Sounds like you all had a good week. Also sounds like things are winding down, but also speeding up around the holidays. We got to watch the First Presidency Christmas Devotional last night. That was really good. We were reminded the importance of slowing down, relaxing, and remembering the true spirit of Christmas and Christ's life.
So this last week has not been that eventful for me. It was transfer week, which always makes things strange. But the main part of the week is just spent packing, the the stress of Friday. Getting to Bacolod on time for transfer meeting, then getting back to the bus terminal without losing any of your bags, then the bus ride home and getting to work in your new area.
Due to last minute revelation by Pres. Tobias, some things changed about who was transferring in our zone, so the end result was that I am just one area over from San Enrique! Yeah it was quite the surprise. But I am now with Elder Clark, we've been on exchanges before and we have been in the same district the whole time he has been in the mission. We are in the area of Ayungon. I'm pretty sure you won't find it on the map, but if it is there it will be somewhere between San Enrique and La Carlota. If it isn't there, just put the sticker on La Carlota, because that is where we actually live. We live in a four-man apartment with the La Carlota zone leaders. It's nice. They are both really cool and fun to live with.
Elder Clark is from Riverton, not related to our Clarks, already checked.
Zone leaders: Elder Grunniger is from Kaysville, Davis Dart. He's really fun to talk to.
Elder Daniels is from Cincinnati, Ohio. When I fist got in the mission we were in the same zone for six months, so its nice to see him again. He was going to BYU when he got his mission call.
The other Elder Phelps in the mission is now down here in the La Carlota zone. So today in zone meeting it was hard to tell who they were talking to. But we sat on opposite sides of the room so we could tell by where they looked.
Well, we are still working on how we are going to call (for Christmas) and getting a time. The 26th is a Sunday, and if we call then, it will still be Christmas for you all. And we can't be outside after 6:00 on Christmas Eve in order to call for Christmas morning for you. But well get something to work.
Well, Maayong Pasko!! Maligayang Pasko! Merry Christmas in Ilonngo and Tagalog.
Love you all!!!
Elder Jordan D. Phelps
Monday, December 13, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Five Fun Focus Famlies
Yeah, I was excited to use the recorder, and after reading the instruction manual like four times I just gave up and decided that you had done the same thing I would have done and assumed that it could connect. Elder Whitman was surprised that they make recorders that dont connect, he asked, "What is it used for then?" If you do send another one, a small box or a bubble envelope get here relatively fast.
This last week we worked hard. The numbers at the end of the week didn't really show it, but the blisters on our feet certainly did. We walked a lot. In an effort to get new investigators we stopped by the seminary to give them pamphlets and commit them to give them to friends and classmates that might be interested in our message. Got one from that so far. That is the strength of the San Enrique area. They go through these phases though. One month we get a ton of referrals, most of them don't get baptized, but some do. Then the next month, or two, we get absolutely no referrals and the members stop working with us. They have work so thats okay, but they can still find referrals.
We got a list of five focus families from the Branch President. These are five inactive families that we are trying to reactivate. Things are going very interesting with them. One family, we can't find their house, but we keep trying. Another is never home, or asleep when we go to them. Another just doesn't care, their son is the YM pres, but the rest are less active. The last one is fun. They hate us. Every time we show up at their house the mom is sitting outside, and she'll give us the dirtiest glare and then either just walk away or go into the house ant not listen to us. So we went to them almost everyday this last week, and the looks aren't as bad. Yesterday we were able to catch the dad as he was leaving, he still didn't want to talk to us, but he shook my hand and I held on to his so I could talk to him for just a few seconds. He actually listened!
For mom: yes, I have gotten comments from elders that Kat and Nat are really cute. As far as Andrew's manly-ness, I showed the pictures to Elder Whitman and asked him how old he thought Andrew was, he said he didn't know, so I old him 14, and he just said, "What?! He does not look fourteen! I could have sworn he was older!" So yes, Andrew does look manly. I am even surprised at how old, and big (tall) he has gotten. He might be close to my size when I get home in a year. Oh yeah, my year mark is next week! Its so crazy to think that!.
So, I assume you have still been keeping track of what week it is, this week is week six, which means we found out the transfer announcements earlier today. And the results are.............................
Elder Whitman stays!
and Elder Phelps..................Transfers! We find out on friday where to.
Just another reminder, put my first name on all you send because there is another Elder Phelps here. Skinny little guy too.
I hope you all have a good week, I'll let you know about the Christmas call. Love you all!
Elder Jordan D. Phelps
This last week we worked hard. The numbers at the end of the week didn't really show it, but the blisters on our feet certainly did. We walked a lot. In an effort to get new investigators we stopped by the seminary to give them pamphlets and commit them to give them to friends and classmates that might be interested in our message. Got one from that so far. That is the strength of the San Enrique area. They go through these phases though. One month we get a ton of referrals, most of them don't get baptized, but some do. Then the next month, or two, we get absolutely no referrals and the members stop working with us. They have work so thats okay, but they can still find referrals.
We got a list of five focus families from the Branch President. These are five inactive families that we are trying to reactivate. Things are going very interesting with them. One family, we can't find their house, but we keep trying. Another is never home, or asleep when we go to them. Another just doesn't care, their son is the YM pres, but the rest are less active. The last one is fun. They hate us. Every time we show up at their house the mom is sitting outside, and she'll give us the dirtiest glare and then either just walk away or go into the house ant not listen to us. So we went to them almost everyday this last week, and the looks aren't as bad. Yesterday we were able to catch the dad as he was leaving, he still didn't want to talk to us, but he shook my hand and I held on to his so I could talk to him for just a few seconds. He actually listened!
For mom: yes, I have gotten comments from elders that Kat and Nat are really cute. As far as Andrew's manly-ness, I showed the pictures to Elder Whitman and asked him how old he thought Andrew was, he said he didn't know, so I old him 14, and he just said, "What?! He does not look fourteen! I could have sworn he was older!" So yes, Andrew does look manly. I am even surprised at how old, and big (tall) he has gotten. He might be close to my size when I get home in a year. Oh yeah, my year mark is next week! Its so crazy to think that!.
So, I assume you have still been keeping track of what week it is, this week is week six, which means we found out the transfer announcements earlier today. And the results are.............................
Elder Whitman stays!
and Elder Phelps..................Transfers! We find out on friday where to.
Just another reminder, put my first name on all you send because there is another Elder Phelps here. Skinny little guy too.
I hope you all have a good week, I'll let you know about the Christmas call. Love you all!
Elder Jordan D. Phelps
Monday, November 29, 2010
I Love This Work, Though it is Hard Sometimes
Sounds like you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving week. Pretty eventful on your end. I wish it would have been more eventful here. The week was really slow, still not much success. We tried really hard this week though we have little to show for it, but Elder Whitman does have several new blisters on his feet. My feet have become totally immune to blisters, they just dont happen anymore, but my feet still do get sore some days.
Our Thanksgiving was pretty good, for being in the Philippines. We did solve our potatoes problem, we just used real potatoes! Boiled six large (filipino large is american medium) potatoes and mashed them up. We also had a can of corn and bought some gravy mixes. We couldn't cook our own chicken, we dont have the tools necessary, but Chooks to go (a rotisserie chicken place) is right next to our apartment so we just bought it there. We actually buy Chooks at least once a month. Get the big chicken and it lasts us two and a half meals. We also found this Jell-o No Bake Cheesecake mix, so we borrowed a pie tin from this store we buy stuff at all the time. The cheesecake was SOOOOO good! Mom would have hated it, cherry was the only flavor they had. But we both loved it.
I got my Christmas package today in District meeting. Bishop Cardall sent it when they got here. I opened it after the meeting and the sisters all commented on how good the new ties look. Whoever picked them out (mom) did a good job! They look great. The socks look good too. I pulled out the pictures you sent and passed those around too, everyone said that Kat and Nat are really beautiful, at least all the sisters said so. Shared some of the truffles with everyone too. The recorder is great and I listened to parts of the recordings you all made, there does however seem to be one thing you overlooked, the recorder doesn't connect to the computer... so I can record my voice, but I cant send it to you... yeah... Otherwise I would be sending you my voice this week.
I love you all, wish I could be there for Thanksgiving, but I'm doing the Lords work, so it's all good. I love this work, though it is hard sometimes, but that is what makes it work. It has such a spirit too, as long as you are doing the right things. The people here are great and I love them, even though some days they can do some really annoying things. Some days getting "Hey jo"ed just stinks, other times you can just brush it off.
Thats cool that Kat's friend's brother is coming here, He'll love it. Mom is right about the snow. We get rained on a lot and it slows things down and there is no way to avoid getting wet, but at least it isnt snow and we dont have to shovel it.
I hope you all have a great week! Love you all!
Elder Jordan Dean Phelps
Our Thanksgiving was pretty good, for being in the Philippines. We did solve our potatoes problem, we just used real potatoes! Boiled six large (filipino large is american medium) potatoes and mashed them up. We also had a can of corn and bought some gravy mixes. We couldn't cook our own chicken, we dont have the tools necessary, but Chooks to go (a rotisserie chicken place) is right next to our apartment so we just bought it there. We actually buy Chooks at least once a month. Get the big chicken and it lasts us two and a half meals. We also found this Jell-o No Bake Cheesecake mix, so we borrowed a pie tin from this store we buy stuff at all the time. The cheesecake was SOOOOO good! Mom would have hated it, cherry was the only flavor they had. But we both loved it.
I got my Christmas package today in District meeting. Bishop Cardall sent it when they got here. I opened it after the meeting and the sisters all commented on how good the new ties look. Whoever picked them out (mom) did a good job! They look great. The socks look good too. I pulled out the pictures you sent and passed those around too, everyone said that Kat and Nat are really beautiful, at least all the sisters said so. Shared some of the truffles with everyone too. The recorder is great and I listened to parts of the recordings you all made, there does however seem to be one thing you overlooked, the recorder doesn't connect to the computer... so I can record my voice, but I cant send it to you... yeah... Otherwise I would be sending you my voice this week.
I love you all, wish I could be there for Thanksgiving, but I'm doing the Lords work, so it's all good. I love this work, though it is hard sometimes, but that is what makes it work. It has such a spirit too, as long as you are doing the right things. The people here are great and I love them, even though some days they can do some really annoying things. Some days getting "Hey jo"ed just stinks, other times you can just brush it off.
Thats cool that Kat's friend's brother is coming here, He'll love it. Mom is right about the snow. We get rained on a lot and it slows things down and there is no way to avoid getting wet, but at least it isnt snow and we dont have to shovel it.
I hope you all have a great week! Love you all!
Elder Jordan Dean Phelps
Monday, November 22, 2010
Planning to Celebrate Thanksgiving as Best We Can
So, I signed on and I didnt have any email, it was just a tad depressing, but then mom's email popped up and I was happy again. I'm glad she had a great birthday. Yes, I knew that last Harry Potter was two parts, They have theaters here so I had seen the posters. I think I saw a copy of it earlier, but it usually takes about a week. But if you want a decent copy you wait at least a month. Yeah, learned that from members. They had a copy of Iron Man 2 two weeks after it came out. We showed up at their house while they were watching it. The video was terrible quality, couldn't see a thing, the audio was Portuguese, and the subtitles were Chinese! It was really funny.
As far as the work goes, it is still tough, but we are working on it. Things are looking up though. We got a good list of less-actives we should visit, and received a referral that might be good. We spoke in church yesterday, we do pretty much every third sunday, and since Thanksgiving is on Thursday we decided on giving thanks as our topic. We explained to the congregation what Thanksgiving is and why it was our topic. Yeah, told them that Americans have a day devoted to stuffing ourselves with soooo much food and playing football. But we added that the whole family gets together and we give thanks. Our talks went really well.
We are planning to celebrate Thanksgiving as best we can here in the Philippines and on missionary support allowance, so it's gonna be tough. But we will have fun doing it. We found an instant Cheesecake mix, so that is going to be our pie and we are going to buy a rotisserie chicken for our turkey. Still trying find a way to do the mashed potatoes, we actually want to eat no rice for our Thanksgiving. I'll let you know how it goes next week.
To answer your question about using a cell phone when we were locked out, yeah, in our mission the only people that have cell phones are the office staff, zone leaders, and sisters. There have been too many missionaries abuse the cell phone to let everyone in the mission have one. It's different in each mission, but we get along just fine without cell phones, we just ask to borrow a members cell when we need to text.
Now I got Dad's email too. Pretty much the same stuff, just different focuses. Yeah, I have been out for over 11 months now, I hit my year in just under a month, which also means that Stuart will be home in less than a month. Man, I feel like I haven't seen that guy for two years or something, but I still have to wait another year to see him. No, I havent seen Bishop Cardall yet, maybe sometime this week or next. I'm keeping my eye out for them.
Oh, funny thing, Elder Whitman's former best friend's name is Jordan Dean. That's his first and last name, so I thought that was funny. When I told him that my middle name was Dean we both thought it was funny. That was a while ago though, just thought I'd tell you all that.
Well, that's all for this week!
Elder Jordan D. Phelps
As far as the work goes, it is still tough, but we are working on it. Things are looking up though. We got a good list of less-actives we should visit, and received a referral that might be good. We spoke in church yesterday, we do pretty much every third sunday, and since Thanksgiving is on Thursday we decided on giving thanks as our topic. We explained to the congregation what Thanksgiving is and why it was our topic. Yeah, told them that Americans have a day devoted to stuffing ourselves with soooo much food and playing football. But we added that the whole family gets together and we give thanks. Our talks went really well.
We are planning to celebrate Thanksgiving as best we can here in the Philippines and on missionary support allowance, so it's gonna be tough. But we will have fun doing it. We found an instant Cheesecake mix, so that is going to be our pie and we are going to buy a rotisserie chicken for our turkey. Still trying find a way to do the mashed potatoes, we actually want to eat no rice for our Thanksgiving. I'll let you know how it goes next week.
To answer your question about using a cell phone when we were locked out, yeah, in our mission the only people that have cell phones are the office staff, zone leaders, and sisters. There have been too many missionaries abuse the cell phone to let everyone in the mission have one. It's different in each mission, but we get along just fine without cell phones, we just ask to borrow a members cell when we need to text.
Now I got Dad's email too. Pretty much the same stuff, just different focuses. Yeah, I have been out for over 11 months now, I hit my year in just under a month, which also means that Stuart will be home in less than a month. Man, I feel like I haven't seen that guy for two years or something, but I still have to wait another year to see him. No, I havent seen Bishop Cardall yet, maybe sometime this week or next. I'm keeping my eye out for them.
Oh, funny thing, Elder Whitman's former best friend's name is Jordan Dean. That's his first and last name, so I thought that was funny. When I told him that my middle name was Dean we both thought it was funny. That was a while ago though, just thought I'd tell you all that.
Well, that's all for this week!
Elder Jordan D. Phelps
Monday, November 15, 2010
Breaking in Without Breaking Anything
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!! Hope it's a good one. (didn't even need dad's reminder. Like I could forget a birthday, let alone my own mother's!!!)
