The Light: A Special Christmas Message

I feel extra happy this year to know that Jesus Christ was the prophesied Messiah. I know that He lives. All that He did was for us. Out and about, so many people are going nuts over presents and festivities, yet we walk among them with peace in our hearts and light in our eyes, because we know why we celebrate this season. The power of our message hit home today when we ran into an excommunicated member at Target during our weekly shopping. He promptly flagged us down and offered to buy our groceries. As we got to know him, we learned more about his concerns and reasons for walking away from the light. There was great confusion and contradiction in the things he would say, and I found myself praising God in my heart for blessing us with faith. The testimonies we have been given are precious. It is such a privilege to witness for Christ during this season of the year, and lift people to see life more clearly through the light of the gospel.

Light is my favorite symbol of the Savior. I love Christmas lights. I always remember driving around during the Christmas season and looking at all the neighborhood lights while listening to "It Must Have Been the Mistletoe." (:  (Since a song about mistletoe isn't exactly appropriate for missionaries, we have been listening to "Oh Come All Ye Faithful," and, my personal fave: "Silent Night." as we cruise past the lights.)

It is significant that we are each born with the light of Christ within us. There is not a single person I have met on my mission that I have not loved, and this because I know they hold the light of Our Lord. It is rewarding to search for that spark, and then to support and strengthen it in them. It is the greatest tragedy when we see it diminish, as ofttimes people forget, or make poor choices. I rejoice to know that you all "walk in the light of your fire and in the sparks which ye have kindled." (2 Nephi7:11). The miracles you see in your lives, and the missionary experiences Heavenly Father trusts you with are evidence of your faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement.

So much has happened since I started training Sister Arave, I have completely lost track of time. It has been the fastest 6 weeks of my life! I never want to leave the wards I am serving in. The people are constantly striving to become closer to the Savior by serving each other. I love to see the Lord's work in action. When I read about Gramzie's SS lesson on Zion and the Pure in Heart, I want to say: "Gramma! Come see Zion in Fayetteville, NC! It'll be a great field trip for your class!" But I remember there is another little Zion in the PV8 ward in Provo (: And another one in the Lehi 18th Ward, and another in the Caprock ward. What a testimony of the truth of this gospel. Regardless of who or where you are, you can be changed for the better by living the principles of Christ's gospel. We are not perfect, but constantly striving, and being filled with His love. Helaman 3:35

I keep reminding myself and our investigators: it's always a process, a beautiful, grueling, thrilling process to come unto Him, the source of light and life.

Pray for Aaliyah, Patrice, Toni and Alex Sweeney! Their family is struggling to come to church.

Know how great the Lord's love is for you this Christmas season, and remember the greatest gift of all! The Atonement of Jesus Christ. John 3:16

Go to the temple, remember and live your covenants, and read the Book of Mormon every day! He will bless you as you do so with His precious children to care for and uplift.

I feel His love through you! Thank you forever!

Love,
Sister B

Hi Everyone!

I learned a lot this week, and I want to share it all with you all; I just don't know how! Training a new missionary is stressful if you don't rely on the Savior. I have to be so close to Him all the time, especially now, or I feel completely overwhelmed and inadequate. I think this applies really well to life. Not coincidentally, three of you emailed me about how He will help us, and how He does bless us when we are full of faith. Thank you for listening to the Spirit. 

I am learning through my own experiences, and feeling deeper conversion to the restored gospel. How wise and purposeful are God's commandments! His plan for us saves us from sorrow that is unavoidable if we do not accept the atonement. This is absolute truth. The world is wrong to deny that good and evil, light and darkness exist in stark contrast. They oppose each other and are not reconcilable. With each choice that we make, we either live in light, or we live in darkness. We needed to Fall in order to learn and become like our Father in Heaven. Because of the Fall, we must choose to accept Jesus Christ. There is no other way. The need for the Fall reminds me of the children's book by Lois Lowry: the Giver. Remember how no one in the village carries memories of real life? Remember how it hurt the little boy to get them, but there was no other way for Him to understand existence or truth? There is no other way for us to learn what God knows. We must experience it for ourselves. I am amazed at the Love of God. He loves us enough to allow us to have horrific, terrifying, fantastic, glorious experiences. He loves us enough to choose to come back to Him. He loves us enough to send His son to die, that through Him we might be cleansed from sin. I know you all know this already, but I love it too much to not testify of it again! Christ is the way, the truth, and the life! I invite each of you to keep His commandments this Christmas, to show Him your love. Go to the temple, invite friends over for a spiritual message or movie, play with little children, and SING lots of Christmas songs! Christ the Savior is born!

