Bearer of the Torch
Buda Castle
Hero Square
Monday, October 24, 2011
24 October 2011 Letter (Nyiregyhaza)
Monday, 17 October
Another P-Day come and gone. Today we had 3 lessons. Although it was a P-Day, we met with L in the morning, tried to meet with A, who would've been a new investigator, in the afternoon, but we got dogged, and we had FHE at H's in the evening. While it was nice to have work, it did break our P-Day into shorter segments and made it harder to do shopping and email. In our lesson with L, she continued the whole "saved by grace alone" thing, and then we got held up talking about tithing. I plan on limiting our lessons with her to less than one hour in the future. Lastly, we watched "The Road to El Darado" today, the first movie I've seen while out here. For a miracle I would have to choose the slightly warmer weather we had today.
Tuesday, 18 October
I'm currently on splits with Elder F. This morning we met with M for the first time in weeks. She really is kept busy by her new job at the factory. We're going to meet again next week, and also start meeting with her daughter on a regular basis for English. She offered us wine multiple times during our visit and had a hard time understanding that we will not drink any alcohol.
Met with D agian. She's progressing, but so, so slowly. We got some pizza from a restaurant tonight, and Elder M and I found 19 bone fragments on our slices, each about the size of half a dime. Last of all, while streeting I decided to turn onto the campus of a nearby college, and we spent nearly an hour walking around, and trying to see if we could advertise the Church or Angolora there. While there we ran into H. It's quite a small world. My miracle came as a realization about the great blessing of America's standing, past and present, on religious freedom. That's something that has existed from the founding of our nation, and will hopefully continue to last for a long time.
Wednesday, 19 October
Today I spent the day filling the role of senior companion while on splits with Elder F. Today was a good and successful day. We started by teaching L who informed us that she will be out of town the next couple weeks, so we won't be able to meet. We swung by R's reestablished contact with him, spent 40 minutes talking to him, shared a quick lesson, and set up a lesson for next week. While he hasn't been reading the Book of Mormon, he has been praying regularly. I also started setting up our Facebook finding efforts. We went tabling and found a Neni who said she knows a member of our Branch, said she likes what she's seen of our Church, and hopes to attend Sacrament Meeting this weekend with two of her sons. Today's miracle also happened during tabling when a man with a camera walked up. In short, he runs a page in the local newspaper, and wanted to advertise our giving away free books, so he asked a couple questions, brought a young woman to pose with us, and took a couple pictures. Hopefully that actually gets advertised. That would be quite fun.
Thursday, 20 October
Two more programs fell though today, but luckily we still taught four. With M we reviewed the Plan of Salvation. Luckily her hand is starting to do better. We also taught B and A a second time; however we aren't sure how interested in the Church they actually are. And last of all we had Angolora. This week went better than last week's class, but it is still taking some getting used to. I know I've written about memory before, but the miracle I want to remember today is still having my Patriarchal Blessing memorized and always being able to think of the blessings in it.
Friday, 21 October
We met with two new people today. The first was X, who we are meeting with in part to teach English. We aren't quite sure how interested she is in the gospel yet, but will find out in future lessons. We also met with S, who's one of the oldest members in the Branch (in how long she's been a member, not actual age). She's been a member for 16 years. Her conversion story, of a friend simply inviting her to church is today's miracle. While at her house, one of her cats kept staring up at the ceiling light. It was fun and interesting to watch its pupils shrink to 1/5 of their normal size, and get the cat-eyes with the little slit. On our way back to our apartment, a Neni chased us down on her bike. She said all kinds of strange things, and grabbed our hands to make a prayer circle. It freaked us both out a little.
Saturday, 22 October
Tracting and streeting are still proving unsuccessful. After eight weeks, and several dozen hours, we've never managed to meet with a single person we've found while streeting, and M is still the only person we've really found while tracting, and she's been able to meet less and less lately. The only lesson we had was with M2. I was in charge of the lesson today. It went well for the first 30 minutes, but during the last ten we started talking about baptism and learned that she still believes in the Catholic version of it. It made it really easy to choose a topic for our next lesson with her. The miracle today was having someone from Angolora call and say they want to start meeting for private lessons, outside the usual class, which will mean we can give her a 30 minute spiritual thought each time we meet. Tonight we got with the other Elders and made Tacos. That has been the most American food I've eaten while out here.
Sunday, 23 October
I am so stuffed, and feel both content and a little miserable (but that part is getting better). We had a lesson at 3:30 with a woman who fed us the biggest meal I've eaten on my mission. It was 5 courses and she was so pushy about having us eat it. It was so good, but also so much food. The hardest part though, was that within 40 minutes of finishing we went to another lesson where we were fed again....why?....why couldn't we get those kinds of lessons on different days? Anyways, it was all great food and now I'm going to go experience the miracle of sleep. (Also, the Neni that Elder F and I found while tabling didn't come to church with her two sons, nor did the advertisement appear in the newspaper).
That's all I have for this week. Talk to you next week.
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
NOTICE: This email message is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy all copies of the original message.
Monday, October 17, 2011
17 October 2011 Letter (Nyiregyhaza)
Dear Family,
It's halfway through October! How are you all doing? I wanted to start this email with just a brief reflection on my mission so far, and then let you know what's new over here.
Last transfer I came here to my first area. I met my trainer as well as the two other Elders here. When I first got here, the Branch began to revitalize, in large part due to the returning of two members. We started our transfer with only one investigator but found six more during the past six weeks. Last transfer, we had little to no long-term success streeting, tracting, flyering, or tabling, with only one investigator that came out of any of those activities (and we haven't met with her in over 3 weeks)... My language skills have improved during my time in the country, but I still can't speak too well. My cooking skills are much like the language; better, but still a ways to go. J One of the things I've enjoyed the most while being out here has been learning new ways to teach. It's always interesting to hear different views and perspective on many of these subjects I'm teaching and finding out how people best accept them.
So, with this transfer so far and things that are new: we have a new companion in our District. He's been pretty fun to work with so far. Also, it's incredibly cold over here. All of this week has been pretty chilly weather, and unlike most Utah weather where it can vary from hot to cold to hot on a day-to-day basis, the cold has been consistent, and it rains half of the time.
Monday 10 October
Today was my Dad's birthday, and his role and influence in my life is definitely worth using my miracle to remember. This morning two things happened: we taught an investigator for 2 1/2 hours in the morning, during which I had the "fun" opportunity to hear, learn, understand, then explain some of Brigham Young's talks on African Americans; the other was receive transfer calls.
Tuesday, 11 October
Today wasn't good, number wise. We only got one lesson. We had two lessons set up, but one wasn't there. Also, today was one of the other Elder’s last day, so we spent half the afternoon planning and getting things from him before he leaves. We went on a visit in the evening for dinner and a lesson. It went great and her apple dessert was delicious. Lastly, my Kicsi are in Hungary, and one will join us tomorrow.
Wednesday, 12 October
Today was a fulfilling, good day. We started by teaching an investigator, and we spent most the time reviewing questions we'd already discussed and solved during the first two lessons. The most annoying is that since day one she's kept saying that "we are saved by grace alone", but said the only reference for that is Ephesians 2:8, which says we are saved "by grace through faith", which connects to James 2 "Faith without works is dead, being alone", so we know it is by grace, faith, and works we are saved. However, she keeps disagreeing. It's annoying that she expects us to explain everything with the Bible, when she doesn't listen to some of the main things the Bible teaches.
We should have had a second lesson, but he dogged us. So, we went streeting for two hours and got two finds, the most successful for quite some time. With an investigator we reviewed the Restoration which was basic, but good. We also taught another, and ended by talking about referrals.
Thursday, 13 October
Today was fairly wonderful. My companion and I started our day with two lessons planned, but finished our day having taught five! In the morning we got a call from someone asking for English help, and we taught his wife afterwards. Then another called, who invited us over for lunch and a lesson. We got two new investigators in the evening, and then we finished our night with Angolora. I must admit that teaching Halado really stinks after being in the Profi class all of last transfer. We would have had a sixth lesson, but one called us and cancelled until next Tuesday. Other than that, we had invited an investigator to come teach and advertise during Angolora, but she called us half an hour before and cancelled as well. Oh well, at least we tried to do some service. I reviewed a large part of the beginning of my journal and reflected on many other memories this morning. It made me happy, but it also took a lot of energy out of me. It's also been consistently rainy and cold the past four days. Last of all is today's miracle which is receiving two new investigators in one day; something we can't usually do in an entire week.
Friday, 14 October
Another day on my mission. We only had one lesson planned today, but she called and cancelled. She told us she had been bitten by a dog and had to go to the hospital. We completely understood, told her not to worry, and that our prayers would be with her. During studies, my companion and I went into deep doctrine, talking about the 12 Tribes, the Millennium, and Predestination. Later we had a fairly unhelpful District Meeting with the two other Elders where they just repeated some of the things we had already discussed. I called President Baughman this morning and received permission to use Facebook as an advertising and finding tool. Also, after the District Meeting, we went streeting yet again, but this time we got two names and numbers!