I know that the last week's letter was short and rather disappointing, but with the help of Elder Whitman there is a surprise in the email I sent to Mom. Hope you all like it. Almost as good as calling home...
So this last week we had exchanges with our district leader, Elder Escalona. He and Elder Clark came to us, Elder Escalona stayed with Elder Whitman, and I went back with Elder Clark. We all had successful days and were able to get much accomplished. Elder Clark's area is called, I can't spell it, but it's kinda in the middle of nowhere, and rice feilds and mud everywhere. My shoes and the bottoms of my pants were covered with mud. Elder Clark said to me, "Now you know why I always have mud on my pants." Yes now I know. The laundry water got so dirty when I washed that pair, looked like chocolate milk when I poured it out. So Wednesday morning we were to return to our assigned companions. The original plan was that Elder Clark and I would come back to San Enrique, but either Elder Escalona forgot that, or changed it without telling us, so when we got to the house in San Enrique, there was no one there and we were locked out.
So after waiting a while for them to come back, we thought really hard. And it hit is how we could break into the house, without actually breaking anything. The window just to the right of the door is slats that rotate to open, with some work we got it open then removed two of the slats so that we could fit my head, arm, and a mop that had been left outside through the window. Then used the handle to unlock the deadbolt, which is all our door has. So now we were inside, and starving. So we made some fried rice. Then planned how we could intercept Elder Escalona and Elder Whitman in the plan that was layed out for the day, and got to them and then went home.
We had a baptism on Saturday, Reizler Cris Doce Belleza, he is 10 and his grandma is a member. We had been teaching him for a while and finally got him baptized. Things went well, I talked about the picture taking in my recording. Then on Sunday we were able to get him and Kenjay and Helbert confirmed. So all in all a successful week, though it could have been better.
Mom is right, we are in "hunter" mode now (Jeremiah 16:16), we just are practing our skills still. They got a little rusty. Gonna have to bring out all the guns, pull out all the stops and just get to it!
So, package, no dont need anything, but, if you still have time, you should prepare a photo album of what you all have been up to this last year, so I have some new pictures of you all.
Um, you asked about laundry, about a year and a half ago, the church hired members to do our laundry, but too many of them weren't paying their taxes, the government found out and the church said "no more". Now, if a laundromat exists in your area, you can use it. You drop off your laundry and they do it all for you. But pretty much only Bacolod has those here on Negros. So we do it in a large basin in our bathroom, I have pictures. Your hands can really hurt after a good hour of laundry!
There is a little present on this email. With the encouragement and help of Elder Whitman, I recorded my voice on his recorder, thought that you might like that. It's cut short at the end though. Enjoy!
Elder Jordan D. Phelps
PS There is another Elder Phelps here in the mission, just be sure to include my first name in anything that you send to me.
I know that the last week's letter was short and rather disappointing, but with the help of Elder Whitman there is a surprise in the email I sent to Mom. Hope you all like it. Almost as good as calling home...
So this last week we had exchanges with our district leader, Elder Escalona. He and Elder Clark came to us, Elder Escalona stayed with Elder Whitman, and I went back with Elder Clark. We all had successful days and were able to get much accomplished. Elder Clark's area is called, I can't spell it, but it's kinda in the middle of nowhere, and rice feilds and mud everywhere. My shoes and the bottoms of my pants were covered with mud. Elder Clark said to me, "Now you know why I always have mud on my pants." Yes now I know. The laundry water got so dirty when I washed that pair, looked like chocolate milk when I poured it out. So Wednesday morning we were to return to our assigned companions. The original plan was that Elder Clark and I would come back to San Enrique, but either Elder Escalona forgot that, or changed it without telling us, so when we got to the house in San Enrique, there was no one there and we were locked out.
So after waiting a while for them to come back, we thought really hard. And it hit is how we could break into the house, without actually breaking anything. The window just to the right of the door is slats that rotate to open, with some work we got it open then removed two of the slats so that we could fit my head, arm, and a mop that had been left outside through the window. Then used the handle to unlock the deadbolt, which is all our door has. So now we were inside, and starving. So we made some fried rice. Then planned how we could intercept Elder Escalona and Elder Whitman in the plan that was layed out for the day, and got to them and then went home.
We had a baptism on Saturday, Reizler Cris Doce Belleza, he is 10 and his grandma is a member. We had been teaching him for a while and finally got him baptized. Things went well, I talked about the picture taking in my recording. Then on Sunday we were able to get him and Kenjay and Helbert confirmed. So all in all a successful week, though it could have been better.
Mom is right, we are in "hunter" mode now (Jeremiah 16:16), we just are practing our skills still. They got a little rusty. Gonna have to bring out all the guns, pull out all the stops and just get to it!
So, package, no dont need anything, but, if you still have time, you should prepare a photo album of what you all have been up to this last year, so I have some new pictures of you all.
Um, you asked about laundry, about a year and a half ago, the church hired members to do our laundry, but too many of them weren't paying their taxes, the government found out and the church said "no more". Now, if a laundromat exists in your area, you can use it. You drop off your laundry and they do it all for you. But pretty much only Bacolod has those here on Negros. So we do it in a large basin in our bathroom, I have pictures. Your hands can really hurt after a good hour of laundry!
There is a little present on this email. With the encouragement and help of Elder Whitman, I recorded my voice on his recorder, thought that you might like that. It's cut short at the end though. Enjoy!
Elder Jordan D. Phelps
PS There is another Elder Phelps here in the mission, just be sure to include my first name in anything that you send to me.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Down Spirits
I'm glad to hear that the Nissan Maxima that was stolen was found, and in good condition too. It's not like there is any radio or good parts to steal from it anyway. Someone probably just needed a quick ride and took what they could get.
Well, this week has been... not so great. We didn't feel good, not like sick, but down spirits... We felt abandoned, by members and to a degree, investigators. One went to Bacolod for the week, another was sick all week and gets x-ray results tomorrow. But we were able to get some lessons in!
We continue to try and find new investigators, but it isn't working too well. The people just avoid us... so hard to just talk to them. When we do get to talk to them, they give these little excuses as to why they don't want to listen. Some think they have to pay for our lessons, others think that we will take like three hours, but after we clear those up as untrue, it really just comes down to that they don't want to listen.
At the start of a new week, we have once again set our hopes high, but not as high. It's good to have high goals, but also reasonable for the circumstances.
Well, I know that was a short one, but I really can't think of anything else to say...
Elder Phelps
Well, this week has been... not so great. We didn't feel good, not like sick, but down spirits... We felt abandoned, by members and to a degree, investigators. One went to Bacolod for the week, another was sick all week and gets x-ray results tomorrow. But we were able to get some lessons in!
We continue to try and find new investigators, but it isn't working too well. The people just avoid us... so hard to just talk to them. When we do get to talk to them, they give these little excuses as to why they don't want to listen. Some think they have to pay for our lessons, others think that we will take like three hours, but after we clear those up as untrue, it really just comes down to that they don't want to listen.
At the start of a new week, we have once again set our hopes high, but not as high. It's good to have high goals, but also reasonable for the circumstances.
Well, I know that was a short one, but I really can't think of anything else to say...
Elder Phelps
Monday, November 1, 2010
Halloween
Well, it has been a very interesting week down here in San Enrique. Not a particullarly good one. Members were busy ALL week and couldn't work with us. We seem to be losing investigators too. Trying to find new ones, but it is a slow thing here in San Enrique. People try and avoid us, or lie about wanting us to come back. But we are still trying! Trying for referrals too. We've been talking to a bunch of members asking if they have friends that might want to listen, or just anyone that they know, and if no one comes to mind, find some one. The lesson in Sunday School was from Jonah, "Sharing the Gospel with the World." Went very well with us asking for referrals.
That's cool that Bishop and Virginia are coming here. It would be cool to see them. Some advice, if you come to San Enrique, km 35 south of Bacolod, Take the Hinigaran Bulilit Ceres, or drive your own car. Just wait at the Church, right on the highway, and we will pass by multiple times in one day. Also the next transfer day is December 10, just fyi.
Citizenship in the world is a beast to get done. Kudos to those that finished it. Hated that badge... Well, I am the counselor for the swimming merit badge. You're just gonna have to get a new one for now. I've heard that "The Drowsy Chaperone" is a really good one to see. As far as musicals go, we listen to "Wicked a lot", and we both sing along! Elder Whitman picked up the songs really fast.
Halloween isn't much of a holiday here. There were some places that had decorations up, but they also had their Christmas decorations up back at the beginning of September... There was a Halloween party just down the street from our house last night, for all the young people in the municipality. It was really loud, and went really late. We were not able to sleep very well, and then had to get up early to go to District Meeting. Yup, that's just how it is here.
I know it sounds kind of strange, but I haven't spoken at a baptism here. We get members to speak, then normally one of us does the baptizing and the other is one of the witnesses. We like people to speak on baptism, Holy Ghost, and Enduring to the end. We really emphasize endure to the end, because that is a huge problem in the Philippines.
That's all Folks!
Elder Phelps
That's cool that Bishop and Virginia are coming here. It would be cool to see them. Some advice, if you come to San Enrique, km 35 south of Bacolod, Take the Hinigaran Bulilit Ceres, or drive your own car. Just wait at the Church, right on the highway, and we will pass by multiple times in one day. Also the next transfer day is December 10, just fyi.
Citizenship in the world is a beast to get done. Kudos to those that finished it. Hated that badge... Well, I am the counselor for the swimming merit badge. You're just gonna have to get a new one for now. I've heard that "The Drowsy Chaperone" is a really good one to see. As far as musicals go, we listen to "Wicked a lot", and we both sing along! Elder Whitman picked up the songs really fast.
Halloween isn't much of a holiday here. There were some places that had decorations up, but they also had their Christmas decorations up back at the beginning of September... There was a Halloween party just down the street from our house last night, for all the young people in the municipality. It was really loud, and went really late. We were not able to sleep very well, and then had to get up early to go to District Meeting. Yup, that's just how it is here.
I know it sounds kind of strange, but I haven't spoken at a baptism here. We get members to speak, then normally one of us does the baptizing and the other is one of the witnesses. We like people to speak on baptism, Holy Ghost, and Enduring to the end. We really emphasize endure to the end, because that is a huge problem in the Philippines.
That's all Folks!
Elder Phelps
Monday, October 25, 2010
I love President Tobias
Wow, lot's of hospitals for everyone back home.
Yeah, we get caught in the rain all the time, it stinks. It happened on Tuesday too. We were standing outside the church when it started raining pretty lightly, but it started to get really strong, so we threw up our payongs, er umbrellas, and still got soaked. That's just how it goes some times.
The package was great. The M&Ms made it pretty fine; some were crushed but it was all good. The shirt is awesome! Fits perfectly!
So, the storm that hit Luzon, yeah we still got tons of rain because of it. But no flooding like up in Luzon. Saw it on the news as we are walking around, and heard from members. Flooding was pretty nuts in Luzon. But we are all just fine down here on Negros.
Last Friday was Zone Conference, it was awesome. All the trainings were just soooo cool. Learned so much. Especially the trainings about Christ-like attributes and the training the President Tobias gave about working with Stake and Ward leaders (Chapter 13 PMG). It was such a needed spiritual recharge.
I love President Tobias. Yesterday was Branch Conference and President attended. He gave some awesome trainings to the members and answered a ton of their questions. He was really funny too. There was a training video that talks about loud and annoying kids in Sacrament Meeting, he paused the video and pointed at his 5 year old son as the perfect bad example. He was quiet-ish, but he was just everywhere! Either way, President Tobias is just awesome.
The baptism of Kenjay and Helbert happened, and that is the important part. It wasnt how it was planned, but it still happened. We show up on Saturday to fill the font, and it is dirty, so we clean it and start filling. The water was soooo dirty! It was practically black! So we emptied it and let the water run for a while and tried again. This time it was a sickly green, but not black. Still way to dirty. So we decided to go for a third, then the power goes out and it's 6:30 pm, so we decide to just do it after church. I thought that President Tobias might attend the baptism, because he got out of his meeting with the branch president and walked into the RS room where is family was hanging-out with us. But they left. All of them were really hungry. So the service was good and I baptized them both as per their request.
Now it's what we have all been waiting for; transfer announcements!!! We looked at what might happen to us and then thought about what we wanted to happen. What we thought might happen was me transfer and possibly train, because there are tons of new missionaries coming this week. And what we wanted to happen was that we both just stay here in San Enrique. and the result is.....
We are both STAYING!!! Yay!!
I hope I was able to answer your questions and tell you a bit about my week. So, until the next!
Elder Phelps
Yeah, we get caught in the rain all the time, it stinks. It happened on Tuesday too. We were standing outside the church when it started raining pretty lightly, but it started to get really strong, so we threw up our payongs, er umbrellas, and still got soaked. That's just how it goes some times.
The package was great. The M&Ms made it pretty fine; some were crushed but it was all good. The shirt is awesome! Fits perfectly!
So, the storm that hit Luzon, yeah we still got tons of rain because of it. But no flooding like up in Luzon. Saw it on the news as we are walking around, and heard from members. Flooding was pretty nuts in Luzon. But we are all just fine down here on Negros.
Last Friday was Zone Conference, it was awesome. All the trainings were just soooo cool. Learned so much. Especially the trainings about Christ-like attributes and the training the President Tobias gave about working with Stake and Ward leaders (Chapter 13 PMG). It was such a needed spiritual recharge.
I love President Tobias. Yesterday was Branch Conference and President attended. He gave some awesome trainings to the members and answered a ton of their questions. He was really funny too. There was a training video that talks about loud and annoying kids in Sacrament Meeting, he paused the video and pointed at his 5 year old son as the perfect bad example. He was quiet-ish, but he was just everywhere! Either way, President Tobias is just awesome.
The baptism of Kenjay and Helbert happened, and that is the important part. It wasnt how it was planned, but it still happened. We show up on Saturday to fill the font, and it is dirty, so we clean it and start filling. The water was soooo dirty! It was practically black! So we emptied it and let the water run for a while and tried again. This time it was a sickly green, but not black. Still way to dirty. So we decided to go for a third, then the power goes out and it's 6:30 pm, so we decide to just do it after church. I thought that President Tobias might attend the baptism, because he got out of his meeting with the branch president and walked into the RS room where is family was hanging-out with us. But they left. All of them were really hungry. So the service was good and I baptized them both as per their request.
Now it's what we have all been waiting for; transfer announcements!!! We looked at what might happen to us and then thought about what we wanted to happen. What we thought might happen was me transfer and possibly train, because there are tons of new missionaries coming this week. And what we wanted to happen was that we both just stay here in San Enrique. and the result is.....
We are both STAYING!!! Yay!!
I hope I was able to answer your questions and tell you a bit about my week. So, until the next!
Elder Phelps
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Rain Story
Hello Family!
It's great that you all had a great time in Goblin Valley. I love that place sooo much. Can't wait until I can go again.
This last week was only alright. We tried really hard, but not much came from it, but we still felt pretty good. Kenjay and Helbert were interviewed for their baptism yesterday, passed just find, all set for the baptism on Saturday.
