Sorry folks,
There is not an update from Sister Adams this week. She wrote a little one line note to Mom and Dad, but nothing to forward.
Jennie will be arriving home from the Philippines this week. Next Sunday, March 27th, she will be speaking in church about her experiences.
She would love to see all her friends there!
Naunie
November 2010 - January 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
Monday, March 14, 2011
Rain
is falling all around. And it's really cold. Just preparing me for Utah. ;)
This week was, well, wet... and rewarding. We worked hard, looking for new investigators, and found a couple of gems. Sister Pacita I think is my favorite. I already love her so much. She is the mother of 7. But, mom, imagine 2 sets of twins; 17 years old (girls) and 7 months (boys), also a 20 year old, 19 year old, and a 3 year old... oh, and no husband. She is incredible. Her husband was killed last year before election because he was a body guard for someone running for... something. Her oldest, a boy, drives their tricycle to support them. (not the highest paying job... by a long shot). Her twins are, quite honestly, a little self centered, but with a little love and some gospel they can change :). Her 3 year old is the most adorable girl named Princess I've ever met. Anyway, sister is like WonderMom... she stands there most of the time for the lessons because she's holding 2 7-month olds (who don't have diapers on.. haha) and listens intently while trying not to let them cry so she can listen. She is receptive, and I want her to accept it so bad. The first time we met I asked where she thought her husband was. She said "siguro..." which means "I think..." I told her that she can know for sure. I told her she can be "sigurado gid" which means you know for sure, where he is, and that she can also be sure she can be with him again. I know she's curious, because I don't think anyone has told that to her before. She has plans to come to church, and I just pray she will. She didn't come yesterday, but I'm not sure why... we haven't been able to follow up. I just get overwhelmed with the love I feel for her. That's something that I've felt a lot of lately... overwhelming feelings of the love of God for these people and the need to let them know. As a result, I feel the love for them... even strangers.
I was working with Sister Salway this week one day and we went to one of their investigators. As we walked in the house of a man who is basically a single dad of a 11 year old and a 10 year old, I felt a sadness just emanating from this man. As we sat down to talk to him, I didn't even have to beg, he laid his concern out for us. And all I wanted him to understand was how incredibly loved he was. So I followed the spirit, shared a scripture, and bore my testimony. The spirit in the room was so strong, and I found myself loving this family and wanting their happiness.
That's what I've learned. I've learned that if you don't love them, nothing else matters. And the way to love them is to serve them with your whole heart.
I love my mission. I'm off to what I'm sure is going to be a combination of the hardest, busiest and most rewarding week of the last 18 months. I love you all, I love being a missionary, and I love my Heavenly Father.
Sister Adams
This week was, well, wet... and rewarding. We worked hard, looking for new investigators, and found a couple of gems. Sister Pacita I think is my favorite. I already love her so much. She is the mother of 7. But, mom, imagine 2 sets of twins; 17 years old (girls) and 7 months (boys), also a 20 year old, 19 year old, and a 3 year old... oh, and no husband. She is incredible. Her husband was killed last year before election because he was a body guard for someone running for... something. Her oldest, a boy, drives their tricycle to support them. (not the highest paying job... by a long shot). Her twins are, quite honestly, a little self centered, but with a little love and some gospel they can change :). Her 3 year old is the most adorable girl named Princess I've ever met. Anyway, sister is like WonderMom... she stands there most of the time for the lessons because she's holding 2 7-month olds (who don't have diapers on.. haha) and listens intently while trying not to let them cry so she can listen. She is receptive, and I want her to accept it so bad. The first time we met I asked where she thought her husband was. She said "siguro..." which means "I think..." I told her that she can know for sure. I told her she can be "sigurado gid" which means you know for sure, where he is, and that she can also be sure she can be with him again. I know she's curious, because I don't think anyone has told that to her before. She has plans to come to church, and I just pray she will. She didn't come yesterday, but I'm not sure why... we haven't been able to follow up. I just get overwhelmed with the love I feel for her. That's something that I've felt a lot of lately... overwhelming feelings of the love of God for these people and the need to let them know. As a result, I feel the love for them... even strangers.
I was working with Sister Salway this week one day and we went to one of their investigators. As we walked in the house of a man who is basically a single dad of a 11 year old and a 10 year old, I felt a sadness just emanating from this man. As we sat down to talk to him, I didn't even have to beg, he laid his concern out for us. And all I wanted him to understand was how incredibly loved he was. So I followed the spirit, shared a scripture, and bore my testimony. The spirit in the room was so strong, and I found myself loving this family and wanting their happiness.
That's what I've learned. I've learned that if you don't love them, nothing else matters. And the way to love them is to serve them with your whole heart.
I love my mission. I'm off to what I'm sure is going to be a combination of the hardest, busiest and most rewarding week of the last 18 months. I love you all, I love being a missionary, and I love my Heavenly Father.
Sister Adams
Monday, March 7, 2011
Turning Fear into Faith
That was our lesson in Relief Society yesterday. It was way awesome. Basically prayer is the way to break Satan's powerful tool of fear.
This week was pretty amazing! We found 7 new investigators. Here's one story:
On Thursday, we went to try and teach an investigator who is always busy with her store. We've only taught her twice, but she seems receptive. Well, she was sleeping on Thursday, but her husband was there, so we decided to talk to him a little bit. While we were talking, a girl came in and sat down. She knows the man, Alvin, and she had some business with him. While she was waiting, I talked to her. She was way cool, so I gave her a Restoration pamphlet, thinking she'd leave soon and we wouldn't have time to teach. But it started raining and her transaction wasn't done yet (I'm not sure what it was, just that it involved a credit card...). AND she was asking questions right and left. I finally just said, "can we share with you?" She was like, "sure!" haha, kind of like she was just waiting for me to ask. So we taught about Joseph Smith to her. When I asked if we could come to her house, she gave us her work schedule, and described where her house was. THEN we decided to go find her yesterday. Turns out, she had to work when she told us she didn't (I think she just switched with someone), so we then had no one to teach... BUT her neighbor's daughter (who's 9) had gone to church because they have some relative that's a member. I asked her if she wanted to find out what her daughter had learned at church. She was really excited, and told us to come in. We taught the Restoration to her and her kids and then she asked an inspired question. "Will your religion save me?"
We get forms of this question all the time. But it's usually like, "for you, does religion save a person?" And they aren't sincerely asking, just wanting to make us say that this one will... But Rose was genuinely interested in the answer. I told her that no religion saves a person. But then I was 100% honest with her and told her that only in this church is the authority that is necessary to be saved. I gave the example of baptism. We explained about priesthood again, and she really understood and appreciated the answer. Sometimes it's hard to be so frank with people because you don't want them to think the wrong thing about the church, but they have to know the truth.