Last of all was a thought that I developed today and is also my miracle. It was the realization that my life is good and that I have made a lot of good choices in life. Granted I've made some bad ones too, but the good, happy times and things in my life are the results of good, right choices that I, or others, have made. In fact, nearly everything I thought of could be broken down into a combination of both results of my choices and of someone else's choices. Fencing, school, and the mission I am currently serving; I have made many, many good choices to start, continue, and put forth effort in each one of them. Each class I chose to attend, each fencing practice I showed up to, each day I go out and proselyte is a good choice that improves my life. Likewise, without my parents, I never would've put forth the same effort, or even be able to take part in any of those activities. My friends never would've become friends if they had not each made efforts and choices on their parts. The Gospel that I am trying to share would not be the same without the choices and contributions of Joseph Smith, and every other prophet in the Church. I would not even be alive if my parents hadn't made some choices. Choices in life really do make a difference, and will continue to make a difference in the eternities beyond this life. It truly is important to remember this and always try to "Choose the Right".
Saturday, 15 October
Today was a unique day in my mission so far. My companion and I had not planned any lessons this morning or afternoon, so that we could spend our day tracting, which we managed to do for four hours (more counting travel time). The fun parts were that we didn't get a single let-in or telephone number, and it was raining all of today. It has been so consistently cold this week, and rain comes and goes on a daily basis. Luckily, we did manage to place a Book of Mormon and five Pass-Along Cards.
The miracle I saw today was modern clothing, to help keep us warm and dry in the cold winters. In a way they allow us to conquer the elements. It also reminded me of a story I heard while in the MTC of when President Hinckley was a counselor to Howard W Hunter, and he travelled to a Mission Zone Conference. At the start of the meeting he made some announcements and finished, in short, by saying, "As you all know, it is currently snowing outside and has been predicted to continue to do so for the next couple days. However, we have an important event tomorrow afternoon which will be held out on the pavilion, and we need the weather to be good. Elder _____ will now give the opening prayer, during which we ask him to ask the cold weather to stop." And he sat down. They told us at the MTC that the missionary did pray, after a brief heart-attack, and despite the snow the weather-forecasts had predicted, the next day was sunny and warm.
This brought the scripture Matthew 17:20 to my mind, as well as 1 Nephi 17:50. If I had been that missionary who had been called to say that prayer, it is hard to know what exactly I would have thought or how I would have felt. Hopefully my being and my testimony contain a "mustard seed of faith" that I could perform whatever the Lord commanded me with the same surety, hope, and faith that Nephi and others did in times of old.
Sunday, 16 October
Today we only had church, which went well, and we tracted for another hour, during which we actually managed to get a phone number, more than we could receive all of yesterday. The only other noteworthy thing today was the remembering of President Eyring's and Elder Holland's video "Missionaries and the Atonement". I encourage anyone who hasn't seen it to look it up. In it lies my miracle for today. (Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6FKiNVbw3Y )
I also came up with two other spiritual thoughts this week. The first is the video where Elder Holland and President Eyring talk about the Atonement and Missionary Work. I just thought it was a powerful video and has a message that extends far beyond a full-time mission. The second is I read the first chapter of 2 Nephi two days ago, and noticed some fun things in it. Verses 5-12 talk about some visions and prophecies concerning the Americas in our time, some of which have come true (immigration was an interesting one), and others that have yet to come to pass. Verse 14 has an interesting quote from Lehi, "Awake! And arise from the dust, and hear the words of a trembling parent". It really helped me realize just how powerful Lehi's words and love for his sons and desire for their welfare was, and how closed their hearts had to be to not heed that love. Likewise, I was also a little surprised by verse 25, in which Lehi says he would have blessed them above Nephi and Sam if they would just harken to the councils of the Lord. In verse 30 is one of my favorite quotes when he is talking to Zoram, "I know that thou art a true friend...forever". Lastly, the part that connects to my blog post is actually between chapters. In my blog posts I talked of the blessings of choice. In the heading for 2 Nephi 2, it says "Freedom of choice (agency) is essential to existence and progression." That's just something I felt tied in really well to a thought I had dwelt on the day before.
The last things I'd like to share this week is that earlier this week I reflected on my journal and on many of my past experiences and memories. Memories are one of the things I've always appreciated and been the most thankful for. They allow good times and events to last forever, far longer than the short moments during which they happen. I'm glad for some many events and memories in my life, and for Heavenly Father’s great gift to us to allow us to remember them in our memories. I love remembering the many fun times we've had together and the memories we've shared.
That's all I have this week, both to say and also time-wise. Talk to you next P-Day.
Szeretettel,
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Monday, October 10, 2011
10 October 2011 Letter (Nyiregyhaza)
It's P-Day again, and the last one during this transfer. There have been a lot of calls going back and forth between companionships to see who is going where. My companion and I are staying together. One of the Elders in the other companionship, however, is leaving. The other Elder is staying and is actually getting a Greenie, so I'll get to serve with one of my Kicsi!
Monday, 3 October
Monday, 3 October
Today was a fun P-Day. Started off with shopping and emails and used some of the new MSF =D. Then, this afternoon we went with the other Elders and one of the members to the zoo. The zoo here is pretty big and has a fun variety of animals. There was a baby otter that was really cute. The strangest were the seagulls, and they had a small pen with a dog house in the middle, in which laid the saddest basset hound I've ever seen. We all felt so bad for it. Near the end we fed some llamas and their tongues tickled. Despite moving through it fairly fast, we didn't have enough time to quite make it through everything, it was quite a big zoo. I'm not sure if I'll ever get the opportunity to return and go through the last parts. Still, it was very enjoyable and I got to take a lot of pictures.
After spending a couple hours at the zoo we went to a member’s house for dinner and a spiritual thought. As always, her food was amazing. She stuffed us with a four whole courses, and I somehow managed to eat two plates of each.
Lastly, the miracle of the day was looking online and finding that six new temples were announced. Although, I must admit, the variety and design of the few of God's many creations we saw at the zoo helped put into perspective how amazing and creative Heavenly Father is, which is another miracle.
Tuesday, 4 October
My companion and I taught three lessons. We were also fed both lunch and dinner. Other than that, not too much happened. We tabled for a couple hours in the morning, had a program with an investigator who never came, and swung by another’s to try to re-establish contact but he still wasn't there. Luckily, today we finally managed to create a good opportunity to give one a Book of Mormon.
Wednesday, 5 October
Today was a unique and fairly hard day. We waited for our first two lessons, but no one showed up. We had three other lessons, one on Fasting, a 15 minute one with a Neni who we gave a Book of Mormon to, and who said she'd like to meet again next week, and a 2 1/2 hour lesson with the last. This last one is American, but has lived in Hungary for the past 6 1/2 years.
Thursday, 6 October
Time is still continuing to be distorted. Today I spent some time setting goals for myself during the next couple weeks. Very few were actually language goals. We taught 3 lessons today. We met with a woman for 15 minutes to discuss, talk about, and give her a Book of Mormon. In the evening I taught my biggest Angolora class yet, with nine of us taking part in the discussions.
My miracle is tied into the spiritual thought I shared. We are all sons and daughters of God. We each have limitless potential, and Heavenly Father has an infinite love to help us reach that potential. In the words of President Uchtdorf, "knowing all that changes everything. It changes us, and it can change the world."
Friday, 7 October
Today we got dogged again, and our only lesson was on obedience. Tabling has really died out, so we went back to streeting today. While it wasn't too successful, we did get one phone number and that is my small miracle today. Last of all, it started raining this evening, and neither of us had jackets, so we got soaked. Although, now that it's over, and I'm dry again, it just provides another memory that I'll have to smile about.
Saturday, 8 October
Today was a good day. We taught two lessons, and both lessons went better than usual. We knew more of what to expect with the first, and planned accordingly, and with the second we reviewed the entire fourth lesson, which I'm very glad to write, she understood, remembered, and follows. This week we had more lessons fall through than show up (which actually is true for our week overall as well), but we still taught more than the past 2-3 weeks, so while we suffered greater rejection, we also had greater success this week. Tomorrow we are going to watch the first two sessions of General Conference in Hungarian. I guess I'll have to see how much, or possibly, how little, I actually understand.
My miracle is that we were able to plan better and more closely follow our teaching plans than usual.
Sunday, 9 October
Today our Branch watched General Conference. While I was able to figure out and understand the topics of nearly every talk, that's about all I was able to understand. Sadly, only about 10 members came today to watch the sessions. Miraculously, I stayed awake and focused all four hours, which is usually hard for me, even when it is in English and I could understand it. After General Conference, my companion and I went tracting for a couple hours but didn't get a single find.
Well, that's about it. I just have some quick concluding remarks.
I'm at the end of my first transfer and nearly 1/6 of the way done with my mission, which is crazy and hard to believe. It feels like I've done so little out here, but I know that while this feels like it's way too fast, I still have the vast majority of my mission ahead of me. Reflecting on this transfer makes me really appreciate our one true investigator, and makes me glad to teach her. She's still the only one we have on a Baptism Date, but it's so exciting to think about her baptism.
Here's a good, final quote from the scriptures:
"Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live the gospel." - 1 Corinthians 9:14
That's all for this week,
I love you all!
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Monday, October 3, 2011
3 October 2011 Letter (Nyiregyhaza)
It's October! (I think in the future, when I have more stories, or at least can understand more of what's going on around me, I might change the style of my entries to more of a weekly overview with a spiritual though instead of these excerpts of my daily journal entries. While I could start doing short spiritual thoughts, the experiences are something that is still in the process). Anyways, I'll figure out if I'm going to change that or not later, in the future.
