Chikka Chikka, Selfie Selfie, Picture Picture

We had another CSP this week and sometimes the missionaries like to think that CSP stands for chikka chikka (chit chat), selfie selfie, and picture picture instead of community service project because of all the pictures that are taken. But of course, it is good to be happy while working, right? We experienced a miracle this week in finding a new family. They were former investigators from about 4 years ago, but they are so prepared to be baptized. The father came to church this last week and the whole family is committed for this week. They kept telling us how many religions have come to them, yet they were impressed that we invited them to pray to know the truth for themselves. The father even inquired about the possibility of being baptized before we introduced that part of the lesson. They are humble people and are committed and willing to act. I’m so grateful to have to this opportunity to teach them.
Word of the Week: Pinakamakapangyarihan -- most powerful 

Ex: In my house, my mom is the pinakamakapangyarihan person.

Cause she's a brick....house!

We had a community service project (CSP) this week to build houses. Sadly there was no brick, but concrete is nice too! Usually, CSPs aren't the most spiritually piercing activities for me, but this one was different. The project we did is through the municipal where if a family, who doesn't have a home, works for at least 1000 hours on the site, one of the homes is theirs. The family we helped is a part member family, with the father planning on being baptized in May. It really struck me when we were pouring countless sandbags for the foundation, that our CSP is a lot like the work of the Lord. The Savior ministered in the blistering heat too while enduring many physical demands as well. Why? Because He loves us perfectly. I realized that as missionaries, not only do we help families build physical concrete foundations, but also spiritual foundations. I love that family, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to help them in a meaningful way.

Another wonderful experience --- Jeremy and Jancy John were baptized! We've been teaching their whole family and their older sister will follow them in a couple weeks. They also have many extended family members who are members and I am amazed at their own spiritual maturity. Each time we go to see them, they are sitting there reading the Book of Mormon. They really demonstrate to me what Jesus meant when He said that we need to become as little children to enter the kingdom of God. So many miracles here and I love it!

Word of the Week: ipis --- cockroach Ex: My companion saw an ipis and then promptly grabbed her flip flop to smack it!

Don't worry, I'm a "professional"

This week we got a ton of referrals from a member who said he wanted us to teach "professionals." It was quite a different experience spending a day going to the houses with fences and tiled floors. Here, the rich homes are so lavish and grandiose, somewhat reminiscent of the Rhode Island mansions from the gilded age. Even the fences are complete with intricate designs and some are 10 feet tall! We even taught a couple politicians who offered snacks and pop. Of course, this experience made me realize that we shouldn't judge a person's readiness to accept the gospel based on the height of their fence. Rather, they need our message, which is worth more than all the houses in Masinloc combined. I know our Heavenly Father has prepared mansions for us, which are even more impressive and incomprehensible than all other places here on earth. It's His promise to us, that as we are obedient to His gospel, all that He has He will give to us. Yes, even more than just snacks and pop. :) 

 

Word of the Week: ipit -- hairclip Ex: Sister Morgan has an excellent variety of beautiful fashionable mga (plural) ipit that matches her equally beautiful fashionable outfits. 

Ch-ch-changes!

So this week was transfers and I don't think even David Bowie would be able to predict what would happen! I'm still here in Masinloc training and we welcomed two new missionaries, one of them fresh from the MTC.I think that a mission is the perfect place to learn how to deal with change and accept it. In a way, it helps you better understand your investigators too. For them, converting to the gospel is a crazy big change! Usually, everything for them is different. I think that as we can think like the investigator, we are entitled to receive better guidance from God in how to best help them. Speaking of other changes, this weekend was General Conference. General Conference is where the President of the Church and the Apostles address everyone. I haven't gotten to view the broadcast yet because of the time difference, but I love hearing about the new temples to be built and other news. Overall, I'm grateful for continued revelation today. Whether it's transfers or temples, God is truly guiding His Church.

 

Word of the Week: Natutunan --- things learned Ex: What are you natutunan from General Conference?