It was strange, the path that led us to Rose, and kind of long because I've known that first family FOREVER. But in the end (at the begining?), I feel like we've touched at least 3 families. We're going to keep going back to them all, and I hope they can progress.
Oh, and Bijie worked with us yesterday. She's got a rock solid testimony, and she's so willing to share it. I have no worries that she'll go inactive.
Man, I love my job.
Just one more email!
Love,
Sister Adams
This week was pretty amazing! We found 7 new investigators. Here's one story:
On Thursday, we went to try and teach an investigator who is always busy with her store. We've only taught her twice, but she seems receptive. Well, she was sleeping on Thursday, but her husband was there, so we decided to talk to him a little bit. While we were talking, a girl came in and sat down. She knows the man, Alvin, and she had some business with him. While she was waiting, I talked to her. She was way cool, so I gave her a Restoration pamphlet, thinking she'd leave soon and we wouldn't have time to teach. But it started raining and her transaction wasn't done yet (I'm not sure what it was, just that it involved a credit card...). AND she was asking questions right and left. I finally just said, "can we share with you?" She was like, "sure!" haha, kind of like she was just waiting for me to ask. So we taught about Joseph Smith to her. When I asked if we could come to her house, she gave us her work schedule, and described where her house was. THEN we decided to go find her yesterday. Turns out, she had to work when she told us she didn't (I think she just switched with someone), so we then had no one to teach... BUT her neighbor's daughter (who's 9) had gone to church because they have some relative that's a member. I asked her if she wanted to find out what her daughter had learned at church. She was really excited, and told us to come in. We taught the Restoration to her and her kids and then she asked an inspired question. "Will your religion save me?"
We get forms of this question all the time. But it's usually like, "for you, does religion save a person?" And they aren't sincerely asking, just wanting to make us say that this one will... But Rose was genuinely interested in the answer. I told her that no religion saves a person. But then I was 100% honest with her and told her that only in this church is the authority that is necessary to be saved. I gave the example of baptism. We explained about priesthood again, and she really understood and appreciated the answer. Sometimes it's hard to be so frank with people because you don't want them to think the wrong thing about the church, but they have to know the truth.
It was strange, the path that led us to Rose, and kind of long because I've known that first family FOREVER. But in the end (at the begining?), I feel like we've touched at least 3 families. We're going to keep going back to them all, and I hope they can progress.
Oh, and Bijie worked with us yesterday. She's got a rock solid testimony, and she's so willing to share it. I have no worries that she'll go inactive.
Man, I love my job.
Just one more email!
Love,
Sister Adams
Monday, February 28, 2011
Zone Conference
was absolutely amazing.
I took tons of notes and I resolved that I don't have enough time left to do everything that I need to do. Truly a spiritual feast. AND I got to sing. Sister Salway and I sang "Sa Tanan nga Tion" which, literally translated, is "At/in all times" but it's a hymn you all know... haha "I Need Thee Every Hour." We ended up being the only ones who sang... oh well.
The baptism was great! Bijie told us that she wanted to jump, and she had a smile plastered on her face all day. I am so blessed to get to see someone who is so filled with joy about the gospel.We met a guy named Steve. He's 19 years old, and got kicked out of his boarding house (I'm not sure why... doesn't really matter), so he's living with a member who, naturally, introduced him to the church. We taught the first lesson, then the next time, we gave him a Book of Mormon which he said he'd read. Then we went back to follow up, and he had read. Then we watched the Restoration video, and he's just a cool investigator. He didn't come to church though, because right before we showed up on Saturday, he just finished doing laundry... and it was a cold night, so he literally had no clothes to wear. I hope he comes next week though.
Speaking of cold... I'm not joking. I sleep with socks and a blanket and a sheet, and I wake up with a cold nose. Granted, I COULD turn off the fan, but the air is just too thick for it to not be moving... I'm not gonna lie, it's been pretty neat to actually say, "I'm cold," and being 100% honest. Yesterday my feet didn't get warm until I left the apartment and stood with them in the sun for a few minutes. Beautiful, just beautiful.
I think that's all for this week!
Love, Sister Adams
I took tons of notes and I resolved that I don't have enough time left to do everything that I need to do. Truly a spiritual feast. AND I got to sing. Sister Salway and I sang "Sa Tanan nga Tion" which, literally translated, is "At/in all times" but it's a hymn you all know... haha "I Need Thee Every Hour." We ended up being the only ones who sang... oh well.
The baptism was great! Bijie told us that she wanted to jump, and she had a smile plastered on her face all day. I am so blessed to get to see someone who is so filled with joy about the gospel.We met a guy named Steve. He's 19 years old, and got kicked out of his boarding house (I'm not sure why... doesn't really matter), so he's living with a member who, naturally, introduced him to the church. We taught the first lesson, then the next time, we gave him a Book of Mormon which he said he'd read. Then we went back to follow up, and he had read. Then we watched the Restoration video, and he's just a cool investigator. He didn't come to church though, because right before we showed up on Saturday, he just finished doing laundry... and it was a cold night, so he literally had no clothes to wear. I hope he comes next week though.
Speaking of cold... I'm not joking. I sleep with socks and a blanket and a sheet, and I wake up with a cold nose. Granted, I COULD turn off the fan, but the air is just too thick for it to not be moving... I'm not gonna lie, it's been pretty neat to actually say, "I'm cold," and being 100% honest. Yesterday my feet didn't get warm until I left the apartment and stood with them in the sun for a few minutes. Beautiful, just beautiful.
I think that's all for this week!
Love, Sister Adams
Monday, February 21, 2011
February 21
for lack of a better subject line/ title.
This week was... wait, I swear I already emailed this week... wait... that was last week... oh man...
We have Zone Conference this next week, and I get to sing!
Well, I say I get to sing. There's a group that already has the musical number, and it's only our Zone, but I REALLY want to do a musical number for my last conference so we're just gonna show up and be like, "Hey, we're gonna invite the spirit twice as much! We get two musical numbers!" Yep, Sister Salway and I are gonna try and put something together...
I'm not gonna lie, this week was kind of a blur, and nothing in particular sticks out...
Except that BETH CAME TO CHURCH AGAIN! Thank you everyone that is praying for her success. I am SO happy. I think I might actually get to see her enter into the waters of baptism. :D
Keep praying for the success of the missionary work here, your prayers are heard and answered.
Love Sister Adams
This week was... wait, I swear I already emailed this week... wait... that was last week... oh man...
We have Zone Conference this next week, and I get to sing!
Well, I say I get to sing. There's a group that already has the musical number, and it's only our Zone, but I REALLY want to do a musical number for my last conference so we're just gonna show up and be like, "Hey, we're gonna invite the spirit twice as much! We get two musical numbers!" Yep, Sister Salway and I are gonna try and put something together...
