Querido Familia Mía. - Monday, April 15, 2013

Hello everyone!!

 

I hope you all had a fantastic week! Cuz I sure did! I agree with Grandma Mooney, she says "I've decided that busy is a lot better than not having enough to do." Ha. Life is great at the moment, and it's because we're so busy! Lots and Lots of people to teach, and goals to reach! 

This week we had a big ol' Zone Meeting where our ZL's talked to us about the definitions of "Baptismal Date," "Progressing Investigator," and "Projection." Apparently President is raising the bar, and wants all of us to change our mind set on how we view our investigators' potential. Then, the ZL's gave us a fairly fervent testimonial of the Preach My Gospel challenge to invite all investigators to be baptized in the first lesson. They said they've been doing it for the last week and a half, and have already seen a huge difference in their lessons as well as in the devoutness of their investigators. So... Elder Fassett and I decided to put it to the test. Up until now, we've been inviting those that we've felt inclined to invite, but definitely not on the very first visit. Anyway, this last week, we've put a baptismal date with EVERY SINGLE person that let us into their house! And if they don't accept a baptismal date, we leave them with a pamphlet and invite them to church, but don't set a return appointment...

The first couple of days we were walking by faith, but after a week of putting it in practice, I'm a huge fan. The baptismal date makes the investigator realize that we're not just passing by for Bible Study, but we have an important purpose, and we want to help them change their lives. Also, it really does a good job of weeding out the people that are just too nice to tell us to stop passing by, as well as those that just want to talk to us cuz we're white, or cuz they think we have money. haha. 

 

This week, we've had 15 people accept baptismal dates in the first lesson, and we've got plans for even more tonight and tomorrow. :) It's really been cool to step it up in our work. We've already seen the blessings of it, and we both have TONS more ánimo to contact and to visit people for the first time. :) Hard work is good work. :)

Also, this week, we had a bomb town district meeting. I've been thinking a lot lately about how best to help my lil district as far as work ethic, and desire goes. I decided to have a discussion on the reasons we came on missions. It was incredible to revisit that preparation stage with each of our district members, and to kindle those same flames that got us out here in the first place. It was also cool to take a moment and look back at how far we've come. This mission truly is the greatest thing I've done with my life thus far. I know this is where God wants me to be, and I am so grateful for the patience and love He's shown me thought this process of growth and learning. I've learned SO much in this last year, and am looking forward to the things He has in store for me to learn in the next 12 months. I love being a missionary!

As far as investigators go... They're doing well. 

Anni is currently in the dog house cuz as of late she's been choosing the things of the world over the things of God. She knows what's right, and we're constantly trying to buoy her up, but she's not really doing much for herself. We'll just keep praying for her, and hoping that she comes around. 

The Montero family is doing well. Still loving church, and all our lessons. We took The Testaments movie over with us on Saturday and watched it as a family. :) There were tears shed, and they asked if they could borrow it and watch it again. :) I invite all of you to rewatch the Testaments as a family, and then write down what the Book of Mormon means to you. 

Darlina is surviving... Satan knows just as well as we do that she's a golden investigator... Oh how I hate that guy. 

She loved the gospel pamphlet we left with her, and was all pumped for the Restoration... Then out of the blue, her husband Charlie (the one I told you was an answer to her prayers) up and broke her heart. For her sake, I'll spare you all the details, but right now, they've mutually decided that it would be best to live separate. She says it'll most likely be permanent, and that it's for the best... I really am just blown away at how quickly Satan tears people down the minute they find the Truth. He knows where God's truth is found, and he does EVERYTHING in his power to divert people from that one, true course. 

The rest of them are movin' right along. We've got lots of high hopes for all these new baptismal dates. We know God wants the best of each of his children, and we're blessed to be on His side! With Jesus as our Quarterback, we'll win the game for sure!! :) 

I love you all. I hope this lil letter finds you all happy and healthy. Especially Uncle Zac. 

This Church is true. In case you were wondering. 

Love, 

Elder Cade Mooney