to call them, Nose bleeds. But the Spirit came through for me and touched them and us. It was fun with just our Zone, everyone was making comments on how I have been here for so long. Me and one other sister, Sister Suniega, are the pioneers up here. She’s been up here for 9 months and Me, 7 ½ months. Transfers are in 2 weeks but I don’t really feel like I’m leaving yet. But we’ll see. The members start getting all worked up when I mention transfers. Ha ha ha. I suppose that’s a good thing.
We went to a birthday yesterday and I’m happy to say that there were no drunkards there. Absolutely no alak or alcohol. It was quiet but I think sister Dianne had a good time. It helped that her mom had passed her interview that day.
Well I gotta run. Love you all
Elder Chase
Monday, September 13, 2010
13 Sept 2010
Hey everyone
Boy do I got a story for all of you!!! So Monday I had to go to the hospital to get some tests run, don't worry bout that part of it. Well, I got a check-up at the Doctor and he said fatty foods, salty foods, and sweets are a big No No right now. So basically he told me I have to fast for now! But he said that I can eat fish. Which is fine, fish is delicious, so later that night we had a family home evening with one of my favorite members, Sister Jane. And I was obedient to what the dr said and I was eating fish! Then I ate a fish bone and it got stuck good in my throat and I couldn't get it out! I tried everything. So I text the couple missionaries to tell them what was going on and I might be going back to the ER to get the bone taken out if I couldn't do it myself. So what did they do?...they come and get me. They wouldn't let me try and do it myself. So at 10:00 at night I walk into the ER and say I've got a bone in my throat and they say, okay take a seat the dr will be here in a minute. So no big deal. Then the dr comes and says, oh, sorry we don't have the stuff to take that out. Our ENT is at a convention in Maynila. GREAT! So we went to one other clinic place that was open and no one was there to help me. So I told Elder and Sister Ashcraft to take me home and I'd try and sleep with the bone in my throat still. I was able to sleep surprisingly well probably becuase of running all day I was exhausted. Then then next morning we went to the ENT and while we were waiting I could feel that the bone had moved up a little bit but it was scratching harder on my throat. But I thought to myslef, everyone said eat a banana cuz it will grab the bone and take it down, so we left and went and bought a couple bananas. One of them went down too easily and availed nothing. The next one was a little bit bigger and maybe a little too big. ha ha I got it lodged in my throat and started panicing a little bit, then I threw it up a little then swallowed it again and it went down with a little resistance but it did the job, it grabbed the bone too. When the ordeal was over I looked around and there were probably 25 philipinoes standing around staring at me and Elder Pennock was cracking up! Then we hurried and left and I laughed too. Then carried on with our day.
Yesterday we confirmed 3 of our 4 investigators that got baptized last week and I've attached pictures of that. That was great. I am hoping they will continue and flourish in the gospel. There is one of them that I am worried about, the other 3 not so much. Then I gave a talk about making our homes a heaven on earth. It was kind of boring. I'll probably have a chance to speak again and redeem myself. The sad thing was we only had 8 investigators come to church, usually its up in the 12-15. Part of that is because we haven't been able to work as much in our area because of meetings this week, we were gone Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, because of meetings. It showed that the work suffered too. We've got to be working.
We had another Investigator that told me that he wants me to baptize him and I was like brother, you have to decide if you want to be baptized before October because I might be leaving then. He was like I sure hope not. He is one that we hadn't expected to grow like he has but lately he has done great and is really considering it.
Earlier we did a service project with the Zone for one of the Branch presidents in the area. When we had a big pile of weeds the 2 big americans threw the little american (me) into the pile of weeds. It was fun! but unfortunately my hands are soft and I've gotten a bunch of blisters and cuts. Oh well. We found a new investigator last week named Jordan Ancheta and he is great! We were commiting to pray to know and he was like I know its true, because you guys leave your homes, you pick up our language and you share this great message. We are hoping that he will continue to learn and grow. He works with the Red Cross over here and when the big storm came through last year he worked with a lot of members of the church as they helped the people that had lost close to everything. I would have liked to be around when that happened.
Well thats all I've got here
Until next weekI love you all
Elder Chase
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
6 Sep 2010
Hey everyone,
We baptized 5 people yesterday, 4 Investigators and 1 child of record. The little girl that was a child of record was so scared and we had planned that Elder Pennock was going to baptize her but she was so scared that I ended up doing it because she knew me better. The other's did just fine and next week they will be confirmed in Sacrament. The Branch president, President Balad came down with the flu last week, and was not planning on coming to the baptized becuase he felt sick but his counselor didn't come to church so he had no choice. Go figure, someday it is our hope that the members in this branch will step up and realize that you cannot be a normal member, there is no such thing. That is what they want to be, they won't accept callings and most that do, do it for the wrong reasons. We are doing some trainings to help them, hopefully they will understand it.
On Friday we went and cleaned the church again with President Balad. After that he got sick. It was a good time. This week the youth are planning an activity to clean so we are going over to supervise and make sure that they clean everything; when they have "cleaned" in the past it ended up not being all that clean come Sunday.
Elder Chase
We baptized 5 people yesterday, 4 Investigators and 1 child of record. The little girl that was a child of record was so scared and we had planned that Elder Pennock was going to baptize her but she was so scared that I ended up doing it because she knew me better. The other's did just fine and next week they will be confirmed in Sacrament. The Branch president, President Balad came down with the flu last week, and was not planning on coming to the baptized becuase he felt sick but his counselor didn't come to church so he had no choice. Go figure, someday it is our hope that the members in this branch will step up and realize that you cannot be a normal member, there is no such thing. That is what they want to be, they won't accept callings and most that do, do it for the wrong reasons. We are doing some trainings to help them, hopefully they will understand it. Last night we were teaching a family where the 3 daughters are really active but the parents are not members, the kids got baptized because their grandma was a member. They have hoped for a long time that their parents would accept the gospel. Well their mom, told us that she wants to be baptized and will be at the end of this month, and their dad, last night said that he wants to be so hopefully we can help him get rid of his drinking habit and be baptized too. I guess the dad was dreaming the other night and talking in his sleep, the kids heard and he said "Elders I'm gonna come with you." So since then the kids have had a hope that his dream would come true. Well it did, last night during the lesson, he said the same thing. The girls and grandma got excited because this was an answer to their prayers. It was really neat. Now we just need to help the brother stop drinking.
