Dearest family, I apologize for this late email. We had Mission Sister's Conference this Monday and Tuesday and then President had those of us that were from farther areas stay Tuesday night in the mission home SO....buot silingon...we just barely got back to our area this morning and I am dead beat tired. The conference was absolutely amazing and a spiritual feast, a true answer to many of our prayers. Let me say one thing, I adore our mission president and his beautiful wife. I fully intend to stay in touch with those amazing people for the remainder of my life and on through the eternities. President has such a vision for the mission and has such a strong testimony of obedience and diligence. He is a remarkable example to me. I remember being a little concerned at the beginning of my mission of never becoming close to President Tobias. Well, that was a ridiculous fear. I suppose some individuals never feel that closeness, but that is of their own choosing.
Last night, as the sisters were eating he was playing the piano and I was just sitting on the couch listening. He looked over at me and chuckled after which I requested that he play his saxophone....which he said, "No......well, okay I will for you." haha! So he pulled out his saxophone and started playing a little bit, but he was really full from dinner and he has to take it easy with health stuff anyway, so THEN...he pulls out his guitar and starts playing Blue Moon. MY GOODNESS...that man has so many talents. So I'm sitting there in the mission home listening to oldies and watching the lights on the Christmas tree twinkle and I was thinking about each and every one of you. Funny how the Mission Home feels like home to me now.
Our week went really well. I just want to point out that on the 27th of this month will be my 1 year mark in the Philippines. That is insanity my dear loved ones. That makes it a 14 month mark in the mission itself. Time is flying and life is so good. This week I was speaking to a man who looked somewhat different from most of the people here, Asian, though, none the less. Well he kept answering me and I couldn't understand what he was saying. I kept speaking in Ilonggo to him and finally my companion said, "Sister! he's Chinese...he doesn't know Ilonggo..He's been speaking to you in English this whole time." hahahahahahahahaha! I was dying. K, so then I tried to talk to him in English and it's like someone flipped the dumb switch or something. I couldn't formulate a quality sentence to save my life. So what ended up happening was the man's wife, who is native, would translate what I was saying into English to him! hahahaha! My English is not that bad! We speak in the house all the time. But something switches in my mind when I walk outside that door and it's really weird. Anyway. It was funny.
This week we were able to extend a baptismal date to Ricky Yanson and he answered by saying.."December 11th?...what time do I need to be there?" AH!!!! Yes please! This man was definitely prepared and he continues to progress.
As for Erwin. We had a remarkable lesson with him. We were teaching and I felt like everything he said was just spewing answers he knew was right but wasn't really believing it and as I was teaching I had the impression to just stop talking and ask him what he was thinking about. So I did. It definitely got his attention and he started crying. (This man is no a crier. He is so stubborn and yet I have the hugest about of love for him and his family. He has started reading every day in the Book of Mormon and his understanding of it is beautiful. BUT...he hadn't applied it! He hadn't yet asked if the Book of Mormon was true through Prayer. He's in the process of doing that right now. Pray for Erwin.) Well as he looked up at me and with tears in his eyes he said, "We don't have money. We have bills and food to buy and we don't have any money for it. I don't know what else I can do." My heart immediately felt the weight of his burden. I would have given anything at that time to take his burden and put it on my shoulders. As I taught about the Atonement and the power of prayer and acting in faith, the lesson became a beautiful opportunity to allow him to feel his Heavenly Father's love and concern for him through the Spirit. His whole family was in tears ..as was I..that was a given. I was able to promise as a representative of Jesus Christ that if he were to continue to follow God's commandments to the best of his ability that God would provide for his family. As I gave that powerful promise the spirit was working so strong within me, it was a very sacred experience for me. As we left that night there was a peace in the home that wasn't there when we walked in.
I hugged Sister Joguilon and she held me for quite awhile. She is Erwin's wife and our relief society president. She is an elect lady. I look up to her so much. I left that night thinking, "I have 2 more transfers to make a difference in these people's lives. I've got to wear myself out and make the most of every second here." GOOD GRIEF I LOVE MY MISSION!!!!!
I'm gonna be a such a weirdo when I get home! hahaha! I thought I was still pretty normal. When we were in the mission home there was a movie there he let us watch, it was cute. It had a bit of romance in it, HAHAHAHAHA! You would die laughing if you had watched it with us. You would all be like..."this isn't romance...there is a relationship in the movie." haha! Anyway....there was a scene where a guy walks into a party, it's like a 29 second scene....I covered my eyes. Not even noticing what I was doing. HAHA! Sister Freeman started laughing so hard! Someone in the film said some slang word that every 12 year old says at home, but I've perfected my language and I don't even say little slang words anymore because they aren't feminine. It's funny how blinded we become to things. Well I heard the word and I said, "WOAH! Why are we watching this!????????" The movie was good. IT was a Christmas movie actually, it just had an interesting intro. ANYWAY....my point??? I'm gonna be a total weirdo. And I'll probably start going off in Ilonggo on you all...so get excited! I love you all to death.
In the tradition of the Thanksgiving season let me say I am eternally grateful to be in such an amazing family. Your support of me being on a mission is priceless and I will never forget it. I see missionaries all the time who have no support and my heart hurts for them, and simultaneously I feel such an overwhelming gratitude for each of you. I am thankful for toilet tissue and hot water. I am thankful for dish soap and washing bins and clean clothes. I am thankful for Jody dresses and hammocks and nasty missionary shoes that are worn out and have walked countless miles in order to share the word of God. I am, above all else, grateful for the Atoning sacrifice of my Savior, Jesus Christ. Without Him, all would be lost. My imperfections are many, and they are being made apparent daily, but through the Atonement, through Him, I can exercise my agency to repent and become clean, again, through His redeeming blood. He lives! For this I am grateful and will forever be grateful. He lives! Do we realize what this means? I will spend the remainder of my days in this mortal existence proclaiming His love and His gospel. Time is flying by, there are so many people who still need to hear the gospel. I love you all! Look for opportunities to teach! You're all amazing! Until next week, GOD SPEED!!!!!!
All my love,
Sister Stadler
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Another one bites the dust!!!! (whip sound...) One week down....not enough to go. My goodness time is flying by. Amanda, you are right....6 weeks until Christmas...which I have not been counting down...but every family of every missionary has...haha. Doesn't surprise me. I'm excited to talk to all of you. I miss you dearly but not enough to distract me from the work. First of all, let me answer some questions I realized I haven't answered. Amanda, the other Jody's you've seen in the photos I had made here. Yeah...they aren't quite the same, and the ones Sean and Mom bought me are my favorites because they are so much cooler, but the Jody is a Jody still and it's just nice to have them. They are all amazing at sewing here. My companion has actually talked about having a wedding dress made here before she goes home..she has the exact style of dress she wants and its designer...so it would be WAY WAY WAY WAY cheaper if she did it here. Personally...I'm worried more about finding a groom some day than I am about finding the dress. ha!