Monday, 26 September
Monday, 26 September
I went whipping for the first time today. I can get the whips to crack, but still have a lot to learn. Next time I plan on taping my wrists, as half of my wrist is now yellow and purple. I also have two nice lashes on my right shoulder and just above my elbow. I'm sure I'll get progressively better each time I do it. Lastly today, my companion and I set a goal to try to increase our obedience by choosing three rules each week to find ways to follow more closely.
Tuesday, 27 September
Tuesday, 27 September
Today we taught two investigators. I don't have much to say about either lesson, other than that we failed to extend the planned commitments in either one. We went tabling today, and at the end two kids came up asking us for money. After they pretended to cry and act pitiful, we told them we had none, but told them about the Book of Mormon, and gave them one after hearing them say they read the Bible regularly (which they did have some knowledge of the scriptures. By the way, it was two 12-year-old boys). At the end, they turned around and found that their Mom and Dad had happened to walk into the park, see them, and had been standing behind them since the second half of their "crying for money" scene. They were both very surprised and there was a bit of an awkward silence. It made us all laugh later. Anyways, we figured we made the best of that situation, and who knows, maybe since their parents were standing there nearly the whole time listening in (we didn't know it was their parents until the kids turned around and they started talking), they heard our message as well, saw us be nice to their sons, and maybe they'll take a slight interest in the church, or read the Book of Mormon we gave their sons. Truth be told, you never know. Today a miracle was having a teenager join me, my companion, and a member while playing soccer. He played with us for almost an hour, and then spent over an hour talking. He said he'd come the Branch Activity on Saturday, and seemed to enjoy spending the evening with us. Hopefully we'll see him again.
Wednesday, 28 September
Wednesday, 28 September
Today was a much better day. I'm on splits again; this time with one of our Zone Leaders. It's been interesting and good to work with him for a day. He's on month 23, and will be going home in a month and a half. We had three lessons planned today, but no one showed up for the first two. The third was a great, short, simple, and spiritual message (and we stayed on topic the whole time). Lastly, we went tabling for 3 hours, and got two finds out of it. My miracle of the day was communicating with the others more often and better than I usually do. Hopefully I can continue to push and grow.
Thursday, 29 September
I left the MTC a month ago. So far, things are going great. Today we had a full schedule. My companion and I finished our splits this morning and went to teach an investigator. It went well, and we learned that he's read a fair amount of the Book of Mormon. Upon finishing his lesson, we were approached by a girl on the street who said she's from Washington State, and would like to meet and talk some time. We taught another investigator, and had an unplanned discussion on the Law of Chastity and the Word of Wisdom. In our third meeting of the day, we taught about tithing and followed up on the commitments for keeping the Sabbath Day holy. She said she won't have a problem with tithing, but that it is hard for her to attend all three hours of Sacrament Meeting.
Angolora went well and contains my miracle for today. We had a small group. The cool part was they stayed for half an hour extra to continue talking. Out of the hour and a half I told them about many parts of the gospel, and only 5-10 minutes were not focused on the gospel. That's it for today. Currently on splits.
Friday, 30 September
Friday, 30 September
Splits are over again. I'm tired and ready to sleep so I'm going to make today's short. We taught one lesson and tabled for 3 1/2 hours during which we got four finds. I memorized 22 verses of scripture today. Also, tomorrow is the big activity that I'm really hoping is successful. In the last three days, more lessons have fallen through than succeeded. Last of all, today I read many conference talks, and nearly all were on the Atonement or on Love, both of which were good for me to hear. They really are both basic, yet important fundamentals in the gospel.
Saturday, 1 October
Saturday, 1 October
I'm still tired...oh well, today was a good day. This morning we spent two hours harvesting Sunflowers. It was a unique and memorable experience. They were all ridiculously tall (8-10 feet) and we were working in a large field full of them. The beautiful part about them was when the seeds would all be covered with yellow balls of flowers. There were so many (one per seed) and looked like golden raindrops as we brushed them off. However, on the older sunflowers, the balls of petals had fallen off and left little spikes. They actually made my hand bleed in three places. At first everyone would bend the stocks down to reach the flowers at the top to harvest them, but I took my sickle (yes, I had a sickle) and started felling them in one blow, which allowed me to work 2-3 times as fast as anyone else. I felt like a pro. Also, a fair amount of the flowers themselves were nearly a cubit in length (almost 1 1/2 feet). Afterwards we came back, made brownies, and went to the activity at the Branch House. There weren't many members there, and only one of our investigators attended. We watched the Other Side of Heaven, ate desserts, and talked to everyone. The miracle of the day was the uniqueness and beauty of the Sunflowers. Also, another fun miracle was that I saw my first Ladybug since starting my mission, sitting on top of a giant sunflower. It made me sort of wish I had my camera to capture the irony.
Sunday, 2 October
Sunday, 2 October
General Conference was this weekend, but I didn't get to see any of it. We'll watch the first two sessions next week instead. We had another Fast Sunday today and an hour and a half meeting after church. It was really hard for me to stay awake today. During weekly planning, I discovered that my companion and I can get up to eight new investigators this week. Hopefully it works out. My miracle today was the great success we had in scheduling appointments for 8 of our 9 finds from last week. (Also only 3-4 days left until my wrist should be completely recovered from whipping last week).
Lastly, everything else
Lastly, everything else
How was Conference? Did you all enjoy it? Did you do the tradition of brie and baguettes? I haven't gotten to see any of it yet, and although we will watch the first two sessions this coming Sunday, it will all be in Hungarian, so I won't actually understand all the Conference talks until the end of next month when we get a Liohona.
Something I found strange and funny is that the Hungarian Parliament has passed a new law concerning Churches. Because "Church" organizations have been exempt from certain tax laws, it sounds like groups have been labeling themselves as a "church" to save money. So, Parliament passed a law where they decide who can hold the title of "church", and have given that 'permission' to the ten oldest churches in Hungary and to the three biggest ones outside of the original ten. So, currently, our church is not recognized as an official "church". However, there is a petition to get us "Churchdom" that is currently being processed, and it should go through just fine. However, if something really crazy should happen and they deny it, we'll have to change all our signs and refer to ourselves as "The Organization (or Community) of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints".
I enjoyed receiving Griffin's letter. Sounds like he's having great experiences, miracles, and success. I can't really say that I can match those miracles or success, although maybe there are more miracles than I can realize that I just haven't seen because of the language barrier.
Well, that's it for today. We're going to take off and meet six other missionaries at the Zoo for the afternoon. Supposedly, it's a fairly big and nice one.
Talk to you next week.
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Something I found strange and funny is that the Hungarian Parliament has passed a new law concerning Churches. Because "Church" organizations have been exempt from certain tax laws, it sounds like groups have been labeling themselves as a "church" to save money. So, Parliament passed a law where they decide who can hold the title of "church", and have given that 'permission' to the ten oldest churches in Hungary and to the three biggest ones outside of the original ten. So, currently, our church is not recognized as an official "church". However, there is a petition to get us "Churchdom" that is currently being processed, and it should go through just fine. However, if something really crazy should happen and they deny it, we'll have to change all our signs and refer to ourselves as "The Organization (or Community) of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints".
I enjoyed receiving Griffin's letter. Sounds like he's having great experiences, miracles, and success. I can't really say that I can match those miracles or success, although maybe there are more miracles than I can realize that I just haven't seen because of the language barrier.
Well, that's it for today. We're going to take off and meet six other missionaries at the Zoo for the afternoon. Supposedly, it's a fairly big and nice one.
Talk to you next week.
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Monday, September 26, 2011
26 September 2011 Letter (Nyiregyhaza)
I don't have very much to email this week as this was a pretty dead week and there's been less time than usual since my last email.
Wednesday, 21 September
Wednesday, 21 September
Not a lot got done today. We had personal and companionship study for the first time since Saturday. We visited a really kind, old Neni for an hour and a half, missed our program with a family, and finished our evening with a meeting. Because we missed our P-Day, we were able to email a little bit today, although, not for too long. I sent an email to my Kicsi, and hope they enjoyed it. My miracle today was that, although we missed our lesson with a family, they saw us driving, pulled over, and we were able to reschedule for tomorrow afternoon. We'll get to teach them after all!
Thursday, 22 September
Thursday, 22 September
Today we taught two people and did a whole lot of streeting. The first lesson was mostly review, followed by obeying the law of the land. The second lesson was good, although I only had a class of 3 today, and none were new. Despite going streeting for 4 1/2 hours, we only found one person who seemed even remotely interested. However, that is also when my little miracle occurred. We found a man again we had met last week, got a new phone number for him, and will try calling him again later to see if he'll keep the reading commitments. (We were also supposed to meet with the family from yesterday this afternoon, but we showed up 3 times at half hour intervals, and no one was there).
Friday, 23 September
Friday, 23 September
Today I went Tabelling for the first time. We found out that it's more effective. Scripture Masteries are incredibly long, especially Joseph Smith History 15-20. My fun miracle today was that my companion and I only had to fix breakfast today, as we were fed both lunch and dinner, neither of which were planned, nor were either expected. I also learned horse Kolbasz tastes good.