On Friday we went and cleaned the church again with President Balad. After that he got sick. It was a good time. This week the youth are planning an activity to clean so we are going over to supervise and make sure that they clean everything; when they have "cleaned" in the past it ended up not being all that clean come Sunday. Last Wednesday we went down to Santa Cruz again. Its getting expensive, holy cow! But we are learning a lot. For the duration of the training they separated the companionships, Elder Pennock got put with 2 sisters, one that is still new in the mission and 1 that doesn't know very much english. I think it was good for him! He seemed to learn a ton. And he had to talk a lot more becuase I was not there to do it. We go down again on Wednesday for a leadership training.
Until next week
Monday, August 30, 2010
30 August 2010
Hey everyone,
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Well not a lot happened this week. The busiest day was on Friday when we had a service project in the morning, had to run to Alaminos to talk to the elders, and had a funeral service at night. It was great being able to work on Tuesday, rather than have to worry about transferring. Everyone we went to all week was like "What are you still doing here I thought you were transferring?" I said my goodbyes to everyone but then I didn't leave.
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Well not a lot happened this week. The busiest day was on Friday when we had a service project in the morning, had to run to Alaminos to talk to the elders, and had a funeral service at night. It was great being able to work on Tuesday, rather than have to worry about transferring. Everyone we went to all week was like "What are you still doing here I thought you were transferring?" I said my goodbyes to everyone but then I didn't leave.Wednesday we went to teach one of our investigators Pablito Tadeo, he was a pretty heavy drinker and smoked about 1-1 1/2 packs every day, during the lesson I had the impression to ask him if he was still carrying on in his old ways and he said he hasn't had a drink since the last time we went to him when he was drunk and as far as his cigarettes, he is down to a half a pack. That is what can happen if an investigator knows the truth of the church, if only they were all like him and started lessening their vices without us as missionaries following up with them every couple days. Then Huellas family, we asked sister how her praying went about Joseph Smith, she hasn't prayed yet to know the truth, but she did say that she has been praying that her husband wouldn't gamble or drink this week and he hasn't! So we explained that the Lord has answered one of her prayers and if she will pray about the church she will know the truth and it won't be a big deal if they have to leave their old church because they found the truth.
Thursday not much exciting happened. Our last appointment was a brother that we have had a hard time gaining his trust. Last week he talked so much and asked so many questions it was great and becuase of that he was able to learn so much more from the lesson because he was able to ask questions because he wasn't scared of us. Building a Relationship of Trust is soo so important.
Friday we cleaned the weeds out of a members house, the Brother was away at work in another city and because of it his house was starting to get overrun with weeds. Then after that we went to lunch and then to Alaminos and to the patay (funeral) The Branch Pres. said that he was not able to come because his wife had a dr. appointment. So he assigned his counselor to go and preside. No problem. Then 4:30 rolls around and his family came over but he didn't. I was like where is brother? They said, he couldn't come he has to watch his fish ponds. I said, "he doesn't have a choice he said he would be here and he is a speaker." So his wife was like "go get him" so we tromped thru the mud and went out and got him. I was Nice don't worry. ha ha. After a lil talk I was able to make him understand that if he commited to something then he has to go. He went to the funeral and after the service he asked where the Elders quorum president was who was also supposed to be there and didn't come becuase his wife said he was tired. So the Brother goes off about magnifying your callings. I kind of looked at him and he quieted down. That continues to be a problem here, the members don't want to work or contribute to the branch, that is why we are struggling.
Yesterday at church it was Branch Conference, it was good, their focus was on playing an active roll in the branch and how to properly record families visited and stuff like that. It was good, I am hoping that the members will start to act on what was said there, and we get to help train them and keep them going. After church we had baptismal interviews and they all passed! So that was a great part of the day.
Next Sunday we have a baptism of 4 converts and one member's child so I'll tell how that goes next week
Until next week
I love you all
Elder Westwood
Sunday, August 22, 2010
23 Aug 2010
Hey guys
I know that the Lord hears and answers our prayers! For probably the last couple weeks I have prayed that I would not be transferred this transfer so that I would be able to harvest some of the seeds I've planted. And the Lord answered my prayers! I will be staying in Bani for at least another month and a half! I'm so excited! I went through a lil bit of a dry spell the last few months but we have like 5 or 6 baptisms planned for the next few weeks! I'm so excited to be able to see some of our great investigators get baptized! The only bad part is that I have to go unpack all my stuff now! ha ha I got nervous and I didn't wanna be up all night packing so I packed earlier, even though the whole time I was doing it, I kept having the thought pass through my head "you're just gonna have to unpack it later" or "you're wasting your time". The Spirit can tell you things that are supposed to be secret too! ha ha
Well I haven't been in the best of health but the work is still moving forward. I've had a cough almost the whole week, and starting 2 days ago I've been dealing with a headache and a fever and an achy body and stuff. Its not the best but I had some people say in church yesterday that I looked like I was ready to die. ha ha. I finally got a blessing yesterday and I'm okay today, not back to 100% but better. I've been giving blessings like crazy lately. You'da thought that I'da asked for one earlier. Oh well. I did exchanges with one of the other missionaries in the District and I had to sleep in his bed and now he's sick ha ha oops!