Alright, So as for investigators, we're slowly building our pool. We had one we found this week that came to church and wore a white shirt that was his dad's old one. He's 28, from a part member family...his sister is a member. He actually answered a question in Sunday School....I was shocked! I did a little dance in my mind since it wouldn't be acceptable in the church with my tag on. So we're pretty excited about him. His name is Ricky Yanson. Alright, as for the Angelicos....we're gonna give them some space for a bit I think. They just aren't progressing and I think maybe it's just not their time. But...we plan on teaching them still, just not as often. As for the Pacheo family..They are like night and day changes. They have a lightness in their step and a joy in their eyes that wasn't there before. They are now officially reactivated and so happy to be back. We love them! They're little girl is doing so well too. Thank you for your prayers, we feel them daily. We have been working a lot with less active members and it has been wonderful. We love working with them. I'll share more spiritual wise next week. I'm short on time.
Paul, I didn't get the exact date yet, but kono...er...in English..it has been said that I will be leaving here on the 2nd of March, flying to Manila, spending one day in Manila and then fly out the next day. I'm double checking it this week with one of the AP's so you can schedule it in.
Heavenly Father blesses His missionary force. I love you all and I need to get off here because I'm like 3 minutes over time. I love you I love you I love you and I hope to hear from all of you next week. you're amazing!!!! Until next week, share the gospel and.....GOD SPEED!!
All my love,
Sister Stadler
P.S. Sean....thank you so much for the Thanksgiving $$....I am soooo excited! We all are! And..I found a bag! thanks! love you!
Alright, So as for investigators, we're slowly building our pool. We had one we found this week that came to church and wore a white shirt that was his dad's old one. He's 28, from a part member family...his sister is a member. He actually answered a question in Sunday School....I was shocked! I did a little dance in my mind since it wouldn't be acceptable in the church with my tag on. So we're pretty excited about him. His name is Ricky Yanson. Alright, as for the Angelicos....we're gonna give them some space for a bit I think. They just aren't progressing and I think maybe it's just not their time. But...we plan on teaching them still, just not as often. As for the Pacheo family..They are like night and day changes. They have a lightness in their step and a joy in their eyes that wasn't there before. They are now officially reactivated and so happy to be back. We love them! They're little girl is doing so well too. Thank you for your prayers, we feel them daily. We have been working a lot with less active members and it has been wonderful. We love working with them. I'll share more spiritual wise next week. I'm short on time.
Paul, I didn't get the exact date yet, but kono...er...in English..it has been said that I will be leaving here on the 2nd of March, flying to Manila, spending one day in Manila and then fly out the next day. I'm double checking it this week with one of the AP's so you can schedule it in.
Heavenly Father blesses His missionary force. I love you all and I need to get off here because I'm like 3 minutes over time. I love you I love you I love you and I hope to hear from all of you next week. you're amazing!!!! Until next week, share the gospel and.....GOD SPEED!!
All my love,
Sister Stadler
P.S. Sean....thank you so much for the Thanksgiving $$....I am soooo excited! We all are! And..I found a bag! thanks! love you!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Oh family family, my goodness what amazing emails! :) AMANDA AND JOSHUA CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!! And Te! (te means like..i told you so) I knew it was going to be a boy, Holly and I were correct with our guesses. Oh my goodness I am so excited for you two and I'm sure my excitement is nothing compared to yours! And I'm gonna be there for it maybe.
OK, let me give you a short update on this week, and short it will be. Well, mom, Erwin isn't progressing at all and in fact, while we were planning on having his interview for baptism this week, he was planning on breaking the Word of Wisdom yet again. It's ridiculous. We're gonna visit him less frequently for now. I think he needs a break, he's still smoking, but secretly. My fears were confirmed by his wife. The missionaries have been teaching him for over 4 transfers now and it's just not his time right now. He understands everything and could probably teach us the lessons, but until he really believes it...and applies it, it means nothing. SO....with that being said, we have been working like crazy updating our CMIS list for church. Most of our days are spent going to different areas of town and asking if people know where certain people live and if they've moved or passed away. In one day we were able to remove 170+ people from the list. That definitely helps with retention percentages. haha! Our little branch is doing pretty well. Our relief society president, Erwin's wife, is remarkable and has started working with us once a week to go contact less active sisters. Our other time is spend mainly trying to contact priesthood. We have had some members reactivated and next Sunday 2 more will be considered reactivated. It's a very slow process.
President just recently increased our Mission Standards, the goals we have to meet each week and month....it's not going to be easy and it will definitely have to be directly from our loving Heavenly Father. Please keep us in your prayers that we will specifically be able to meet the goals set for us my President Tobias. I know he is a very inspired man who has a vision for this mission and I know he receives revelation for us from God. I have faith, but right now we have 1 progressing investigator. The Angelico family isn't progressing. They promised to come next week to church, I hope they do. Their 14 year old daughter is progressing,and we're hoping they'll catch her wind and fly with it....but they haven't yet.
This week, to be honest, has been a very difficult week. Not a bad week. I don't think I've had a bad week on the mission, just some are harder than others. You all have been asking about what to pray for specifically, well, here are some specific things. Pray for me to be humble, to be sensitive to spiritual promptings and to be endowed with patience. I have been made very aware of weaknesses this week, but it's a constant struggle we have with the natural man no? HA! That pesky natural man that holds us back and keeps us from happiness.
Mom, that two week missionary challenge sounds awesome! Quality commitments are key to helping people repent and come unto Christ. I'll include that in my prayers! I'm excited to hear about your experiences! I can't even begin to tell you how jealous I am that you went to the temple! AH! I miss the temple so much and I can't wait to do our full day temple day when I get back.
The Pacheo family, the family with no food that needed medicine are doing great! They came to church on Sunday and I've never seen them smiling so big! They were so happy to be there, their whole countenance has changed! They are reading daily and praying and fasting and just loving life! Amazing what the gospel does for them! I don't really have much else to add.
Keep me in your prayers. You're in mine every single day! I love you all so much. I love this gospel! I just finished the Book of Mormon again and I am just in love with this book! I can't get enough of it! I was reading in Moroni and I was thinking about how precious Mormon's letters had to have been for Moroni and we get to read them! The last thing he counsels him to do, in chapter 9..I think it's verses 25-26...He says to not be weighed down by the carnage and sin but to be lifted up in Christ. I love it! Of all things he could counsel him, here he is, after witnessing an entire nation destroyed, he's hiding out..literally being hunted for his life, I'm sure he's incredibly lonely, and the best counsel his father could possible give is given. Look to Christ. I echo that same message. For each of you who are weighed down by burdens and feel lonely, as if no one else could ever completely understand, I testify that Jesus Christ does understand because He has already suffered it for you. He loves us with such a pure love. When it feels like you can't go on or you have nowhere to turn, Turn to Him. He knows how to succor His people, (those are Alma's words...not mine) haha! I love this work! I love all of you! Until next week, God Speed! :)
All my Love,
Sister Stadler
OK, let me give you a short update on this week, and short it will be. Well, mom, Erwin isn't progressing at all and in fact, while we were planning on having his interview for baptism this week, he was planning on breaking the Word of Wisdom yet again. It's ridiculous. We're gonna visit him less frequently for now. I think he needs a break, he's still smoking, but secretly. My fears were confirmed by his wife. The missionaries have been teaching him for over 4 transfers now and it's just not his time right now. He understands everything and could probably teach us the lessons, but until he really believes it...and applies it, it means nothing. SO....with that being said, we have been working like crazy updating our CMIS list for church. Most of our days are spent going to different areas of town and asking if people know where certain people live and if they've moved or passed away. In one day we were able to remove 170+ people from the list. That definitely helps with retention percentages. haha! Our little branch is doing pretty well. Our relief society president, Erwin's wife, is remarkable and has started working with us once a week to go contact less active sisters. Our other time is spend mainly trying to contact priesthood. We have had some members reactivated and next Sunday 2 more will be considered reactivated. It's a very slow process.