I'm not gonna lie, this week was kind of a blur, and nothing in particular sticks out...
Except that BETH CAME TO CHURCH AGAIN! Thank you everyone that is praying for her success. I am SO happy. I think I might actually get to see her enter into the waters of baptism. :D
Keep praying for the success of the missionary work here, your prayers are heard and answered.
Love Sister Adams
Monday, February 14, 2011
Pagpalangga
Love :D Happy Valentines day!
This week, I have been studying Charity and Love (not at all in correlation with Valentines day...really, this day has very little meaning if you've got a black plastic name plate). I just feel like I need to develop my Christlike attributes, and I got started with charity. We taught a cool lesson yesterday to some members who haven't been to church in a while. My companion started and explained what the blessings of church attendance are, and the whole time I just had this overwhelming feeling like I needed to tell them I love them and that whether or not they come to church, I love them just the same. I know that it helped them, and I think they will even come to church next week. I am so grateful for the pure love of Christ that I have an opportunity to share with people. I get to tell people all day how much God loves them, and then watch them ponder that idea while I explain that I love them too. It's really neat because you can just see it sink in, and then I know I was a tool in Heavenly Father's hand to lift someone higher.
Nothing really new with Bijie, she's still on for the 27th. She's basically the coolest investigator I've had since Brother Gallo back in Silay. She asked me about obtaining a quad. They are so insanely expensive, so I just explained that the triple and bible have the exact same thing in them, and she's cool with that. But she's shy to ask bishop about it, haha, I get to order it for her. And for sure it won't be here for her baptism, but maybe it'll make it before I leave... maybe.
I love being a missionary. It hit me yesterday how much I love it, and how fulfilling it is. And how incredibly difficult it is to explain to another person. So I guess the only solution is to do it yourself, find out how great being a missionary feels! And find out how great being a missionary IS for other people!
Palangga ko kamo tanan!
Palangga ko kamo tanan!
Love,
Sister Adams
Sister Adams
P.S. If you have written me, chances are, I got it, but just haven't gotten around to writing you back. I apologize and promise I am thankful for your support... we'll just talk in a little while, deal?
Annie, nope, I never got your package... :( but the good news, if I send you something on your mission, your chances of getting it are 100%... mail just doesn't get lost in America.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Last Transfer Announcement
and it's not too exciting. And by exciting, it's not too... different. Sister Delcaro is going to "kill" me.. which is what they say about your last companion.
So, cool story about yesterday:
First, Beth came to church! ON TIME!!! AND she closed her store to come to church! (she hasn't been on time in the almost 3 months I've been here). Then, after the lesson in Relief Society, there were some testimonies. Beth stood up, and I was kind of excited for what she would say. Basically, she had some personal problem she was working through that she didn't tell us about, and yesterday morning, she apologized to someone who was part of her problem... probably ALL of her problem. I had this feeling of... relief, or peace, like the puzzle pieces were finally falling into place when she was talking. I feel like I can finally give her a baptismal date, and she'll actually get baptized that day! I've been trying for months to figure out what her concern was, and she finally just resolved it herself (which is REALLY good, because I was nowhere close to figuring it out...) I'm SO excited!
And Bijie is a pretty cool investigator. I don't know if I've told you all about her, but she's pretty much AMAZING! All I gave her for an assignment was to look up scriptures about enduring to the end. And yesterday, when we went to teach her, she had 2 pages of scriptures and descriptions written. Then we asked how her preparation for baptism was going, and she was like, "I'm just a little excited." HAHA, she was almost jumping out of her seat because of how excited she is. "A little" is an understatement. I am also excited for her. :D Yay.
Well, that's all the exciting news from this week... it's been kind of a hard one. Pray for the success of the missionaries in Jaro 2.
Love you all bunches and bunches!
Sister Adams
So, cool story about yesterday:
First, Beth came to church! ON TIME!!! AND she closed her store to come to church! (she hasn't been on time in the almost 3 months I've been here). Then, after the lesson in Relief Society, there were some testimonies. Beth stood up, and I was kind of excited for what she would say. Basically, she had some personal problem she was working through that she didn't tell us about, and yesterday morning, she apologized to someone who was part of her problem... probably ALL of her problem. I had this feeling of... relief, or peace, like the puzzle pieces were finally falling into place when she was talking. I feel like I can finally give her a baptismal date, and she'll actually get baptized that day! I've been trying for months to figure out what her concern was, and she finally just resolved it herself (which is REALLY good, because I was nowhere close to figuring it out...) I'm SO excited!
And Bijie is a pretty cool investigator. I don't know if I've told you all about her, but she's pretty much AMAZING! All I gave her for an assignment was to look up scriptures about enduring to the end. And yesterday, when we went to teach her, she had 2 pages of scriptures and descriptions written. Then we asked how her preparation for baptism was going, and she was like, "I'm just a little excited." HAHA, she was almost jumping out of her seat because of how excited she is. "A little" is an understatement. I am also excited for her. :D Yay.
Well, that's all the exciting news from this week... it's been kind of a hard one. Pray for the success of the missionaries in Jaro 2.
Love you all bunches and bunches!
Sister Adams
Monday, January 31, 2011
New Cell Phone
We got a new phone this week... in case you were wondering.
Work was kind of slow this week. BUT
We moved! Our new apartment is bright yellow. I mean BRIGHT yellow. Like they painted it with a highlighter. We've slept on our mattresses on the floor the last 3 nights because our bunk beds had termites and we left them in the old apartment. I think we're getting beds today. It's been an adventure and a half. We kind of feel like squatters because we are living out of our suitcases (the new house doesn't have wardrobes... also something we are getting with new beds...) And our water is really nasty, so we have to buy "mineral water" I'm not sure why it's called that. I think it's just filtered.
We taught Bijie this week. She's so cool. I'm way excited for her baptism. I think she's God's tender mercy to me. :D
I think that's all for this week... sorry so short!
Love, Sister Adams
Work was kind of slow this week. BUT
We moved! Our new apartment is bright yellow. I mean BRIGHT yellow. Like they painted it with a highlighter. We've slept on our mattresses on the floor the last 3 nights because our bunk beds had termites and we left them in the old apartment. I think we're getting beds today. It's been an adventure and a half. We kind of feel like squatters because we are living out of our suitcases (the new house doesn't have wardrobes... also something we are getting with new beds...) And our water is really nasty, so we have to buy "mineral water" I'm not sure why it's called that. I think it's just filtered.
We taught Bijie this week. She's so cool. I'm way excited for her baptism. I think she's God's tender mercy to me. :D
I think that's all for this week... sorry so short!