Other than that, not a lot has happened. We went and did games for a primary activity yesterday and I wanted to go home and sleep after that but Elder wanted to go out and work so I was kinda in a bad mood but I just decided we were doing it either way so I better make the best of it. So we went to this one investigator and had an AMAZING lesson! We even extended a baptismal commitment to her. Come to find out that her husband died so she was especially interested when we explained that even though her husband is passed now he can be baptized and they can be sealed for all time and eternity. So it all worked out. But if I had continued to have a bad attitude and been irritated with Elder when we went there it wouldn't have worked because there would be no spirit.
Saturday we went and cleaned the church for our service project with the branch president, then we went to lunch after. He's doing alright with money so it didn't turn into a deal where the americans treat cuz they're rich. President Balad is a sweet guy! He is way good at english and has an american accent. I thought he was American the first time I met him, come to find out he has never left the island of Luzon.
This week we have a plan to thatch a roof for some members or at least cut the weeds to do it. That should be fun. I'll take some pictures.
I hope this letter finds all you well and healthy. I'll continue to pray for you all. Thank you to all you who are praying for me.
Love you all
Elder Westwood
ps Elder Pennock is still with me.
I know that the Lord hears and answers our prayers! For probably the last couple weeks I have prayed that I would not be transferred this transfer so that I would be able to harvest some of the seeds I've planted. And the Lord answered my prayers! I will be staying in Bani for at least another month and a half! I'm so excited! I went through a lil bit of a dry spell the last few months but we have like 5 or 6 baptisms planned for the next few weeks! I'm so excited to be able to see some of our great investigators get baptized! The only bad part is that I have to go unpack all my stuff now! ha ha I got nervous and I didn't wanna be up all night packing so I packed earlier, even though the whole time I was doing it, I kept having the thought pass through my head "you're just gonna have to unpack it later" or "you're wasting your time". The Spirit can tell you things that are supposed to be secret too! ha ha
Well I haven't been in the best of health but the work is still moving forward. I've had a cough almost the whole week, and starting 2 days ago I've been dealing with a headache and a fever and an achy body and stuff. Its not the best but I had some people say in church yesterday that I looked like I was ready to die. ha ha. I finally got a blessing yesterday and I'm okay today, not back to 100% but better. I've been giving blessings like crazy lately. You'da thought that I'da asked for one earlier. Oh well. I did exchanges with one of the other missionaries in the District and I had to sleep in his bed and now he's sick ha ha oops!
Other than that, not a lot has happened. We went and did games for a primary activity yesterday and I wanted to go home and sleep after that but Elder wanted to go out and work so I was kinda in a bad mood but I just decided we were doing it either way so I better make the best of it. So we went to this one investigator and had an AMAZING lesson! We even extended a baptismal commitment to her. Come to find out that her husband died so she was especially interested when we explained that even though her husband is passed now he can be baptized and they can be sealed for all time and eternity. So it all worked out. But if I had continued to have a bad attitude and been irritated with Elder when we went there it wouldn't have worked because there would be no spirit.
Saturday we went and cleaned the church for our service project with the branch president, then we went to lunch after. He's doing alright with money so it didn't turn into a deal where the americans treat cuz they're rich. President Balad is a sweet guy! He is way good at english and has an american accent. I thought he was American the first time I met him, come to find out he has never left the island of Luzon.
This week we have a plan to thatch a roof for some members or at least cut the weeds to do it. That should be fun. I'll take some pictures.
I hope this letter finds all you well and healthy. I'll continue to pray for you all. Thank you to all you who are praying for me.
Love you all
Elder Westwood
ps Elder Pennock is still with me.
Monday, August 16, 2010
16 Aug 2010
Hey everyone,
Well it was a busy week again and I don’t know where it went. We taught a bunch, stayed busy, learned a few things at specialized training, and taught a lil more.
On Wednesday we went to Santa Cruz for Specialized training and the training emphasis was on Revelation through Scripture reading and through prayer. It was really good, I realized that I need to put a lot more emphasis and be a lot more persistent with my investigators on getting them to pray and read. Then right after that we grabbed a quick bite to eat with everyone and left. It started some rumors about me wanting to impress President Aquino. And this and that but, whada ya do? Honestly if we had the choice we wouldn’t even go down there. We’d just work, the mission is too short. We often say we need 15 more hours in a day and 5 more days in a week to do this work justice.
Thursday-Friday I did splits with Elder Berueta, he’s assigned up in Bolinao. I was worried because he is older in the mission and I’d heard some things about him not liking me very much. All my worrying was in vain, it was so much fun. I didn’t have to take on the roll of handling concerns or worry about the investigators understanding. And I actually learned things from him! We were busy the whole time and The Spirit was so strong in the lessons! Friday morning we had a lesson with Joel. His concern was about having to pay money in order to worship God. He believed that you can worship and not have to pay money; because God does not need money. And things got pretty heated. Elder Berueta likes to be really bold, more so than I, so I started being prompted to take over the lesson. So I did and as I was explaining a light came on and he said I understand now, I believe that. I explained that God does not need money in his place but here on His kingdom on earth we need it to build it so we can be ready for when He comes again. It was cool how the Spirit directed the words I said.
We had a dinner appointment with Huellas Family on Friday. It was so good we had ribs and corn and shrimp and all this way good food. I was in heaven! And they came to church yesterday! I hope they are close to wanting to accept the truth.
The Branch President President Balad worked with us on Friday, we spent most the day going to members but it was good for him and a chance for us to visit some of the members that we haven’t seen in a while because he is from another city he doesn’t know the area very well, but we know it pretty well.
Transfers are next week. My thoughts are up in the air right now about it. President said I might be up here for a year or so but I don’t know. I’m 90% sure that one of us will be transferred, cuz Elder Pennock needs a chance to grow more. Beyond what I can teach him; we have been together for about 4 and a half months. And it has been a lot of fun.