Let me know if there is anything you all need! I love questions to respond to (: I will let you know how Aquisha's baptism goes. Enjoy the pics.

Love,

Sister B

1 In the car on our way back from the historic, first-ever Sisters Meeting for the NCRM. Sister Arave is so diligent in her studies... I fell asleep (:

2 At our Ward Mission Leader's home after the Christmas Devo.

Liebe Familie

Ich hab euch Lieb! I thought of you all this past Thanksgiving, and my heart swelled with gratefulness! I LOVE YOU PEOPLE. Your lights shine through my heart to everyone here in North Carolina.

This week has been glorious! Sister Arave and I love to run together every morning.

Thanksgiving Day, we had the opportunity to teach non-members invited over to dinner at a member's home. As we gathered around to share the message, I was surprised to realize we were going to be teaching a whole group of people, just. like. Alma. Wahoo! It was amazing! We felt the Spirit testify of Christ and the blessings He sends. We invited them all to pray and offer thanks to the Lord for the blessings He has given us, especially, the gift of His Son. Although we were present at four full Thanksgiving meals, I have to admit, I didn't eat as much as usual. Nothing can quite compare to my Sisters or my Mothers and their cooking. Connie and Mama, I miss you! (I even miss Raymond's breakfast specials, and Papa's delicious oatmeal... man...) Don't even get me going on Elise's pies. I don't want to think about it (: I settled for a new treat, Sweet Potatoe Pie, which is a favorite in these parts. It was tasty. No lemon cheesecakes though.

Enough about food, let me tell you the real reason for the gloriousness this week:

Monday, we found an elect family, prepared and excited to hear the gospel! The family is mom, dad, Aaliyah, and Patrice (twin 15-year-old girls). They remind me of Emma and Care! They are so cute, and love to give us hugs. 

On Tuesday, there was a MASSIVE rain storm. It literally pooouuured down incessantly all day. We got to eat a candlelight dinner at the primary president's home, since the power lines were out: great fun. Then we attended Young Women with Aaliyah and Patrice :D

Wednesday, we saw them again, and really got to meet their mother for the first time. She was abused as a baby, so she has been in a wheelchair her whole life. She has so much love, and so much faith in God's plan for her. Her name is Toni. Furthermore, Wednesday, we taught Aquisha again, and Sister Arave invited her to be baptized. (Drum Roll Please). She will be baptized Saturday the 14th!!! Heavenly Father is the best! Every day a new delight, a greater challenge, another soul to save.

Saturday, we finally got ahold of Ashley again, and she is doing much better! I am relieved to see her smiling and praying again. Sunday was filled with lovely testimonies. As I bore my testimony, I was filled with joy and peace. I know Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He lives. I have never known it so absolutely. I am positive that through service, treasuring up His words, mighty prayer, and sacred ordinances, we obtain a refuge in our hearts from the cares and troubles of the world. I have hope! I have joy! I desire all to receive it! Let us proclaim the joy of the atonement to all the world!

Thank you for all of the wonderful notes and love! I love you family! Je'tem Familie, Te quiero Familia, Ich hab dich Lieb Familie! Be safe and keep the commandments. Tis' the Season!

Luke 2:10-11

Love,
Sister B

The Frenchies

We are welcoming to Fayetteville and Fort Bragg, Sister Arave. (Pronounced R.V.) No, she is not a motor home; Yes, she is a vehicle for recreation in the figurative sense. Now, we have a full set of Sisters from French heritage! The looks on peoples faces as they try to pronounce our names is delightful. (: We just smile and say Bonjour! (jk)

Sister Arave is from Clinton Utah. She played division one volleyball at Weber State and worked as a CNA in the OB-GYN unit at the hospital up in northern Utah. She is full of energy and has a strong commitment to serve the Lord with all her heart, might, mind and strength!

This past weekend, we received a visit from Quentin L. Cook! He came to reorganize the Fayetteville West Stake. The most powerful part to me was when he testified of his special witness of Christ. He then invited us to sing "I'll Go Where You Want Me To Go" along with the video of the Tabernacle Choir singing it. Sister Arave and I couldn't hold back the tears. We are so grateful to be where the Lord wants us to be!

On Saturday, we went to visit a former investigator. She used to live in a trailer park out off Pritchett Road, but the old investigator had moved. We ended up knocking doors in that area and met three people, all neighbors, who took time to listen to our message. In all areas that day, we felt the guidance of the Spirit, and were impressed by the reality of the Spirit. He truly testifies of Christ.