President just recently increased our Mission Standards, the goals we have to meet each week and month....it's not going to be easy and it will definitely have to be directly from our loving Heavenly Father. Please keep us in your prayers that we will specifically be able to meet the goals set for us my President Tobias. I know he is a very inspired man who has a vision for this mission and I know he receives revelation for us from God. I have faith, but right now we have 1 progressing investigator. The Angelico family isn't progressing. They promised to come next week to church, I hope they do. Their 14 year old daughter is progressing,and we're hoping they'll catch her wind and fly with it....but they haven't yet.
This week, to be honest, has been a very difficult week. Not a bad week. I don't think I've had a bad week on the mission, just some are harder than others. You all have been asking about what to pray for specifically, well, here are some specific things. Pray for me to be humble, to be sensitive to spiritual promptings and to be endowed with patience. I have been made very aware of weaknesses this week, but it's a constant struggle we have with the natural man no? HA! That pesky natural man that holds us back and keeps us from happiness.
Mom, that two week missionary challenge sounds awesome! Quality commitments are key to helping people repent and come unto Christ. I'll include that in my prayers! I'm excited to hear about your experiences! I can't even begin to tell you how jealous I am that you went to the temple! AH! I miss the temple so much and I can't wait to do our full day temple day when I get back.
The Pacheo family, the family with no food that needed medicine are doing great! They came to church on Sunday and I've never seen them smiling so big! They were so happy to be there, their whole countenance has changed! They are reading daily and praying and fasting and just loving life! Amazing what the gospel does for them! I don't really have much else to add.
Keep me in your prayers. You're in mine every single day! I love you all so much. I love this gospel! I just finished the Book of Mormon again and I am just in love with this book! I can't get enough of it! I was reading in Moroni and I was thinking about how precious Mormon's letters had to have been for Moroni and we get to read them! The last thing he counsels him to do, in chapter 9..I think it's verses 25-26...He says to not be weighed down by the carnage and sin but to be lifted up in Christ. I love it! Of all things he could counsel him, here he is, after witnessing an entire nation destroyed, he's hiding out..literally being hunted for his life, I'm sure he's incredibly lonely, and the best counsel his father could possible give is given. Look to Christ. I echo that same message. For each of you who are weighed down by burdens and feel lonely, as if no one else could ever completely understand, I testify that Jesus Christ does understand because He has already suffered it for you. He loves us with such a pure love. When it feels like you can't go on or you have nowhere to turn, Turn to Him. He knows how to succor His people, (those are Alma's words...not mine) haha! I love this work! I love all of you! Until next week, God Speed! :)
All my Love,
Sister Stadler
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Family family, how I love thee! So this week was pretty crazy with transfers and all that jazz. I, once again, am staying in my area and with Sister Jackson. We're pretty happy about that. Sister Ball was contacted the night before transfers and was told that she was transferring instead of Sister Nethercott. Gotta love revelation. So Sister Nethercott was already packed and ready to go, but she had to unpack everything. But...Sister Ball was pretty happy. She was ready to get out of that area. It was really good to see her this last week. We sang for the departure meeting for the October batch, it was amazing! The spirit was so strong and it was SO hard to say goodbye to each of those elders that were leaving. Each of them have had an impact in my life and So many of them were leadership for me, which has helped me to be a better missionary from following their examples. We all miss them dearly, but they promised to write.....ha! we'll see if that happens. (elders, if you're reading this... don't take offense..keep the promise and just write! haha! Also, Elder Wade!!!! How is your dad? No fair telling me about that. What's going on? He's in my prayers.) The real world hits them and you know...people tend to forget about missionaries. haha! Luckily, I have the best family in the world and you have not forgotten about me.
Amanda, big big lameness that you were late for your appointment! hahahaha! I made a big deal about it and printed it out, not reading any of it and then was on the back of a motorcycle on a trik reading it trying to find out if my guess what right only to find out.....I'd have to wait another week. ha! Oh well, now next week you better not be late. Paul, just when i think your children couldn't possibly get any cuter..they do! A giraffe???? REALLY?! K and Kaitlin is stunning! lock her up now! Man I miss children. The children here are so cute, and all I want to do is pick them all up and love them to death....but I've weaned myself from doing so. It will make it all the more sweet when I get home. I'm excited for your Ward mission plan! Way to be proactive. I never realized how important that calling is to the ward until I came on the mission. You've got your work cut out for you, but...kaya mo na! (you can do it!) Even when the members are being ridiculous, keep it up! Don't lose hope! So often members get burned into their mindset that certain families just don't want to come back..they aren't interested. Well that's Satan whispering in their impatient little ears. People want to feel appreciated and sometimes they just need to feel love before they are willing to make that huge first step back. Too often people feel they are a statistic to the church, if only the members would take time out of their "all too busy" schedule...simplify...(to quote an apostle) ...and choose one family to focus on and fellowship and participate in the Lord's work. AH! Missionary work will be a huge part of my life for the rest of my life. Alright, mom, If you were here, I would have you come speak at our missionary firesides as well. :) You have become so good about missionary work. I love it! Keep it up! I love getting spiritual uplift from all of you. Robyn, I never received the letter from Sara and Sam and all the girls when they were all there with you. They usually email you a copy no? Maybe you could resend it? I received your dear elder about the competition! NATIONALS!!!! My goodness that is crazy! I wish I could have seen it in person. Well, next time you'll be prepared. ;) no? Also, I'll be writing you a letter sometime within in the next couple weeks about the other things in the letter. Sean, you're amazing! How are you? Thank you for helping me in my mission. I'm a little jealous you're all in sweater weather, since I'm still...well...still Sister Stadler just sweating my way through life. ha!
This week we had the baptism of Ramzel A. Pangantihon. He is amazing!!! The baptism was a little rough starting out an hour late, the norm here, and then during the 2nd talk we had a brown out. IT was after 6 at night so it was completely black here. BUT...the work will continue! So this was the elder's first baptism he had ever done, and while one of the witnesses held a flashlight into the font, Ramzel was baptized! Sister Jackson and I sang a musical number, (our voices blend incredibly well together..sometimes I force her to sing with me! haha!) The Spirit was very strong and later, when we visited him on Monday, he couldn't even put into words what he felt. I love that little boy! I heard today from a sister serving in Bago that Japhet, one of my favorite converts, is now a counselor in the Young Mens' presidency and that Irene Valdevieso and her husband have a date set to be sealed in the temple!!!!! I don't think a missionary could ever get better news!