We had an investigator come to church yesterday that we haven’t even taught yet. She is a referral from the elders in the100 islands area. And she has a friend that she went to school with that is a member. We told the member friend that we were gonna go out there on Saturday night but she said they were having a YW activity that day and she didn’t know when they would get back so we decided to cancel. Come to find out they were waiting for us to come and we never came. IT was a lil embarrassing but oh well.
We didn’t get lost in the bukid (farm lands) this week or face very many drunk guys this week so it wasn’t all that exciting. Maybe next week.
Well that’s all I’ve got time for.
Love you all
Elder Westwood.
Monday, August 9, 2010
9 Aug 2010
This is ridiculous! It seems that I was just here yesterday writing you guys. A lot happened but it has all kind of blurred into one day.
Well lets start with the Investigators: Joel, Batas, and Huellas family.
Joel was not able to come to Church for the last couple weeks, 2 weeks ago he had gout and hasn't really been able to walk around to well. Even when we went to him on Friday he was limping pretty good. Then yesterday he was moving so he wasn't able to come. I told him it was too bad he wasn't doing it on another day other than Sunday because then we could help him. I was trying to hint to him that he shouldn't be doing it on Sunday. It didn't work, but he is doing good. Still reading the Book of Mormon and he moved to a house that is a lot closer so it should help us in a way that we can get to him faster and it will help immensely in our schedule.
Batas, well, hmmm, I think he will accept the gospel someday but I don't think it is his time right now. For almost 5 months now we have been visiting him numerous times a week and I think its time to just give him a lil space. It blows but he is not progressing anymore and not reading, and not praying (except when he is drunk (He is actually really good at praying when he is drunk). If I don't get transferred next week we're gonna give him a break then maybe half way thru the transfer or so we'll see if he has changed. We'll see, we're still praying about it.
Huellas Family came to church yesterday! It was great, this is the 2nd week in a row, 2 more and they will be eligible for baptism. They have seemed to be more open every time we go there. On Friday we went to them and it was kind of late they were cooking dinner so we just kind of said hi, asked the kids how school was and followed up on their Book of Mormon reading. Just kind of having a conversation with them when Brother Huellas was like why don't you guys have dinner with us next week. Very rarely do we get eating appointments with investigators. It was cool. And we graciously accepted and we set a date for Friday. I had the feeling like yeah, we are really starting to gain their trust now. They are great. Then to make it a great week when they came to church yesterday we had the lesson on tithing and offerings and they paid tithing yesterday. It was great.
One other great thing that happened. One of our friends who we were able to teach this week and make an investigator had gall bladder stones. We taught about the restoration of the Priesthood and how this church has it, then we said that we could give her a blessing. She was really happy when we said that. We made sure that she understood it was according to her faith and she said ok. We gave the blessing, left, and went back on Friday to check on her and she said, "Elders! Since you gave me that blessing I haven't had any problems whatsoever!" It was great I am so thankful for the blessing of the priesthood. She was miserable when we gave her the blessing and now its like nothing ever happened.
We lost one day of work last week and we will again this week and next week as we have to go to Santa Cruz for specialized training with the Area 70. Last week at Zone Conference we had the Area Medical Advisor come speak to us, Elder Jafek, he said some good stuff, and I'm TRYING to follow his council. he he he he!
Last week I did splits with one of the areas in the District. It was fun. I walked that poor missionary's butt off, ha ha, and boy was he muddy by the end of the day. He is one of the missionaries that is fighting with his companion. Then this week I get to split with his companion. We'll see how that goes.
Well I gotta run.
Iove you all
Elder Chase
Well lets start with the Investigators: Joel, Batas, and Huellas family.
Joel was not able to come to Church for the last couple weeks, 2 weeks ago he had gout and hasn't really been able to walk around to well. Even when we went to him on Friday he was limping pretty good. Then yesterday he was moving so he wasn't able to come. I told him it was too bad he wasn't doing it on another day other than Sunday because then we could help him. I was trying to hint to him that he shouldn't be doing it on Sunday. It didn't work, but he is doing good. Still reading the Book of Mormon and he moved to a house that is a lot closer so it should help us in a way that we can get to him faster and it will help immensely in our schedule.
Batas, well, hmmm, I think he will accept the gospel someday but I don't think it is his time right now. For almost 5 months now we have been visiting him numerous times a week and I think its time to just give him a lil space. It blows but he is not progressing anymore and not reading, and not praying (except when he is drunk (He is actually really good at praying when he is drunk). If I don't get transferred next week we're gonna give him a break then maybe half way thru the transfer or so we'll see if he has changed. We'll see, we're still praying about it.
Huellas Family came to church yesterday! It was great, this is the 2nd week in a row, 2 more and they will be eligible for baptism. They have seemed to be more open every time we go there. On Friday we went to them and it was kind of late they were cooking dinner so we just kind of said hi, asked the kids how school was and followed up on their Book of Mormon reading. Just kind of having a conversation with them when Brother Huellas was like why don't you guys have dinner with us next week. Very rarely do we get eating appointments with investigators. It was cool. And we graciously accepted and we set a date for Friday. I had the feeling like yeah, we are really starting to gain their trust now. They are great. Then to make it a great week when they came to church yesterday we had the lesson on tithing and offerings and they paid tithing yesterday. It was great.
One other great thing that happened. One of our friends who we were able to teach this week and make an investigator had gall bladder stones. We taught about the restoration of the Priesthood and how this church has it, then we said that we could give her a blessing. She was really happy when we said that. We made sure that she understood it was according to her faith and she said ok. We gave the blessing, left, and went back on Friday to check on her and she said, "Elders! Since you gave me that blessing I haven't had any problems whatsoever!" It was great I am so thankful for the blessing of the priesthood. She was miserable when we gave her the blessing and now its like nothing ever happened.