We had a similarly miraculous experience last Friday when we went to the Fort Bragg Military Center to get renewed I.D.'s to get on post. The lines were incredible, and we had been struggling all week to obtain passes. We settled on going to the center, and waiting patiently for the anticipated 4 hours. While we waited, we met a girl named Carrie who wanted to learn about the gospel, and to read the Book of Mormon. I am constantly overwhelmed by the Lord's wisdom and trust in us.

I testify to you that I know our Savior lives. We are children of God. He has a plan for each of our lives. Through obedience to His commandments, we are blessed and protected, and shown the way to obtain Eternal Life. I want to see each of you in heaven some day! Don't get discouraged, but "press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men."

I challenge each of you to invite a non-member or less active friend over for dinner this month. Share with them your testimony of the Atonement of Christ, and invite them to come to church with you. As you pray and seek to know whom to ask, names and faces will come to your mind.

I pray for you all. 

Love,

Sister B

Feeling the Love

“Faith is the first principle of the gospel. Repentance is the number one doctrine of the kingdom. Obedience is the first law of heaven. And happiness is the object of our existence. But of all things in the gospel, in the scriptures, and in the plan of salvation, that which is  most important of all is the love of God.” (Kelly Ogden-Mighty Changes)."

~ Letter from President Bernhisel

Last week, we were visited by Elder Baxter of the 70. He is from Scotland (Could not stop thinking of Sean Connery.) His focus for us was on the Love of God. It is the motivating force behind everything we do as missionaries. I volunteered to do a role play with him (scariest moment of my mission so far). It was incredible. The love of God was so evident in the things he said to us, and the way he taught us. I learned that this love is what overcomes our fears to act and be bold in our faith.

This week, my heart is especially full of love for Justine. She is choosing to be baptized on Friday! She was so prepared by the Lord to accept the gospel, meeting her has increased my faith and testimony. I will send you pictures of our baptisms soon! I have been entirely forgetful of pictures, but I am getting better, and beginning to take more.

We found out at interviews on Friday that Sister Hardy is being transferred. My new companion will be a brand new little missionary, straight from the MTC. I get to train her!!! I am so excited for her to experience the mighty power of the Spirit and of the Love of God. Too often we wait for special callings to experience His love. Do not wait. Seek Him now and always.

I am just so happy! I want everyone to be this happy! Pray to be filled with the pure Love of Christ and then study the scriptures, ancient and modern - SOAK THEM UP - and I promise, you will feel His love. He loves you. He has a plan for each of us. Of this I testify, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Now, it seems my last letter to you all didn't go through! I am so sorry if any of this info is a repeat. I usually glance over last week to make sure I don't repeat stories. Tell me about how you feel God's love in your life! Tell me all about your scripture studies! Know I love you all. Let me know what I can do for you.

Love,

Sister B

Snapshots

Waking up in the morning goes something like this: beeeep beeeeep beeep snooze beeeeep beeeep Sister Hardy stumbles out of bed. I peek over, crumple up into prayer pose, and beg for the energy to get out of bed: Heavenly Father answers prayers (:

Driving onto Fort Bragg, we have to go through inspection every day. We have come to know our soldiers at the checkpoint, and always chat and see how they're doing. On one particularly cloudy day, I was feeling extremely happy to have the gospel, I was smiling and happy. I turned to one of our soldiers in response to his obligatory question: "How are y'all today?" And said: "Best day of my life." Somewhat taken aback, he responded, "Why??" I quickly bore my testimony that I know God lives and loves us. The gospel of Jesus Christ is the source of my joy. One of the other soldiers happily chimed in with his joy in the Savior, and Sister Hardy and I drove off with sunshine in our souls.

Smokers love to chat while they smoke. I guess smoking alone is pretty lonely. Recently, we have embraced Elder Ballard's directive that "If [we] want to teach more, [we] must talk to more people." Obviously. So, I make it a point to chat with smokers in passing. Recently, we met Kenny outside the library, doing his daily. I was touched by the light in his eyes as we helped him feel the Savior's love in his life. Hopefully, he remembers the Lord when he is more ready.

Missionary work is all about preparing others, and preparing ourselves, for the right time and the right place to allow the Spirit to testify of truth. I can't describe the feelings of peace and love as we prepare and prepare others, and finally find those moments. Those are the miracles. They come through obedience, patience, and faith. What miracles are you all seeing in your lives? They surely are cause to rejoice and feel gratitude to our Lord.

I love you all, and miss you! We are all important instruments in hastening the work of Salvation! Go get 'em!!!

Love,
Sister B

[This pic is of our District. Sister Shaum, to my left, was making me laugh quite a lot.]