Love, Sister Adams
Monday, January 24, 2011
Cell Phones
and pickpockets.I debated not using that as the subject and just holding you all in suspense, but I can't think of anything better to put in the subject line. (I'm not usually creative...sorry about that)
Anyway, what happened was this: We were riding on a jeepney. These are vehicles that have 2 benches in the back that face each other, and for some reason (probably to earn money...), they pack them as full as possible. As in, there's always people sitting on each other. When Sister Declaro and I got on the jeep, there weren't very many people yet. So we didn't sit unnecessarily close to anyone. But as it filled up, we decided to scoot closer to the back (because that's where the door is, and therefore the best seats... but it also makes it harder for others to get on... but that's just the way it is...). Anyway, there was about a hand space between the large man at the end of the jeep and me when a man got on and decided to sit on me. I was REALLY annoyed, but we moved back the other way. So... eventually, we get to where we need to get off, and we start going on our merry way.
Side story: Our apartment, while pretty hilarious (we live above a tire store), isn't exactly the best place to live... And it's kinda small and only has one bathroom. It's rumored also that there will eventually be 6 sisters living in this apartment, and there is most definitely not room for 6 sisters to live there comfortably. SO we're on the lookout for a new place to stay.
Back to the original story: I saw a sign about 3 minutes after we got off the jeep for a house for rent. There was a phone number, so I thought, "Hey, I'll text them to find out more about the house." And, well, the cell phone was no where to be found in my bag. I had it before I got on the jeep and it found a new owner while we were riding. I'm almost 100% sure the man who so annoyingly sat on me is the same one who pick pocketed me. Life is hard when you are used to having contact with people and suddenly it's cut off.
The mission is going to issue us a new one, so life is ok. Well, it will be. Also, I'm very very thankful that it was the mission-issued-replaceable cell phone, and not my personal-irreplaceable camera.
On the upside, when I talked to the AP about the phone, he said that they found an apartment and are just waiting on President's approval. They'll probably call us this week about when we move. Yay!
Hmm... I just thought of something else I could have subjected this letter... Referral Contacted, at church, with a date, and progressing. We had a referral at church yesterday. She's an investigator that transferred from another area, but she is reading the Book of Mormon, and comes to church. When I asked if she wanted to be baptized, she said yes kind of like "duh" it was really funny. And I was overjoyed! I still am pretty happy actually. So we set appointments and then gave her a date on February 27. WooHoo! God rewards the hard working. I know he does. :D
I think that's all for this week!
Love, Sister Adams
Anyway, what happened was this: We were riding on a jeepney. These are vehicles that have 2 benches in the back that face each other, and for some reason (probably to earn money...), they pack them as full as possible. As in, there's always people sitting on each other. When Sister Declaro and I got on the jeep, there weren't very many people yet. So we didn't sit unnecessarily close to anyone. But as it filled up, we decided to scoot closer to the back (because that's where the door is, and therefore the best seats... but it also makes it harder for others to get on... but that's just the way it is...). Anyway, there was about a hand space between the large man at the end of the jeep and me when a man got on and decided to sit on me. I was REALLY annoyed, but we moved back the other way. So... eventually, we get to where we need to get off, and we start going on our merry way.
Side story: Our apartment, while pretty hilarious (we live above a tire store), isn't exactly the best place to live... And it's kinda small and only has one bathroom. It's rumored also that there will eventually be 6 sisters living in this apartment, and there is most definitely not room for 6 sisters to live there comfortably. SO we're on the lookout for a new place to stay.
Back to the original story: I saw a sign about 3 minutes after we got off the jeep for a house for rent. There was a phone number, so I thought, "Hey, I'll text them to find out more about the house." And, well, the cell phone was no where to be found in my bag. I had it before I got on the jeep and it found a new owner while we were riding. I'm almost 100% sure the man who so annoyingly sat on me is the same one who pick pocketed me. Life is hard when you are used to having contact with people and suddenly it's cut off.
The mission is going to issue us a new one, so life is ok. Well, it will be. Also, I'm very very thankful that it was the mission-issued-replaceable cell phone, and not my personal-irreplaceable camera.
On the upside, when I talked to the AP about the phone, he said that they found an apartment and are just waiting on President's approval. They'll probably call us this week about when we move. Yay!
Hmm... I just thought of something else I could have subjected this letter... Referral Contacted, at church, with a date, and progressing. We had a referral at church yesterday. She's an investigator that transferred from another area, but she is reading the Book of Mormon, and comes to church. When I asked if she wanted to be baptized, she said yes kind of like "duh" it was really funny. And I was overjoyed! I still am pretty happy actually. So we set appointments and then gave her a date on February 27. WooHoo! God rewards the hard working. I know he does. :D
I think that's all for this week!
Love, Sister Adams
Monday, January 17, 2011
Rain
It has definitely been raining like all week. It makes it really hard to work. I'm just feeling wet all the time...Sad news... Beth didn't come to church... I'm not sure why, we're going tomorrow to find out.BUT Jackie did come to church. And accepted a baptismal date on the 13th of February. YAY! I'm excited for her, I just hope she doesn't spend time with people who don't know what they're talking about. (most of her doubts come from talking to these kinds of people). Please pray for her.
We're running low on investigators. I love teaching this gospel, but it's hard when you don't have anyone to teach it to.
I'm excited for this week because we had a coordination meeting yesterday and we have people scheduled to work almost every day this week. Yay, we get lessons with members... hopefully that helps us get investigators at church.I feel a little like I have run out of things to say...
So, I guess until next time!
Love, Sister Adams
We're running low on investigators. I love teaching this gospel, but it's hard when you don't have anyone to teach it to.
I'm excited for this week because we had a coordination meeting yesterday and we have people scheduled to work almost every day this week. Yay, we get lessons with members... hopefully that helps us get investigators at church.I feel a little like I have run out of things to say...
So, I guess until next time!
Love, Sister Adams
Monday, January 10, 2011
Another week in paradise
That's what the Philippines are... It's pretty awesome.
And actually, the only cool thing that happened this week was that Jackie and Beth came to church!
So Beth has been an investigator for like, ever. She just has a problem leaving her store (called a "chungee" here, and I spelled it wrong so you could pronounce it right... it's more like tsunggi) ANYWAY, she is very attached to it. Her entire live revolves around it and she even sleeps there now. So, back in December, Sister Purser and I told her that we would set a return appointment with her when we met at the church. Basically, we would come back when she decided to start progressing. Well, after that, we never saw her at church. And then this week, we were delivering Christmas presents with the relief society president (rice and noodles and sardines) to a member that lives by Beth, so we stopped by to say hi (we didn't TOTALLY forget about her... she just moved to the back burner for a while). It turns out that a less active member that she knows told her that there was a conference at the stake center on Sunday, so she went there instead of the Jaro chapel. Twice. I guess she thought she missed it and decided to try again the next week. When we found out about that, we told her we would be back on Saturday to teach a lesson. And then she came to church yesterday! We're going to give her a baptismal date tomorrow. Probably February 13 (our bishop wants the baptisms on Sunday...).