We lost one day of work last week and we will again this week and next week as we have to go to Santa Cruz for specialized training with the Area 70. Last week at Zone Conference we had the Area Medical Advisor come speak to us, Elder Jafek, he said some good stuff, and I'm TRYING to follow his council. he he he he!
Last week I did splits with one of the areas in the District. It was fun. I walked that poor missionary's butt off, ha ha, and boy was he muddy by the end of the day. He is one of the missionaries that is fighting with his companion. Then this week I get to split with his companion. We'll see how that goes.
Well I gotta run.
Iove you all
Elder Chase
Monday, August 2, 2010
2 Aug 2010
Hey everyone,
Wow, where in the heck did last week go? Elder Pennock and I were just talking about going and emailing and we realized it doesn't seem like a whole week since we've emailed. I guess thats how it goes though. I guess it means that we were busy.
Well there was a patay or a viewing (funeral viewing) at Batas' next door neighbor. Usually all the guys get together and drink until they pass out. Well I'm sad to report that Batas was no exception to this. We went to check on him on Saturday and he was out of it! Wasted! Oh man it was funny cuz he started singing "We are the Champions" but we had to explain that he wasn't being a champion that day.
On Friday we had interviews with President Aquino. It kind of just turned into a long question-answer. I had a huge list of questions but it was a good chance to learn from him. He is so full of inspiration all the time. Its sweet. There is nothing that happens in the mission that he doesn't know. Even if everyone is sworn to secrecy like the Gadiantions in the Book of Mormon, he still finds out! I guess that comes with the territory of being called of God and put in charge of a teenage boys. ha ha.
We got Huellas Family back to church yesterday. Lately they have been a lot more happy and more smiley when we are there. I hope thats a sign that they are getting closer to being baptized but we'll see. I don't wanna jinx myself by saying anything is certain. But it could happen.
Joel was not able to come to church this week. I don't know why but we'll find out on Wednesday when we go there after Zone Conference. I'm so excited. Then next week and the week after we have to go to Specialized training with the Area 70 Its gonna be sweet!
I almost got in a fight with another drunk guy last week. It was pretty intense. We went to one of the members that has been inactive on and off for a while now. She just comes to church for like 1 month straight then she won't come for a month. She's just kind of like that. Anyways, we went to her place to share with her and her oldest son was outside the gate trying to get in. When he saw us he was like "labas kayo" which means "Leave." I told him NO and then sister came out and was like don't you tell them to leave so he tried to block the way so we couldn't get in so I ripped his hand off the bar and went into the house cuz sister was trying and having no luck. Now that probably wasn't the smartest on my part but thats what I did. So after that he got mad and was like you better come out and being dumb. So after a little bit I started talking with him, just friendly talk, and I'll be danged if this attitude didn't make a 180 degree turn. It was like nothing had happened. Then we talked and laughed until I convinced him he needed to go home and sleep off his drunkeness. So he did. We had a branch missionary with us and he was freaked out ha ha. It was so funny. After we left sister's place he was still shaking I think.
We met a guy last week that believes that Jesus Christ is here on Earth right now. He lives in the mountains, in a place close to my last area. He said he would take us there if he had money so we could talk to him. I asked him if he had the signs of the nails in his hands and his feet. That made him think a lil bit.
Well thats about all I've got time for this week.
Love you all
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
26 July 2010
Hey everyone,
Things are still moving up here in Bani. We are starting to get more help from the members and we are currently focusing on getting things fixed or finished up from the last branch president. He left a bunch of things undone. We were looking for some baptismal records and found some from 2008 that hadn't been sent in yet to the mission home for recording. So for 2 years there have been members that Salt Lake doesn't know about. Then we have one member that wants to be Branch President, we told him that he doesn't, then he came when we were trying to fix things and organize. He said he doesn't wanna be branch president but we're pretty sure he does. Its not easy being Branch President, or Bishop, but its even harder when they the person they replace doesn't do his job.
Thats all the Drama for this week... Sorry.
We set a meeting to watch a movie with the other Elders in the District because President Aquino said we needed to, but they never came. I gotta address that problem today in District Meeting. Elder Pennock says I need to do it nicely, not fire and brimstone, hellfire and damnation. So we'll see how goes. Then there is a companionship that have been fighting this week so I gotta try to help them resolve thier problems. Freaking Pride. It is the root of all evil. I'm not saying that I'm the most humble person but I at least have seen what destructive effects it can have on the missionary work. Batas is not doing the best, he just seems to have more and more problems. Trial after Trial. I feel pretty bad for him, but like there is nothing that I can do. We pray for him everyday, I know that if we was able to get him baptized he would have the Holy Ghost then he would have that extra strength and help but I don't know. I guess we just need to keep helping him. Then Huellas who we thought were golden are not really seeming that interested anymore. I guess thats just part of this work.
So in good news. We got to play mechanic last week, on Wednesday we went down and helped Batas fix his Motorcycle. Tuesday his piston broke and fell down in the motor. There were so many metal shavings in there. If he had the money to do so we should have cleaned everything out and rinsed everything down with oil, but he didn't have the money so we'll just see how long his motor lasts until it seizes up. It was fun and a learning experience for me and for Elder Pennock. Elder Pennock has never seen the inside of a motorcycle engine.
Joel Baleros came to church yesterday, and he brought his 2 kids. It was cool but his kids were not able to stay for sunday school and priesthood, just Joel.We had to change our schedule for one of our investigators. So we were not able to go to Joel last Friday but he said when we were there on Wednesday that whether we were able to go there or not on Friday he was coming to church. Then in Priesthood the lesson was on Proper use of the Priesthood but it kind of turned into Eternal Marriage and ordinances that happen in the Temple. It was great! He was asking so many questions and everyone was so willing to answer his questions.