Blessed Days

In North Carolina, when people say goodbye, they like to say: "Have a blessed day!" I have taken to saying this wherever I go. It reminds me that the greatest days and the most wonderful experiences are gifts and blessings from God.

 

We have our whole world to be thankful for!

 

Our week has been a series of disappointments and miracles... I guess that sums up missionary work. Tori, one of our less active sisters, is very young and newly married. She is quite bubbly, and trying to nag her non-member husband to church. On our weekly visit, we happened to arrive when one of her good friends was there. Her friend, Regina, was intrigued to meet missionaries, and listened to the message of the Restoration curiously.

 

What a testimony to us, and Tori, that the gospel is not an "awkward" conversation! Neither is it detrimental to friendships to simply share what we know and have found to be true. I am grateful for the missionaries who shared the gospel with our family. Can you imagine if they had been scared of being awkward, or that people would think they were weird??

 

We must have faith. I believe the song, "If the Savior Stood Beside Me," should be changed to, "Because the Savior Stands Beside Me." He truly does. As we walk with His Spirit, He stands among us. D&C 6:32 Sharing the gospel is a gift of love. Sharing our testimones is the best way for us to develop the pure love of Christ. Good news is: we can share them every day!

D&C 88:81

 

I Love the hard days. Somehow they turn out to be the most blessed. Sister Hardy and I definitely find loads to laugh about. And we constantly remind each other that everything happens for a reason, and God has a plan, and do excuse my multiplicity of run-on sentances. (:

 

I hope and pray y'all's days are blessed as you live and keep your covenants. There is no trial or obstacle that will not be helped as we seek the Lord. I know that Jesus Christ lives. "He is the light and the life of the world; yea, a light that is endless, that can never be darkened; yea, and also a life which is endless, that there can be no more death." Mosiah 16:9

 

Remember to thank our Veterans and Service Men for their service to our country today!

 

I LOOOOOVE YOU FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your letters mean so much to me! I feel your prayers each day!

 

Love,

Sister B

Our Privilege

Being out of miles, we were required to walk to the stake center today for emails. It was brisk and lovely (: Please forgive the delay!

Yesterday, I let myself be frustrated with one of the less active couples we are working with. They are Gramma and Grampa's ages, and they do not come often to church. They were baptized over 30 years ago, but they refuse to stay for sunday school or relief society/priesthood, and they make endless excuses not to do their visiting and home teaching. I am EXASPERATED. And humbled. How blessed I have been to have great examples of sacrifice and commitment to the Lord in my life. We all make dumb choices; we must strive for the understanding to help those less fortunate than ourselves.

I love Elder Ballard's wisdom in explaining how sharing the gospel is not a burden, it is a privilege!

“It is the business of those who profess to be engaged in [God’s] work to move on, to go forward. … So long as there remains a step forward to be taken, that step should be taken.” - Lorenzo Snow

In a typical day, we rise and do our little stretch and flex/cardio work outs for 30 minutes. We sometimes go to the church gym, where I can be seen zipping around the perimeter trying to run a 7 minute mile (that's the goal... nowhere close yet...). Sister Hardy has a bad knee, and can't handle long periods of biking or running, so we do pilates together.

For breakfast, I sometimes eat a baked potato, other times a bowl of steaming oatmeal. We shower and get ready and begin study at 8:15. Study time is focus time. We try to take it very seriously, and treasure up the words we will need for our investigators.

At 11, we finish study/training, and eat lunch.

We hit the road and start teaching.

This week, we met three new investigators!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hoorah hoorah! It is joyous to teach people who want to listen! His sheep hearken to His voice. We try to do half hour to an hour intervals of facebook daily.

This week, we were visited by Elder Zwick, and Elder Pino of the 70. Their messages to us were powerfully uplifting and strengthened our faith. We were taught to sanctify ourselves and become fully consecrated to the work of the Lord. To "be as wise as you are pure," and that "you must allow the Lord to enlarge your capacity. And He will."

I know that my Father in Heaven loves me. He has a plan for each of us to have happiness in this life and joy eternally, if we hearken to His commandments, and believe in Christ. Let us have faith in Him, and press forward, cheerfully sacrificing all that is needful. There is no greater work. He loves us.

Justine is planning to be baptized in three weeks! Hooray! Pray for her!

Love,

Sister B

Joy

My dearest, darlingest Momsy and Popsickle and other loved ones,

 

Here amidst the towering pines, Sister Hardy and I continue our quest. We laugh, we cry, our joy is full. Our great joy comes from growth and light - in ourselves and those around us - as we live the gospel of Jesus Christ.