So, rain story. this morning it started raining while I was showering, when we actually left the house it wasn't raining. While we were waiting for a Ceres it started raining lightly. Then I saw some guys pointing down the street. So I looked where they were pointing. There was a wall of rain, and a man running in front of it, it was following him. As he ran the rain got to us, and it was hard. Instantly where we were standing, was a puddle. No where to run. The wind was blowing the rain onto us, even under our umbrellas. Then it got so hard that it was coming through the umbrella. When we finally got on a bus we were soaked, which happens everytime it rains. So we got to our meeting and everyone asked, "What happened to you two? Shower ba?" And we told them our story.
Even though we only have so many investigators, the ones that we do have are progressing, almost all of them have baptismal dates, and are excited for them. So that makes me feel good.
Last night we taught Kenjay and Helbert endure to the end. We taught just fine, then I added how important I know it is. I told them about the less-active members we visit, or even those that I baptized, that aren't coming to church anymore, and how sad it makes me. For them, and that I won't see them in the celestial kingdom unless they return to activity. I hope they understood it, it seemed like they did.
Got (birthday) package. Elder Larsen said I should have gotten it last week, but he sent it to the wrong district. Thanks much!
Love you all!
Elder Phelps
It's great that you all had a great time in Goblin Valley. I love that place sooo much. Can't wait until I can go again.
This last week was only alright. We tried really hard, but not much came from it, but we still felt pretty good. Kenjay and Helbert were interviewed for their baptism yesterday, passed just find, all set for the baptism on Saturday.
So, rain story. this morning it started raining while I was showering, when we actually left the house it wasn't raining. While we were waiting for a Ceres it started raining lightly. Then I saw some guys pointing down the street. So I looked where they were pointing. There was a wall of rain, and a man running in front of it, it was following him. As he ran the rain got to us, and it was hard. Instantly where we were standing, was a puddle. No where to run. The wind was blowing the rain onto us, even under our umbrellas. Then it got so hard that it was coming through the umbrella. When we finally got on a bus we were soaked, which happens everytime it rains. So we got to our meeting and everyone asked, "What happened to you two? Shower ba?" And we told them our story.
Even though we only have so many investigators, the ones that we do have are progressing, almost all of them have baptismal dates, and are excited for them. So that makes me feel good.
Last night we taught Kenjay and Helbert endure to the end. We taught just fine, then I added how important I know it is. I told them about the less-active members we visit, or even those that I baptized, that aren't coming to church anymore, and how sad it makes me. For them, and that I won't see them in the celestial kingdom unless they return to activity. I hope they understood it, it seemed like they did.
Got (birthday) package. Elder Larsen said I should have gotten it last week, but he sent it to the wrong district. Thanks much!
Love you all!
Elder Phelps
Monday, October 11, 2010
General Conference Was Amazing!
Okay, this last week was General Conference for us. It was amazing! Though the power was out on Saturday, but they have a generator, it just couldn't run the A/C and the satellite at the same time. I agree that it was an amazing general conference, all the sessions were wonderful. Took plenty of notes.
This last week was painful. The power was out for three to four hours each day and on Tuesday that caused our fridge to stop working, food went bad. So we spent the rest of the week on canned foods. Teaching at night with the power out is really hard, though it doesn't really happen very often. As for happy moments, an investigator that we thought had gone away and wasn't coming back came back!
This week we really need to work on finding new investigators, because besides Kenjay and Helbert we don't have many other progressing investigators. And when they are baptized we will be left with almost no one. So were are taking "talk to everyone" to the extreme this week.
Last night I was kind of disappointed in one of our investigators, even though he knows it is really bad, he dropped the f bomb many times. With a small review that we don't say those kinds of things and telling him that in America we wash our mouths with soap if we say that we tried to teach. It was really hard to get the spirit back in the house.
I love you all so much. The still, small voice of Elder Whitman told me that I should say that. And I agreed. I really do too; I don't say that I love you all very often, or that I miss you. But Elder Whitman knows that I miss you all. We talk about our families all the time.
"It's time for Africa!" I do love hearing about Nat's soccer games and Andrew's water polo games. Especially when they win. Hearing about interactions between you and the other Ferrin families is fun to hear about too. Oh! So there is another Elder Phelps that is going to get here on Oct 29. Just thought I'd throw that out there.
So, after reading some old Dear Elders of Stu's emails talking about Risk, we decided to go and buy Star Wars Risk, and they had it! They don't have normal risk but they have Star Wars Risk! Yeah, gonna be awesome! I'll be sure to let you know who wins! If we ever finish...
That's cool about the phone call you guys got from Sis. Adams. I was wondering when I would get the email about that happening. As for Elder LeCheminant, he goes home on the 27 later this month. Only one of my previous comps are home, Elder Claven.
Well, until next week!
Elder Phelps
"You too!!"
Brian Regan
This last week was painful. The power was out for three to four hours each day and on Tuesday that caused our fridge to stop working, food went bad. So we spent the rest of the week on canned foods. Teaching at night with the power out is really hard, though it doesn't really happen very often. As for happy moments, an investigator that we thought had gone away and wasn't coming back came back!
This week we really need to work on finding new investigators, because besides Kenjay and Helbert we don't have many other progressing investigators. And when they are baptized we will be left with almost no one. So were are taking "talk to everyone" to the extreme this week.
Last night I was kind of disappointed in one of our investigators, even though he knows it is really bad, he dropped the f bomb many times. With a small review that we don't say those kinds of things and telling him that in America we wash our mouths with soap if we say that we tried to teach. It was really hard to get the spirit back in the house.
I love you all so much. The still, small voice of Elder Whitman told me that I should say that. And I agreed. I really do too; I don't say that I love you all very often, or that I miss you. But Elder Whitman knows that I miss you all. We talk about our families all the time.
"It's time for Africa!" I do love hearing about Nat's soccer games and Andrew's water polo games. Especially when they win. Hearing about interactions between you and the other Ferrin families is fun to hear about too. Oh! So there is another Elder Phelps that is going to get here on Oct 29. Just thought I'd throw that out there.
So, after reading some old Dear Elders of Stu's emails talking about Risk, we decided to go and buy Star Wars Risk, and they had it! They don't have normal risk but they have Star Wars Risk! Yeah, gonna be awesome! I'll be sure to let you know who wins! If we ever finish...
That's cool about the phone call you guys got from Sis. Adams. I was wondering when I would get the email about that happening. As for Elder LeCheminant, he goes home on the 27 later this month. Only one of my previous comps are home, Elder Claven.
Well, until next week!
Elder Phelps
"You too!!"
Brian Regan
Monday, October 4, 2010
Glory in Tribulation
Hello all!
This last week was really tough on the work. We didn't get many lessons and things just came up. It rained like nuts two of the days. We were scared to go outside, so we just waited in the apartment until the rain at least calmed down. Did plenty of walking, not as much teaching as I would have liked. One of our new investigators got sick so we weren't able to teach him until last night, another we teach during seminary, but there was no seminary, and when we went to her house she wasnt home anyway. Another one was called by her dad and needed to go home to Antipolo, up north, under Quezon City Mission.
Other than that it was a good week. Elder Whitman and I are doing great; we had bonding time this week, it was fun.
To answer mom's question, Kenjay is 16 and Helbert is 13 still. They are both still really good. Excited for conference and their baptism the next week.
Despite the down-ness of this last week we "glory in tribulation" (Joseph Smith) and have new hope and confidence in the coming week. Good thing this last Sunday was fast Sunday, we are going to need it.
That's really all I have. Hard to write a bunch when not much happened. Hope you all have a good week. Can't wait to watch conference this weekend!
Elder Phelps!
This last week was really tough on the work. We didn't get many lessons and things just came up. It rained like nuts two of the days. We were scared to go outside, so we just waited in the apartment until the rain at least calmed down. Did plenty of walking, not as much teaching as I would have liked. One of our new investigators got sick so we weren't able to teach him until last night, another we teach during seminary, but there was no seminary, and when we went to her house she wasnt home anyway. Another one was called by her dad and needed to go home to Antipolo, up north, under Quezon City Mission.
Other than that it was a good week. Elder Whitman and I are doing great; we had bonding time this week, it was fun.
To answer mom's question, Kenjay is 16 and Helbert is 13 still. They are both still really good. Excited for conference and their baptism the next week.
Despite the down-ness of this last week we "glory in tribulation" (Joseph Smith) and have new hope and confidence in the coming week. Good thing this last Sunday was fast Sunday, we are going to need it.
That's really all I have. Hard to write a bunch when not much happened. Hope you all have a good week. Can't wait to watch conference this weekend!
Elder Phelps!
Monday, September 27, 2010
Worked hard and got a lot done
Hello all!
Well, this last week was pretty good. Worked hard and got a lot done. Sounds like you all had a busy and productive week too.
We have been working hard and received a bunch of referrals. Some that we have started teaching are doing really well. hey are coming to church and reading from the Book of Mormon. One, we invited to be baptized, no specific date yet, but she did say yes. We also have plenty of branch missionaries to work with us, and they are good and helpful to us. I really like the branch here in San Enrique, they work hard and try their best. They like to help the missionaries. Some other units dont care to do anything for the missionaries.
I'm having a hard time thinking of things to say, being a man of few words and all... But I do have to tell how much I love Kenjay and Helbert, even though Helbert is crazy. We were teaching them last night, we just finished teaching the Law of Chastity, the lesson went well. Afterwards we were just chatting, and Helbert says,
"Elder, is it okay to have a crush, even though you are young?"
My response: "Well, yeah, you just need to wait until you are 16 to date."
"But Elder, she isn't a member."
"Well, refer her to us! We'll make her a member!"
My initial thought was "Helbert, you aren't even a member, yet." But I didn't say that. He decided that he was going to talk to some of his classmates about listening to us. We also told them about conference coming up, and they are excited for that! Me too!
Oh, so to celebrate my birthday last week we did some of my favorite things, we did missionary work and taught lessons, got to work with the totally awesome branch missionaries, and then made these deep fried crackers back at the house to finish a good day of work. The next day we did birthday lunch by buying a Chooks to go and soda. Just a small feast. It was fun! Package still hasnt come, but i'll just keep waiting...
Looking forward to this next week of work and the awesomeness that will happen. Hope you all have a good week too!
Elder Phelps
Well, this last week was pretty good. Worked hard and got a lot done. Sounds like you all had a busy and productive week too.
We have been working hard and received a bunch of referrals. Some that we have started teaching are doing really well. hey are coming to church and reading from the Book of Mormon. One, we invited to be baptized, no specific date yet, but she did say yes. We also have plenty of branch missionaries to work with us, and they are good and helpful to us. I really like the branch here in San Enrique, they work hard and try their best. They like to help the missionaries. Some other units dont care to do anything for the missionaries.
I'm having a hard time thinking of things to say, being a man of few words and all... But I do have to tell how much I love Kenjay and Helbert, even though Helbert is crazy. We were teaching them last night, we just finished teaching the Law of Chastity, the lesson went well. Afterwards we were just chatting, and Helbert says,
"Elder, is it okay to have a crush, even though you are young?"
My response: "Well, yeah, you just need to wait until you are 16 to date."
"But Elder, she isn't a member."
"Well, refer her to us! We'll make her a member!"
My initial thought was "Helbert, you aren't even a member, yet." But I didn't say that. He decided that he was going to talk to some of his classmates about listening to us. We also told them about conference coming up, and they are excited for that! Me too!
Oh, so to celebrate my birthday last week we did some of my favorite things, we did missionary work and taught lessons, got to work with the totally awesome branch missionaries, and then made these deep fried crackers back at the house to finish a good day of work. The next day we did birthday lunch by buying a Chooks to go and soda. Just a small feast. It was fun! Package still hasnt come, but i'll just keep waiting...
Looking forward to this next week of work and the awesomeness that will happen. Hope you all have a good week too!
Elder Phelps
Monday, September 20, 2010
My Hope and Faith Remains Bright
Okay, here is what happened (with no email) last week. I was halfway through writing my email, when there was a power outage! We waited a little while to see if it would come back, but nothing, so we went home. Turns out the power was out for nearly 24 hours and that made things hard at the house. Without power it is hard to cook, and we didn't have water either because the pump didn't have power to get the water to the house. So, the first part of my email is really the email from last week. Enjoy!
Transfer Announcements!!!!
Yeah, already that time of the transfer! This last transfer just flew by! No idea where it went. But just for fun, I'll save the announcements for the end of the email.
This last week went really well. The work is still a little slow, but we have new investigators and have received a bunch of referrals. The new investigators we have are all progressing and doing really well. Two, Helbert Roa and KenJay Estares, are attending seminary. Helbert is excited to work on scripture mastery. He's been an investigator for a week! They attended the baptism on Saturday too. More about that later.
So we spent lots of time trying to find new investigators and visit less-active members. Neither of which went the way we would have had them go. The we found people that would let us teach them once, then they never want to hear from you again. Have found a lot of people like that here in San Enrique. That is why we are spending so much time finding, because we keep losing them. The less-actives we found really don't want to come back. We asked multiple times in one sitting, and got multiple answers. True answers, but I doubt any were the real reason. But my hope and faith remains bright. With Helbert and the others it shows me that there are still people willing to listen to be found and converted. Not just converted, but allowing them to obtain exaltation.
The baptism of Mia (that was very Ilonggo, [ang pagbunyag ni Mia]) went really well on Saturday. There were many that attended and the service was really nice. I was the one to baptize her. By her choice. I could tell that she was a little scared to go down under the water, and I tried my best to comfort her, that I would be holding her arm and bring her right back up. Still had to do it twice though.
Okay, transfer announcements! This is what we are all really waiting for!. Elder Panilagao is transferring and becoming a District Leader. I will be staying here in San Enrique, which I am excited about, and I will also be the senior companion, little less excited about that. For mom, Elder Panilagao goes home in July, still some time to go.
So, transfer day went just as normal. My new comp is Elder Whitman. He is from Santaquin, Utah. He arrived here in the Philippines the last week of June. I've lived with a Filipino for the last three months, I almost forgot what it is like to live with an American. Neither is a bad thing, you just do things differently. So, on Friday we had just a couple of appointments, so we visited some members (Branch President) so they could meet the new missionary. The work is going well, senior isn't quite as hard as I thought it would be, but it's only been four days, there haven't been any problems to deal with, and Elder Whitman is good at the language.
So, something awesome that happened just the other day was we went to visit Helbert and Kenjay. They are really doing great. They liked church, love seminary, and are building up relationships with the members. But the really good thing is that Helbert's mom called his dad, in Manila, and asked about Helbert being baptized, and he (the dad) said yes! We thought we were going to have a problem with that, because he is in Manila and won't be home until April! But now he and Kenjay can be baptized on the same day! That means we have three baptisms on one day! We were going to have one on October 9, but that is conference here so all three are on the 16th.
Yeah, I'll be 20 tomorrow. I don't think it is quite as weird as Stuart did. It is still different, but since I have friends here to celebrate with, it is still going to be fun. But of course we will still be working tomorrow!!