The work was small this week, many meetings and such, but it was good. This next week we're really excited to dive into our CMIS sheet and contact less actives. We have days set for just less active work and we're excited to see what the Lord has in store for us. Mom, I'm confused what you mean about changing islands....I have never once changed islands. haha! I'm still on Negros Occidental. Jennie changed islands, but that's to Iloilo. It does get to raining really hard here in LaCarlota. BUT..we're way safe. No flooding in our area as of yet. I don't have much else to add. Life is wonderful and I am head over heels in love with this gospel. I'll share one thing from my personal study. I was reading in Mormon 6, these verses specifically:
7 And it came to pass that my people, with their wives and their children, did now behold the aarmies of the Lamanites marching towards them; and with that awful bfear of death which fills the breasts of all the wicked, did they await to receive them.
8 And it came to pass that they came to battle against us, and every soul was filled with terror because of the greatness of their numbers.
9 And it came to pass that they did fall upon my people with the sword, and with the bow, and with the arrow, and with the ax, and with all manner of weapons of war.
10 And it came to pass that my men were hewn down, yea, even my aten thousand who were with me, and I fell wounded in the midst; and they passed by me that they did not put an end to my life.
I was amazed and as I read I began to see the battle before my own eyes. I cannot imagine what Mormon felt watching his own people obliterated. The verse that gets me is 7 and 8...the awful fear of death and the terror..knowing they would die in their wickedness. Can you see it? Can you see the armies coming down to face them and their hearts full of terror and sorrow? As I read this I immediately pictured in my mind the Savior in Gethsemane. There were over 230,000 people who were killed that day, and the Savior suffered for each of them individually. He felt that terror, that fear they were experiencing at that very moment. He already suffered for them! If they would have only put their burdens on the Lord, turned to Him through repentance. They may have still died, but the fear could have been swept away. Mormon and Moroni amaze me.
I love the Book of Mormon and I love how it relates to us no matter what trials we are experiencing. This week, let us all find something we are willing to give up, something to repent of, something to CHANGE...for repentance IS change...so we can become a little more like Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Come unto Him and feel the joy of His redeeming love. I know this church is true! I love it and I enjoy every moment I have to share that with others. I miss you all and I pray for you, but I know you are in the Lord's hands and I have no reason to fear. Share the gospel and make the most of the time the Lord has given to you! Until next week, God Speed! :)
All my love,
Sister Stadler
Amanda, big big lameness that you were late for your appointment! hahahaha! I made a big deal about it and printed it out, not reading any of it and then was on the back of a motorcycle on a trik reading it trying to find out if my guess what right only to find out.....I'd have to wait another week. ha! Oh well, now next week you better not be late. Paul, just when i think your children couldn't possibly get any cuter..they do! A giraffe???? REALLY?! K and Kaitlin is stunning! lock her up now! Man I miss children. The children here are so cute, and all I want to do is pick them all up and love them to death....but I've weaned myself from doing so. It will make it all the more sweet when I get home. I'm excited for your Ward mission plan! Way to be proactive. I never realized how important that calling is to the ward until I came on the mission. You've got your work cut out for you, but...kaya mo na! (you can do it!) Even when the members are being ridiculous, keep it up! Don't lose hope! So often members get burned into their mindset that certain families just don't want to come back..they aren't interested. Well that's Satan whispering in their impatient little ears. People want to feel appreciated and sometimes they just need to feel love before they are willing to make that huge first step back. Too often people feel they are a statistic to the church, if only the members would take time out of their "all too busy" schedule...simplify...(to quote an apostle) ...and choose one family to focus on and fellowship and participate in the Lord's work. AH! Missionary work will be a huge part of my life for the rest of my life. Alright, mom, If you were here, I would have you come speak at our missionary firesides as well. :) You have become so good about missionary work. I love it! Keep it up! I love getting spiritual uplift from all of you. Robyn, I never received the letter from Sara and Sam and all the girls when they were all there with you. They usually email you a copy no? Maybe you could resend it? I received your dear elder about the competition! NATIONALS!!!! My goodness that is crazy! I wish I could have seen it in person. Well, next time you'll be prepared. ;) no? Also, I'll be writing you a letter sometime within in the next couple weeks about the other things in the letter. Sean, you're amazing! How are you? Thank you for helping me in my mission. I'm a little jealous you're all in sweater weather, since I'm still...well...still Sister Stadler just sweating my way through life. ha!
This week we had the baptism of Ramzel A. Pangantihon. He is amazing!!! The baptism was a little rough starting out an hour late, the norm here, and then during the 2nd talk we had a brown out. IT was after 6 at night so it was completely black here. BUT...the work will continue! So this was the elder's first baptism he had ever done, and while one of the witnesses held a flashlight into the font, Ramzel was baptized! Sister Jackson and I sang a musical number, (our voices blend incredibly well together..sometimes I force her to sing with me! haha!) The Spirit was very strong and later, when we visited him on Monday, he couldn't even put into words what he felt. I love that little boy! I heard today from a sister serving in Bago that Japhet, one of my favorite converts, is now a counselor in the Young Mens' presidency and that Irene Valdevieso and her husband have a date set to be sealed in the temple!!!!! I don't think a missionary could ever get better news!
The work was small this week, many meetings and such, but it was good. This next week we're really excited to dive into our CMIS sheet and contact less actives. We have days set for just less active work and we're excited to see what the Lord has in store for us. Mom, I'm confused what you mean about changing islands....I have never once changed islands. haha! I'm still on Negros Occidental. Jennie changed islands, but that's to Iloilo. It does get to raining really hard here in LaCarlota. BUT..we're way safe. No flooding in our area as of yet. I don't have much else to add. Life is wonderful and I am head over heels in love with this gospel. I'll share one thing from my personal study. I was reading in Mormon 6, these verses specifically:
7 And it came to pass that my people, with their wives and their children, did now behold the aarmies of the Lamanites marching towards them; and with that awful bfear of death which fills the breasts of all the wicked, did they await to receive them.
8 And it came to pass that they came to battle against us, and every soul was filled with terror because of the greatness of their numbers.
9 And it came to pass that they did fall upon my people with the sword, and with the bow, and with the arrow, and with the ax, and with all manner of weapons of war.
10 And it came to pass that my men were hewn down, yea, even my aten thousand who were with me, and I fell wounded in the midst; and they passed by me that they did not put an end to my life.
I was amazed and as I read I began to see the battle before my own eyes. I cannot imagine what Mormon felt watching his own people obliterated. The verse that gets me is 7 and 8...the awful fear of death and the terror..knowing they would die in their wickedness. Can you see it? Can you see the armies coming down to face them and their hearts full of terror and sorrow? As I read this I immediately pictured in my mind the Savior in Gethsemane. There were over 230,000 people who were killed that day, and the Savior suffered for each of them individually. He felt that terror, that fear they were experiencing at that very moment. He already suffered for them! If they would have only put their burdens on the Lord, turned to Him through repentance. They may have still died, but the fear could have been swept away. Mormon and Moroni amaze me.