Oh, we called an Elders Quorum on Sunday as well! Brother Calisaan. He is probably the 2nd strongest Priesthood in the branch and a great guy. He is one of the pioneers of the branch. One of the few that is still active.
We met a guy that is retired US Navy the other day. He’s Filipino, and just came back because he liked the lifestyle here better. It was cool because he came out just to talk to us. I was talking Tagalog to him and asked for English cuz it was easier for him. I was struggling so so bad! Ha ha I couldn’t speak English to him to save my life. When we left elder was like “Hey Elder you were struggling a little back there ha ha ha” Yeah it was pretty bad but good for laughs.
On Thursday we had to give a blessing to one of the members. We went there to teach her husband and when we got there her face was swollen! HUGE! I guess her daughter got mad, threw a small makeup mirror at her and after that it caused her whole face to swell up. The swelling was even down into her neck and it hurt her to talk! But she came to church yesterday and for the most part her face was back to normal.
Earlier this morning we had one of the members come up to our house and show us what was edible plants in our back yard. We found out that we have these things called kamote, Sili (Small peppers that are REALLY hot). Egg plant, a few fruits and stuff. It was fun. Then we had some members come and help us do our wash, they are filipinoes and so basically they did what we did in about ¼ the time. They were fast! Maybe someday I’ll be that fast too. Ha ha
Well, that’s all I got time for this week. I gotta go to District Meeting and preach hellfire and damnation...I mean niceness and charity.
Be Good
Love you all
Elder Chase
Hey everyone,
Things are still moving up here in Bani. We are starting to get more help from the members and we are currently focusing on getting things fixed or finished up from the last branch president. He left a bunch of things undone. We were looking for some baptismal records and found some from 2008 that hadn't been sent in yet to the mission home for recording. So for 2 years there have been members that Salt Lake doesn't know about. Then we have one member that wants to be Branch President, we told him that he doesn't, then he came when we were trying to fix things and organize. He said he doesn't wanna be branch president but we're pretty sure he does. Its not easy being Branch President, or Bishop, but its even harder when they the person they replace doesn't do his job.
Thats all the Drama for this week... Sorry.
We set a meeting to watch a movie with the other Elders in the District because President Aquino said we needed to, but they never came. I gotta address that problem today in District Meeting. Elder Pennock says I need to do it nicely, not fire and brimstone, hellfire and damnation. So we'll see how goes. Then there is a companionship that have been fighting this week so I gotta try to help them resolve thier problems. Freaking Pride. It is the root of all evil. I'm not saying that I'm the most humble person but I at least have seen what destructive effects it can have on the missionary work. Batas is not doing the best, he just seems to have more and more problems. Trial after Trial. I feel pretty bad for him, but like there is nothing that I can do. We pray for him everyday, I know that if we was able to get him baptized he would have the Holy Ghost then he would have that extra strength and help but I don't know. I guess we just need to keep helping him. Then Huellas who we thought were golden are not really seeming that interested anymore. I guess thats just part of this work.
So in good news. We got to play mechanic last week, on Wednesday we went down and helped Batas fix his Motorcycle. Tuesday his piston broke and fell down in the motor. There were so many metal shavings in there. If he had the money to do so we should have cleaned everything out and rinsed everything down with oil, but he didn't have the money so we'll just see how long his motor lasts until it seizes up. It was fun and a learning experience for me and for Elder Pennock. Elder Pennock has never seen the inside of a motorcycle engine.
Joel Baleros came to church yesterday, and he brought his 2 kids. It was cool but his kids were not able to stay for sunday school and priesthood, just Joel.We had to change our schedule for one of our investigators. So we were not able to go to Joel last Friday but he said when we were there on Wednesday that whether we were able to go there or not on Friday he was coming to church. Then in Priesthood the lesson was on Proper use of the Priesthood but it kind of turned into Eternal Marriage and ordinances that happen in the Temple. It was great! He was asking so many questions and everyone was so willing to answer his questions.
Oh, we called an Elders Quorum on Sunday as well! Brother Calisaan. He is probably the 2nd strongest Priesthood in the branch and a great guy. He is one of the pioneers of the branch. One of the few that is still active.
We met a guy that is retired US Navy the other day. He’s Filipino, and just came back because he liked the lifestyle here better. It was cool because he came out just to talk to us. I was talking Tagalog to him and asked for English cuz it was easier for him. I was struggling so so bad! Ha ha I couldn’t speak English to him to save my life. When we left elder was like “Hey Elder you were struggling a little back there ha ha ha” Yeah it was pretty bad but good for laughs.
On Thursday we had to give a blessing to one of the members. We went there to teach her husband and when we got there her face was swollen! HUGE! I guess her daughter got mad, threw a small makeup mirror at her and after that it caused her whole face to swell up. The swelling was even down into her neck and it hurt her to talk! But she came to church yesterday and for the most part her face was back to normal.
Earlier this morning we had one of the members come up to our house and show us what was edible plants in our back yard. We found out that we have these things called kamote, Sili (Small peppers that are REALLY hot). Egg plant, a few fruits and stuff. It was fun. Then we had some members come and help us do our wash, they are filipinoes and so basically they did what we did in about ¼ the time. They were fast! Maybe someday I’ll be that fast too. Ha ha
Well, that’s all I got time for this week. I gotta go to District Meeting and preach hellfire and damnation...I mean niceness and charity.
Be Good
Love you all
Elder Chase
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
19 July 2010
Hey everyone,
Well I don't have much to report on this week, just more of the same. Teaching, walking, and teaching some more. ha ha.