I'm trying to think of deep insights I have had in the last couple of weeks, but I can't seem to remember them while I'm sitting in front of the computer., Maybe next week!.
Elder Phelps
Transfer Announcements!!!!
Yeah, already that time of the transfer! This last transfer just flew by! No idea where it went. But just for fun, I'll save the announcements for the end of the email.
This last week went really well. The work is still a little slow, but we have new investigators and have received a bunch of referrals. The new investigators we have are all progressing and doing really well. Two, Helbert Roa and KenJay Estares, are attending seminary. Helbert is excited to work on scripture mastery. He's been an investigator for a week! They attended the baptism on Saturday too. More about that later.
So we spent lots of time trying to find new investigators and visit less-active members. Neither of which went the way we would have had them go. The we found people that would let us teach them once, then they never want to hear from you again. Have found a lot of people like that here in San Enrique. That is why we are spending so much time finding, because we keep losing them. The less-actives we found really don't want to come back. We asked multiple times in one sitting, and got multiple answers. True answers, but I doubt any were the real reason. But my hope and faith remains bright. With Helbert and the others it shows me that there are still people willing to listen to be found and converted. Not just converted, but allowing them to obtain exaltation.
The baptism of Mia (that was very Ilonggo, [ang pagbunyag ni Mia]) went really well on Saturday. There were many that attended and the service was really nice. I was the one to baptize her. By her choice. I could tell that she was a little scared to go down under the water, and I tried my best to comfort her, that I would be holding her arm and bring her right back up. Still had to do it twice though.
Okay, transfer announcements! This is what we are all really waiting for!. Elder Panilagao is transferring and becoming a District Leader. I will be staying here in San Enrique, which I am excited about, and I will also be the senior companion, little less excited about that. For mom, Elder Panilagao goes home in July, still some time to go.
So, transfer day went just as normal. My new comp is Elder Whitman. He is from Santaquin, Utah. He arrived here in the Philippines the last week of June. I've lived with a Filipino for the last three months, I almost forgot what it is like to live with an American. Neither is a bad thing, you just do things differently. So, on Friday we had just a couple of appointments, so we visited some members (Branch President) so they could meet the new missionary. The work is going well, senior isn't quite as hard as I thought it would be, but it's only been four days, there haven't been any problems to deal with, and Elder Whitman is good at the language.
So, something awesome that happened just the other day was we went to visit Helbert and Kenjay. They are really doing great. They liked church, love seminary, and are building up relationships with the members. But the really good thing is that Helbert's mom called his dad, in Manila, and asked about Helbert being baptized, and he (the dad) said yes! We thought we were going to have a problem with that, because he is in Manila and won't be home until April! But now he and Kenjay can be baptized on the same day! That means we have three baptisms on one day! We were going to have one on October 9, but that is conference here so all three are on the 16th.
Yeah, I'll be 20 tomorrow. I don't think it is quite as weird as Stuart did. It is still different, but since I have friends here to celebrate with, it is still going to be fun. But of course we will still be working tomorrow!!
I'm trying to think of deep insights I have had in the last couple of weeks, but I can't seem to remember them while I'm sitting in front of the computer., Maybe next week!.
Elder Phelps
Monday, September 6, 2010
Elder Panilagao
Hello all!
This last week the San Enrique missionaries gloried in their tribulations with 11 total teachings! That is a low number. Tuesday we had our mission tour, which was awesome, more about that later, got home late and had no work. Wednesday we had a good day. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday we had terrible days! No one was home, one of our investigators with a baptism date moved, and there were very few people out to just talk to. We tried to visit less active members, but not many of them were home either.
Yesterday, however, was a great day! Everyone was home, got some new investigators, and when we got home, as we were planing for the next day the owner of the house knocks on our door, she brought us cake! We live above their store and their house is next door. They make cakes in their store. We have the nicest house owner ever! She is always nice to us. Need to find a way to repay her somehow. We should also try and teach her.
We have a baptism coming up this Saturday, Mia T. Jalipa. 10 years old. Mom is a member, dad is not, he's Iglesia, but he has no problem with his daughter being baptized. Her grandma is a very active member and is always in in our lessons. Mia is great, even being as young as she is.
We are really trying to find new investigators this week. Gonna be tough here in San Enrique. The people turn away from us when we are just walking on the street. But there's got to be at least some willing to listen to our message and receive great blessings!
In answer to mom's question about Elder Panilagao, he's from Montalban, Rizal Province. It's in the Luzon penninsula. The large island up north. Just outside Quezon City, which is near Manila. His family are converts, second oldest isnt a member yet. His older sister is serving a mission right now too. He is my first convert companion!
Well, sorry dad, but I'm not going to be able to beat the length of the email you sent me, but I have more pictures! From a family home evening we had with a recent convert's family. It was his sister's birthday. (Sending in separate email.)
Elder Phelps
This comp is being funny and not playing nice with my camera, no pics this week. :(
This last week the San Enrique missionaries gloried in their tribulations with 11 total teachings! That is a low number. Tuesday we had our mission tour, which was awesome, more about that later, got home late and had no work. Wednesday we had a good day. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday we had terrible days! No one was home, one of our investigators with a baptism date moved, and there were very few people out to just talk to. We tried to visit less active members, but not many of them were home either.
Yesterday, however, was a great day! Everyone was home, got some new investigators, and when we got home, as we were planing for the next day the owner of the house knocks on our door, she brought us cake! We live above their store and their house is next door. They make cakes in their store. We have the nicest house owner ever! She is always nice to us. Need to find a way to repay her somehow. We should also try and teach her.
We have a baptism coming up this Saturday, Mia T. Jalipa. 10 years old. Mom is a member, dad is not, he's Iglesia, but he has no problem with his daughter being baptized. Her grandma is a very active member and is always in in our lessons. Mia is great, even being as young as she is.
We are really trying to find new investigators this week. Gonna be tough here in San Enrique. The people turn away from us when we are just walking on the street. But there's got to be at least some willing to listen to our message and receive great blessings!
In answer to mom's question about Elder Panilagao, he's from Montalban, Rizal Province. It's in the Luzon penninsula. The large island up north. Just outside Quezon City, which is near Manila. His family are converts, second oldest isnt a member yet. His older sister is serving a mission right now too. He is my first convert companion!
Well, sorry dad, but I'm not going to be able to beat the length of the email you sent me, but I have more pictures! From a family home evening we had with a recent convert's family. It was his sister's birthday. (Sending in separate email.)
Elder Phelps
This comp is being funny and not playing nice with my camera, no pics this week. :(
Monday, August 30, 2010
My how time flies
I was reflecting on the week the other day and realized that the first week of school is now over. It seems like school had just gotten out! My how time flies, and yet can still drag sometimes. This last week went by pretty fast. One of our branch missionaries left on his mission on Friday. He was the one to always work with us (because he was so close to leaving). He went to Bacolod on Friday to be set-apart by President Tobias and then fly to Manila, stay the night in a hotel then enter the MTC Saturday morning. Wednesday was his farewell party. It was a nice presentation of musical numbers, messages given and a couple of games. We were running a little late to make it on time, but we didnt feel too bad because we had the guest of honor with us. He had worked with us that day.
I've now learned how things are just a little bit different in the Manila MTC. It's all basically the same, just a few changes. One, they dont have people coming in every week. Two, everyone is only there for three weeks. Three, it's all just one building.
We obviously have people from different religions come to church with us here, but we invite them of course! Either way, I've seen similar things. Some investigators want to just take it in for themselves and be in the lesson, and if they have a question they will ask. It's great once they feel comfortable to do things themselves in the church. They willingly go to the classes and participate in the lesson by asking questions and adding their own comments. Naturally not all investigators are like that or get like that really fast, but I have seen some that are and did.
I also reflected on my email from last week, it being ridiculously short. I remembered how I am a man of few words, the mission has changed that little. I still dont say much, but what I do say is plain and simple, and if my Ilonggo is correct, easy to be understood. I did notice earlier today that I made a lot more comments in district meeting than in all the district meetings from the last four transfers, even if the comments still followed my "man of few words" pattern.
Tomorrow we have a special "Zone Conference." It's not really zone conference, it's mission tour! Elder Ko, the second counselor in the Area Presidency is touring the mission, and our zone's day is tomorrow. So we get to get up early and head to Binalbagan (I sure hope I spelled that right). Oh, I rode a Ceres for the first time in a little over three weeks this morning; it was an awesome experience! The rush, the crazy driving, the being tossed side to side passing everything else on the road. Gotta love the Ceres!
Since there is never any really big changes in mission life, it's always the same day to day, you lose track of time. Without the fact that I have to turn the calender over and you all telling my about the changes back home I would find it hard to believe that time is even moving. But the timer on the computer is also evidence that time still flows. My birthday is coming up soon, less than a month now! When you asked about my birthday i was throw off, thinking it can't possibly by my birthday yet! But it is. It seems like just yesterday I turned 19 and started working at Meridian Title.
Well, as always, hope you all have a good week. Good luck to Kathryn, Natalie, and Andrew with the second week of school! And to all others who may be in school to and happen to be reading this! Until next week!
Elder Phelps
We obviously have people from different religions come to church with us here, but we invite them of course! Either way, I've seen similar things. Some investigators want to just take it in for themselves and be in the lesson, and if they have a question they will ask. It's great once they feel comfortable to do things themselves in the church. They willingly go to the classes and participate in the lesson by asking questions and adding their own comments. Naturally not all investigators are like that or get like that really fast, but I have seen some that are and did.
Tomorrow we have a special "Zone Conference." It's not really zone conference, it's mission tour! Elder Ko, the second counselor in the Area Presidency is touring the mission, and our zone's day is tomorrow. So we get to get up early and head to Binalbagan (I sure hope I spelled that right). Oh, I rode a Ceres for the first time in a little over three weeks this morning; it was an awesome experience! The rush, the crazy driving, the being tossed side to side passing everything else on the road. Gotta love the Ceres!
Well, as always, hope you all have a good week. Good luck to Kathryn, Natalie, and Andrew with the second week of school! And to all others who may be in school to and happen to be reading this! Until next week!
Elder Phelps
Monday, August 23, 2010
Mariel's Baptism
Well, this last week flew by, despite some challenging days. We did have a successful baptism on Saturday. Mariel is now a baptized and confirmed member of the church! It went really well. Many attended and the program went very well. I was the one to preform the baptism.
This last week had its tough challenges because there is this one area we go to every other day, but in the now two and a half weeks I have been here, we taught three actual lessons out there. We decided we would give it another chance on Saturday, and if none of the investigators were home or lied about being busy we wouldn't come back. So we aren't going back. We are moving our work to a different neighborhood. It was kind of disappointing, but I guess the people just aren't ready there yet.
So, weather has been interesting too. Rained a lot. On Thursday it rained for just about 4 hours straight! It changed in intensity, but it was raining nonetheless. My umbrella and I have become really close friends, but the mud and my shoes are friends too, and that is not fun.
We are really working on trying to find new investigators, which is still hard. The people here are still very hard. We often get the response, "Katoliko kami!" We're Catholic. Then they won't listen to another word we say. Also people will let us in for one visit, then when we come back, it's nothing. They aren't home. They are "busy." Trying hard to work through all of that. This week I'm a little short in things to say, but I did remember my cord and will send pictures!
Elder Phelps
Lola and Paulo
Dennis and Roxanne
Remata Family
Bacolod North Zone
This last week had its tough challenges because there is this one area we go to every other day, but in the now two and a half weeks I have been here, we taught three actual lessons out there. We decided we would give it another chance on Saturday, and if none of the investigators were home or lied about being busy we wouldn't come back. So we aren't going back. We are moving our work to a different neighborhood. It was kind of disappointing, but I guess the people just aren't ready there yet.
So, weather has been interesting too. Rained a lot. On Thursday it rained for just about 4 hours straight! It changed in intensity, but it was raining nonetheless. My umbrella and I have become really close friends, but the mud and my shoes are friends too, and that is not fun.
We are really working on trying to find new investigators, which is still hard. The people here are still very hard. We often get the response, "Katoliko kami!" We're Catholic. Then they won't listen to another word we say. Also people will let us in for one visit, then when we come back, it's nothing. They aren't home. They are "busy." Trying hard to work through all of that. This week I'm a little short in things to say, but I did remember my cord and will send pictures!
Elder Phelps
.
Other pictures
Lola and Paulo
Dennis and Roxanne
Remata Family
Bacolod North ZoneMonday, August 16, 2010
Zone Meeting, Zone Activity, Tropical Waterfalls
Well, everything is just fantastic here. Elder Panilagao and I get along really well. We are both different but still good for each other. I have learned lots from him already. Our apartment is practically perfect in every way. It's a second story apartment. It's not all that big, but the perfect size for just the two of us. An up and downside is that it is right next to the highway. That is a good thing because it makes it easy for us to get places. It's a bad thing because occasionally it will be noisy at night with cars driving by. The Catholic church is also pretty close, and every Saturday and Sunday morning stating at 5:30 they play this recorded bells song from their bell tower. It's really loud and early. But then again, we never sleep in on Saturday or Sunday. But we never sleep in anyway!
The area is doing just fine. We have investigators, and that's a good thing. There are days that just stink though. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday we go out to this area that is kind of farther out there, and recently everyone that we go to out there hasn't been home that day. So we walked all the way out there for nothing... But there are other days where everything goes well and we end the day feeling really good.
We have a baptism this Saturday, Mariel. She is a really good investigator. Always reading and attending church, she also is attending seminary. She is also always excited for our visits, and it's not just because we are that awesome. She is excited for the gospel.
Today we had Zone Meeting and our Zone Activity. We rode up in to the mountain on a jeepney and had lunch there. Then hiked down to some waterfalls, and hiked back up. It was really fun, even though it was raining. It was hard to hike in my flip-flops especially since one of them broke.The hike back up also showed me that even though I have lost weight, I am not "fit." Sure, we walk EVERYWHERE but that did not help for hiking. It was still a lot of fun. And I have now seen in person, tropical water falls. Yes, I took pictures, galing (but) I forgot my camera cord today...
(Picture added 8/23/10)
I am excited for the coming week. Baptisms, investigators, walking, ending the day ridiculously tired, but still cooking rice and noodles before going to bed. It also sounds like you all have quite the exciting next couple of weeks coming. Good luck with all of that!
Elder Phelps
The area is doing just fine. We have investigators, and that's a good thing. There are days that just stink though. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday we go out to this area that is kind of farther out there, and recently everyone that we go to out there hasn't been home that day. So we walked all the way out there for nothing... But there are other days where everything goes well and we end the day feeling really good.
We have a baptism this Saturday, Mariel. She is a really good investigator. Always reading and attending church, she also is attending seminary. She is also always excited for our visits, and it's not just because we are that awesome. She is excited for the gospel.