Jackie is the one with really cool questions that I always love answering. She attended the Single Adult Sunday school class and they said she participated. Yay! We're going to give her the 13th of February as well. What I really want is to baptize someone who will be strong priesthood for the church. I'm still looking for him...
Well, that's all from Paradise, until next time!
Love,Sister Adams
And actually, the only cool thing that happened this week was that Jackie and Beth came to church!
So Beth has been an investigator for like, ever. She just has a problem leaving her store (called a "chungee" here, and I spelled it wrong so you could pronounce it right... it's more like tsunggi) ANYWAY, she is very attached to it. Her entire live revolves around it and she even sleeps there now. So, back in December, Sister Purser and I told her that we would set a return appointment with her when we met at the church. Basically, we would come back when she decided to start progressing. Well, after that, we never saw her at church. And then this week, we were delivering Christmas presents with the relief society president (rice and noodles and sardines) to a member that lives by Beth, so we stopped by to say hi (we didn't TOTALLY forget about her... she just moved to the back burner for a while). It turns out that a less active member that she knows told her that there was a conference at the stake center on Sunday, so she went there instead of the Jaro chapel. Twice. I guess she thought she missed it and decided to try again the next week. When we found out about that, we told her we would be back on Saturday to teach a lesson. And then she came to church yesterday! We're going to give her a baptismal date tomorrow. Probably February 13 (our bishop wants the baptisms on Sunday...).
Jackie is the one with really cool questions that I always love answering. She attended the Single Adult Sunday school class and they said she participated. Yay! We're going to give her the 13th of February as well. What I really want is to baptize someone who will be strong priesthood for the church. I'm still looking for him...
Well, that's all from Paradise, until next time!
Love,Sister Adams
Monday, January 3, 2011
New Year,
New companion. Sister Declaro. She is from Antipolo, and she's actually the MTC companion of Sister Custodia. Here, we call that "batch." Haha, like they're a batch of cookies... anyway, it's interesting Sister Purser is also "batch" with the two of them... which means my last three companions are all the same age in the mission... it's kinda funny. My goal is to get a picture with the three of them.
Yesterday at church, a couple of members thought that Sister Declaro was an investigator... HAHA! I guess they're just WAY too used to two American missionaries, and they didn't see her name tag. It was pretty funny.It was hard to say goodbye to Sister Purser. I miss her. But I know God has plans for me and for her, and I guess all that we have to do is trust that His plan is a good one. ;)
We're trying to find those elect children of God. It's rough going because you don't always know that they're elect right when you meet them... Also, when we find awesome people, they end up being in the other area. (because the boundary between ward one and ward two is a railway that doesn't exist anymore)... anyway, we're just getting back into the groove of things because it seems like the world stopped for the Holidays. No one was here, and if they were, they weren't available. I'm glad school started again so that we can have a good schedule again.
I am trying really hard to remember a good spiritual experience this week... and I've got nothing. Sorry, I really want this letter to be edifying to you all, but I...OH! I just remembered something I studied... In Matthew 13 there are parables, and I've been reading in Jesus the Christ from time to time. I read the chapter that talks about the parables. Two specific ones stuck out when I read them. The parable of the Pearl of Great Price, and the parable of the hidden treasure in the field. Talmage points out that in both cases, the one who found something of great value was willing to sacrifice all that he had to obtain that which was of great value. Jesus likens the Pearl and the Treasure to the Kingdom of Heaven. SO, when we find the pearl, or the treasure in the field, we should also be willing to give up everything we have to secure the thing which we want for ourselves. In the book it's way more eloquently put, but it really impacted me, and I realized that there are probably things in my life that I haven't given up yet, but I need to in order to secure the blessings of the Kingdom of Heaven.
I hope that someone was inspired by this... I sure was :D
Until next week,
Love always,
Sister Adams
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Transfer Announcement
I wish there was no transfer announcement... I wish there was nothing to say. But, alas, God has other plans, and Sister Purser is leaving me. I don't know if any 6 weeks has passed by this quickly before. I swear I just became companions with Sister Purser, and I thought we would have 6 more weeks together. But that's ok, at least she's just from close by. I can see her in about (11 months... hehe). Weird, she'll be home next Christmas just like I will be...This week was fun. On Christmas Eve, we enjoyed talking to our families!!! Then we visited a member family who is less active (they came to church yesterday!) Yay, thanks family for talking to me :D See you soon! We also We had pancakes on Saturday and then the other 
sisters cooked for us for lunch. Then we decorated cookies that Ann Moon sent for us. :D It was way fun. We also opened presents. And then Sister Purser and I helped clean the church in the afternoon. We helped because usually no one shows up to clean the church on Saturday except the RS president... (the bathroom NEEDED to be cleaned because it was really dirty, as in... yuck). Then we ate dinner at the house of a member in Jaro 1. It was pretty good food. So, all in all, it was a good day. :DWell, we don't really have any promising prospects for baptism in January. I keep hoping, but I don't know what this area has in store for us. I don't know what Heavenly Father has in store for us... I'm excited, though, to meet my new companion on Friday. (really sad that I have a new comp, but excited to meet her... I know that is so incredibly contradictory)
sisters cooked for us for lunch. Then we decorated cookies that Ann Moon sent for us. :D It was way fun. We also opened presents. And then Sister Purser and I helped clean the church in the afternoon. We helped because usually no one shows up to clean the church on Saturday except the RS president... (the bathroom NEEDED to be cleaned because it was really dirty, as in... yuck). Then we ate dinner at the house of a member in Jaro 1. It was pretty good food. So, all in all, it was a good day. :DWell, we don't really have any promising prospects for baptism in January. I keep hoping, but I don't know what this area has in store for us. I don't know what Heavenly Father has in store for us... I'm excited, though, to meet my new companion on Friday. (really sad that I have a new comp, but excited to meet her... I know that is so incredibly contradictory)Oh! I just wanted to tell one more story: Last Sunday, this man who is recently returned to activity told us to come to his Son-in-law who isn't a member, so we set up an appointment. It was kind of awkward at first cause I didn't know what to say, and he was kind of like, uh, what are 2 american girls doing in our house? Haha, but then we got talking and finally got (permission, I guess) to teach him. His name is William, and he and his wife just got married in February and they have an adorable little girl. The spirit was so strong as we taught about the restoration, tying everything back into eternal families. He really grasped the idea when I told him he could be with his wife after death. Because their marriage is so recent, I just asked them until when their marriage was valid. They both answered, "till death do us part." So we talked about what that meant, and how they could be married for eternity. At the end of the lesson was the best question, the one that made me know that William was listening. He asked how he could be really sure he would be with his wife and daughter on the other side. It opened the door to talk about covenants, and with that our first covenant, baptism. This man was prepared by God to meet us. And then we were prepared to listen to the Spirit so we could tell this man what he needed to hear. I am continually amazed at how Heavenly Father is using me to be a messenger for these people so they can accept the Gospel and be with their families forever.