Saturday, 24 September
Saturday, 24 September
We had only one lesson today, which was on the Law of Chastity. As usual, we quickly got off topic. Luckily, a memeber was able to come, and she really helped the lesson become refocused. We went fliering and streeting for an hour. We didn't manage to street anyone except one old Neni. We're also almost out of fliers. Tonight we had some Szalona. It's average on taste, is unique, but is super unhealthy. (It's basically the fattiest part of pig fat (around the part that's usually used to make bacon), and it's smoked, then you heat it up over a fire and drip the melting fat onto bread, like super fat butter). For my miracle, it would be managing to give a pass-along card to the Neni, the only one we managed to street today.
Sunday, 25 September
Sunday, 25 September
It's hard to street or tract on Sunday. Sacrament meeting today went well, but we weren't able to meet with anyone today. We went fliering for three hours, and as we passed through a neighborhood, we saw a member riding past. We stopped and talked for a little while. She recently got a new job and works the night shift. That was my miracle for today. Lastly, the other Elders went out tabling this afternoon, and they had an angry drunk guy (in his early 20's) come up and shout at them, punch one Elder in the face, overturn their tables, and spit repeatedly on the Book of Mormon's. The two Elders picked up the books and table and just walked back to their apartment with the guy still standing there yelling at them. I'm not entirely sure what I would've done if I had been there.
Random thoughts:
- I had a bit of an idea during personal study earlier this week. When teaching the "Word of Wisdom", why not read verses 18-21 first, make those promises of specific blessings that come from the commandment, and ask them what they think the commandment might be that promises such large blessings? (I'm assuming that they'd guess something pretty big). Then tell them what the "Word of Wisdom" asks us to do, and show them how easy it is. If wanted, it's a good opportunity to share the story of Naaman, and show that we don't always need to go on big quests for miracles, but sometimes just small, easy things.
- Scripture Mastery are incredibly long, and they don't teach all the parts of most of them in seminary, but I figured there's a reason why all the verses were chosen, so I've been trying to start to look at those. For example, in JSH 1:15-20, most people focus and memorize just the first vision, but there's more in there than that. For example: the thought never occurred to Joseph that all the many churches could be wrong. Joseph was a lot further spiritually than most of the people I'm encountering, and it's really making me wonder how many of them have even considered that all the other churches could be false, and the importance and significance of finding the one true church.
That's all I have for this week. I look forward to reading all of your emails that I printed out.
Talk to you all next week!
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Random thoughts:
- I had a bit of an idea during personal study earlier this week. When teaching the "Word of Wisdom", why not read verses 18-21 first, make those promises of specific blessings that come from the commandment, and ask them what they think the commandment might be that promises such large blessings? (I'm assuming that they'd guess something pretty big). Then tell them what the "Word of Wisdom" asks us to do, and show them how easy it is. If wanted, it's a good opportunity to share the story of Naaman, and show that we don't always need to go on big quests for miracles, but sometimes just small, easy things.
- Scripture Mastery are incredibly long, and they don't teach all the parts of most of them in seminary, but I figured there's a reason why all the verses were chosen, so I've been trying to start to look at those. For example, in JSH 1:15-20, most people focus and memorize just the first vision, but there's more in there than that. For example: the thought never occurred to Joseph that all the many churches could be wrong. Joseph was a lot further spiritually than most of the people I'm encountering, and it's really making me wonder how many of them have even considered that all the other churches could be false, and the importance and significance of finding the one true church.
That's all I have for this week. I look forward to reading all of your emails that I printed out.
Talk to you all next week!
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
21 September 2011 Letter (Nyiregyhaza)
Hello Everyone, I'm sure you wondered why I didn't send an email on Monday. I was attending Greenie Training. We all missed our P-Day, but we have been allowed a short time today to send some shorter emails. So, I'm going to do a quick blog post. Thanks for bearing with me. J
Monday, 12 September
Another P-Day, another email, another shopping trip, and another fast: completed! Tonight my thoughts spent some time drifting to fencing. I hope I'll be able to build my fencing skills back up as fast as I hope. I also hope my teammates at both Utah and Penn are doing well, and also that I'll have some amazing new teammates to meet when I get back.
A highlight of today was breaking my fast and eating dinner with a member. She is a great cook and made fruit soup, Hungarian-style loaded potatoes, and some kind of really good dessert. Also, her house and garden were amazing. They both looked like something out of a movie (sort of like the Weasley's house in Harry Potter, but only 2 floors).
Before going to bed, I first need to get in my little daily miracle. One of my little miracles today was not being very hungry, tired, or thirsty during my fast. It was fairly uncommon and helped make my day even better =).
Tuesday, 13 September
Tuesday, 13 September
Today was a very busy and very tiring day. We cut our studies short this morning, and left at 8:30am so we could meet with an investigator and her daughter. Her daughter just returned over the weekend after being in New York, DC, and Miami for two months, so we talked to her about it for the first while, but most the time we spent discussing the Restoration. We ran twenty minutes late, so we got to jog for half an hour again to get to our next investigator.
We discussed the Restoration again. He leaves for London this weekend, so we'll only get to meet with him one more time. However, he asked us if it was alright for us to continue to communicate via email, and said he'd continue to read the Book of Mormon and pray every day while he was in London. I really hope things work out with him. He is a great, smart, and mature person. That lesson lasted over an hour and a half (although the first 30 minutes was the English part), so we got to jog to our next appointment as well.
The lesson with this investigator went well as we talked about the Plan of Salvation. He has a good personality and gives a lot of thought to important things in life, but, unfortunately, he rarely does the things that he needs to and we aren't quite sure how we are going to get him to read the Book of Mormon or keep commitments. Also, because we started late, we finished late, and got to jog to our next lesson (if this keeps up for the rest of my mission, then I'll be in great shape).
She told us today that she doesn't like to read, so, while we haven't given her one yet, it will make asking her to read the Book of Mormon harder. She's putting more effort into her prayers, and I am hoping to see some progress there. Next time we plan on giving her a Book of Mormon.
We had a fifth lesson planned with a member of the Branch, but when we called her a couple minutes before, we learned she had forgotten and also decided to back out. It was a little strange to have my first cancel be from a member. We instead spent the time with a different member who was having a rough day.
Lastly, my miracle today was the blessing of a healthy body, having the energy to jog from lesson to lesson, and not getting incredibly stinky while doing so. =)
Wednesday, 14 September
We discussed the Restoration again. He leaves for London this weekend, so we'll only get to meet with him one more time. However, he asked us if it was alright for us to continue to communicate via email, and said he'd continue to read the Book of Mormon and pray every day while he was in London. I really hope things work out with him. He is a great, smart, and mature person. That lesson lasted over an hour and a half (although the first 30 minutes was the English part), so we got to jog to our next appointment as well.
The lesson with this investigator went well as we talked about the Plan of Salvation. He has a good personality and gives a lot of thought to important things in life, but, unfortunately, he rarely does the things that he needs to and we aren't quite sure how we are going to get him to read the Book of Mormon or keep commitments. Also, because we started late, we finished late, and got to jog to our next lesson (if this keeps up for the rest of my mission, then I'll be in great shape).
She told us today that she doesn't like to read, so, while we haven't given her one yet, it will make asking her to read the Book of Mormon harder. She's putting more effort into her prayers, and I am hoping to see some progress there. Next time we plan on giving her a Book of Mormon.
We had a fifth lesson planned with a member of the Branch, but when we called her a couple minutes before, we learned she had forgotten and also decided to back out. It was a little strange to have my first cancel be from a member. We instead spent the time with a different member who was having a rough day.
Lastly, my miracle today was the blessing of a healthy body, having the energy to jog from lesson to lesson, and not getting incredibly stinky while doing so. =)
Wednesday, 14 September
Today we spent the day in RCLA's, teaching 3 lessons (all members). All three lessons went well. I am on splits right now and will be teaching four lessons tomorrow. Lastly, today the little miracle was finding out that Joseph Isaac won Junior Epee at Summer Nationals. Congratulations Joe! It will be fun to see how I do against him when I return.
Thursday, 15 September
Thursday, 15 September
I have now been on my mission for exactly 3 months, and am 1/8th of the way through. Yet, I still have a long ways to go concerning the language, the work, and just about everything. I spent today on splits and am still on splits until tomorrow evening. Today we taught five lessons. We taught two lessons on Charity and Service, taught one on the Kingdoms of Glory, and one on scripture reading. I taught the English class again tonight, and, while there was only one person at the start, I had a class of five by the end. Unfortunately, none were interested.
My miracle today was having money for bus tickets, even though I rarely take money with me, and I had grabbed enough to cover two tickets before I knew about the splits and also before I knew about the bus.
Friday, 16 September
My miracle today was having money for bus tickets, even though I rarely take money with me, and I had grabbed enough to cover two tickets before I knew about the splits and also before I knew about the bus.
Friday, 16 September
Splits are now over. The damage to my food supply is bearable, although the dishes have built up again. I didn't have any programs today, and I feel like we accomplished very little. We planned a little bit of the "PMG" class for Sunday, got in hours of studying, and went streeting for an hour, but did not manage to get a single person to listen to our message for more than ten seconds. =P We finished the day and splits with Out-Reach, where we once again played ping-pong. One day I'll be able to speak the language better and help make it more creative. I may try to sooner and try to have one of the other missionaries interpret for me.
The miracle today was learning how vast a majority in our branch are the only members in their family, yet are still active. Despite all but a few being from part or no-member families, it's amazing to see their testimonies and their efforts, even during just these first two weeks.