Today we had Zone Meeting and our Zone Activity. We rode up in to the mountain on a jeepney and had lunch there. Then hiked down to some waterfalls, and hiked back up. It was really fun, even though it was raining. It was hard to hike in my flip-flops especially since one of them broke.The hike back up also showed me that even though I have lost weight, I am not "fit." Sure, we walk EVERYWHERE but that did not help for hiking. It was still a lot of fun. And I have now seen in person, tropical water falls. Yes, I took pictures, galing (but) I forgot my camera cord today...
(Picture added 8/23/10)
I am excited for the coming week. Baptisms, investigators, walking, ending the day ridiculously tired, but still cooking rice and noodles before going to bed. It also sounds like you all have quite the exciting next couple of weeks coming. Good luck with all of that!
Elder Phelps
Monday, August 9, 2010
San Enrique, La Carlota Zone
And the transfer result is......!
San Enrique, La Carlota Zone.
I have moved down south to the Municipality of San Enrique. It's much much smaller than my lovely city of Cadiz. The people here are different too, and there are a lot less. They aren't as open. They don't respond to us too often when we say good afternoon to them. But we are looking to fix that. I truly appreciate not having to transfer until now. I hate packing! But it all went all right. My new comp is Elder Panilagao, another filipino. He's from near Quezon City. His first area was also in Cadiz, a year ago. Oh, about the map, if you can't find San Enrique just look for La Carlota, we are 7 kms west of it, on the coast.
So, last week in Cadiz was fun. Visited investigators and members telling them that I won't be there next week. Sad but also happy moments. Sad because I had to say good bye, but happy because I have friends to say good bye to. It was really just work as normal, except Thursday. In the morning I washed everything, boy did my hands hurt. In the afternoon it was all dry, then packed it all up.
Another thing that I mean to tell you every week, but keep forgetting is about my weight. I found a scale the other week and weighed myself. We wont say whant I started out as when I left the MTC. But in the six months that I have been here I have lost 40 pounds! All my shirts are baggy now and if I don't wear my belt I can easily slip my pants off with out undoing them. Cool!
Still getting to know the investigators and members here, but it has only been three days. We went on splits the other day and it was a good chance to get to know the branch missionaries. Yes it is just a branch here in San Enrique, and the meeting house is tiny! The one in Cadiz had a ward and Branch and was the Stake Center, so it was pretty big, for a church here on Negros.
Well, thats all for this week!
Elder Phelps
San Enrique, La Carlota Zone.
I have moved down south to the Municipality of San Enrique. It's much much smaller than my lovely city of Cadiz. The people here are different too, and there are a lot less. They aren't as open. They don't respond to us too often when we say good afternoon to them. But we are looking to fix that. I truly appreciate not having to transfer until now. I hate packing! But it all went all right. My new comp is Elder Panilagao, another filipino. He's from near Quezon City. His first area was also in Cadiz, a year ago. Oh, about the map, if you can't find San Enrique just look for La Carlota, we are 7 kms west of it, on the coast.
So, last week in Cadiz was fun. Visited investigators and members telling them that I won't be there next week. Sad but also happy moments. Sad because I had to say good bye, but happy because I have friends to say good bye to. It was really just work as normal, except Thursday. In the morning I washed everything, boy did my hands hurt. In the afternoon it was all dry, then packed it all up.
Another thing that I mean to tell you every week, but keep forgetting is about my weight. I found a scale the other week and weighed myself. We wont say whant I started out as when I left the MTC. But in the six months that I have been here I have lost 40 pounds! All my shirts are baggy now and if I don't wear my belt I can easily slip my pants off with out undoing them. Cool!
Still getting to know the investigators and members here, but it has only been three days. We went on splits the other day and it was a good chance to get to know the branch missionaries. Yes it is just a branch here in San Enrique, and the meeting house is tiny! The one in Cadiz had a ward and Branch and was the Stake Center, so it was pretty big, for a church here on Negros.
Well, thats all for this week!
Elder Phelps
Monday, August 2, 2010
Knew it was coming...Elder Phelps is transferring!
Good to hear from you, even if it was a crap week. Our week was looking to be pretty bad, but it turned out just fine. I'll explain that later.
Well, there have been things I've been meaning to tell you for months now, but I forget every Monday. So it started quite a while ago, but I eat fish now, and rather frequently, and with my hands! But we eat lots of things with our hands. Basically if you don't want to use flatware you dont have too. I love this country! Also last week we were walking home one night and I looked up at the moon and there was a rainbow in the moonlight. It was sooo cool! It was small, but very distinct. I also think its time that I tossed in my two pisos about rain since Elder and Sister Ferrin both have. Rain here is different than any rain I have ever experienced. It gets really hot and humid when it rains, it is rarely a relief from the heat. Everything gets wet if you are outside, no avoiding it. And it is really hard to do laundry during the rainy season. We wash by hand outside and then hang our clothes up to dry, and with the rain coming pretty much everyday now it is really hard to get your clothes dry. But we also love the rain somedays. We like it when it rains at night, then its cool when we sleep. but during the day its still stupid hot.
This last week Elder Ventigan and Elder Luthi had training in Bacolod Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. So Elder Hinckley and I were together for those three days. Things went pretty well too. It was way nice to have an American companion. You can talk about different things with Americans than with Filipinos. It was refreshing. We have extended baptismal dates to quite a few of our investigators and some for sure will be baptized, at least close to the date, but there is a downside too, but we'll get to that later.
So, this is what we have all been waiting for. Today was transfer announcements and Friday will be transfer day. And the results are....... Elder Phelps is transferring! Elder Ventigan is staying and training! So we have to wait until next week to find out where I will be assigned. I'm sad to be leaving Cadiz after 6 months here. I have a lot of close friends here. Lots of people to visit before I leave, members and investigators. I'll make new friends in my new area. I just need to stop myself from crying at family home evening with the Ceniza family later today. good luck with that!
Elder Phelps
Well, there have been things I've been meaning to tell you for months now, but I forget every Monday. So it started quite a while ago, but I eat fish now, and rather frequently, and with my hands! But we eat lots of things with our hands. Basically if you don't want to use flatware you dont have too. I love this country! Also last week we were walking home one night and I looked up at the moon and there was a rainbow in the moonlight. It was sooo cool! It was small, but very distinct. I also think its time that I tossed in my two pisos about rain since Elder and Sister Ferrin both have. Rain here is different than any rain I have ever experienced. It gets really hot and humid when it rains, it is rarely a relief from the heat. Everything gets wet if you are outside, no avoiding it. And it is really hard to do laundry during the rainy season. We wash by hand outside and then hang our clothes up to dry, and with the rain coming pretty much everyday now it is really hard to get your clothes dry. But we also love the rain somedays. We like it when it rains at night, then its cool when we sleep. but during the day its still stupid hot.
This last week Elder Ventigan and Elder Luthi had training in Bacolod Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. So Elder Hinckley and I were together for those three days. Things went pretty well too. It was way nice to have an American companion. You can talk about different things with Americans than with Filipinos. It was refreshing. We have extended baptismal dates to quite a few of our investigators and some for sure will be baptized, at least close to the date, but there is a downside too, but we'll get to that later.
So, this is what we have all been waiting for. Today was transfer announcements and Friday will be transfer day. And the results are....... Elder Phelps is transferring! Elder Ventigan is staying and training! So we have to wait until next week to find out where I will be assigned. I'm sad to be leaving Cadiz after 6 months here. I have a lot of close friends here. Lots of people to visit before I leave, members and investigators. I'll make new friends in my new area. I just need to stop myself from crying at family home evening with the Ceniza family later today. good luck with that!
Elder Phelps
Monday, July 26, 2010
Our Week Was Pretty Good Too
From the pictures it looks like Girl's Camp was much more relaxing than Scout Camp in general for everyone. In all the pictures everyone was just sitting around. Looked boring if you ask me! Scout Camps is always fun and there is always something fun/cool to do.
Um, you're welcome for the letter to the ward. I'm glad it went well.
Well, our week was pretty good too. We had 12 lessons with a member present, thanks much to Marvin. YM that likes to work with us. All of our lessons went really well. A lot of the people we talked to in the last couple of weeks are doing really good, now that we are seeing how they are reacting to the message. There's one, Junior, he came to church this week, missed work to try and come. He's going to talk to his boss to see if he can be able to continue to come. When we taught him for the first time his dad was there too. His dad did all the talking for the two of them, and he's a tough guy, very firm where he is, so we didnt really know what Jr was thinking, but clearly he is awesome...so far. I have high hopes for him. His dad isnt listening any more, so the lessons go well.
Brother Remata is doing awesome. Still working on quitting drinking and smoking, but he keeps coming to church and wants to be baptized. We set a goal for Aug 28. Those are two of our best investigators right now. There are other good ones still, quite a few.
The Kuan family. Their last name makes me laugh. Kwan is the same pronunciation but means "whatchamacallit." So you use it when you can't think of the word. Nag-kwan ka ba? Tapos mag-kwan ka sa iya. They are the one we met from the referral. They are doing well. We've been there three times now, number four is tomorrow. They have a Book of Mormon. The daughter is good and has a lot of questions. Right now they are still at the stage that they think we are just going around sharing the gospel to helps people get closer to God, which is also true, but our eventual goal is that they will be baptized. She has a classmate that is a member, convert, so that's good too.
Romero. Kristine and Brother Romero are both doing well. Nanay said to us the last time we were there that she'll just stay at the Catholic. I really think that is fine just for now. Not her time yet. She'll be an awesome member when it does eventually happen. We still visit, but not focusing on her.
Friday we had Zone Conference in Bacolod. That was really good. The trainings went awesome. All about the Book of Mormon and the importance of just reading it. Which we need to convey to the investigators.
"Sister, were you able to read."
"Yes Elder."
"Cool, what did you read?"
"I forgot."
She didn't read. That happens way more often than not. If they just actually read it makes all the difference in the immediate lesson and in the long run.
Looking forward to this next week! Next Monday is transfer announcements, so we'll know if I get to stay in Cadiz still, or if I am out of here... I hope to stay again, but I will probably leave.
Okay, pictures na!
Elder Phelps
Um, you're welcome for the letter to the ward. I'm glad it went well.
Well, our week was pretty good too. We had 12 lessons with a member present, thanks much to Marvin. YM that likes to work with us. All of our lessons went really well. A lot of the people we talked to in the last couple of weeks are doing really good, now that we are seeing how they are reacting to the message. There's one, Junior, he came to church this week, missed work to try and come. He's going to talk to his boss to see if he can be able to continue to come. When we taught him for the first time his dad was there too. His dad did all the talking for the two of them, and he's a tough guy, very firm where he is, so we didnt really know what Jr was thinking, but clearly he is awesome...so far. I have high hopes for him. His dad isnt listening any more, so the lessons go well.
Brother Remata is doing awesome. Still working on quitting drinking and smoking, but he keeps coming to church and wants to be baptized. We set a goal for Aug 28. Those are two of our best investigators right now. There are other good ones still, quite a few.
The Kuan family. Their last name makes me laugh. Kwan is the same pronunciation but means "whatchamacallit." So you use it when you can't think of the word. Nag-kwan ka ba? Tapos mag-kwan ka sa iya. They are the one we met from the referral. They are doing well. We've been there three times now, number four is tomorrow. They have a Book of Mormon. The daughter is good and has a lot of questions. Right now they are still at the stage that they think we are just going around sharing the gospel to helps people get closer to God, which is also true, but our eventual goal is that they will be baptized. She has a classmate that is a member, convert, so that's good too.
Romero. Kristine and Brother Romero are both doing well. Nanay said to us the last time we were there that she'll just stay at the Catholic. I really think that is fine just for now. Not her time yet. She'll be an awesome member when it does eventually happen. We still visit, but not focusing on her.
Friday we had Zone Conference in Bacolod. That was really good. The trainings went awesome. All about the Book of Mormon and the importance of just reading it. Which we need to convey to the investigators.
"Sister, were you able to read."
"Yes Elder."
"Cool, what did you read?"
"I forgot."
She didn't read. That happens way more often than not. If they just actually read it makes all the difference in the immediate lesson and in the long run.
Looking forward to this next week! Next Monday is transfer announcements, so we'll know if I get to stay in Cadiz still, or if I am out of here... I hope to stay again, but I will probably leave.
Okay, pictures na!
Elder Phelps
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Young Men, PREPARE YOURSELF NOW
7/19/10 (Delayed posting so Kristeen could read it in church today (7/25/10)
Boring (Scout) camp talk? Such thing doesnt exist! I love hearing about camp related things. First thing, to mom, when we talk to members it is in Ilonggo, remember, I dont speak Tagalog anymore. Well, it was certainly an interesting week here in Cadiz. The trainee in the Cadiz Branch is having problems with his ankle so they moved him to the office. It was really strange and surprising when President and the APs showed up at the apartment Wednesday morning. So now he is gone and was replaced. I am now the only American in the apartment. Not as hard as I thought it might be. Things are really just normal still. Though it is still an interesting thought.
Our investigators are doing great. We have two that are consistently coming to church. They are doing really good. Trying to get one to lose his drinking and smoking, but the other is really good. Both are referrals. That just goes to show how much better referrals are than when we find on our own. Though we were given a referral from an investigator in another area, when we found her she wasnt interested, but the people we talked to to find the house are really good, and that was quite the surprise. Because we talked to her just as she was coming from school, she attends the private Catholic school in Cadiz, which we were standing right outside of. She said we could visit them because they are "very religious." That made us kind of nervous. Things were either going to go pretty good because of that, or really terrible. We have now met with the family twice and given them a Libro ni Mormon. They are doing really good and had tons of questions. Answered some but had to say to a lot that we would answer them in our teaching. So, even though the referral was a dud, we met someone who goes want to listen. That was an encouraging experience.
Letter to the ward (but mostly the YM):
Primary: I got your letters about a month ago, but just kept forgetting to mention it. It was fun to look at the pictures and the little notes written, some I had to try really hard to read, but that's all right.
Young Men. First, you should all have a desire to set aside two years of your life and give yourself to the Lord. Second, PREPARE YOURSELF NOW. Yes, you still have a long time before you will be able to serve. But every step of preperation you take now will benefit you in the MTC, the field, and in life afterward. Read the scriptures daily, especially the Book of Mormon. And apply what you learn. That is something I wish I would have been better at. Increase your faith and build your testimony. Share it with others, even if they are members! Both of you will be strengthened. (D&C 50:22) Be hard working and diligent in all that you do! It will benefit you in what will come.
Missionary work is great, but it is just that WORK. And it is hard work. Many times physically, always spiritually, and certainly mentally. Your mind is always working. But always remember that you are never alone, in anything you do, especially in missionary work and the work of God.
Read Preach My Gospel, practice what you learn and live the principles it teaches. That book is an inspired book.
I know you know that the church is true. That you all have strong testimonies. We recently got the conference edition of the Ensign, one big theme I noticed was the importance of living the gospel. It was directed at parents but is good for us all. You know what you know, you know the gospel. Through your actions and life let others know what you know. They will have respect for you and you for yourself and all the blessings the Lord has given you.