I love the Book of Mormon and I love how it relates to us no matter what trials we are experiencing. This week, let us all find something we are willing to give up, something to repent of, something to CHANGE...for repentance IS change...so we can become a little more like Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Come unto Him and feel the joy of His redeeming love. I know this church is true! I love it and I enjoy every moment I have to share that with others. I miss you all and I pray for you, but I know you are in the Lord's hands and I have no reason to fear. Share the gospel and make the most of the time the Lord has given to you! Until next week, God Speed! :)
All my love,
Sister Stadler
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Alright family, hang in here with me. I have a ton to tell you and a little time to type, so here we go. As for the typhoon that some of you may have heard about. Basically, I was sent to the safest island in the Philippines and we only experienced rain and some crazy thunder storms, hence the soaked through Jody photos. But as for problems in the area, none here. As for Amanda and and Paul, thanks for the photos, I've already pulled them up over 3 times a piece looking at them again! haha! Paul, your office looks way nice! It may seem like a normal office there, but I haven't seen anything that nice in...well...13 months. You look so professional in your little coat and Dr. Stadler???? YES PLEASE!!!! Amanda, oh my cuteness! I teared up a tiny bit and my heart started to race when I saw that adorable bump on you! forget about just looking fat. YOU LOOK ADORABLE!!a little tired mind you, but adorable! :) MAN....I will be there for the birth of that child...which I can sense is a little boy. That's my final guess. And you will name him...KoyKoy. After our mission president's son. haha! Just kidding.
Dad! I'm so happy that you just finished the Book of Mormon! I'm even happier that you started again! I'm in Mormon right now and at the rate it's going I'll probably be finishing it again in about a week or two. I have found on my mission that I just can't get enough of that book. No one can even begin to understand how important it is and how it will change their lives until they take the time to read it every single day! And you're doing that! Keep it up! Last week I was really craving your biscuits and gravy! We were all talking about Christmas traditions, and so many foods I crave from home.
Samantha Nicole! I cant believe you're on a volleyball team! How fun! Someday I'll have to tell you about my experience trying out for the team. I didn't make it..haha..but I didn't want to actually get to be on the team anyway! haha! I'll explain sometime. How is life? How is school? Where are you now? I'm confused. I thought you were living back with Robyn! Tell me more details here about your life! I love getting your little emails on dear elder. You can just email me too if that's easier for you. As for the probiotics coming, I'm excited and I thank you in advance for your concern. The ones Aunt Vikki sent are helping so much already, those will help even more I'm sure.
I'm starting to see a glimmer of hope. A couple weeks ago I received a blessing for a cold I had and in the blessing the elder paused for a moment and said, "Sister Stadler, it is important that you remember what you teach every day. Your Savior's Atonement applies to you too and your current problems you're suffering with." ..there were others things that were said that I needed to hear. It was good for me to hear it. I was talking to this elder's companion about the health issues when he was talking to me and he asked me if I felt it was getting better, at that point I said no and I don't think it would be anytime soon (this was before the blessing) to which he said, "Sister! Where is your faith in this matter?" It kind of shocked me to hear that. But I needed to. SO....haha...long story short, I've changed my hope and my mindset about things, along with pro-biotics and things are much better and will only continue to get better. SO...before I forget and get all spiritual with things that happened this week, let me tell you of my Christmas wish! :) The time is coming up to send off the package ...and that is why I'm saying this! :) I don't want a package!!! haha! So don't send one! It takes way way way way too long and is way way way way too expensive and you've all spoiled me too much on my mission already. I'll be babysitting for ya'll for forever when I get home. haha! Ok, so I have been thinking, and as the Christmas season approaches (yes I know this is crazy but in the Philippines the season starts in September) I have been wondering about each of your individual testimonies, how you got to the point you're all at now. I was looking at the photos I have of each of you and have felt such a strong longing as I studied faces and thought about memories with each of you. I would love for each of you, including Sammi and Kaitlin, haha...and Shelley's kids of you can get a hold of them...if not..I understand, but I would like each of you to write a little letter about your testimony of the Savior and your personal relationship with Him. Who He truly is to you and how a knowledge of Him has effected your life. Feel free to include other things, but that's what I want for Christmas.
Ok, moving on to this week. It was a wonderful week with Zone conference on Friday. President amazes me! The more than man speaks the more I just love him. He has taught me quiet dignity in a way I could never explain over email. Our whole zone conference was on Christlike attributes and working with ward members and leaders. The spirit was so incredibly strong and at one point I felt like my heart was going to pound out of my chest. I didn't know why either and then a moment later Elder Edioy stood and said, "President would like to invite a few missionaries at this time to share their testimony of Christlike attributes." I knew in a second that I would need to share my testimony. I wasn't even sure how to start with that topic, because it wasn't "share you testimony about Christ"...and yet I stood up after an elder and I was completely overcome with that spirit. The conference was powerful and the whole mission took a turn. As one elder put it, the dark ages are over in the mission, those disobedient missionaries are all home now and the whole countenance of the mission has changed.
There is a light in the missionaries that wasn't there before and the proof of their obedience is manifest in the numbers coming in. I guess before the mission split, even with the whole other island we were averaging 200 baptisms a month. Well, now we have 60 less missionaries and we're only on one island and we're over that for baptisms a month...barely, but we're already over 200. The work is increasing and quickly. Our work in the mission is through reactivation and teaching part member families, which I have gained a testimony of. They said to us in conference that we probably won't be able to see the fruits of our labors while we're in the field, but 10 years down the road, it will make all the difference. We will be able to come back and see stakes formed in areas where we are now if we focus on the rescue and the Centers of Strength in our areas. I'm excited! It's tiring, and it's hard work when you don't see people being baptized, but, ayos lang! Payadon lang kami! :)
This Sunday Ramzel, 2 members of the Angelico family and Irwin were all at church along with 4 less actives we've been working with! It was a wonderful Sunday! The Pacheo family fasted and we fasted for them and we were able to witness the blessing of the branch serving and helping them and their testimonies were greatly strengthened. There is a light that has entered their countenance. It's amazing to watch the Lord's programs work effectively. Ramzel will be baptized this Saturday and Sister Jackson and I will both be here!!! WOOHOOO!!! Transfer announcements said, we're staying together another transfer! :)
Life is so good! I love my mission and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else right now. I think of each of you at night when I'm lying in bed and I miss you all, but there is no homesickness whatsoever. I love this work and I can't wait to see what this transfer has in store for us here in La Carlota. Mara, the Angelico's 14 year old daughter, told us in our last teaching that she has no doubts now. She knows the Book of Mormon is true! I love it! My study this week has been about Mormon and Abraham and I am amazed with the strength of the youth. My eyes were opened to a pattern of how the Lord uses young worthy men to build His kingdom: Mormon, Abraham, Nephi, Joseph Smith, Samuel, Alma, Captain Moroni! It's remarkable! It is true that the Lord uses small and simple means to bring to pass mighty miracles! I see it happen often in the mission. The church is true! I could never deny it. I'm eating up every moment I have here in the field! There are only 3 transfers left! 18 weeks left in the mission after this Friday and I just can't believe it. I love you all, and until next week, God Speed!