 

Truly there is no way to feel this joy without the gospel of Christ. Not to say lots of people aren't happy. Lots are. They tell us: as we stand, smiling, on their porches, "Not Now," and "No," - and keep leading the lives they have chosen. Yet the great joy we feel comes only by living in His light.

 

We have dinner with members pretty much every night. How good that is for my health is yet to be seen. (Don't hesitate to feed your missionaries a mere salad. They'll thank you for it later.) The military aspect of my current area provides an eclectic assortment of cultures and foods. Mostly, we eat good ole American food-- lots of tacos, meat, pasta, the occasional hotdog albeit distressingly boiled :(. The southern food found in most other areas of our mission is legendary- the pork is quite vinegar-ie.

 

My favorite meal this week was with Sister Campos. She is from Chile, and serves currently as a ward missionary (with impressive vigor and vim I might add). The food, needless to say, was superb. She made us beans! and fajitas! and flan! Her son, Marcos is an inactive member and decided to sit in on our lesson. I was pleased to learn that he is a rapper. His rapper name is "knifestar". (first question I asked him (:) Though he isn't ready to come back to church, he committed to write Sister Hardy and I an edited rap per request. I'm pretty excited.

 

We love strengthening our members! Yesterday we were asked to share messages in primary in both wards we serve in. Definately the highlight of my week. The children were beautiful! Their spirits shine so purely. I can't help but think about how Juniper will be there soon! I am so glad she will know that her Heavenly Father loves her.

 

On another note, there have been several murders in Fayetteville this month. Eeeek. Not in our neighborhood, thankfully. Secret combinations and abominable sins are tearing lives apart. Satan is really working on people to destroy their potential and it's working. It is cause for great sadness in our hearts. The call in general conference for every person to stand for truth is needful, not only for our salvation, but for the salvation of our brothers and sisters. I want to testify that I now know that the commandments we have been given by the Lord are for our safety and joy. There is no other way to experience peace and joy in this life, other than living the commandments of Jesus Christ.

 

We battle each day to consecrate our thoughts, wills, appetites, and strength to the Lord. How I wish that all members were equally committed to serve Him! We live far below our potential for great happiness, miracles, revelation and joy.

 

I desire that all may receive this joy. It's so good. I am happy and humbled. Read the Book of Mormon daily, study the scriptures, listen to conference, pray unceasingly, go to church, honor your covenants, love your neighbors: in other words, I love you all. D&C 18:14, 17-21

 

Sister B

Another Note from Sister B

Dear folks back home,

 

How are you?

 

We are feeling very blessed. There is lots of wonderful rain, and it is sweater season in North Carolina (:

 

We are loving the people of North Carolina (: Yesterday, the faith of members in our meetings and classes helped me feel the Spirit so strongly. I cannot deny that God lives and this is His work.

 

Now that Sheri is baptized, we meet with her much less. Every time we get to see her, at church and for new member lessons, her light is powerful and glorious. Her smiles and closeness to the Spirit remind us of the blessings of living the gospel.

We have seen many miracles in the past two weeks. Gracie was blessed to run into some of our Spanish speaking Elders and is now meeting with them and understanding so much more! We see the light growing in her as we continue to see her at church.

Ashley is so stubborn and intellectual. It is fun teaching her, because she comes up with theories and asks lots of questions. I have to be careful not to philosophize with her and forget my purpose. The Spirit of Christ testifies in plainness and truth. It is simple and exquisite. Far beyond our mortal understanding are the works of our Father in Heaven. It is beautiful how gospel truth completes our human aspirations; through the Spirit, our efforts are sanctified, and we become enlightened! It is humbling to realize I can teach nothing without the Spirit.

Two weeks ago, our investigator, Maryann, decided that God did not want her to go to our church. When she told us, my heart broke. She was so convinced that the Spirit was telling her that she did not belong at the Mormon church, I nearly believed it was true! She is a devout Catholic and grew up in the Bronx with the Catholic church as her source of light and feeling God's love. It is so hard for her to accept greater light and love and change. We are still meeting with her though. She still wants us with her, which is good (:

This Sunday, some of our members brought some friends to church- a family. The wife is from Germany!!! Her name is Julike. I was very excited, but didn't get a chance to meet her after class. I hope I get to speak with her, even if she doesn't want to learn about the Church.

 

The faith of our members strengthens me. Your faith strengthens me! There is magnificent strength in the faith of many.