All my love,
Sister Adams
Monday, December 20, 2010
Merry Christmas
Malipayon nga Paskua!!!
I want everyone to have a wonderful Christmas. I have realized in the last week as we’ve been sharing a Christmas message to members, that I haven’t ever REALLY contemplated the meaning of Christmas.
We celebrate the birth of our Savior. Who died for me. And you. And everyone we know. Because of that, he is overjoyed when we repent, and is saddened when we choose to not obey the commandments. Think about it; you have the power to make Deity feel complete joy. I still sort of marvel at this when I think about it, and I feel a little overwhelmed at how much I am loved as a daughter of God. No wonder we celebrate Christmas!!! Just don’t lose sight of why.
This week, we had a baptism! Stephen, the 12 year old got baptized. He’s adorable, and I’m excited to see him passing the Sacrament in January. :D
Tatay Jagodilla…(have I talked about him?) Well, he broke our hearts this week. We thought all was going well and he was going to be coming to church in no time, and be baptized sometime in February or March. But we went there last Thursday and he basically told us that he won’t be forced. I left in tears, and my heart was broken. I love his family and all I want is for them to be able to go the temple. It’s kind of weird, but that night I realized that I’m doing something right, because if I was a palagpat missionary, I wouldn’t have cared about him or his family. Anyway, prayers in his direction would probably help.
We went to this place called Cabatuan on Friday, and it turns out there ARE elect people in our area. They’re just 2 jeep rides and 30 minutes away from the center of the city. We gave a Book of Mormon to a woman who can’t see well enough to read, but promised to have her daughter read to her (without us suggesting it). We also gave a copy to a woman who practically begged for it after I told her about it. Anyway, we’re going back there this week, ready to see some miracles happen.
And last in the balita this week: Jackie, our next investigator with potential to be baptized, asked some pretty awesome questions. She suffers from depression, for which she takes medication, so sometimes we get some strangely deep (or just strange) questions from her. Last week she told us she didn’t want to be baptized, but then 2 days later she texted and said she did (no matter what her mom said… she’s 27). Anyway, this week, we got 3 texts in a row from her, which basically said: (1) Why do I feel like I’m going to get nailed to a cross? (2) Is it just psychological or a real threat of society? (3) I believe that your church is the true church of God. Let’s talk on Friday. K?
I assured her that her fears weren’t real, and that we could indeed talk. To which she replied, “You’re right, I have faith in your Jesus.”
SO we are STILL having a blast, despite the minor setbacks with some investigators. After all, there must needs be opposition in all things, right?
All my love,
Sister Adams
P.S. Her next question is “how was the world created?” We’re going to do some reading on that one to make sure we only share what we should…
OH! Thanks Ann Moon for the package!!! xoxoxo
Monday, December 13, 2010
I'm glad He's in charge
This week was pretty awesome. As usual.
We watched the Christmas devotional yesterday. I got a little homesick, but then the talks really made me feel an urgency to spread this message of cheer to everyone I see. Yeah, I’m missing another Christmas at home, but I know that when I get there, it’s going to be the same as it was when I left and there are Christmases to come. I guess I just realized (again) how important this is. Don’t worry, I’m not trunky, (that’s for sinners). I just want to be the best I can be for the next 3ish months.
We taught Stephen the Law of Chastity yesterday. When we got to the part about having to be married before you have a partner. He was like, “what if I don’t get married?” The way this language works, I thought he meant that he wanted a partner but not to get married, so I was like, “well, you have to get married.” Haha, he was like, “no, I just don’t want a wife.” HAHA. He’s only 12, and I remembered the YM president told us he was afraid of girls, so we told him that he didn’t have to get married. It was really funny. He also made a face like “yuck” when I said it was bawal (or… just bawal… um, forbidden) to look at pornography. This kid has no problems with the law of chastity. He’s getting baptized on Saturday!
One day, it rained constantly. I was actually cold. I wore one of the sweaters I brought with me, so it was ok. But the best part was that we didn’t get any teachings. As in totally punted. So basically, we walked around in the rain all afternoon and tried to find people to teach. I think it is days like that that Heavenly Father reminds me how much He’s in charge. I love that he is in charge. And not me.
One night, we tried to go to an investigator who wasn’t home, and we had nothing to do for the next hour. We didn’t have time to go to another area and teach someone we did know, so we were trying to figure out what we could do in the place we were in. I suddenly, “randomly” remembered a guard close by we had talked to a few weeks ago. I really had no desire to talk to him again, because he wasn’t at all interested in even talking to us… but I was like, “Sister Purser, let’s go find him again…” We had nothing else to do, so we went off to find a guard who we both knew didn’t want to talk to us. We kind of had to search for the street because last time it was raining and I was still new at that time, but we finally found it. When we got there, we saw a different guard on duty. It was a woman who was more than willing to talk to us. They have 24 hour shifts (no thanks!) and I asked if she liked to read (it’s an apartment, can you imagine sitting there all night with nothing to do but stare into space?). She said yes, so we gave her a copy of the Book of Mormon. She thanked us multiple times, and said she’d read when she has no people to watch… This woman doesn’t even live in our area. We may never see her again, but I’m so glad I followed the prompting to find the man who didn’t want to talk to us.
I know that Heavenly Father loves each and every one of His children. He knows who is ready for this gospel and he knows exactly what I need to do to help them. Which is why I’m glad He’s in charge.
Love,
Sister Adams
We watched the Christmas devotional yesterday. I got a little homesick, but then the talks really made me feel an urgency to spread this message of cheer to everyone I see. Yeah, I’m missing another Christmas at home, but I know that when I get there, it’s going to be the same as it was when I left and there are Christmases to come. I guess I just realized (again) how important this is. Don’t worry, I’m not trunky, (that’s for sinners). I just want to be the best I can be for the next 3ish months.
We taught Stephen the Law of Chastity yesterday. When we got to the part about having to be married before you have a partner. He was like, “what if I don’t get married?” The way this language works, I thought he meant that he wanted a partner but not to get married, so I was like, “well, you have to get married.” Haha, he was like, “no, I just don’t want a wife.” HAHA. He’s only 12, and I remembered the YM president told us he was afraid of girls, so we told him that he didn’t have to get married. It was really funny. He also made a face like “yuck” when I said it was bawal (or… just bawal… um, forbidden) to look at pornography. This kid has no problems with the law of chastity. He’s getting baptized on Saturday!