Saturday, 17 September
The miracle today was learning how vast a majority in our branch are the only members in their family, yet are still active. Despite all but a few being from part or no-member families, it's amazing to see their testimonies and their efforts, even during just these first two weeks.
Saturday, 17 September
We taught four lessons today. The first two went well, but the last lesson was even worse than last time. We didn't feel the Spirit, nor did we even manage to teach a lesson. The whole 50 minutes was just them yelling, with the exception of my companion getting in one sentence. That was literally all either of us said.
The other crazy thing was that we went to play soccer with a member for a little while, and within 60 seconds of playing he ran into a post and left a 1 1/2 inch gash running down his forehead and another below his eye, that were as wide as about 2-3 times the thickness of a fingernail. We took him home, from where, he went to the hospital. As a result, we met with him again in the evening to check up on him. He got 5 stitches, but should be okay in a couple weeks.
The other crazy thing was that we went to play soccer with a member for a little while, and within 60 seconds of playing he ran into a post and left a 1 1/2 inch gash running down his forehead and another below his eye, that were as wide as about 2-3 times the thickness of a fingernail. We took him home, from where, he went to the hospital. As a result, we met with him again in the evening to check up on him. He got 5 stitches, but should be okay in a couple weeks.
So, that is my miracle for the day, modern medicine.
Sunday, 18 September
Sunday, 18 September
We had Sacrament Meeting earlier today. A senior couple came and both spoke. It's amazing that they're both here serving the Lord. I also learned that one of the Elders here is blind. His determination and commitment is definitely my miracle of the day.
Monday, 19 September
Back in our apartment finally. I spent today sitting in lines and at Greenie Training with the rest of my old District. It was fun to see them all again, and hear what experiences they've been having across other parts of Hungary. Our "networking" plan here in our city is definitely the most unique, which isn't really a bad thing. I know I've enjoyed my time here a lot. As nice as it is to be done with the long train rides, we need to get up nice and early again tomorrow to catch the 7:00 train for Interviews. So, I'm going to bed (before 10:30 I might add). J
Today’s miracle: Being so busy, but also enjoying it.
Tuesday, 20 September
I know I've written this before, but time is so distorted while serving a mission. It truly feels like I just got here, yet, I'm halfway done with my first transfer. Stranger still, everyone I've talked to has said that, like the MTC, it will only start to go by even faster! I spent the day in Interviews. It went well, but also took all day. This week doesn't feel like it's really begun. During the entire week we are only going to be able to meet with one of our five investigators. We got back to our city in the evening, went shopping, ate, and are now at 10:30. My mission so far has been busy, tiring, and also enjoyable. It's more unique than what I used to believe missions were like. (I'm sure it'd be different if I served elsewhere). Get to email again tomorrow as we missed our P-Day.
Miracle: How far and how fast we can travel with modern technology. It really does make so many more things possible and much more convenient.
Since coming out here, I've begun to glimpse more of how awesome missionaries are, and that only the best are sent to serve in Hungary (that doesn't mean all the best get sent here, but just that everyone here is counted among the best) =D
Miracle: How far and how fast we can travel with modern technology. It really does make so many more things possible and much more convenient.
Since coming out here, I've begun to glimpse more of how awesome missionaries are, and that only the best are sent to serve in Hungary (that doesn't mean all the best get sent here, but just that everyone here is counted among the best) =D
Love you all. I'll be sure to email on Monday when we are actually able to have our P-Day!
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Monday, September 12, 2011
12 September 2011 Letter (Nyiregyhaza)
Monday, 5 September
Today was my first P-Day in Hungary. It was very enjoyable. This morning, we started by going to TESCO, the Hungarian version of Wal-Mart. While there, we got light bulbs to try to lighten our apartment, but they were all the wrong size....oops. We also planned on going to the zoo today with the other Elders in our district, but we received a call from a member that needed help, so an hour and a half was devoted to that instead. I also went to an Internet Cafe for the first time, but due to the instructions being in Hungarian, the workers only speaking Hungarian, and having my computer freeze twice, it took almost an hour just to get started! We ended our P-Day with FHE with 8 other members. I got to try Fruit Soup. It tastes great! Also, I learned that "What If" is hard to play and isn't as funny when you can't speak the language well.
Tuesday, 6 September
Tuesday, 6 September
Today was a busy day. My companion and I have been really blessed. We taught 4 lessons today (far more than usual). The first was to a man. He's 25 years old and is an incredible person, and a golden investigator. He does not have a very religious background, but is very mature and has clearly thought about many of life's harder questions. He believes in God, believes that He loves and wants to help each and every one of us, knows about and cares about everything in life, and that everything happens for a reason, even if we don't always understand it. The biggest foreseeable trial is that he goes to London every other month for work, helping an incredible man he told me about. (The man has been paralyzed from the shoulders down since he was a teenager. Yet he's worked hard, holds a leadership position in a company, and most importantly, chooses to always be happy and out-going, despite his hardships). We scheduled to meet with him again tomorrow, something I'm really excited about.
Our second lesson was to a man I met just this morning on the street. He lives a ways away from us, but comes into town fairly regularly. He speaks English very well (which he learned when he spent 3 years in LA), and was the first to fulfill the many tales I heard at the MTC and out here in the field of older Hungarians loving to complain, debate, and complain some more. He has a very negative view of life and of others, and thinks everyone's main thoughts and concerns are how they can take advantage of their friends and neighbors. He said he already has a Book of Mormon, so I challenged him to read Mosiah 2-5 on service and love. I also got his phone number, so we can check-up and see if he wishes to continue meeting.
Our third lesson was with a girl. She's 15, and her mom contacted us to help her as she is struggling with her English class at school. She knows English about as well as I know Hungarian. At the end, we talked about religion and found that she doesn't believe in God or anything else, but has never thought about it. We're scheduled to meet again on Thursday. It will be interesting to see how she progresses.
Our last lesson was with a lady on the Word of Wisdom. She only had a problem with Coffee, but like the great investigator she is, she committed to follow it. She also asked the fun question of where Zarahemla was located. To my great amusement, my companion and the member we were with both pulled out maps and tried to find it. =) However, they couldn't see it labeled anywhere.
Our second lesson was to a man I met just this morning on the street. He lives a ways away from us, but comes into town fairly regularly. He speaks English very well (which he learned when he spent 3 years in LA), and was the first to fulfill the many tales I heard at the MTC and out here in the field of older Hungarians loving to complain, debate, and complain some more. He has a very negative view of life and of others, and thinks everyone's main thoughts and concerns are how they can take advantage of their friends and neighbors. He said he already has a Book of Mormon, so I challenged him to read Mosiah 2-5 on service and love. I also got his phone number, so we can check-up and see if he wishes to continue meeting.
Our third lesson was with a girl. She's 15, and her mom contacted us to help her as she is struggling with her English class at school. She knows English about as well as I know Hungarian. At the end, we talked about religion and found that she doesn't believe in God or anything else, but has never thought about it. We're scheduled to meet again on Thursday. It will be interesting to see how she progresses.
Our last lesson was with a lady on the Word of Wisdom. She only had a problem with Coffee, but like the great investigator she is, she committed to follow it. She also asked the fun question of where Zarahemla was located. To my great amusement, my companion and the member we were with both pulled out maps and tried to find it. =) However, they couldn't see it labeled anywhere.
The gospel is true. I feel myself growing. It feels great. =)
Wednesday, 7 September
Wednesday, 7 September
Today I fasted again. It's always a good experience and worth it at the end. We taught two lessons today. Neither one went well lesson-wise, but both were over an hour in length (we're to blame for any problems). We taught one about the Restoration, but made it a little more confusing than it needed to be. However, I still feel great about him and he kept his commitment. The other, we also planned on teaching the Restoration, but instead spent the time listening to some of the many incredibly hard things she has gone through. It was good to remember today that often it is more important to listen than to talk. She didn't read the intro to the Book of Mormon, so I recommitted her to read it. We ended the night and my fast with omelets, which were delicious.
Thursday, 8 September
Thursday, 8 September
I am currently on splits. It is the first time I've been on splits or been to the other companionship's apartment. We taught 5 lessons today. The first was to a man. We had some incredible fruit soup with him and his family, taught him a great lesson, and spent only an hour there this time. The lesson was great and he had some incredible thoughts and beliefs about how God created everything with a purpose, and also that there needs to be opposition in all things.
Our second lesson was with the girl from Monday. We had a shorter lesson today, during which we found out that while she doesn’t really believe in God, she somehow prays every day, so we challenged her to think more about the purpose and reason of prayer and to pray for specific answers.
Our second lesson was with the girl from Monday. We had a shorter lesson today, during which we found out that while she doesn’t really believe in God, she somehow prays every day, so we challenged her to think more about the purpose and reason of prayer and to pray for specific answers.
We taught the lady from Monday an interesting lesson about following the prophet, and tried to answer her many questions about the Word of Wisdom.
I taught the English class again, but this week there was only one person there, a man. We spent the hour having a good conversation, and after the spiritual thought he asked for a Book of Mormon, said he'd read the introduction, asked when Church usually is, and also said he really loved "Come What May And Love It", which I showed during the spiritual thought, and said he wanted to and will look up more Mormon Messages. While I wish more people had come, I guess 100% of my class showed good interest, so I'll count it as a success for now.