I know that this Church, the Church that bears Jesus' name, the name I wear on my chest every day, I know this Church is true. It was restored through Joseph Smith, chosen to become prophet and lead and guide us. I know that Pres. Thomas S. Monson is our living prophet today. That he recieves revelation from heaven, from our Lord Jesus Christ, and guides us in what we need to do. I know that Jesus Christ lives. He preformed that wonderful Atonement for all of us. Allowing us to obtain eternal life. It also gave us the gift of repentance and the miracle of forgiveness.
I know these things, but there are those that don't, that is why I am so far from you all right now, so that I may bring others of our brothers and sisters unto Christ, that they may receive this knowledge and be blessed by the gospel of Jesus Christ. I leave these things with you in the holy name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, Amen.
Elder Phelps
There were going to be pictures (Pictures from Seminary/ Institute/ LDSSA Acquaintance BBQ), but the cafe we are at right now doesn't allow you to plug things in. Sa dasun na lang (Next time!)
Boring (Scout) camp talk? Such thing doesnt exist! I love hearing about camp related things. First thing, to mom, when we talk to members it is in Ilonggo, remember, I dont speak Tagalog anymore. Well, it was certainly an interesting week here in Cadiz. The trainee in the Cadiz Branch is having problems with his ankle so they moved him to the office. It was really strange and surprising when President and the APs showed up at the apartment Wednesday morning. So now he is gone and was replaced. I am now the only American in the apartment. Not as hard as I thought it might be. Things are really just normal still. Though it is still an interesting thought.
Our investigators are doing great. We have two that are consistently coming to church. They are doing really good. Trying to get one to lose his drinking and smoking, but the other is really good. Both are referrals. That just goes to show how much better referrals are than when we find on our own. Though we were given a referral from an investigator in another area, when we found her she wasnt interested, but the people we talked to to find the house are really good, and that was quite the surprise. Because we talked to her just as she was coming from school, she attends the private Catholic school in Cadiz, which we were standing right outside of. She said we could visit them because they are "very religious." That made us kind of nervous. Things were either going to go pretty good because of that, or really terrible. We have now met with the family twice and given them a Libro ni Mormon. They are doing really good and had tons of questions. Answered some but had to say to a lot that we would answer them in our teaching. So, even though the referral was a dud, we met someone who goes want to listen. That was an encouraging experience.
Letter to the ward (but mostly the YM):
Primary: I got your letters about a month ago, but just kept forgetting to mention it. It was fun to look at the pictures and the little notes written, some I had to try really hard to read, but that's all right.
Young Men. First, you should all have a desire to set aside two years of your life and give yourself to the Lord. Second, PREPARE YOURSELF NOW. Yes, you still have a long time before you will be able to serve. But every step of preperation you take now will benefit you in the MTC, the field, and in life afterward. Read the scriptures daily, especially the Book of Mormon. And apply what you learn. That is something I wish I would have been better at. Increase your faith and build your testimony. Share it with others, even if they are members! Both of you will be strengthened. (D&C 50:22) Be hard working and diligent in all that you do! It will benefit you in what will come.
Missionary work is great, but it is just that WORK. And it is hard work. Many times physically, always spiritually, and certainly mentally. Your mind is always working. But always remember that you are never alone, in anything you do, especially in missionary work and the work of God.
Read Preach My Gospel, practice what you learn and live the principles it teaches. That book is an inspired book.
I know you know that the church is true. That you all have strong testimonies. We recently got the conference edition of the Ensign, one big theme I noticed was the importance of living the gospel. It was directed at parents but is good for us all. You know what you know, you know the gospel. Through your actions and life let others know what you know. They will have respect for you and you for yourself and all the blessings the Lord has given you.
I know that this Church, the Church that bears Jesus' name, the name I wear on my chest every day, I know this Church is true. It was restored through Joseph Smith, chosen to become prophet and lead and guide us. I know that Pres. Thomas S. Monson is our living prophet today. That he recieves revelation from heaven, from our Lord Jesus Christ, and guides us in what we need to do. I know that Jesus Christ lives. He preformed that wonderful Atonement for all of us. Allowing us to obtain eternal life. It also gave us the gift of repentance and the miracle of forgiveness.
I know these things, but there are those that don't, that is why I am so far from you all right now, so that I may bring others of our brothers and sisters unto Christ, that they may receive this knowledge and be blessed by the gospel of Jesus Christ. I leave these things with you in the holy name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, Amen.
Elder Phelps
There were going to be pictures (Pictures from Seminary/ Institute/ LDSSA Acquaintance BBQ), but the cafe we are at right now doesn't allow you to plug things in. Sa dasun na lang (Next time!)
Monday, July 19, 2010
Never a normal week here
7/11/10
Well sounds like a normal week back home, mostly. There is never a normal week here. Our week started out really well and I had high hopes for the week. But Thursday our lessons dropped. No one was home. That continued for Friday and Saturday. We will be trying to get back into it this week.
That's cool about the baptisms in our ward. I never really knew about the missionary work happening in our own ward. The members here are always asking where our investigators are and if we have any at church. That's just so cool. It's nice to have the missionaries over for dinner, especially when they talk! Of course that's what we do! We just talk and get to learn more about the members while they get to know us. Being foreign they always ask what it is like back home. Especially being from Salt Lake.
Drum and bugle corp (Corps Encore at WSU). That stuff I miss seeing. Amazing sounds and music with a wonderful presentation!
So I got Stu's letter from the 22 of June, about him having just six months left, that means I have six months to my year mark! Then it is down hill from there. Kind of excited and yet not. I know it's still a year and a half away, but we are going to need a bigger rice cooker when I ger home. And you can never tell me that rice isn't a breakfast food. Because it is an every meal food here!
Canoeing (Andrew's trip to Uintas with Craig, etc.). Man I miss doing things in the water! That has been on the list of things I miss since day one! Water...ocean...beach...
Um, one question for Kat, what are you going to school for? I cant remember if you still want to do physical therapy or if you changed to nutrition.
Well, running out of time. Got a lot to get done today! Including laundry, which we do by hand, I dont know if i ever mentioned that or not...
Elder Phelps
Well sounds like a normal week back home, mostly. There is never a normal week here. Our week started out really well and I had high hopes for the week. But Thursday our lessons dropped. No one was home. That continued for Friday and Saturday. We will be trying to get back into it this week.
That's cool about the baptisms in our ward. I never really knew about the missionary work happening in our own ward. The members here are always asking where our investigators are and if we have any at church. That's just so cool. It's nice to have the missionaries over for dinner, especially when they talk! Of course that's what we do! We just talk and get to learn more about the members while they get to know us. Being foreign they always ask what it is like back home. Especially being from Salt Lake.
Drum and bugle corp (Corps Encore at WSU). That stuff I miss seeing. Amazing sounds and music with a wonderful presentation!
So I got Stu's letter from the 22 of June, about him having just six months left, that means I have six months to my year mark! Then it is down hill from there. Kind of excited and yet not. I know it's still a year and a half away, but we are going to need a bigger rice cooker when I ger home. And you can never tell me that rice isn't a breakfast food. Because it is an every meal food here!
Canoeing (Andrew's trip to Uintas with Craig, etc.). Man I miss doing things in the water! That has been on the list of things I miss since day one! Water...ocean...beach...
Um, one question for Kat, what are you going to school for? I cant remember if you still want to do physical therapy or if you changed to nutrition.
Well, running out of time. Got a lot to get done today! Including laundry, which we do by hand, I dont know if i ever mentioned that or not...
Elder Phelps
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Cadiz City Charter Day
Sounds like you all had a really fun 4th. The fourth here was interesting too. It was Cadiz City Charter Day, the anniversary of the day we became a city. So its been a carnival like West Fest for the past week and a half and all culminated to a head in the last two days. Everyone in the city was out walking around. Which meant many of our appointments weren't home. But we still had some good work yesterday.
So, because of the area split we have been spending a lot of time trying to find new investigators to fill up the days that we used to do work in the Branch. That has been going alright. Our investigators in Tiglawigan are doing well and they have increased in number, while some others have been lost, but that is how it goes. Yesterday we had just one investigator at church, but it was one we had really been working on and is one of those from Tiglawigan, so that is awesome.
Things are going well in Cadiz. It's still interesting with the area split. I miss the members in the Branch, and a lot have said that I am missed too. Even though the transfer has just started I have already asked President Tobias to let me stay in Cadiz, although it seems very unlikely. I really dont want to leave, but it has to happen some time.
This email is really short, but we are in Bacolod, just finished a Zone activity (bowling), now we are going to go eat somewhere that we dont have in Cadiz, then head to SM. We only get to do this once a transfer now. Well, I hope you all have a good week!
Elder Phelps
So, because of the area split we have been spending a lot of time trying to find new investigators to fill up the days that we used to do work in the Branch. That has been going alright. Our investigators in Tiglawigan are doing well and they have increased in number, while some others have been lost, but that is how it goes. Yesterday we had just one investigator at church, but it was one we had really been working on and is one of those from Tiglawigan, so that is awesome.
Things are going well in Cadiz. It's still interesting with the area split. I miss the members in the Branch, and a lot have said that I am missed too. Even though the transfer has just started I have already asked President Tobias to let me stay in Cadiz, although it seems very unlikely. I really dont want to leave, but it has to happen some time.
This email is really short, but we are in Bacolod, just finished a Zone activity (bowling), now we are going to go eat somewhere that we dont have in Cadiz, then head to SM. We only get to do this once a transfer now. Well, I hope you all have a good week!
Elder Phelps
Monday, June 28, 2010
I have my first native companion!
Well, yeah. Sounds like you all had a really busy week, same here. We did a lot to get ready for the split of the area and getting the apartment ready for four missionaries. So we didnt get to do much real missionary work, but we worked hard the same. We cleaned the house like nuts. We moved everything out of rooms and mopped. Cleaned the CR (bathroom) as clean as it will get. Now it's pretty much all dirty again. The new guys don't know the standards of the Cadiz apartment. We'll take care of that later.
So, Friday afternoon the new missionaries arrived here in Cadiz. My comp is Elder Ventigan. He is from one of the northern provinces that I cant spell. I have my first native companion! Man this keyboard stinks! And Yahoo messenger keeps popping up. Sabad 'na! (That's annoying). So the other two are Elder Searle, just came from the MTC, and his trainer Elder Martonito (I think i spelled that right...). He goes home at the end of this transfer. He is filipino too. Elder Searle is from Cedar Hills, UT. Went to Lone Peak HS.
Elder LeCheminant was transferred to Barangay Banago. That is where he wanted to go and that is where the zone leaders for this zone are. So I will still get to see him every Tuesday. The sad news though is that while I am still in the Philippines Bacolod Mission as of July 1 Elder White will be in the Philippines Iloilo mission. Yup, he was sent over there... That means he will actually get home three weeks after me. Iloilo is changing to the other transfer schedule.
That's really all for now. We'll see how this next week goes. Hopefully the three new ones dont drive me nuts. I'll set down some house rules.
Elder Phelps
So, Friday afternoon the new missionaries arrived here in Cadiz. My comp is Elder Ventigan. He is from one of the northern provinces that I cant spell. I have my first native companion! Man this keyboard stinks! And Yahoo messenger keeps popping up. Sabad 'na! (That's annoying). So the other two are Elder Searle, just came from the MTC, and his trainer Elder Martonito (I think i spelled that right...). He goes home at the end of this transfer. He is filipino too. Elder Searle is from Cedar Hills, UT. Went to Lone Peak HS.
Elder LeCheminant was transferred to Barangay Banago. That is where he wanted to go and that is where the zone leaders for this zone are. So I will still get to see him every Tuesday. The sad news though is that while I am still in the Philippines Bacolod Mission as of July 1 Elder White will be in the Philippines Iloilo mission. Yup, he was sent over there... That means he will actually get home three weeks after me. Iloilo is changing to the other transfer schedule.
That's really all for now. We'll see how this next week goes. Hopefully the three new ones dont drive me nuts. I'll set down some house rules.
Elder Phelps
Monday, June 21, 2010
Mission Split, Area Split, Two More Elders!
Hey family!
Well, I guess I should start with the news you are surly all waiting to hear, or I could just save it for the end. Nah, I can't wait. So, since District Meeting is now held on Mondays, we already know what will happen with transfers, and which mission we will ultimately be assigned to. Could stay here on Negros and in the Bacolod Mission, or head to Panay and join the Iloilo Mission.
Elder LeCheminant will be becoming a zone leader somewhere else, but at least still here on Negros too. Good news, I will still be here in Cadiz (and in the Bacolod Mission), sort of. I'm still in Cadiz, but just in Ward 1. That's right, our area will be splitting. Whitewash into branch. Branch will get a trainer and his trainee. The split is such a good thing! That's what is needed here. All this last weekend members have been asking when we were gonna get four missionaries here. We thought it wasn't going to be until August. I'm gonna miss the members in Branch 2 though. I'll still get to see them at church though. And I'll actually start going to more than just sacrament meeting! Instead of just two sacrament meetings.
Now that that is out of the way, on to the rest of the week. Tuesday to Friday was just amo man gihapon (just the same, just how it is...). But it was good too. Progress continues in Tiglawigan. Though it did kick us where it hurts one day. Just one of the families that we are teaching out there was home. But those kind of days happen.
I have been out for six months now. It feels so weird to say that. As it happens things seem kind of slow some days/ weeks. But the months go by fast. Looking back it's like, "Wow, it has been six months," then it's also, "Wow, it has only been six months." Though in a flash I will be where Elder Lecheminant is, four months, two transfers left. Then have come home to cold.
So, on Saturday there was a missionary that served here in 1992 that came back. He actually spoke the language while he was here, and he still can. The reason he still can is because his wife is from Bacolod. His kids only know a couple of phrases. So he baptized Lola Guronga, every missionary's grandma here in Cadiz. We were invited to the return party and that was a lot of fun. Tons of food too. But it was fun to see how happy everyone was and hear his stories. After that we headed off to a wedding reception. Mario Ceniza and Iris Dela Peña. They were waiting until the Cebu temple was dedicated to get married. Now it is and so are they. The reception was nice. Words of advice were given, there was a lot of food, we watched a video of pictures of the two, including pictures of them at the temple.
You all had a crazy week. And it's summer! It should be relaxed. But I guess that can't happen while a child is getting ready to leave for college. And Nat is starting all the stuff for dance company. I suppose that means no more USANA or E Center, but I'm sure they have their own way of getting money.
Car expenses. That reminds me that the mission is down a car. It was over a week, almost two, ago that the Escape got in an accident. Other car's fault. Roads were a little slick, not much though, and he lost control, slammed into the Escape. Everyone is fine. Elder Potter was spitting out glass for a couple minutes though. Just the Escape is no more.
Toy Story 3! I want to see that sooooo bad! But it will have to wait obviously. There are a lot of good movies that have come out and will be coming out. I guarantee that I can find a pirated copy of Toy Story here already. Original disks don't really exist here, basically pirated is the only way.