All my love,
Sister Stadler
Dad! I'm so happy that you just finished the Book of Mormon! I'm even happier that you started again! I'm in Mormon right now and at the rate it's going I'll probably be finishing it again in about a week or two. I have found on my mission that I just can't get enough of that book. No one can even begin to understand how important it is and how it will change their lives until they take the time to read it every single day! And you're doing that! Keep it up! Last week I was really craving your biscuits and gravy! We were all talking about Christmas traditions, and so many foods I crave from home.
Samantha Nicole! I cant believe you're on a volleyball team! How fun! Someday I'll have to tell you about my experience trying out for the team. I didn't make it..haha..but I didn't want to actually get to be on the team anyway! haha! I'll explain sometime. How is life? How is school? Where are you now? I'm confused. I thought you were living back with Robyn! Tell me more details here about your life! I love getting your little emails on dear elder. You can just email me too if that's easier for you. As for the probiotics coming, I'm excited and I thank you in advance for your concern. The ones Aunt Vikki sent are helping so much already, those will help even more I'm sure.
I'm starting to see a glimmer of hope. A couple weeks ago I received a blessing for a cold I had and in the blessing the elder paused for a moment and said, "Sister Stadler, it is important that you remember what you teach every day. Your Savior's Atonement applies to you too and your current problems you're suffering with." ..there were others things that were said that I needed to hear. It was good for me to hear it. I was talking to this elder's companion about the health issues when he was talking to me and he asked me if I felt it was getting better, at that point I said no and I don't think it would be anytime soon (this was before the blessing) to which he said, "Sister! Where is your faith in this matter?" It kind of shocked me to hear that. But I needed to. SO....haha...long story short, I've changed my hope and my mindset about things, along with pro-biotics and things are much better and will only continue to get better. SO...before I forget and get all spiritual with things that happened this week, let me tell you of my Christmas wish! :) The time is coming up to send off the package ...and that is why I'm saying this! :) I don't want a package!!! haha! So don't send one! It takes way way way way too long and is way way way way too expensive and you've all spoiled me too much on my mission already. I'll be babysitting for ya'll for forever when I get home. haha! Ok, so I have been thinking, and as the Christmas season approaches (yes I know this is crazy but in the Philippines the season starts in September) I have been wondering about each of your individual testimonies, how you got to the point you're all at now. I was looking at the photos I have of each of you and have felt such a strong longing as I studied faces and thought about memories with each of you. I would love for each of you, including Sammi and Kaitlin, haha...and Shelley's kids of you can get a hold of them...if not..I understand, but I would like each of you to write a little letter about your testimony of the Savior and your personal relationship with Him. Who He truly is to you and how a knowledge of Him has effected your life. Feel free to include other things, but that's what I want for Christmas.
Ok, moving on to this week. It was a wonderful week with Zone conference on Friday. President amazes me! The more than man speaks the more I just love him. He has taught me quiet dignity in a way I could never explain over email. Our whole zone conference was on Christlike attributes and working with ward members and leaders. The spirit was so incredibly strong and at one point I felt like my heart was going to pound out of my chest. I didn't know why either and then a moment later Elder Edioy stood and said, "President would like to invite a few missionaries at this time to share their testimony of Christlike attributes." I knew in a second that I would need to share my testimony. I wasn't even sure how to start with that topic, because it wasn't "share you testimony about Christ"...and yet I stood up after an elder and I was completely overcome with that spirit. The conference was powerful and the whole mission took a turn. As one elder put it, the dark ages are over in the mission, those disobedient missionaries are all home now and the whole countenance of the mission has changed.
There is a light in the missionaries that wasn't there before and the proof of their obedience is manifest in the numbers coming in. I guess before the mission split, even with the whole other island we were averaging 200 baptisms a month. Well, now we have 60 less missionaries and we're only on one island and we're over that for baptisms a month...barely, but we're already over 200. The work is increasing and quickly. Our work in the mission is through reactivation and teaching part member families, which I have gained a testimony of. They said to us in conference that we probably won't be able to see the fruits of our labors while we're in the field, but 10 years down the road, it will make all the difference. We will be able to come back and see stakes formed in areas where we are now if we focus on the rescue and the Centers of Strength in our areas. I'm excited! It's tiring, and it's hard work when you don't see people being baptized, but, ayos lang! Payadon lang kami! :)
This Sunday Ramzel, 2 members of the Angelico family and Irwin were all at church along with 4 less actives we've been working with! It was a wonderful Sunday! The Pacheo family fasted and we fasted for them and we were able to witness the blessing of the branch serving and helping them and their testimonies were greatly strengthened. There is a light that has entered their countenance. It's amazing to watch the Lord's programs work effectively. Ramzel will be baptized this Saturday and Sister Jackson and I will both be here!!! WOOHOOO!!! Transfer announcements said, we're staying together another transfer! :)
Life is so good! I love my mission and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else right now. I think of each of you at night when I'm lying in bed and I miss you all, but there is no homesickness whatsoever. I love this work and I can't wait to see what this transfer has in store for us here in La Carlota. Mara, the Angelico's 14 year old daughter, told us in our last teaching that she has no doubts now. She knows the Book of Mormon is true! I love it! My study this week has been about Mormon and Abraham and I am amazed with the strength of the youth. My eyes were opened to a pattern of how the Lord uses young worthy men to build His kingdom: Mormon, Abraham, Nephi, Joseph Smith, Samuel, Alma, Captain Moroni! It's remarkable! It is true that the Lord uses small and simple means to bring to pass mighty miracles! I see it happen often in the mission. The church is true! I could never deny it. I'm eating up every moment I have here in the field! There are only 3 transfers left! 18 weeks left in the mission after this Friday and I just can't believe it. I love you all, and until next week, God Speed!
All my love,
Sister Stadler
Sunday, October 24, 2010
This week was been pretty intense. There is suppose to be a typhoon hitting the Philippines this week, but our island rarely has any effects, just rain like crazy because we're pretty guarded from the other islands. But it has been raining like crazy. On multiple occasions I have come home completely drenched, soaked through. Good thing my Jody Dresses aren't sheer. ha! That's even with my umbrella. The rain usually comes in at an angle. Anyway, I love rain, but it's not good for our investigators either.
As for updates with investigators, The 2 year man is named Brother Amador, mom. He won't even listen to us anymore. But, we know he felt something when we taught, it now just depends on him. This guy is amazing...he pays tithing...something is holding him back though. BUT...we can't do much if he refuses to let us speak with him. SO...it's just not his time. As for Rona, she got really sick and hasn't come back yet, but her brother in law said she's reading and praying and should be home today. SO...hopefully we'll go teach her tomorrow. The Angelico family is progressing, slowly, but they are progressing. We taught them yesterday and the mom and their 14 year old daughter, Mara, explained their experience with praying and reading and we were able to help them realize that they have received their answer from the Holy Ghost. I love that experience! It's always amazing to me to hear how the Holy Ghost speaks personally to each of us. Ramzel is amazing! He'll be baptized on the 30th. His mom is so proud of him, it's adorable. Irwin is a kick in the pants....haha! He's about as stubborn as a man can get, but he's a good man. We're starting back at square on with him and helping him build his testimony about the scriptures.