One day, it rained constantly. I was actually cold. I wore one of the sweaters I brought with me, so it was ok. But the best part was that we didn’t get any teachings. As in totally punted. So basically, we walked around in the rain all afternoon and tried to find people to teach. I think it is days like that that Heavenly Father reminds me how much He’s in charge. I love that he is in charge. And not me.
One night, we tried to go to an investigator who wasn’t home, and we had nothing to do for the next hour. We didn’t have time to go to another area and teach someone we did know, so we were trying to figure out what we could do in the place we were in. I suddenly, “randomly” remembered a guard close by we had talked to a few weeks ago. I really had no desire to talk to him again, because he wasn’t at all interested in even talking to us… but I was like, “Sister Purser, let’s go find him again…” We had nothing else to do, so we went off to find a guard who we both knew didn’t want to talk to us. We kind of had to search for the street because last time it was raining and I was still new at that time, but we finally found it. When we got there, we saw a different guard on duty. It was a woman who was more than willing to talk to us. They have 24 hour shifts (no thanks!) and I asked if she liked to read (it’s an apartment, can you imagine sitting there all night with nothing to do but stare into space?). She said yes, so we gave her a copy of the Book of Mormon. She thanked us multiple times, and said she’d read when she has no people to watch… This woman doesn’t even live in our area. We may never see her again, but I’m so glad I followed the prompting to find the man who didn’t want to talk to us.
I know that Heavenly Father loves each and every one of His children. He knows who is ready for this gospel and he knows exactly what I need to do to help them. Which is why I’m glad He’s in charge.
Love,
Sister Adams
Monday, December 6, 2010
December WHAT?
I can't believe it's December 6th. Who said it could be December? Oh well, time flies when you're having fun!
This week, Sister Purser and I had some cool experiences. Mostly just spiritual. We taught Tom Jagodilla who is a part member. His wife has been a member most of her life, and lots of missionaries have wanted to teach him, but he just wouldn't listen. But, the spirit guided me to say things to him that, if said without the spirit present, would be offensive. I don't remember what I said, but he listens now :) And I'm excited for him and his family.
We also met a neat girl named April. She is a spunky 21 year old who graduated in practical nursing. She said she'd listen, but then she said, "basi magbuot ako!" which means, "I'll probably become nice!" It was funny to me, but probably just because of her personality. She accepted a Book of Mormon and told her dad as we were leaving that she was going to become Mormon. Haha.
Then we talked to a slightly drunk man, who refused to tell us what religion he was. I finally found out that he belongs to a church that doesn't believe that Christ is the son of God. He seems cool, I hope if we ever go back there, we can talk with no alcohol. I absolutely detest alcohol. It's the way people celebrate here, and it's the way to a broken family. humph.
Stephen is doing great, on track for baptism this 18th, but the others that were supposed to be with him, aren't going to be able to be that day, or even this month... darn agency, it ruins everything.
We met a woman named Jo on a tricycle. She spoke pure English to me and told us that when we were done where we were going, we should go down the street to her house and talk to her. So we did. She demanded that we speak English (which I think was a relief for Sister Purser) and accepted a BOM and told us that she'll come to church next week because she had something to do this Sunday. She was pretty cool. I want to go back to her.
I LOVE my job because of all the diverse people I get to meet. And the ability to make their lives better. I love talking to people, and not necessarily all about the church. Mostly about THEM. And their lives. I know you're all jealous, but you shouldn't be. That's against the 10th commandment. ;)
That's this week!
Love,
Sister Adams
p.s. this week we're going to a HUGE house for lunch because we were invited to a birthday lunch of Kirt. I'm excited because they are way nice.
This week, Sister Purser and I had some cool experiences. Mostly just spiritual. We taught Tom Jagodilla who is a part member. His wife has been a member most of her life, and lots of missionaries have wanted to teach him, but he just wouldn't listen. But, the spirit guided me to say things to him that, if said without the spirit present, would be offensive. I don't remember what I said, but he listens now :) And I'm excited for him and his family.
We also met a neat girl named April. She is a spunky 21 year old who graduated in practical nursing. She said she'd listen, but then she said, "basi magbuot ako!" which means, "I'll probably become nice!" It was funny to me, but probably just because of her personality. She accepted a Book of Mormon and told her dad as we were leaving that she was going to become Mormon. Haha.
Then we talked to a slightly drunk man, who refused to tell us what religion he was. I finally found out that he belongs to a church that doesn't believe that Christ is the son of God. He seems cool, I hope if we ever go back there, we can talk with no alcohol. I absolutely detest alcohol. It's the way people celebrate here, and it's the way to a broken family. humph.
Stephen is doing great, on track for baptism this 18th, but the others that were supposed to be with him, aren't going to be able to be that day, or even this month... darn agency, it ruins everything.
We met a woman named Jo on a tricycle. She spoke pure English to me and told us that when we were done where we were going, we should go down the street to her house and talk to her. So we did. She demanded that we speak English (which I think was a relief for Sister Purser) and accepted a BOM and told us that she'll come to church next week because she had something to do this Sunday. She was pretty cool. I want to go back to her.
I LOVE my job because of all the diverse people I get to meet. And the ability to make their lives better. I love talking to people, and not necessarily all about the church. Mostly about THEM. And their lives. I know you're all jealous, but you shouldn't be. That's against the 10th commandment. ;)
That's this week!
Love,
Sister Adams
p.s. this week we're going to a HUGE house for lunch because we were invited to a birthday lunch of Kirt. I'm excited because they are way nice.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Nagapasalamat Ako
I am thankful for being a missionary. I am also thankful that I could have a delicious lunch last Thursday. We had mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, chicken (not turkey...), rolls, and a cheesecake that practically made itself. No joke, we have no supplies in our kitchen, but somehow Sister Purser and I (who have never made a cheesecake in real life) put together the best cheesecake we've ever eaten... it was a day full of giving thanks. :D
I honestly feel like I am with Sister Fairweather again. We are having a blast and funny things happen every day. For example, we both thought that here in the Philippines, we would never be given an address that included a specific number (just stuff like "I live in Tanque Kalubihan! Visit sometime!). And actually, I haven't seen very many numbers on houses here, so I just thought no one used them. But we were given a referral (one of 3 yesterday, salamat!!) and his address was REALLY specific. It had a number AND a letter. So we went in search for this house. Well, we found it, and then realized that another referral that we had had a similar address so we went searching for it... That was the adventure. One where I was CORRECTED in my thinking that they don't use numbers on houses here. Everyone we asked was like, "keep going that way!" Then this woman just sort of stayed with us until we found the house. We were laughing so hard because she was practically doing our work for us. Even after we had kind of given up, she wouldn't. We eventually found the house, but didn't go inside to teach because it was time for our next appointment. Anyway, now that I read that, it doesn't sound that funny... just imagine 2 American girls following a middle aged Filipina around looking for 477-D. Maybe you'll get the effect.