Friday, 9 September
I taught the English class again, but this week there was only one person there, a man. We spent the hour having a good conversation, and after the spiritual thought he asked for a Book of Mormon, said he'd read the introduction, asked when Church usually is, and also said he really loved "Come What May And Love It", which I showed during the spiritual thought, and said he wanted to and will look up more Mormon Messages. While I wish more people had come, I guess 100% of my class showed good interest, so I'll count it as a success for now.
Friday, 9 September
Today I was on splits again. We went streeting for 30 minutes, but did not find anyone. We also taught a lesson to a man on Temples (he is getting baptized in 2 weeks!), and we taught a woman on Trials.
Saturday, 10 September
Saturday, 10 September
I did some real exercise in Hungary for the first time today. We went jogging for 30 minutes, and then met up with the other missionaries to play soccer for another half hour. Afterwards, we had to quickly jog back and get ready for our lesson with an investigator. We reviewed the Word of Wisdom, as she is still struggling with coffee, and also discussed following the prophet. I was in charge of our lesson with some members tonight. The man is middle age and married, and has a daughter about 15 who was baptized only 8 months ago. He, along with his wife and mother, loves to talk, and talk, and talk. I still managed to squeeze in a couple minutes before we had to leave. Afterwards, we went back to the Branch House where my companion and I labeled and stapled over 300 fliers. Hopefully we'll get to use them soon. Tomorrow we get up at 5:00 so we can catch the train to Zone Conference. Lastly, today I thoroughly studied 1 Nephi 11, learning the cycle, process, and progression of following the Spirit and receiving revelation..
Sunday, 11 September
Sunday, 11 September
Today was our Zone Conference, so we got up at 5, and took the train, making it onboard literally within 30 seconds of it leaving (because we waited 15 minutes for a member to come). At the conference, there were many speakers who I couldn't understand. However, I did understand when President Baughman spoke. He spoke about a meeting he was at in Copenhagen just recently (within the past couple weeks) with the other 29 European Mission Presidents and Elder Bednar. He shared how Elder Bednar said that while many speak of the highlight of the Atonement being the power to cleanse sins, the greatest blessing of the Atonement is its power to Elevate; to raise us to far more than we ever could have been before. Each time we take part in the Atonement, we improve ourselves. Also, as two side notes, the church here is an actual, large, and nice church building, and the Hungarian countryside is mostly just fields of corn and sometimes sunflowers.
The last thing for today is that I'd like to try to start recording just one little miracle a day. I don't plan on writing some incredible story each day, but I do hope to better see and appreciate the Lord's hand, constantly in my life. For this first night, I noticed and remembered how close the train was, both there and back. It was a great blessing to not be a minute late and miss it.
Random facts and other things:
Random facts and other things:
· It feels like it was just 2-3 days ago that I was in here emailing. The days are already starting to zoom by.
· There are four missionaries in our District.
· While we only had one progressing investigator when I arrived here, we are now up to five!
· I sleep like a log every night, and long for when I'll be able to sleep in until 9:00am again.
· I cooked eggs again. I'm getting better, but still have room to improve. J
· I found a street on Saturday called "Ship Street"
· Missionaries in Hungary do less streeting and tracting than most missions I think. It just doesn't seem as effective here, but I'm hoping that will change with the hundreds of fliers we put together. Instead of streeting, we've been focusing our energy into strengthening the Branch. In addition to trying to get referrals and help from the members here, we're also really trying to just keep them active. From what I've heard, within the past couple years, the Branch here has shrunk from 80-90 to the 25-30 it is today!
That's it for my email today. I look forward to reading all of your letters and responding next week.
Love you all,
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Monday, September 5, 2011
5 September 2011 Letter (Nyiregyhaza)
Wednesday, 24 August
Consecration week is over! I can speak English again, although, I actually found it quite difficult to speak just English, as I'd always want to react and start talking in Hungarian. I'm glad I can speak English and finally was able to talk to Elder Powell. I had a good temple session today, last one for two years. We also met and taught Istan Maria the first lesson. Oh, at the temple we met Rosen Elder's grandmother again, and also discovered that "CTR" means "Choose the Red-Head" (which was taught to us by an 85 year old lady at the temple).
Thursday, 25 August
3 days left! Today we said goodbye and took pictures with Barker Nover and Stromberg Testver; they've both been great and really helped all of us learn the language. I finally talked to Elder Dastrup in English, and learned from him that Elder (Spencer) Arneson is already serving in Finland. Also, I ran into Zack again, and learned that while his call is still in "Limbo", Devin received his mission call to Washington! Also, we have In-Field Orientation tomorrow, and today taught a lot of lessons. Due to time, I can't write much, but we taught our last lessons to Hajnalka, Zoltan, and Aron and our last TRC (They all went great, TRC especially. We completely left the lesson plan, but felt it went better). We also taught Lilla, along with Christenson and Kramer Nover.
Friday, 26 August
Today was a long day of meetings. I had "In-Field Orientation" from 8AM to 9PM. It was good, beneficial, and I had the opportunity to be taught by 8 of the missionaries from the "District" videos. But, it was still long. I'm mostly packed and finally got a haircut. I'm excited to head out. The MTC's been great and I've learned a lot, but my country needs me and the Lord has called me, and "I must obey. Amen." =)
Saturday, 27 August
Today Lilla and Edit (the other group's investigator) and also Gyula all were baptized. We had all three in a row and did a 45 minute service for them. I'm completely packed except for a few last things which I need for tomorrow. Classes are over and I said goodbye to all my teachers. Only one full day left! It's finally here!
Sunday, 28 August
We leave tomorrow at 5:00 AM. We took lots of pictures on the temple walk, said goodbye to the Noverek and Branch Presidency. We had a Departure Devotional by President McIff and President Brown, followed by a Fireside, also by President McIff. All 3 talks were great. =) In the evening we explained and passed down both the Ark and the Talpra Magyar. I failed to get a recording, but it was a good experience. I can't believe the time is finally here. I'm nervous, but also so excited to reach my mission field of Hungary. I'll do an entry during the flight tomorrow, but soon my entries will be from Hungary.
Monday, 29 August
Halfway to Hungary! I'm having to write this during our flight as we arrive at 11AM. This morning we got up at 3:45, showered, got ready, said goodbye to the Kicsi, and left. During the flight to New York, I sat between another missionary and a guy named "Mick". Mick was Catholic and from Russia. He also started chewing tobacco as we spoke. After arriving in New York, we each got to call home. I only got to talk to my family for 30 minutes, but it was still great to hear from them. I loved hearing their voices and that they are all doing well. Next time I'll get to speak with them won't be until Christmas in 4 months. Like I wrote earlier, we're on our way to Hungary. Only 4 hours left!
Tuesday, 30 August
It's amazing how much a mission can distort time. First off, I arrived in Hungary safely. This morning we landed around 10:30, got our luggage, and met the mission president, his wife, and their assistants. Upon landing, and even walking out of the airport, it didn't feel like a different country. I don't think that (along with everything else) will really hit me until tomorrow. Although, on the drive from the airport to the mission home, we talked to the AP's and as they talked about what things were going on two years ago when the left, it hit me pretty hard about how long two years is. It made me a little frightened, almost, and pretty homesick for a couple hours as I tried to imagine the many, many things that happen in two years. At the same time, thoughts have been coming into my head from the other side of the spectrum. While each day at the MTC felt so incredibly long, now that I'm gone the twelve weeks I spent there seem to have been a blink of an eye. Nor does it feel like it's been a full year since I first went to college. I'm sure that like the MTC or UPenn, my mission will feel incredibly long and feel very difficult and tiring at times, but once it's over, it will feel like it went by so fast. Also, talking to the AP's, it sounds like, similar to the MTC, the longer I'm here, the more it will blur and the faster it will go.
On a final note, we did some fun activities tonight. We all went out for dinner. At dinner, President Baughman accidently almost ordered beer for all of us (by answering a Hungarian question "do you want anything to drink?" with the English "sure", which the waiter understood as "sor" (sh-ore), which means "Beer". Luckily the AP's caught it and fixed the problem before we were all served beer). I tried Hungarian food for the first time, and I found that I love it, but it is very, very filling. And we finished our evening with a visit to Hero's Square and also to a look-out point where Russel M Nelson first opened Hungary for Missionaries. I took plenty of pictures. Tomorrow I meet my trainer, start streeting, and head out. I pray it will be an amazing experience. My fears, anxiety, and homesickness have already begun to fade, perhaps because I am tired. Luckily I know God loves me and that he will take care of his missionaries. =)
Thus ends my first entry from Hungary!
Wednesday, 31 August
Part 1: Hello again. I decided to do two entries today (This first part I'm writing just after getting up). This was my first time waking up in Hungary, and there are 5 thoughts that came to my mind: First off, the mission home is really nice and comfortable, and also big. It has 7 floors. Secondly, I forgot to actually write yesterday, because I just sort of assumed, but this morning decided I should be sure to write that the AP's and the Mission President are all really nice people. Third, today's a big day and by tonight I'll likely be in a different part of the country. Fourth, I'm really here. I'm really in Hungary and will be here for the next 21 1/2 months! And lastly, this morning, upon waking up, I felt better and more calm compared to yesterday. Hopefully these better feelings continue throughout the day.