 

Something that touched me this week in my study was how the Lord's plan for us is designed to bless and uplift all of His children. The experiences each of us have when we make mistakes and bad choices can be turned to our good as we use them to help and lift others.  I was reading about the sons of Mosiah who repented of the most vile sins, and then desired to bring all others the Savior's peace and forgiveness.  In Alma 26, Ammon asks, "why did he not consign us to an awful destruction, yea, why did he not let the sword of his justice fall upon us, and doom us to eternal despair?..." He then explains in verse 22 how anyone who repents and exercises faith and prays and does good things will be able to go forward in the Lord's work, "to bring thousands of souls" to Him. No matter what trials we face, the Lord can consecrate them for our gain. Especially the trials that the Lord sends us that don't make any sense in the eyes of the world. Think of Job! The Lords means them to enable us to bless and help others and increase our faith: "for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith." (Ether 12:6) Yet knowing that miracles and blessings come after our faith doesn't exactly make trials painless.

 

We can do it with the Savior (: I have a greater testmimony, because of my experiences, that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ live. They love us, every one.

 

I love you.

Sister B

 

p.s. I am never sure what to tell you about, so shoot me some questions if you have any curiosities!

Isn't Life Wonderful!

I LOVE EVERYONE! Hearing from you all is one of the best parts of my week! It's like a mini general conference (;

 

This week we got to go to the temple, and the spirit there just about bowls me over. I felt a new depth of trust in our Heavenly Father and His plan for us. He is full of wisdom, power, glory and goodness. Study the Book of Mormon and all other Scriptures to learn about His plan and to be filled with the love of Jesus Christ. These small steps we take to come unto Christ make life a miraculous and fulfilling experience. He is truly the light and LIFE of the world!

 

Caroline sent me this little poem, and it tickled me so thoroughly, I had to re-post it (:

 

Isn't life glorious! Isn't it grand!

Here take it-hold it-tight in your hand,

Squeeze every drop of it into your soul,

Drink of the joy of it, sunsweet and whole,

Laugh with the love of it, burst into song!

Scatter it's richness as you stride along!

Isn't life splendid-and isn't it great,

we can always start living-it is never too late!

It is never too late to partake of the pure love of Jesus Christ and LIVE!

 

I want to know what messages from general conference touched your hearts and are moving you to act and change? Do not wait to repent and come closer to Him! Alma 34:37-41.

 

The words of our Prophet, President Monson uplifted me so much! I honestly think and believe that He is called of God to lead us back home to Heavenly Father. I hope everyone got to watch all of General Conference! (If not, make time to do it!) I hope to hear from all of you and know that I love you and miss you so! Pray for the people of the world, and in North Carolina that their hearts will be softened to receive the truth.

 

Love,

Sister B

A Day In the Life (and she's on facebook--whaaat)

This week we exchanged companions with the Sister Leader companionship in our zone. This is called "Exchanges." It was quite an adventure! I stayed here at Fort Bragg with Sister Prestwich and we proceeded to witness miracle after miracle. We were led to find so many people to teach, we didn't have a dull moment! By 8:30, when we left to drive home, we were exhausted and ready to hit the hay. And that's when we got lost. So we began driving around Fort Bragg for about an hour trying to find a gate off base that wasn't already closed for the night. You all know me when I'm tired. It wasn't a pretty sight: me viciously punching the buttons on the GPS, and staring bleary eyed into the distance trying to decipher the far-off road signs. As we raced around in the pitch darkness with enormous forests of pine trees surrounding us, we heard a sudden screech and thump and looked at each other in horror as it dawned on us: we had just killed a cat. Sister Prestwich burst out laughing, and I shook my head in disbelief. Poor kitty! We continued racing at top speed to get home before curfew. Finally, we decided we would call the Zone Leaders, assigned Fort Bragg, for directions. (Following their directions, we got even more lost). With prayers in our hearts, we found a soldier who explained which way to go, and began to roll on home. Now, finally on the straight and narrow, we dared a small smile in hope of arriving home. But no. Just a couple seconds down the road, Sister Prestwich is hailed by the flashing blue lights. We shake our heads in disbelief. Luckily, the cop says we were going too fast for him to clock us, (miracle!!). Unable to ticket us, he offers a warning and further directions home. It suffices me to say that we slept deeply that night. (:

Sheri's baptism was wonderful! Sister Hardy and I sang "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing," and Sheri cried and cried. I feel so lucky to have witnessed a part of her journey to the Savior. She has so much peace and joy and hope for her future with her husband. The Lord prepared her for us to teach, and I have a testimony that he is "preparing the hearts of many to receive." Alma 13:24 You are His angels.

So how are your missionary experiences y'all??? I hope and pray that you have the courage to cast out fear through the perfect love of Christ and live a consecrated life! He loves us all, and we are called as children of Ephraim to preach the Gospel to all the Earth!

I love to hear all of your words of encouragement, and the funny and delightful and sad and frustrating things happening in your lives.