We had a new policy made in the mission that we can no longer have members wash our clothes, we have to do it ourselves now. I'll send pictures next week but basically we have a bucket and we put water and soap in it and rub everything together. It didn't go to bad today, I rubbed holes in 2 of my white shirts and turned my garments blue, but hey, I won't totally call it a failure. There are no bleach stains on my pants. ha ha! Better luck next week.
Batas made it a whole week without drinking so if he continues for 3 more he can have the Spirit and that will help him a lot more. And his life will get a lot easier. We are praying for him.
Huellas family are so close to being baptized but they have been devoted Catholic since they were kids and they are not sure that they wanna leave it. We just stress every time that they need to know if the Book of Mormon is true, cuz if its true then the church is true. If they got baptized they would be great members! Their whole family so we'll see what happens.
Yesterday we had one of our golden investigators come to church yesterday, we started teaching him last week (2 weeks ago) and because he didn't know what to wear he didn't come to church last week. That was our fault, but he came this week and loved it! He was really listening to everything and was excited when he said that his wife was coming with him next week. In the first visit we gave him a Book of Mormon and when we went back he had already read the whole 1st Nephi. It was great! He also has lots of questions but its good because they are all really good deep questions; soul searching questions. Hopefully he will continue to progress.
Last Thursday we went tracting through this big old tract of farm land and it was MUDDY! And so much fun! ha ha We were soaked from head to foot and muddy as well! We forgot to wear boots that day! I took videos but they are too big to send so I'll just have to send them home on a USB and mom can post them to Facebook. We had a member with us and she got drenched as well but she asked if we could go thru the farm land so thats her fault. She made friends with a lot of our investigators! It is truely amazing the fellowship of a member in the conversion process! We should all be helping in whatever way we can. I can't wait to help them after my mission to make up for the times I didn't before.
Well sorry this is short but I really have no time! We had some things come up that weren't planned and they like to conflict with the planned things.
Talk to you next week.
Love you all.
Elder Chase
Hey everyone,
Well I don't have much to report on this week, just more of the same. Teaching, walking, and teaching some more. ha ha.
We had a new policy made in the mission that we can no longer have members wash our clothes, we have to do it ourselves now. I'll send pictures next week but basically we have a bucket and we put water and soap in it and rub everything together. It didn't go to bad today, I rubbed holes in 2 of my white shirts and turned my garments blue, but hey, I won't totally call it a failure. There are no bleach stains on my pants. ha ha! Better luck next week.
Batas made it a whole week without drinking so if he continues for 3 more he can have the Spirit and that will help him a lot more. And his life will get a lot easier. We are praying for him.
Huellas family are so close to being baptized but they have been devoted Catholic since they were kids and they are not sure that they wanna leave it. We just stress every time that they need to know if the Book of Mormon is true, cuz if its true then the church is true. If they got baptized they would be great members! Their whole family so we'll see what happens.
Yesterday we had one of our golden investigators come to church yesterday, we started teaching him last week (2 weeks ago) and because he didn't know what to wear he didn't come to church last week. That was our fault, but he came this week and loved it! He was really listening to everything and was excited when he said that his wife was coming with him next week. In the first visit we gave him a Book of Mormon and when we went back he had already read the whole 1st Nephi. It was great! He also has lots of questions but its good because they are all really good deep questions; soul searching questions. Hopefully he will continue to progress.
Last Thursday we went tracting through this big old tract of farm land and it was MUDDY! And so much fun! ha ha We were soaked from head to foot and muddy as well! We forgot to wear boots that day! I took videos but they are too big to send so I'll just have to send them home on a USB and mom can post them to Facebook. We had a member with us and she got drenched as well but she asked if we could go thru the farm land so thats her fault. She made friends with a lot of our investigators! It is truely amazing the fellowship of a member in the conversion process! We should all be helping in whatever way we can. I can't wait to help them after my mission to make up for the times I didn't before.
Well sorry this is short but I really have no time! We had some things come up that weren't planned and they like to conflict with the planned things.
Talk to you next week.
Love you all.
Elder Chase
Monday, July 12, 2010
12 July 2010
Well a big Question got answered today...Am I transferring?...The answer is NO! and I'm so excited! I've been thinking a lot about it later and I have been having some of the feelings that I normally do when I transfer. But Elder Pennock and I came and checked the email first thing this morning and there was no transfer information in his email or mine, which means that there is no one transferring from our district. So that will be fun.
In other happenings this week. We went to Batas on Tuesday and took one of his friends that hasn't really talked with him in years (the friend is a member that used to be "king of the drunks"). When we arrived where he is always he was so drunk he fell over trying to stand up and greet me. I say "Batas! you've been drinking!!!!!" He replied. "Just a little bit!" Then I said, "Don't lie to me! You just fell over, you are wasted right now!" Then he admitted. So we turned to Preach My Gospel, something we should have done a while ago. There is a section in there on Addiction Recovery. So we took some ideas from there and made a plan with him. It was centered on things he is missing in his life because of his drinking, people that are affected, and alternative things he could do. It was good and I think he will stick to it this time. At least thats what we are praying for.
We also got a few referrals from members again this week. This one member we've been trying to schedule so that he could take us out to his referrals but because he has school now its been rough but we were finally able to go out and meet them. One of them used to be a very strong Jehovahs Witness and some of her old beliefs are still there. She heard that in our church we had the commandment to "go forth and populate the earth." Then she had a member from Mindanao tell her that we had a bunch of rooms in our church and they used those rooms to carry out that commandment. I was laughing so hard! She was really worried about offending us when she had the question. She almost didn't ask but I'm glad she did because that was the reason she hadn't tried to come into our church. It is truly ridiculous some of the rumors that go around. ha ha
We have a lunch appointment today where we are going to get to eat Frog. I'm so excited. Everyone here says that is delicious! But I haven't had a chance to taste it yet, so I'm excited! So is Elder Pennock, he's getting all sorts of strange food here.