That's all folks!
Love,
Sister Jennie Adams
Monday, November 22, 2010
Jaro
On Friday, I've been in the Philippines for a year. Just so you know. HAPPY THANKSGIVING! (yes, we're going to have a feast, I'll tell you about it next week)
Transfer day was awesome. Sister Carr and I switched places. So I am now following up Sister Purser. It is now her
3rd transfer. And she's adorable. She wears Jody's and crocs and... we're just going to have a blast. We actually both have the same Jody and toothbrush, so we took a picture because I thought it was so funny. Hilarious actually.
I've spent the last 3 days trying to figure out Jaro (J sounds like H). (Note from Naunie, Jaro is approximately 4 miles north of Iloilo City.) We are assigned to ward 2 and yesterday I had a blast because the members are so nice. Also, we have some pretty cool investigators. At least 2 are goaling to be baptized on December 18. One is a really smart 12 year old, named Stephen, (he's just like Raymart, but he has support from a family member). The other is a woman who is in her 30's (I think). Her name is Beth. And everyone we talk to is really nice. I can't explain how excited I am to be here, close to President. I'm hoping that if I transfer again, it isn't far because I don't know if I can take the travel again. I would just like this to be my last area... hmm, 3 transfers. It's possible. The 3 hour bus ride from Roxas to Iloilo is pretty much killer (all I want by the time we get here is to NOT be moving). It was kind of weird being the only Sister on the trip from Roxas, but I did it in September when we had a leadership training, so it wasn't the first time. It must be weird to be an RM and all of a sudden find yourself alone with someone of the opposite gender... hmmm, guess I'll find out...
Um,
CONGRATULATIONS ANNIE... uh, SISTER LOVE That's the mission I thought I was supposed to go to. Haha, one thing I've learned is that it's a darn good thing that we're not in charge of our lives. Love you tons Girl! See you in 2012!
Love always,
Sister Adams
Transfer day was awesome. Sister Carr and I switched places. So I am now following up Sister Purser. It is now her
3rd transfer. And she's adorable. She wears Jody's and crocs and... we're just going to have a blast. We actually both have the same Jody and toothbrush, so we took a picture because I thought it was so funny. Hilarious actually. I've spent the last 3 days trying to figure out Jaro (J sounds like H). (Note from Naunie, Jaro is approximately 4 miles north of Iloilo City.) We are assigned to ward 2 and yesterday I had a blast because the members are so nice. Also, we have some pretty cool investigators. At least 2 are goaling to be baptized on December 18. One is a really smart 12 year old, named Stephen, (he's just like Raymart, but he has support from a family member). The other is a woman who is in her 30's (I think). Her name is Beth. And everyone we talk to is really nice. I can't explain how excited I am to be here, close to President. I'm hoping that if I transfer again, it isn't far because I don't know if I can take the travel again. I would just like this to be my last area... hmm, 3 transfers. It's possible. The 3 hour bus ride from Roxas to Iloilo is pretty much killer (all I want by the time we get here is to NOT be moving). It was kind of weird being the only Sister on the trip from Roxas, but I did it in September when we had a leadership training, so it wasn't the first time. It must be weird to be an RM and all of a sudden find yourself alone with someone of the opposite gender... hmmm, guess I'll find out...
Um,
CONGRATULATIONS ANNIE... uh, SISTER LOVE That's the mission I thought I was supposed to go to. Haha, one thing I've learned is that it's a darn good thing that we're not in charge of our lives. Love you tons Girl! See you in 2012!
Love always,
Sister Adams
Monday, November 15, 2010
Transfer Announcements
Well everyone, the time has finally come for the Roxas Rena (Queen) to step down from her throne, but she still gets to hold the title. I have been assigned here for 33 weeks... that's roughly 7 and a half months. I've had 3 companions while I've been in the wonderful city of Roxas. But now, it's time to pass on this set of members, leaders, investigators, and concerns to the next missionary. It's time for me to try my hand at another ward (or branch, or area?). When I came here, I never thought I'd be here for 5 and a half transfers. Never. But it's been great! I absolutely love it here and when (yes, when) I get a chance to come back to the Philippines, I'm definitely spending a considerable amount of time here in Roxas.
This week is going to be crazy with all the goodbyes and packing and such. I go to Iloilo on Thursday night and the transfer meeting is on Friday morning. The other 3 sisters in Roxas are staying... meaning I get to ride Solo to Iloilo. Yay! :S
This last week was ok. We taught Ernesto (only once) and he accepted a Book of Mormon. He accepted the message too. He is a surprisingly quick man (well, his mind is quick) for being 68 and having suffered a stroke. It was refreshing to teach someone who really cared about what we were saying. Please pray for his acceptance of the Restored Gospel.
I love being a missionary! And I can't wait to see what the next 6 weeks bring! Thank you all for your prayers and support!
Love Always,
Sister Adams
Sister Adams
Monday, November 8, 2010
Zone Con and Principals
This is last week's picture - with Sister Adams dressed up as Sister Custodia, and Sister Custodia dressed up as Sister Adams;-)
Hi Everyone!
This week, we had Zone Conference! Combined with Kalibo! Let me tell you what that means...
This week, we had Zone Conference! Combined with Kalibo! Let me tell you what that means...
I got to see Sister Woodward! It was pretty awesome.And I learned a ton. I hope it helps with the work.
We met a man named Ernesto. He used to be a principal at a (several?) school(s). He spoke straight English to us, even though we were answering in Ilanggo. We told him that we were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He said he hadn't ever heard of that organization before, and even went as far as to say that it wasn't a religion. Haha, but after about 5 minutes of talking, I asked him if he knew "Mormons." THEN he knew who we were. And proceeded to say, "Eh, suppose... I wanted to know more about your religion... Could you, eh, schedule me in some day, and come and have a session with me?" Haha, it was awesome. His house is gargantuan, which, secretly, it's my dream to teach someone that lives in one of those mysterious, large houses. Even though you know they're part of the dominant religion in this country. That's all I've wanted here, I want to teach the humble who are not compelled to be that way. Anyway, I'm scared out of my mind, we can't mess this up. The Spirit is absolutely necessary. Our appointment is tomorrow, between 3 and 4, and he hopes "that we won't be absent." True to teacher form. Haha. :) So, any prayers in that direction would be deeply appreciated.
I'm having a great time with Sister Custodia! We laugh everyday about our forgetfulness and inside jokes. I love laughing. A mission without laughing would be a dreary one indeed.
Love you all, Keep smiling!
Sister Jennie Adams
Dear Annie Love,
ahem, dear, if I don't hear from you personally SOON, I just might have to come home right now and speak to you face to face.I love you to the Philippines and back!
Love,Sister Adams
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