Big news at Zone Conference was that we are now authorized to proselyte online! We are cleaning out our facebook accounts and friending people in our area to begin teaching and finding people there. CRAZY! The Lord is hastening His work. Just so you know. (; My first thought was: Dad will love this. LOL. Dad, I guess your new Facebook addiction was meant to be.

I am not authorized to chat it up with you online, but if you see my green dot, and you need some spiritual encouragement, shoot me a hello! I will be focused on inviting others to come unto Christ, and won't be able to see any of your posts etc. We are blocking all of that. So DON'T STOP EMAILING AND SENDING LETTERS!! Also, Rachel or Elise will need to direct people to their pages or my blog to get updates on my address etc. Feel free to like my posts, or direct friends or family to my page to get some spiritual uplift. I will do my best.

The first time I got on to begin changing security settings, I saw the cutest picture of Juni! Satan is so sneaky! I almost started stocking Elise and Zac's pages, hungry for more pictures of our family. But quickly, I obeyed our directions, and resisted the urge. 

I hope this is evidence enough of how much I miss you all! Send me pictures! Send me updates (: I read them voraciously. Even descriptions of the weather! I miss Utah! I love you

Love,

Sister B

How Great Shall Be Your Joy!

Hello from rainy North Carolina!

 

People, I miss you!! Can you believe that 5 weeks have already gone by???

 

I feel I have definately failed to communicate most of my experiences and probably never will be able to, but I carry you all with me in my heart.

 

So, funny story- Last week on preparation day, we went to Chick-fil-A for a tasty treat and to visit one of our youth who works there with a potential investigator (uber productive, yeah?) When I placed my order, the cashier lady asked me for a name to put on the order. As she asked me, she looked up and noticed my nametag.I say: "Oh, um, Sister..."  She looks at me all confused, then she asked me if that was my first name. It was a good laugh. And another funny moment when they actually called out "SISTER" when my order was ready. I love being a Sister Missionary!!!

 

The past three weeks have been skipping along quite quickly. I have already spoken in church, suprise, surprise. (: Tragically, it was for  Young Single Adult ward, and they were all, quite obviously, falling asleep!! So mid-talk, I just stopped and said: "Okay! Everybody? Could you stand up for me please? Okay (then I did the primary chorister hand motion) and they willingly obliged. I racked my brain for an application to my topic, but there wasn't one, so I just smiled and said: "Great! you're all awake now!" and motioned them back down. My companion died laughing.

 

Sister Hardy is delightful. She comes from a family where her sisters are also her best friends. She is constantly surprised by my spazzy character, and often finds cause to chuckle at my child-like excitement for missionary work. (I just can't help grinning when 3 investigators come to Sacrament meeting.) We learn much from one another. She is teaching me patience and I am teaching her optimism (:

 

Yesterday, we got the chance to practice for a song we are singing at Sheri's baptism this Saturday. (AAAAAAAAAAAAAH it's really happening!!!!) Singing together was total therapy for both of us. We miss music so much. So much in fact, that I have converted to Christian Rock. I know, I know, your jaws are gaping. I never believed it could happen either. But y'all should consider the power and beauty of Casting Crows hit single "Jesus, Friend of Sinners." 

 

Now for the big news of the week. Big news of the week is this:  At a family history symposium on Saturday, I also met two experts on French-Canadian family history who want to help us find our ancestors. There are Boucher's in the Fayetteville 3rd ward (they even pronouce it correctly) and they directed the men to me to ask me about my heritage and help us figure out how we are related. I knew Heavenly Father sent me here for a reason! Meeting these people was like finding 500 prepared investigators at once. Our family is just waiting for us to find them! I will send Rae and Elise and Papa and Caroline the info I receive, so you can do the research and connect everything in the temple. I can't believe I found cousins all the way out in North Carolina.

 

The work is demanding and thrilling. I can't describe the joy I feel when I wake up and think about the priveledge I have to share God's message. Funnily enough, I never needed to wait to serve full-time to share. What was I doing with my life? But really? Members are the greatest missionaries. I feel empowered already to continue sharing the gospel throughout my life, because it is truly a commandment of the Lord and part of our commitment in the waters of baptism.

 

Family, friends, SHARE THE GOSPEL. It is the greatest gift to know of God's love and plan for us. I would exhort you all to bear your testimony to a loved one, a friend, or a stranger daily. Do it by bringing the Spirit in your words and in your actions. Invite your friends to meet with the missionaries! Invite all to come unto Christ, to honor their covenants, and to keep His commandments. In doing this, you shall receive Power and Light and Joy.