Part 2: So, a lot has happened today. We went streeting this morning where I gave someone a Book of Mormon. Afterwards I received my debit card and sat through a discussion about missionary funds. We don't really get much, and it's going to be fun to budget it. At 12:30pm I met my new companion and trainer, and found that I will be serving in the Northeast corner of the country (the furthest area from Budapest). My companion’s a great teacher and a good missionary. He has been patient with me, knows the language very well, is the District Leader, and has obviously made a strong effort to go out of his way to meet and get to know all the members in our branch. We got pictures and stopped by a McDonalds for lunch. (McDonalds are pretty nice and have an entire bakery section in Hungary) and then we caught the train to our area. Upon arriving we went straight to the Branch House for a District Meeting, where I met the Branch President and his First Counselor. They spoke way too fast for me to understand. It sounds as though the Branch here is 25-30 people. I'm sure I'll get to meet most of them on Sunday. We arrived at our apartment around 9:30pm where I got mostly unpacked, did some quick planning, and I ate a bowl of cornflakes for dinner. Our apartment is nice in size, but needs some upkeep. Fourteen of the twenty-two lights in the apartment are burned out, so the rooms are all dark. We only have one progressing investigator. There are four missionaries in this area. I'll be teaching an English class each Thursday night. Tomorrow’s going to be yet another full, unique, new day. It is past 11:00pm already, and I still need to adjust to both the time change and the life style, and need whatever sleep I can get. Hope you enjoyed part 2.
Thursday, 1 September
Today was my first full day with just me and my companion. This morning the other companionship in our District came over, and we all ate policsinta's. They're basically Hungarian crepes. We taught two lessons, one to a man. He has 6 dogs (4 are bulldogs), he fed us lunch, and his dad joined in the last half hour of the visit. The second lesson was with a lady. It was short, simple and sweet. She's a kind, elderly woman, is our only progressing investigator, and has a baptismal date way out on November 26. Soon after her lesson finished, we started "Angolora" (English Lessons), and I taught the advanced class for slightly over an hour. Only 4 came, but one was interested in the gospel, so I guess 25% is a good statistic. It looks like I'll be teaching again next week. Lastly, tonight I discovered that I really am a terrible cook. I nearly messed up scrambled eggs! Hopefully my cooking improves a ridiculous amount on my mission, preferably at a ridiculously fast pace. If not, I may end up with many sad stories to tell concerning my food. That's all for today.
Friday, 2 September
As like every day we'll have in this transfer, my companion and I began with 4 hours of studying. We went streeting for a couple hours this afternoon, and passed out pass-along cards, but didn't get a single find. Nor did we teach any lessons today. However, this evening we had a "Welcome Home" party, where I discovered Hungarian treats are delicious.
Saturday, 3 September
Today went well. We started off with 4 hours of studying this morning and I learned some new things about King David during Companionship Study. Lunch wasn't very well planned with the other companionship, so I ran into a store and bought rolls and cheese. I'm happy to say that there is some really yummy cheese over here, and will probably become a common lunch for me. Afterwards we went tracting several hours, and at the very end we got accepted into a house where we gave a 40 minute lesson. We left the two women we taught a Book of Mormon and a Pass-Along Card, and received their phone number to set up another lesson next week. I'm really hoping it works out. After finishing the lesson we realized we were running late, so my companion and I jogged for 35 minutes to our next appointment, arriving 15 minutes late....oops!...It is hard, hot, and tiring to jog in a white shirt, tie, church shoes, and dress pants. Luckily, our investigator understood and we were able to have a good lesson with her on the 10 Commandments, which she was familiar with and already follows. We held a District Meeting for 2 hours afterwards, and then came back here for dinner. Luckily, I'm proud and able to say that I did a much better job cooking spaghetti, peas and carrots, and bread than I did with scrambled eggs. My cooking's improving already. =)
Sunday, 4 September
Today was my first Sunday in Hungary. I got to meet all the members of the ward, and of course, it was Fast Sunday, so I got to fast and share my testimony (in Hungarian =)). After church we took the sacrament over, and I went inside a 10'er for the first time. We finished the evening by having the other Elders come over for Policsinta's, but the pan was ruined, so I luckily had some food left from last night, so we improvised, planned, and shared stories. Also, my companion and I had weekly planning for 2 1/2 hours this afternoon. I'm looking forward to P-Day tomorrow. =) I sleep like a log each night!
One thing I've learned at the MTC and this first week in Hungary is to better appreciate all the little things. Not only to appreciate them, but to find joy and happiness in them. Heavenly Father really has given us so much to be grateful for. During personal study I've also had the time to find many fun and cool scriptures. These ones made me think of missionary work, and my time here, although, I hope they will continue to apply through all of my life.
2 Tim 2:3 "Though therefore endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (For that is whose name is on every missionary’s nametag. We are his missionaries! =D)
Romans 12:21 "Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."
1 Tim 6:12 "Fight the good fight of faith, to lay hold on eternal life"
And by the end of my mission, and again at the end of my life, I want to be able to say:
2 Tim 4:7-8 "I have fought a good fight, I have finished by course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me in a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
That's all for the scriptures. While I was experiencing a whirlwind of emotions and feelings when I first got here, they've pretty much calmed out now. And, with them faded, I am happy and excited to be here. I know that this is the right thing I need to be doing and is also what the Lord wants and has instructed me to do. The country of Hungary truly is in the dark. I've heard 3 missionaries now describe the country as being run by "the carnal man", and that's pretty much held true. At the same time, the members here are amazing, and have taken such leaps of faith for the gospel and have gained powerful testimonies of it. "The worth of every soul is great in the sight of God". One of the sayings that has continuously come to my mind is that to those who are in darkness, the smallest glimmer of light seems as bright as the sun, as long as they have their eyes open to see it. I know the Lord put me here for a reason, and even if baptisms aren't high, there is at least one person here who I need to bring that glimmer of light to, even if it's to me.
I have to get going. I'll be sure to send another email next week. Until then, I'm going to quote one last scripture from the very end of the book of Matthew: "And, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Consecration week is over! I can speak English again, although, I actually found it quite difficult to speak just English, as I'd always want to react and start talking in Hungarian. I'm glad I can speak English and finally was able to talk to Elder Powell. I had a good temple session today, last one for two years. We also met and taught Istan Maria the first lesson. Oh, at the temple we met Rosen Elder's grandmother again, and also discovered that "CTR" means "Choose the Red-Head" (which was taught to us by an 85 year old lady at the temple).
Thursday, 25 August
3 days left! Today we said goodbye and took pictures with Barker Nover and Stromberg Testver; they've both been great and really helped all of us learn the language. I finally talked to Elder Dastrup in English, and learned from him that Elder (Spencer) Arneson is already serving in Finland. Also, I ran into Zack again, and learned that while his call is still in "Limbo", Devin received his mission call to Washington! Also, we have In-Field Orientation tomorrow, and today taught a lot of lessons. Due to time, I can't write much, but we taught our last lessons to Hajnalka, Zoltan, and Aron and our last TRC (They all went great, TRC especially. We completely left the lesson plan, but felt it went better). We also taught Lilla, along with Christenson and Kramer Nover.
Friday, 26 August
Today was a long day of meetings. I had "In-Field Orientation" from 8AM to 9PM. It was good, beneficial, and I had the opportunity to be taught by 8 of the missionaries from the "District" videos. But, it was still long. I'm mostly packed and finally got a haircut. I'm excited to head out. The MTC's been great and I've learned a lot, but my country needs me and the Lord has called me, and "I must obey. Amen." =)
Saturday, 27 August
Today Lilla and Edit (the other group's investigator) and also Gyula all were baptized. We had all three in a row and did a 45 minute service for them. I'm completely packed except for a few last things which I need for tomorrow. Classes are over and I said goodbye to all my teachers. Only one full day left! It's finally here!
Sunday, 28 August
We leave tomorrow at 5:00 AM. We took lots of pictures on the temple walk, said goodbye to the Noverek and Branch Presidency. We had a Departure Devotional by President McIff and President Brown, followed by a Fireside, also by President McIff. All 3 talks were great. =) In the evening we explained and passed down both the Ark and the Talpra Magyar. I failed to get a recording, but it was a good experience. I can't believe the time is finally here. I'm nervous, but also so excited to reach my mission field of Hungary. I'll do an entry during the flight tomorrow, but soon my entries will be from Hungary.
Monday, 29 August
Halfway to Hungary! I'm having to write this during our flight as we arrive at 11AM. This morning we got up at 3:45, showered, got ready, said goodbye to the Kicsi, and left. During the flight to New York, I sat between another missionary and a guy named "Mick". Mick was Catholic and from Russia. He also started chewing tobacco as we spoke. After arriving in New York, we each got to call home. I only got to talk to my family for 30 minutes, but it was still great to hear from them. I loved hearing their voices and that they are all doing well. Next time I'll get to speak with them won't be until Christmas in 4 months. Like I wrote earlier, we're on our way to Hungary. Only 4 hours left!