Yesterday in church we went in for our PEC meeting at 8 and President Balad was like I need you to speak today for 10-15 minutes because the other person assigned didn't come. So I had like 20 minutes to prepare. It is cool, When you are worthy of the Spirit is not hard! You just get up and talk.
During Elders Quorum we had a Home Teaching assignment meeting with the Teachers and Melchizedek Priesthood it was good now hopefully we will be able to get that going here. We'll see.
Well I'm outta time, gotta run. I love you all and thanks for your support.
Elder Chase
Well a big Question got answered today...Am I transferring?...The answer is NO! and I'm so excited! I've been thinking a lot about it later and I have been having some of the feelings that I normally do when I transfer. But Elder Pennock and I came and checked the email first thing this morning and there was no transfer information in his email or mine, which means that there is no one transferring from our district. So that will be fun.
In other happenings this week. We went to Batas on Tuesday and took one of his friends that hasn't really talked with him in years (the friend is a member that used to be "king of the drunks"). When we arrived where he is always he was so drunk he fell over trying to stand up and greet me. I say "Batas! you've been drinking!!!!!" He replied. "Just a little bit!" Then I said, "Don't lie to me! You just fell over, you are wasted right now!" Then he admitted. So we turned to Preach My Gospel, something we should have done a while ago. There is a section in there on Addiction Recovery. So we took some ideas from there and made a plan with him. It was centered on things he is missing in his life because of his drinking, people that are affected, and alternative things he could do. It was good and I think he will stick to it this time. At least thats what we are praying for.
We also got a few referrals from members again this week. This one member we've been trying to schedule so that he could take us out to his referrals but because he has school now its been rough but we were finally able to go out and meet them. One of them used to be a very strong Jehovahs Witness and some of her old beliefs are still there. She heard that in our church we had the commandment to "go forth and populate the earth." Then she had a member from Mindanao tell her that we had a bunch of rooms in our church and they used those rooms to carry out that commandment. I was laughing so hard! She was really worried about offending us when she had the question. She almost didn't ask but I'm glad she did because that was the reason she hadn't tried to come into our church. It is truly ridiculous some of the rumors that go around. ha ha
We have a lunch appointment today where we are going to get to eat Frog. I'm so excited. Everyone here says that is delicious! But I haven't had a chance to taste it yet, so I'm excited! So is Elder Pennock, he's getting all sorts of strange food here.
Yesterday in church we went in for our PEC meeting at 8 and President Balad was like I need you to speak today for 10-15 minutes because the other person assigned didn't come. So I had like 20 minutes to prepare. It is cool, When you are worthy of the Spirit is not hard! You just get up and talk.
During Elders Quorum we had a Home Teaching assignment meeting with the Teachers and Melchizedek Priesthood it was good now hopefully we will be able to get that going here. We'll see.
Well I'm outta time, gotta run. I love you all and thanks for your support.
Elder Chase
Thursday, July 8, 2010
5 July 2010
Family, friends and everyone else
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Time goes way too quick. I hate it. I was just walking thru the bukid the other day and it dawned on me, that I'm almost half way done, I don't like it, I don't think I'm gonna come home. ha haNo matter how hard I try to make a P-day a rest day, it never happens. When we get done emailing we have a meeting with the new Branch President. We are trying to get things organized and its a blast getting to participate and help get things going again. I asked President Aquino in interviews if I was transfering on the 13th he looked at me and was like, what in the heck makes you think you're transfering. Have you been being disobedient? ha ha He said if its okay with the Lord, I'll be up here for quite a while. We have one missionary here that only has had 3 areas. I told some members yesterday that I was going to get transferred and they started crying. I had to tell them I was just joking.
Last week we did so much traveling. On Thursday until Friday I did Splits with Elder Larson in an area called Bolinao, its the farthest north area in the whole mission, then Friday we went down to Alaminos for interviews. I think I talked the whole time during the interview, President was struggling to say anything. Then Friday after interviews we had one of the Assistants come split with us. It was Elder Erispe, My trainer, ha ha we were crossing this big bukid, or farm land. it was huge, and there were lots of weeds, and mud, yeah, he got a lil irritated, ha ha he said, Elder, I never did this to you ha ha, I was always nice to you. You couldn't do long walks when we were together, then later that night, he said, wow, you have changed a lot, in every way, so I think thats a good thing. It was good to see him too. When he was teaching it brought back memories of when we used to be comps. It was fun.
Saturday, we went to Alaminos at 7, had to be back by 8 for an activity, then stayed at the activity for an hour then had to be in Bolinao again for a baptismal Interview at 11, what a busy day. Then in the afternoon we were able to teach in our area. It was a blast. We have the Huellas family really close to baptism, they're just not quite sure that they want to leave the church they've been with their whole lives. I honestly can't blame them but I'm pretty sure they'll come around, all of their kids like the "mormon church" and they say they like the feeling there.
Sunday had a busy day as well. We got to teach Batas Ramos, he is our investigator with a baptismal date. He has been 2 weeks now sober and he is looking great. Except he wasn't able to come to church yesterday because his son drank some gas and was put in the hospital. It seems he never gets a break from the trials in his life. But he still wants to get baptized and is anxiously awaiting his baptismal date.
On Wednesday we had a service project in Alaminos, we painted and cleaned a classroom of one of the members, the public schools here are ridiculous. They are basically concrete rooms like warehouses, its sad, then our CSP on Saturday was washing the chairs in the church, it was fun, we had a waterfight.
Oh, Tuesday we got Elder Pennock and Elder Larson to eat Dog for the first time ha ha ha Success. All the sisters got mad at me for letting them eat it but they liked it ha ha.
Well i gotta run, I love you all
Talk to you next week
Elder Chase
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