 

1 Peter 3:15

 

I love you so so much! I feel your support and your prayers. I know that you are blessed as you keep the commandments of God. He loves us.

 

Love, Sister Boucher

on being sick, shocked and so excited (not necessarily in that order)

So I'm here! I got a super bad cold on the Thursday before I flew out of Utah, so the journey here reminded me of Connie's terrible east coast excursion. When the plane was landing in NC the pressure was so bad, I almost puked and passed out. The poor elder next to me wasn't allowed to touch me or help me, but he pointed the little cool air nozzle my way and gave me a comforting wince. (: So in this state, I first met my mission president and his wife. All I remember was trying not to look or sound sick, so I smiled a lot and used a lot of hand sanitizer.

It was so fun talking to mama before I flew out of the airport! I am glad that gramma and Care and grampa all got my message, and I 'm sorry I didn't let you know when I would call. I also wish I could have remembered Zac or Connie or Papa's numbers, but you know I love you (:

Upon our arival, we went to the Presidents home--there were 30 new missionaries in my group: the most newbies they've ever gotten at once!!! Max Coca, a trumpet player from Timpview, was one of the Elders that flew out with me, so that was funny, a couple people were confused how we knew each other. We sang hymns and ate some cheezy spaghetti casserole stuff and practiced teaching with our AP's. 

I then met with President Bernhisel. As soon as our introductory meeting was completed, another sick Sister and I went to bed early, so we could hopefully recover more quickly. I slept like a rock.

The next morning, we received our first assignments- I am stationed at Fort Bragg in Fayetteville. Fayetteville ain't a pretty place. There is a lot of crime - most everyone walks around with a stick or a baseball bat, which is somewhat shocking. Fort Bragg is the biggest military post in the nation! It's huge! Practically everyone is a military family whether they live on post or off. We are not authorized to proselyte on base, so we try to do mainly service. We cover a ward off base as well as the YSA branch that meets at our stake center.3 wards = 3 back to back Sacrament meetings. Oh baybay. Talk about being spiritually fed (or stuffed). I love Sundays!

My trainer is named Sister Hardy. She hails from Logandale, Nevada, a tiny little town that she misses a lot! She has been out for four months and guess what? She is also a music major!!! I could scarcely believe it! She plays the violin, and I am excited to hear her play hopefully soon. She is planning on attending SSU when she returns from her mission, but she hasn't attended any college yet. It is loads of fun singing with her.

The past week has been filled with new faces. We got to participate in a baptism on Saturday - absolutely a highlight, though I never got to teach the litle boy. Adrian Volavola's family was less active and Sister Hardy taught him and helped reactivate them so he was baptized by the Elders on Saturday. His family is from Tonga. The spirit was sweet.

Right now we have four investigators- all of whom I am utterly obsessed with. They are incredible! Sheri is from Hawaii. Her husband is deployed right now in Kuwait, and she skypes him and shares all the things she has learned after our lessons. She will be baptized this month! It is unbelievable how prepared she is to receive Christ's gospel. She just eats it up and keeps us laughing the entire lesson.

Gracie is from El Salvador. I wish I spoke Spanish!!!! One of our hispanic Sisters from the ward comes and helps translate. Gracie speaks English, but half of the time she is speaking Spanish and it's so beautiful. Gracie isn't quite certain how she feels about the Book of Mormon, but she is reading it, and we hope she will want to be baptized in the coming months. She has many many questions about the Urim and Thummim and she tells us about Catholic visionaries she feels could compare to Joseph Smith. As I study for her, I have come to firmly believe that Joseph Smith is God's chosen prophet for this dispensation.

Ashley is about 20 years old and is currently training to be a medic in the army. She likes to analyze and think about things thoroughly. It is so interesting some of the theories she has formed about Adam and Eve and about God. I can see how she is prepared to hear the whole truth. It can be super frustrating sometimes that people are not progressing in the ways you feel they need to on the timeframe you visualize for them, but I have been blessed lately to feel the Lord directing them through His spirit, and I am grateful that this is His work and not mine. I will tell you more about Justine, and the other less active families we get to visit, next week! 

Stay true to the faith! I have never known with more conviction that this is the church of Christ on the Earth. He loves us! We are not salesmen, but messengers of the truth, and I mean all of us. As members of His church, we need to spread the gospel! Don't be afraid to share Mormon Messages and personal experiences with strangers about how God has touhed your life. It is a blessing, not an oddity, and people need to hear it. 2 Timothy 1:7

Love,

Sister Boucher

Until August 26

Please send all mail to this address for the next 12 days:

Sister Anna Boucher
AUG26  NC-RAL
2009 N 900 E Unit 169
Provo UT 84602