This week we were able to teach a less active family, the Pacheo family. We've taught them before, but they are Cebuano and it's difficult sometimes. I feel like whenever we go teach we haven't really been able to help them much..I always leave dissatisfied. Well, this week, it was different. I called them out on it. haha! We were in the middle of the teaching and it just didn't feel like it was going anywhere so I said, "Ok, I feel like something is wrong in your family. We want to help. What is wrong?" And brother Pacheo started to tear up ..he has a really bad eye problem where his eyes are both like lazy eyes...he can't focus on things, making it hard to find work. He works at their "home" (a little one room they rent) fixing people's electronics. Well, I guess in August, their little girl, who is no more than 2 years old, got really sick and was in the hospital. She had an incredibly high fever and because of the effects of the fever she is now on medication to keep her from having problems with her sight. Well, the medicine is incredibly expensive, and he and his wife are sometimes going 3-4 days a week without any food because they can either eat, or they can pay for medicine for their child. This has been causing stress for their marriage, and they have been having problems lately. My heart broke sitting there listening to this incredibly humble man pour his heart out. You could tell he wanted to do everything he could to provide for his family, and he was working as hard as he could. So I felt very strongly that I should teach fasting. So as we taught that, the whole feeling changed. They will be fasting this week, which he joked happens often! ha...these people!!!! I love these people! They are just happy...they are so grateful for everything. So my companion and I will be fasting this week for them as well. I know there is power in fasting. I know if they follow the commandments God will provide for them.
Irwin tonight was going off about having little money and being poor and he started making some smart comments and I just interrupted him and said, "Brother, do you have food?" He said yes...and then I said, "Well then you're very blessed." and I explained about the Pacheo family. He got quiet pretty fast. All of you at home, you may never understand, I don't expect you to fully understand, until you'll seen something like this with you own eyes, until you've sat with these people and felt the love that God has for them....I will never be the same, and for that I am grateful. I have learned that honestly, THINGS mean nothing. Relationships mean everything. Time. Time is priceless. I love this gospel. I had someone point out that starting next week I'll only have 3 transfers left. So mom, it's not just people at home asking about me! haha! I love this gospel! I love you all! I'm so glad things are going well for you. Count your blessings. Pray for the People of the Philippines. I thank you for your prayers. I feel them daily. I love you all and until next week, God speed! :)
All my love,
Sister Stadler
As for updates with investigators, The 2 year man is named Brother Amador, mom. He won't even listen to us anymore. But, we know he felt something when we taught, it now just depends on him. This guy is amazing...he pays tithing...something is holding him back though. BUT...we can't do much if he refuses to let us speak with him. SO...it's just not his time. As for Rona, she got really sick and hasn't come back yet, but her brother in law said she's reading and praying and should be home today. SO...hopefully we'll go teach her tomorrow. The Angelico family is progressing, slowly, but they are progressing. We taught them yesterday and the mom and their 14 year old daughter, Mara, explained their experience with praying and reading and we were able to help them realize that they have received their answer from the Holy Ghost. I love that experience! It's always amazing to me to hear how the Holy Ghost speaks personally to each of us. Ramzel is amazing! He'll be baptized on the 30th. His mom is so proud of him, it's adorable. Irwin is a kick in the pants....haha! He's about as stubborn as a man can get, but he's a good man. We're starting back at square on with him and helping him build his testimony about the scriptures.
This week we were able to teach a less active family, the Pacheo family. We've taught them before, but they are Cebuano and it's difficult sometimes. I feel like whenever we go teach we haven't really been able to help them much..I always leave dissatisfied. Well, this week, it was different. I called them out on it. haha! We were in the middle of the teaching and it just didn't feel like it was going anywhere so I said, "Ok, I feel like something is wrong in your family. We want to help. What is wrong?" And brother Pacheo started to tear up ..he has a really bad eye problem where his eyes are both like lazy eyes...he can't focus on things, making it hard to find work. He works at their "home" (a little one room they rent) fixing people's electronics. Well, I guess in August, their little girl, who is no more than 2 years old, got really sick and was in the hospital. She had an incredibly high fever and because of the effects of the fever she is now on medication to keep her from having problems with her sight. Well, the medicine is incredibly expensive, and he and his wife are sometimes going 3-4 days a week without any food because they can either eat, or they can pay for medicine for their child. This has been causing stress for their marriage, and they have been having problems lately. My heart broke sitting there listening to this incredibly humble man pour his heart out. You could tell he wanted to do everything he could to provide for his family, and he was working as hard as he could. So I felt very strongly that I should teach fasting. So as we taught that, the whole feeling changed. They will be fasting this week, which he joked happens often! ha...these people!!!! I love these people! They are just happy...they are so grateful for everything. So my companion and I will be fasting this week for them as well. I know there is power in fasting. I know if they follow the commandments God will provide for them.
Irwin tonight was going off about having little money and being poor and he started making some smart comments and I just interrupted him and said, "Brother, do you have food?" He said yes...and then I said, "Well then you're very blessed." and I explained about the Pacheo family. He got quiet pretty fast. All of you at home, you may never understand, I don't expect you to fully understand, until you'll seen something like this with you own eyes, until you've sat with these people and felt the love that God has for them....I will never be the same, and for that I am grateful. I have learned that honestly, THINGS mean nothing. Relationships mean everything. Time. Time is priceless. I love this gospel. I had someone point out that starting next week I'll only have 3 transfers left. So mom, it's not just people at home asking about me! haha! I love this gospel! I love you all! I'm so glad things are going well for you. Count your blessings. Pray for the People of the Philippines. I thank you for your prayers. I feel them daily. I love you all and until next week, God speed! :)
All my love,
Sister Stadler
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Alright family, sorry I didn't get the chance to email yesterday. We had to go to Bacolod and as usual, the day was long and the travel out there took forever and we didn't get time to email. So here I am on a beautiful Tuesday emailing my little heart out to the people I know and love. Life is way good though. So I think I said in the last email that we extended baptism for the Angelico family, if not, we did! and they accepted! It was a true example of their faith because they haven't yet received an answer for themselves IF the Church is true, however they are very serious with their decision and their daughter, Mara, knows it's true. She's remarkable. Their oldest son also knows its true, the one the elders are currently teaching. It's beautiful to see the people that the Lord prepares.
Speaking of which, this leads me into a spiritual experience we were able to be a part of this week. On Wednesday we had a specialized training here in La Carlota. I love these trainings because they are especially for targeting problems in our areas. We have training in the morning and then we had lunch, went out and applied to the training for an hour and then came back to evaluate. For the hour we went out to work we were to find brand new investigators by following the spirit and extend baptism to them in the first teaching. Well, this is all from the new training. So I have had good experiences with this new training. I was pretty excited to go out and try this, and little nervous to be honest. So we went out, and the elders apparently had a sister who was suppose to work with them, didn't work out, she went with us for our hour. We were walking down a part of our area that we have many less actives and we had in our mind a name of a referral to contact. He wasn't home. So we kept walking down the street. We talked to maybe 5 or 6 other people, offered the message, the invitation to teach, they all said they were busy, or didn't want to listen. We talked to another man for awhile who was collecting trash, but he didn't live anywhere in our area. SO...we just kept walking. At one point Sister Jackson turned to me and said, "Sister Stadler, where are we going?" To which I thought to myself.." "..That's a valid question..." and I responded.."Yeah..I have no idea. I'm just following the spirit." So we walked..for quite awhile...one street someone pointed to and said we'd been down that street before and I had the feeling to just keep walking. So we kept walking down another street and then Sister Jackson said, "We could go visit Andrew's wife." Andrew is our 2nd counselor in the branch presidency. His wife is not yet a member. We had never been to his house before.