Well, since we don't get to do anything special for Father's Day, I nearly forgot about it... But I remembered! So, Happy Father's Day Dad (Tatay, Amay, Ama, Pere, Padre)!!! I hope you enjoy your massage that Mom got you and I assume you got a car wash too. It's still kind of strange not having the third Sunday to look forward to. That I certainly miss. Hanging out with Stu and Brandton... good times.
Well, this coming week will be interesting. We have to get things ready for the pag-abot (arrival) of the two additional elders. Tomorrow the mission office will be bringing us new beds and stuff like that. That will be fun. Elder Lecheminant's prediction for my next companion is that he will be Filipino. And that is so possible. It will be WAY different, but I think I can handle it. I'm pretty sure that I wont be the only American in the house though. It's very likely that the trainee will be American, there are 31 Americans coming, and some Filipinos. Well, for that we'll just have to wait until next Monday.
TTFN!
Elder Phelps
Well, I guess I should start with the news you are surly all waiting to hear, or I could just save it for the end. Nah, I can't wait. So, since District Meeting is now held on Mondays, we already know what will happen with transfers, and which mission we will ultimately be assigned to. Could stay here on Negros and in the Bacolod Mission, or head to Panay and join the Iloilo Mission.
Elder LeCheminant will be becoming a zone leader somewhere else, but at least still here on Negros too. Good news, I will still be here in Cadiz (and in the Bacolod Mission), sort of. I'm still in Cadiz, but just in Ward 1. That's right, our area will be splitting. Whitewash into branch. Branch will get a trainer and his trainee. The split is such a good thing! That's what is needed here. All this last weekend members have been asking when we were gonna get four missionaries here. We thought it wasn't going to be until August. I'm gonna miss the members in Branch 2 though. I'll still get to see them at church though. And I'll actually start going to more than just sacrament meeting! Instead of just two sacrament meetings.
Now that that is out of the way, on to the rest of the week. Tuesday to Friday was just amo man gihapon (just the same, just how it is...). But it was good too. Progress continues in Tiglawigan. Though it did kick us where it hurts one day. Just one of the families that we are teaching out there was home. But those kind of days happen.
I have been out for six months now. It feels so weird to say that. As it happens things seem kind of slow some days/ weeks. But the months go by fast. Looking back it's like, "Wow, it has been six months," then it's also, "Wow, it has only been six months." Though in a flash I will be where Elder Lecheminant is, four months, two transfers left. Then have come home to cold.
So, on Saturday there was a missionary that served here in 1992 that came back. He actually spoke the language while he was here, and he still can. The reason he still can is because his wife is from Bacolod. His kids only know a couple of phrases. So he baptized Lola Guronga, every missionary's grandma here in Cadiz. We were invited to the return party and that was a lot of fun. Tons of food too. But it was fun to see how happy everyone was and hear his stories. After that we headed off to a wedding reception. Mario Ceniza and Iris Dela Peña. They were waiting until the Cebu temple was dedicated to get married. Now it is and so are they. The reception was nice. Words of advice were given, there was a lot of food, we watched a video of pictures of the two, including pictures of them at the temple.
You all had a crazy week. And it's summer! It should be relaxed. But I guess that can't happen while a child is getting ready to leave for college. And Nat is starting all the stuff for dance company. I suppose that means no more USANA or E Center, but I'm sure they have their own way of getting money.
Car expenses. That reminds me that the mission is down a car. It was over a week, almost two, ago that the Escape got in an accident. Other car's fault. Roads were a little slick, not much though, and he lost control, slammed into the Escape. Everyone is fine. Elder Potter was spitting out glass for a couple minutes though. Just the Escape is no more.
Toy Story 3! I want to see that sooooo bad! But it will have to wait obviously. There are a lot of good movies that have come out and will be coming out. I guarantee that I can find a pirated copy of Toy Story here already. Original disks don't really exist here, basically pirated is the only way.
Well, since we don't get to do anything special for Father's Day, I nearly forgot about it... But I remembered! So, Happy Father's Day Dad (Tatay, Amay, Ama, Pere, Padre)!!! I hope you enjoy your massage that Mom got you and I assume you got a car wash too. It's still kind of strange not having the third Sunday to look forward to. That I certainly miss. Hanging out with Stu and Brandton... good times.
Well, this coming week will be interesting. We have to get things ready for the pag-abot (arrival) of the two additional elders. Tomorrow the mission office will be bringing us new beds and stuff like that. That will be fun. Elder Lecheminant's prediction for my next companion is that he will be Filipino. And that is so possible. It will be WAY different, but I think I can handle it. I'm pretty sure that I wont be the only American in the house though. It's very likely that the trainee will be American, there are 31 Americans coming, and some Filipinos. Well, for that we'll just have to wait until next Monday.
TTFN!
Elder Phelps
Monday, June 14, 2010
Cebu City Philippines Temple Dedication
Okay, you all had an interesting week. Gave me a slight headache to take it all in. But Butch will get it out later with his awesome head massage skills. I already wrote to Andrew about the new mower. I remember when we got the mower that is now dead, and when it was really nice. Last weeks letter was late because things were just crazy and that's all that matters. Weather has been alright so far. Haven't been caught outside in the really bad rain yet. Always calmed down just before leaving wherever we were. Even if it meant extending our time where we were... Tour de Cure sounds like it was fun, despite the wind.
Okay big news here in the Visayas and Mindanao. The Cebu City Philippines Temple was dedicated yesterday! That was AWESOME! We actually watched two of the three sessions, would have done the third too, but couldn't handle the air-con. It was freezing in the chapel!! It was awesome! The members are so happy. The spirit was really strong, of course.
We received a bunch of referrals out in Tiglawigan, I think I mentioned this already, but they are doing well so far. Now we have to tackle the challenge of getting them to come to church. But I think that will go alright.
So, this Wednesday is Mission conference for us here on Negros. It will be all the missionaries on this island. It's gonna be fun.
The looming thing right now is what will happen at transfers, which are on the 25th. It's kinda scary because the mission splits on July 1. And which ever island you are on, that's your mission. We aren't expecting too much inter-island transfering, but it could totally happen.
Other news is that P-day has added stress now. They moved District Meeting (our usual Tuesday morning meeting) to P-day morning, giving us no time to do laundry! We don't see it lasting long, but for now we have to adjust.
That's all I have time for right now, off to FHE!! Always fun!
Elder Phelps
Okay big news here in the Visayas and Mindanao. The Cebu City Philippines Temple was dedicated yesterday! That was AWESOME! We actually watched two of the three sessions, would have done the third too, but couldn't handle the air-con. It was freezing in the chapel!! It was awesome! The members are so happy. The spirit was really strong, of course.
We received a bunch of referrals out in Tiglawigan, I think I mentioned this already, but they are doing well so far. Now we have to tackle the challenge of getting them to come to church. But I think that will go alright.
So, this Wednesday is Mission conference for us here on Negros. It will be all the missionaries on this island. It's gonna be fun.
The looming thing right now is what will happen at transfers, which are on the 25th. It's kinda scary because the mission splits on July 1. And which ever island you are on, that's your mission. We aren't expecting too much inter-island transfering, but it could totally happen.
Other news is that P-day has added stress now. They moved District Meeting (our usual Tuesday morning meeting) to P-day morning, giving us no time to do laundry! We don't see it lasting long, but for now we have to adjust.
That's all I have time for right now, off to FHE!! Always fun!
Elder Phelps
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Happy Birthday Nat!
Well, sounds like you all had two relatively busy weekends in a row. But now it is summer for you all! Kids are all out of school. PNU (Philippine Normal University), the college here in Cadiz started yesterday and the high schools and elementary schools start next Tuesday, the 15th. Graduation, I remember that. The best part was when it finally ended. I'm sure Kat feels the same way.
The rain season certainly is close now, and the weather likes to tease us. We got some good rain last Thursday and Saturday. Sunday there were imposing clouds by the bukid (mountain), but they didn't make it to us. It's currently the same way, I hope they make it over here though. The rain is nice. You can tell when it's going to rain too. The humidity shoots up, and its already really high, all the time. Then it starts raining in like ten minutes. It cools down pretty good while it is raining. But as soon as the rain stops the heat rushes back in and the humidity shoots back up.
Sounds like Nat's birthday went really well and everybody had fun. I could have warned you about the food prices (at Seven Peaks), but it slipped my mind. And I already know about all the slides there, Elder LeCheminant has told me stories that involve all of them.
So since it is actually Tuesday right now here, Happy Birthday Nat! Another thing, we have an investigator that will be baptized on the 19th, Michael, who's birthday is the same as Nat's, even the same year. We will be going there later tonight. Michael is pretty awesome. He was pretty shy in the beginning, but he has opened up now.
Well, Cebu temple dedication is next Sunday, and we have our tickets from President now! What he said to everyone after he our interview is that if we go to the 9:00 session we will see him and Sister Tobias because they get to actually go there! As awesome as the dedication is, it is also causing problems. We have some new investigators that we invited to church last week and said they'd come next week. "sa dason na lang." But we have to tell them that they can't, because of the dedication. But they are all doing really good too. They are a bunch of referrals received from a RM. They live out in an area called Tiglawigan. It's a 10 peso, 15 minute trike ride out to there. But it is totally worth it.
Things are going well here in Cadiz. They could always be better, but things are going well. One thing that made me really happy was to see Kristine and her dad waiting outside Bishop's office to get their tickets to the dedication. Seeing Brother Romero smiling at church is awesome too. He used to be kind of by himself and just sitting there. Now he is smiling and happy.
That's all for this week, until next!
Elder Phelps
PS Thanks for all the pictures!
AND I got the package today, looking forward to busting that open!
The rain season certainly is close now, and the weather likes to tease us. We got some good rain last Thursday and Saturday. Sunday there were imposing clouds by the bukid (mountain), but they didn't make it to us. It's currently the same way, I hope they make it over here though. The rain is nice. You can tell when it's going to rain too. The humidity shoots up, and its already really high, all the time. Then it starts raining in like ten minutes. It cools down pretty good while it is raining. But as soon as the rain stops the heat rushes back in and the humidity shoots back up.
Sounds like Nat's birthday went really well and everybody had fun. I could have warned you about the food prices (at Seven Peaks), but it slipped my mind. And I already know about all the slides there, Elder LeCheminant has told me stories that involve all of them.
So since it is actually Tuesday right now here, Happy Birthday Nat! Another thing, we have an investigator that will be baptized on the 19th, Michael, who's birthday is the same as Nat's, even the same year. We will be going there later tonight. Michael is pretty awesome. He was pretty shy in the beginning, but he has opened up now.
Well, Cebu temple dedication is next Sunday, and we have our tickets from President now! What he said to everyone after he our interview is that if we go to the 9:00 session we will see him and Sister Tobias because they get to actually go there! As awesome as the dedication is, it is also causing problems. We have some new investigators that we invited to church last week and said they'd come next week. "sa dason na lang." But we have to tell them that they can't, because of the dedication. But they are all doing really good too. They are a bunch of referrals received from a RM. They live out in an area called Tiglawigan. It's a 10 peso, 15 minute trike ride out to there. But it is totally worth it.
Things are going well here in Cadiz. They could always be better, but things are going well. One thing that made me really happy was to see Kristine and her dad waiting outside Bishop's office to get their tickets to the dedication. Seeing Brother Romero smiling at church is awesome too. He used to be kind of by himself and just sitting there. Now he is smiling and happy.
That's all for this week, until next!
Elder Phelps
PS Thanks for all the pictures!
AND I got the package today, looking forward to busting that open!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Friday's Baptism!
Happy Memorial Day to all!!
It's still kind of strange to think about the family reunion happening right now, and how many of us aren't there now. Also, we were hiking around, which we do everyday, and I was comparing it to Memorial Day in my head. Hiking around exploring, getting dirty and sweaty, but this time in proselyting clothes. It's just a bit different. This Memorial day would be hard if I hadn't skipped out on last years, so now it's just like "eh." Well, it's just a normal Monday here in the Philippines.
This last week was interesting. The first part was all normal, that seems to be how it always goes. Friday we went on exchanges, this time it worked a little differently. I got Elder Hinckley, who is a junior, in fact he is batch (we are the same age in the mission). That kind of thing doesnt normally happen, but Elder Lecheminant was worried about the "trunky-ness' of the senior because he goes home at the end of this transfer. Everything went well. Elder Hinckley and I worked just fine together.
Also on Friday we had a baptismal interview for Joseph Arnaiz. So we had to meet the zone leaders and do that. We were a little stressed about the baptism, but everything worked out just fine. The plan had been to have his dad baptize him, but he wasn't able to come (work) so I got to! That was an interesting experience. I was nervous about the prayer (even though it is way easy) and saying his name right. Filipino names... Joseph Aquilles Consing Arnaiz.
Well, so it's Monday night now, and when we are done here we are going to the Cenzia house for FHE. Yay!! We get to hangout with David and Joseph. The two that only speak English. They are so much fun, though I dont have any pictures of them yet, I'll try and fix that tonight.
That sounds like a great idea for Nat's birthday. Seven Peaks is a fun place. the fact that you are going to Old Spaghetti Factory makes me laugh. Pinoy Style Spaghetti is standard at birthday parties here. speaking of B-days, we attended a couple this last week too. Three parties, four birthdays, one day. We only planned on going to one, cause we forgot one of the other ones and just didn't plan on the other. We went to the Lozano family Wednesday night just to say "Hi" because they are close to an investigator. Sister Lozano, after already giving us so Cup of Noodles and some bread said, "Elders, you eat here tomorrow. It's my birthday."
So then Thursday comes, we run out to Lola Guronga because an investigator lives behind her. The neighbors said that no one was home when we aproached the house, but we found a note directing us to the party, and Lola's amazing cooking. Then we visited some other people and then proceded to the Lozano family. We felt kind of bad when we showed up because all of Sister's office friends, that aren't members, got up and left. Sister said not to worry about it, they had been there since they got off work, at 5, and it was 7:30.
Then we had to text the Zone leaders so we went to Dennis Cenzia, and he was at the birthday party of the girl his brother is marrying in two weeks. Nanay Dela Pena's daughter. We talk to Nanay all the time at the market because she owns a shop there. Well she really just watches the shop, her daughter actually owns it. We didn't eat there though, too full already, but they tried to make us eat something anyway. The Mango Float was tempting though, but I was happy that I didn't. Mango Float, totally making for you all when I get home.
Well, that's about it for this week.
Elder Phelps.
It's still kind of strange to think about the family reunion happening right now, and how many of us aren't there now. Also, we were hiking around, which we do everyday, and I was comparing it to Memorial Day in my head. Hiking around exploring, getting dirty and sweaty, but this time in proselyting clothes. It's just a bit different. This Memorial day would be hard if I hadn't skipped out on last years, so now it's just like "eh." Well, it's just a normal Monday here in the Philippines.
This last week was interesting. The first part was all normal, that seems to be how it always goes. Friday we went on exchanges, this time it worked a little differently. I got Elder Hinckley, who is a junior, in fact he is batch (we are the same age in the mission). That kind of thing doesnt normally happen, but Elder Lecheminant was worried about the "trunky-ness' of the senior because he goes home at the end of this transfer. Everything went well. Elder Hinckley and I worked just fine together.