I asked a boy on the street if he knew the family, he didn't. I asked if we could teach him, his mother came out and asked who we were and everything, then....his grandma came out the door, took one look at us and immediately stepped backward into her house screaming for us to leave. So I tried to just resolve the issue by being kind...the woman then told us to walk away...twice and then said...as if we couldn't understand their language.."MAG-GO!" hahahahaha! Well, needless to say we were a little...flustered. Not because of the rejection, but because we had like 15 minutes until we were suppose to report back at the church and I kept thinking, "Just have faith! The Lord prepares people...keep working up until the last minute." And sure enough, the Lord did prepare someone. The member who was working with us happened to know a home of another member in branch one and she knew where Andrew's home was, which happened to be right across the street from her. We went over there, Andrew's wife wasn't home. When we walked into the home there was a thin girl who went immediately into another room and closed the door. As I set up an appointment to come back and teach Andrew's wife, the member with us asked who the "thin" girl was. He said she watched the children when they were at work. She then asked if we could teach her for a moment. I will forever be grateful she did.
Rona came out and sat with us and I did the intro and asked if we could teach her for a moment. She allowed us to. She was so sweet and shy. She is 20 years old and you could tell she was just kind-hearted. We proceeded to teach her. The spirit was so strong. Right from the beginning of the lesson as I was teaching about how she was a child of God and that God knew who she was and how He loved her. She started to tear up. I thought nothing of it and continued. The lesson continued to just get more powerful and the spirit was strong and by the end of the lesson I had no doubt that I was suppose to extend a specific baptismal date for her. So we did, and she presented the concern that she wasn't going to be in town for the weekend. THAT was her only concern. When I asked her right before extending the baptismal date what she was feeling...this was right after I talked about the first vision and taught about Joseph Smith, she burst into tears and actually excused herself from the room. The spirit was thick, she came back and she was just smiling and still crying. It was a remarkable experience. She has a baptismal date set for November 13th. We are incredibly excited for her! We were suppose to teach her this week but she went back to her home town for awhile because shes been sick. BUT...Pray for Rona. Add her to the list! :)
As for Irwin, his baptismal date was pushed back. He got drunk the night before general conference. I wish I could type more about the wonderful feast conference was, but I need to go. holy amazing conference though!!!!! MY GOODNESS!!! It went by so fast! I love you all so much, This gospel is such a personal and powerful gospel! I love this work. Life is good! I am glad everyone is doing well. Keep me updated. Until next week, The church is true, Christ lives! Share the message!
GOD SPEED! :)
All my love,
Sister Stadler
Speaking of which, this leads me into a spiritual experience we were able to be a part of this week. On Wednesday we had a specialized training here in La Carlota. I love these trainings because they are especially for targeting problems in our areas. We have training in the morning and then we had lunch, went out and applied to the training for an hour and then came back to evaluate. For the hour we went out to work we were to find brand new investigators by following the spirit and extend baptism to them in the first teaching. Well, this is all from the new training. So I have had good experiences with this new training. I was pretty excited to go out and try this, and little nervous to be honest. So we went out, and the elders apparently had a sister who was suppose to work with them, didn't work out, she went with us for our hour. We were walking down a part of our area that we have many less actives and we had in our mind a name of a referral to contact. He wasn't home. So we kept walking down the street. We talked to maybe 5 or 6 other people, offered the message, the invitation to teach, they all said they were busy, or didn't want to listen. We talked to another man for awhile who was collecting trash, but he didn't live anywhere in our area. SO...we just kept walking. At one point Sister Jackson turned to me and said, "Sister Stadler, where are we going?" To which I thought to myself.." "..That's a valid question..." and I responded.."Yeah..I have no idea. I'm just following the spirit." So we walked..for quite awhile...one street someone pointed to and said we'd been down that street before and I had the feeling to just keep walking. So we kept walking down another street and then Sister Jackson said, "We could go visit Andrew's wife." Andrew is our 2nd counselor in the branch presidency. His wife is not yet a member. We had never been to his house before.
I asked a boy on the street if he knew the family, he didn't. I asked if we could teach him, his mother came out and asked who we were and everything, then....his grandma came out the door, took one look at us and immediately stepped backward into her house screaming for us to leave. So I tried to just resolve the issue by being kind...the woman then told us to walk away...twice and then said...as if we couldn't understand their language.."MAG-GO!" hahahahaha! Well, needless to say we were a little...flustered. Not because of the rejection, but because we had like 15 minutes until we were suppose to report back at the church and I kept thinking, "Just have faith! The Lord prepares people...keep working up until the last minute." And sure enough, the Lord did prepare someone. The member who was working with us happened to know a home of another member in branch one and she knew where Andrew's home was, which happened to be right across the street from her. We went over there, Andrew's wife wasn't home. When we walked into the home there was a thin girl who went immediately into another room and closed the door. As I set up an appointment to come back and teach Andrew's wife, the member with us asked who the "thin" girl was. He said she watched the children when they were at work. She then asked if we could teach her for a moment. I will forever be grateful she did.
Rona came out and sat with us and I did the intro and asked if we could teach her for a moment. She allowed us to. She was so sweet and shy. She is 20 years old and you could tell she was just kind-hearted. We proceeded to teach her. The spirit was so strong. Right from the beginning of the lesson as I was teaching about how she was a child of God and that God knew who she was and how He loved her. She started to tear up. I thought nothing of it and continued. The lesson continued to just get more powerful and the spirit was strong and by the end of the lesson I had no doubt that I was suppose to extend a specific baptismal date for her. So we did, and she presented the concern that she wasn't going to be in town for the weekend. THAT was her only concern. When I asked her right before extending the baptismal date what she was feeling...this was right after I talked about the first vision and taught about Joseph Smith, she burst into tears and actually excused herself from the room. The spirit was thick, she came back and she was just smiling and still crying. It was a remarkable experience. She has a baptismal date set for November 13th. We are incredibly excited for her! We were suppose to teach her this week but she went back to her home town for awhile because shes been sick. BUT...Pray for Rona. Add her to the list! :)
As for Irwin, his baptismal date was pushed back. He got drunk the night before general conference. I wish I could type more about the wonderful feast conference was, but I need to go. holy amazing conference though!!!!! MY GOODNESS!!! It went by so fast! I love you all so much, This gospel is such a personal and powerful gospel! I love this work. Life is good! I am glad everyone is doing well. Keep me updated. Until next week, The church is true, Christ lives! Share the message!
GOD SPEED! :)
All my love,
Sister Stadler
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