Also on Friday we had a baptismal interview for Joseph Arnaiz. So we had to meet the zone leaders and do that. We were a little stressed about the baptism, but everything worked out just fine. The plan had been to have his dad baptize him, but he wasn't able to come (work) so I got to! That was an interesting experience. I was nervous about the prayer (even though it is way easy) and saying his name right. Filipino names... Joseph Aquilles Consing Arnaiz.
Well, so it's Monday night now, and when we are done here we are going to the Cenzia house for FHE. Yay!! We get to hangout with David and Joseph. The two that only speak English. They are so much fun, though I dont have any pictures of them yet, I'll try and fix that tonight.
That sounds like a great idea for Nat's birthday. Seven Peaks is a fun place. the fact that you are going to Old Spaghetti Factory makes me laugh. Pinoy Style Spaghetti is standard at birthday parties here. speaking of B-days, we attended a couple this last week too. Three parties, four birthdays, one day. We only planned on going to one, cause we forgot one of the other ones and just didn't plan on the other. We went to the Lozano family Wednesday night just to say "Hi" because they are close to an investigator. Sister Lozano, after already giving us so Cup of Noodles and some bread said, "Elders, you eat here tomorrow. It's my birthday."
So then Thursday comes, we run out to Lola Guronga because an investigator lives behind her. The neighbors said that no one was home when we aproached the house, but we found a note directing us to the party, and Lola's amazing cooking. Then we visited some other people and then proceded to the Lozano family. We felt kind of bad when we showed up because all of Sister's office friends, that aren't members, got up and left. Sister said not to worry about it, they had been there since they got off work, at 5, and it was 7:30.
Then we had to text the Zone leaders so we went to Dennis Cenzia, and he was at the birthday party of the girl his brother is marrying in two weeks. Nanay Dela Pena's daughter. We talk to Nanay all the time at the market because she owns a shop there. Well she really just watches the shop, her daughter actually owns it. We didn't eat there though, too full already, but they tried to make us eat something anyway. The Mango Float was tempting though, but I was happy that I didn't. Mango Float, totally making for you all when I get home.
Well, that's about it for this week.
Elder Phelps.
Monday, May 24, 2010
LIVING the gospel WILL help their lives
Sounds like your week was really busy. Ours was alright. Saturday was the highlight though. Looks like Shellie's Concert was good as always. Sounds like the music selection was pretty good too. I miss those concerts. It is kind of strange that it was Kat's last one.
So, while you all are getting ready to end the school year, here they are gearing up to start again. Summer is almost over here and the rainy season is fast approaching. I need to get an umbrella... I'm also hoping to get a new bag with the back to school sales going on. The Questar bag just can't quite handle missionary life.
Hmmm, Hot Fuzz. Actually saw some of that here. An investigator was watching it when we went to visit him. Oh, I just thought i would mention this, pirated movies are really big here, AND good quality. Like you can already get Percy Jackson and Iron Man 2 on DVD. And the DVDs come with Six movies on them. It's pretty crazy. And there are security guards where they sell the movies, guarding them.
Right! Natalie turns 16 in just under two weeks! I actually have that written in my planner so I don't forget it. That's pretty crazy to think about. Then she'll be driving, maybe...
Seminary Graduation. I remember that. Fun stuff. The best part though is always the refreshments. We tell our youth age investigators about all the fun activities they do (just last week was the stake youth conference). They usually have an activity once a week, and there are always refreshments, sometimes we stop by, just for the refreshments. "Elders, hampang?" "Nah, kaon lang kami." (Play. Nah, We'll just eat.) Sometimes we join in though.
Lapit na ang pagulan!!! Rainy season is close. So, time for my week. The beginning was very normal, but the end was hectic. Friday Elder Lecheminant had a leadership conference. So Thursday night we had the zone leaders come up here and interview Bro. Romero for baptism. Then we all headed to Bacolod. We stopped in Talisay to meet up with the other district leader and the Talisay elders. I stayed there while Elder LeChem, the other district leader, Elder Tiu, and the zone leaders, Elder Winegar and Elder Hamblin continued to Bacolod so they could go to the meeting in the morning. The four of us in Talisay had a sleepover. In the morning we had a service project where we knocked down part of a house. Then after showering in the afternoon Elder Larsen, Elder Tiu's comp, and I went to Bacolod to get our companions and head home. We caught an Air-con Ceres back to Cadiz. That makes the trip a million times better.
Saturday we had some appointments in the morning, but the big event was Brother Romero's baptism! That went really well. Considering we were worried because our original planned speakers had gone to Cebu to volunteer at the open house. But they were able to get new ones just fine and they did a really good job. The talks were good for Bro. Romero, but also for those who attended. I was just so happy the whole time. Same feelings on Sunday when Brother Romero was being confirmed. He is going to be a good member, eventually the whole family will. That's what this is about. Not just baptizing people, but building strong members and showing them how LIVING the gospel WILL help their lives.
Well, until next week!
Elder Phelps
So, while you all are getting ready to end the school year, here they are gearing up to start again. Summer is almost over here and the rainy season is fast approaching. I need to get an umbrella... I'm also hoping to get a new bag with the back to school sales going on. The Questar bag just can't quite handle missionary life.
Hmmm, Hot Fuzz. Actually saw some of that here. An investigator was watching it when we went to visit him. Oh, I just thought i would mention this, pirated movies are really big here, AND good quality. Like you can already get Percy Jackson and Iron Man 2 on DVD. And the DVDs come with Six movies on them. It's pretty crazy. And there are security guards where they sell the movies, guarding them.
Right! Natalie turns 16 in just under two weeks! I actually have that written in my planner so I don't forget it. That's pretty crazy to think about. Then she'll be driving, maybe...
Seminary Graduation. I remember that. Fun stuff. The best part though is always the refreshments. We tell our youth age investigators about all the fun activities they do (just last week was the stake youth conference). They usually have an activity once a week, and there are always refreshments, sometimes we stop by, just for the refreshments. "Elders, hampang?" "Nah, kaon lang kami." (Play. Nah, We'll just eat.) Sometimes we join in though.
Lapit na ang pagulan!!! Rainy season is close. So, time for my week. The beginning was very normal, but the end was hectic. Friday Elder Lecheminant had a leadership conference. So Thursday night we had the zone leaders come up here and interview Bro. Romero for baptism. Then we all headed to Bacolod. We stopped in Talisay to meet up with the other district leader and the Talisay elders. I stayed there while Elder LeChem, the other district leader, Elder Tiu, and the zone leaders, Elder Winegar and Elder Hamblin continued to Bacolod so they could go to the meeting in the morning. The four of us in Talisay had a sleepover. In the morning we had a service project where we knocked down part of a house. Then after showering in the afternoon Elder Larsen, Elder Tiu's comp, and I went to Bacolod to get our companions and head home. We caught an Air-con Ceres back to Cadiz. That makes the trip a million times better.
Saturday we had some appointments in the morning, but the big event was Brother Romero's baptism! That went really well. Considering we were worried because our original planned speakers had gone to Cebu to volunteer at the open house. But they were able to get new ones just fine and they did a really good job. The talks were good for Bro. Romero, but also for those who attended. I was just so happy the whole time. Same feelings on Sunday when Brother Romero was being confirmed. He is going to be a good member, eventually the whole family will. That's what this is about. Not just baptizing people, but building strong members and showing them how LIVING the gospel WILL help their lives.
Well, until next week!
Elder Phelps
Monday, May 17, 2010
Transfers: Still in the Fun Little (sometimes smelly) City of Cadiz!
Greetings from Cadiz! (Still!!)
So, I’ve been waiting for forever it seems to tell you all what happened with transfers. Dad wondered on Friday for nothing, your Friday is our Saturday so transfer meeting was already over, but Elder LeCheminant and I didn’t even go. We are both still here in Cadiz! I am so excited for that. We have so much that will be happening this transfer. Couple of baptiams coming up (Brother Romero’s is this Saturday!) and on June 13 is the Cebu Temple deication. We get to watch the broadcast here in Cadiz. I’m glad I get to do that with the members here, and recent converts like Kristine and her dad. But so yeah. Naturally the biggest news of transfer week is transfers, and technically there were none for us.
There were changes to the district though. So earlier today we had a district activity. We all met at the Ceres terminal then ate at a restaurant next to it. Then we went to Balay Alibangbang (Butterfly house). We went there and played get-to-know-you games and team building games. That was really fun. But hangingout with other missionaries is always fun. Then we had snacks at the Branch President’s house because he lives right next to Balay and works there; he drives for them. That was most of the day, and now I’m here, writing you all.
Last week for the youth was MYC (Multi-Stake Youth Conference). So all the leaders were there too. That made things a little interesting, but everything still went well. When they got back on Friday we stopped by the Church to say “Welcome Back.” Everyone was really tired; laying out on the grass (the church is one of the few places in the country that there is actually grass) waiting for a trike to take them home. Saturday morning was really fun.
So, last Monday was election day, and the church planned a national day of service where we took (ripped) down the canidate posters that had been put up every where. That was fun; felt good to rip those down and let out some frustrations. Bah! Elections. The Philippines is really corrupt when it comes to politics. Like, yeah corrupt dirty politicians. Though Noynoy, the new president is clean and is going to do well. But the guy who won mayor her in Cadiz is totally hiding something. His brother was mayor for the last nine years, now he is. The reason he won is not a good thing either. The fat man has friends in the mountain. All I can say.
Things are going well still. Brother Romero’s baptism this Saturday, and Joseph’s next week. We might have one or two in June also. That’ll be exciting. I know you want more spiritual things in my emails, but it’s exactly like I said last week. It’s the "primary" answers. When pepole do those, great changes happen. We can teach and teach, but if they don’t do those simple things, nothing changes. But when they do do them, what happens is amazing. That is when changes happen. When people drop their addictions and they know why they are doing it. That is what Brother Romero is like. He is a simple guy. Loves his family and wants the best for them. He does the small things and he knows what he is doing is right. He was able to drop coffee because of that.
Oh, quick note. Look up the pictures for the Cebu temple on lds.org.
http://www.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/public-invited-to-tour-cebu-city-philippines-temple
They are awesome! Naturally, it’s a temple, but it really looks good.
Hey, this is mostly for the young men, so make sure you tell them, not that you’ll forget. But this is about baptisms for the dead. So the closest temple until June 13 when Cebu will be dedicated is the Manila Temple. (Fun Fact: The Manila Temple currently has the largest temple district.) The Manila Temple is a days travel away by boat, which is cheapest. So the youth down here only get to go once a year for a week. I don’t remember how much it costs, but they also have to bring food with them. Just something to think about the next time you all go to the temple. When members find out that you are from Utah they always say that you are lucky. They don’t know much about Utah, but they know that we have lots of temples. They ask about travel to the temple. And then I tell them that we can be to six temples in less than an hour. We really are blessed. But then we also tell them that if members here in the Philippines were more faithful in paying tithing they will get more temples too.
Oh! Almost forgot! Tell Andrew Rytting that I was way excited to hear about his mission call. Riverside Cali, Spanish Speaking. That’s awesome, not quite as awesome as the Philippines, so very close though. He’s going to do great!
Well, that’s it for now from the fun little (sometimes smelly) city of Cadiz!
Elder Phelps
So, I’ve been waiting for forever it seems to tell you all what happened with transfers. Dad wondered on Friday for nothing, your Friday is our Saturday so transfer meeting was already over, but Elder LeCheminant and I didn’t even go. We are both still here in Cadiz! I am so excited for that. We have so much that will be happening this transfer. Couple of baptiams coming up (Brother Romero’s is this Saturday!) and on June 13 is the Cebu Temple deication. We get to watch the broadcast here in Cadiz. I’m glad I get to do that with the members here, and recent converts like Kristine and her dad. But so yeah. Naturally the biggest news of transfer week is transfers, and technically there were none for us.
There were changes to the district though. So earlier today we had a district activity. We all met at the Ceres terminal then ate at a restaurant next to it. Then we went to Balay Alibangbang (Butterfly house). We went there and played get-to-know-you games and team building games. That was really fun. But hangingout with other missionaries is always fun. Then we had snacks at the Branch President’s house because he lives right next to Balay and works there; he drives for them. That was most of the day, and now I’m here, writing you all.
Last week for the youth was MYC (Multi-Stake Youth Conference). So all the leaders were there too. That made things a little interesting, but everything still went well. When they got back on Friday we stopped by the Church to say “Welcome Back.” Everyone was really tired; laying out on the grass (the church is one of the few places in the country that there is actually grass) waiting for a trike to take them home. Saturday morning was really fun.
So, last Monday was election day, and the church planned a national day of service where we took (ripped) down the canidate posters that had been put up every where. That was fun; felt good to rip those down and let out some frustrations. Bah! Elections. The Philippines is really corrupt when it comes to politics. Like, yeah corrupt dirty politicians. Though Noynoy, the new president is clean and is going to do well. But the guy who won mayor her in Cadiz is totally hiding something. His brother was mayor for the last nine years, now he is. The reason he won is not a good thing either. The fat man has friends in the mountain. All I can say.
Things are going well still. Brother Romero’s baptism this Saturday, and Joseph’s next week. We might have one or two in June also. That’ll be exciting. I know you want more spiritual things in my emails, but it’s exactly like I said last week. It’s the "primary" answers. When pepole do those, great changes happen. We can teach and teach, but if they don’t do those simple things, nothing changes. But when they do do them, what happens is amazing. That is when changes happen. When people drop their addictions and they know why they are doing it. That is what Brother Romero is like. He is a simple guy. Loves his family and wants the best for them. He does the small things and he knows what he is doing is right. He was able to drop coffee because of that.
Oh, quick note. Look up the pictures for the Cebu temple on lds.org.
http://www.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/public-invited-to-tour-cebu-city-philippines-temple
They are awesome! Naturally, it’s a temple, but it really looks good.
Hey, this is mostly for the young men, so make sure you tell them, not that you’ll forget. But this is about baptisms for the dead. So the closest temple until June 13 when Cebu will be dedicated is the Manila Temple. (Fun Fact: The Manila Temple currently has the largest temple district.) The Manila Temple is a days travel away by boat, which is cheapest. So the youth down here only get to go once a year for a week. I don’t remember how much it costs, but they also have to bring food with them. Just something to think about the next time you all go to the temple. When members find out that you are from Utah they always say that you are lucky. They don’t know much about Utah, but they know that we have lots of temples. They ask about travel to the temple. And then I tell them that we can be to six temples in less than an hour. We really are blessed. But then we also tell them that if members here in the Philippines were more faithful in paying tithing they will get more temples too.
Oh! Almost forgot! Tell Andrew Rytting that I was way excited to hear about his mission call. Riverside Cali, Spanish Speaking. That’s awesome, not quite as awesome as the Philippines, so very close though. He’s going to do great!
Well, that’s it for now from the fun little (sometimes smelly) city of Cadiz!
Elder Phelps
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