Tuesday, 30 August
It's amazing how much a mission can distort time. First off, I arrived in Hungary safely. This morning we landed around 10:30, got our luggage, and met the mission president, his wife, and their assistants. Upon landing, and even walking out of the airport, it didn't feel like a different country. I don't think that (along with everything else) will really hit me until tomorrow. Although, on the drive from the airport to the mission home, we talked to the AP's and as they talked about what things were going on two years ago when the left, it hit me pretty hard about how long two years is. It made me a little frightened, almost, and pretty homesick for a couple hours as I tried to imagine the many, many things that happen in two years. At the same time, thoughts have been coming into my head from the other side of the spectrum. While each day at the MTC felt so incredibly long, now that I'm gone the twelve weeks I spent there seem to have been a blink of an eye. Nor does it feel like it's been a full year since I first went to college. I'm sure that like the MTC or UPenn, my mission will feel incredibly long and feel very difficult and tiring at times, but once it's over, it will feel like it went by so fast. Also, talking to the AP's, it sounds like, similar to the MTC, the longer I'm here, the more it will blur and the faster it will go.
On a final note, we did some fun activities tonight. We all went out for dinner. At dinner, President Baughman accidently almost ordered beer for all of us (by answering a Hungarian question "do you want anything to drink?" with the English "sure", which the waiter understood as "sor" (sh-ore), which means "Beer". Luckily the AP's caught it and fixed the problem before we were all served beer). I tried Hungarian food for the first time, and I found that I love it, but it is very, very filling. And we finished our evening with a visit to Hero's Square and also to a look-out point where Russel M Nelson first opened Hungary for Missionaries. I took plenty of pictures. Tomorrow I meet my trainer, start streeting, and head out. I pray it will be an amazing experience. My fears, anxiety, and homesickness have already begun to fade, perhaps because I am tired. Luckily I know God loves me and that he will take care of his missionaries. =)
Thus ends my first entry from Hungary!
Wednesday, 31 August
Part 1: Hello again. I decided to do two entries today (This first part I'm writing just after getting up). This was my first time waking up in Hungary, and there are 5 thoughts that came to my mind: First off, the mission home is really nice and comfortable, and also big. It has 7 floors. Secondly, I forgot to actually write yesterday, because I just sort of assumed, but this morning decided I should be sure to write that the AP's and the Mission President are all really nice people. Third, today's a big day and by tonight I'll likely be in a different part of the country. Fourth, I'm really here. I'm really in Hungary and will be here for the next 21 1/2 months! And lastly, this morning, upon waking up, I felt better and more calm compared to yesterday. Hopefully these better feelings continue throughout the day.
Part 2: So, a lot has happened today. We went streeting this morning where I gave someone a Book of Mormon. Afterwards I received my debit card and sat through a discussion about missionary funds. We don't really get much, and it's going to be fun to budget it. At 12:30pm I met my new companion and trainer, and found that I will be serving in the Northeast corner of the country (the furthest area from Budapest). My companion’s a great teacher and a good missionary. He has been patient with me, knows the language very well, is the District Leader, and has obviously made a strong effort to go out of his way to meet and get to know all the members in our branch. We got pictures and stopped by a McDonalds for lunch. (McDonalds are pretty nice and have an entire bakery section in Hungary) and then we caught the train to our area. Upon arriving we went straight to the Branch House for a District Meeting, where I met the Branch President and his First Counselor. They spoke way too fast for me to understand. It sounds as though the Branch here is 25-30 people. I'm sure I'll get to meet most of them on Sunday. We arrived at our apartment around 9:30pm where I got mostly unpacked, did some quick planning, and I ate a bowl of cornflakes for dinner. Our apartment is nice in size, but needs some upkeep. Fourteen of the twenty-two lights in the apartment are burned out, so the rooms are all dark. We only have one progressing investigator. There are four missionaries in this area. I'll be teaching an English class each Thursday night. Tomorrow’s going to be yet another full, unique, new day. It is past 11:00pm already, and I still need to adjust to both the time change and the life style, and need whatever sleep I can get. Hope you enjoyed part 2.
Thursday, 1 September
Today was my first full day with just me and my companion. This morning the other companionship in our District came over, and we all ate policsinta's. They're basically Hungarian crepes. We taught two lessons, one to a man. He has 6 dogs (4 are bulldogs), he fed us lunch, and his dad joined in the last half hour of the visit. The second lesson was with a lady. It was short, simple and sweet. She's a kind, elderly woman, is our only progressing investigator, and has a baptismal date way out on November 26. Soon after her lesson finished, we started "Angolora" (English Lessons), and I taught the advanced class for slightly over an hour. Only 4 came, but one was interested in the gospel, so I guess 25% is a good statistic. It looks like I'll be teaching again next week. Lastly, tonight I discovered that I really am a terrible cook. I nearly messed up scrambled eggs! Hopefully my cooking improves a ridiculous amount on my mission, preferably at a ridiculously fast pace. If not, I may end up with many sad stories to tell concerning my food. That's all for today.
Friday, 2 September
As like every day we'll have in this transfer, my companion and I began with 4 hours of studying. We went streeting for a couple hours this afternoon, and passed out pass-along cards, but didn't get a single find. Nor did we teach any lessons today. However, this evening we had a "Welcome Home" party, where I discovered Hungarian treats are delicious.
Saturday, 3 September
Today went well. We started off with 4 hours of studying this morning and I learned some new things about King David during Companionship Study. Lunch wasn't very well planned with the other companionship, so I ran into a store and bought rolls and cheese. I'm happy to say that there is some really yummy cheese over here, and will probably become a common lunch for me. Afterwards we went tracting several hours, and at the very end we got accepted into a house where we gave a 40 minute lesson. We left the two women we taught a Book of Mormon and a Pass-Along Card, and received their phone number to set up another lesson next week. I'm really hoping it works out. After finishing the lesson we realized we were running late, so my companion and I jogged for 35 minutes to our next appointment, arriving 15 minutes late....oops!...It is hard, hot, and tiring to jog in a white shirt, tie, church shoes, and dress pants. Luckily, our investigator understood and we were able to have a good lesson with her on the 10 Commandments, which she was familiar with and already follows. We held a District Meeting for 2 hours afterwards, and then came back here for dinner. Luckily, I'm proud and able to say that I did a much better job cooking spaghetti, peas and carrots, and bread than I did with scrambled eggs. My cooking's improving already. =)
Sunday, 4 September
Today was my first Sunday in Hungary. I got to meet all the members of the ward, and of course, it was Fast Sunday, so I got to fast and share my testimony (in Hungarian =)). After church we took the sacrament over, and I went inside a 10'er for the first time. We finished the evening by having the other Elders come over for Policsinta's, but the pan was ruined, so I luckily had some food left from last night, so we improvised, planned, and shared stories. Also, my companion and I had weekly planning for 2 1/2 hours this afternoon. I'm looking forward to P-Day tomorrow. =) I sleep like a log each night!
One thing I've learned at the MTC and this first week in Hungary is to better appreciate all the little things. Not only to appreciate them, but to find joy and happiness in them. Heavenly Father really has given us so much to be grateful for. During personal study I've also had the time to find many fun and cool scriptures. These ones made me think of missionary work, and my time here, although, I hope they will continue to apply through all of my life.
2 Tim 2:3 "Though therefore endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (For that is whose name is on every missionary’s nametag. We are his missionaries! =D)
Romans 12:21 "Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."
1 Tim 6:12 "Fight the good fight of faith, to lay hold on eternal life"
And by the end of my mission, and again at the end of my life, I want to be able to say:
2 Tim 4:7-8 "I have fought a good fight, I have finished by course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me in a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
That's all for the scriptures. While I was experiencing a whirlwind of emotions and feelings when I first got here, they've pretty much calmed out now. And, with them faded, I am happy and excited to be here. I know that this is the right thing I need to be doing and is also what the Lord wants and has instructed me to do. The country of Hungary truly is in the dark. I've heard 3 missionaries now describe the country as being run by "the carnal man", and that's pretty much held true. At the same time, the members here are amazing, and have taken such leaps of faith for the gospel and have gained powerful testimonies of it. "The worth of every soul is great in the sight of God". One of the sayings that has continuously come to my mind is that to those who are in darkness, the smallest glimmer of light seems as bright as the sun, as long as they have their eyes open to see it. I know the Lord put me here for a reason, and even if baptisms aren't high, there is at least one person here who I need to bring that glimmer of light to, even if it's to me.
I have to get going. I'll be sure to send another email next week. Until then, I'm going to quote one last scripture from the very end of the book of Matthew: "And, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
24 August 2011 Letter (MTC)
Wednesday, 17 August
Wow. It is a weird feeling to start consecration week, realize there's only one more P-Day at the MTC left, and also know that in a week and a half I'll be in Hungary. Hű-ha! Today I had a great temple session (only one more left for the next two years!) and ran into multiple people. I saw Zack during lunch (his mission call is still in limbo) and at dinner, within 5 minutes of starting Consecration Week, I met Elder BJ Powell (going to the Philippines) and Elder Blake Dastrup (Finland Mission), but had a hard time communicating with either of them, as I can only speak Hungarian. Luckily, I know they'll both be here for quite a while, as they just arrived today. Still, it was very fun and made me happy to see them. Lastly, we taught Gyula today. He'll be on vacation until next Thursday, so we'll only meet with him once more before his baptism on the 27th, and then we leave on the 29th. Our work with him is almost done. The rest relies on him, the ward members, and the Lord, so I know he'll be in good hands.
Thursday, 18 August
Thursday, 18 August
First full day of Consecration Week: complete! Today I found Elder Powell and Elder Dastrup again. Once consecration week is over I'll be able to actually talk to them. We taught Lilla today on Temple Marriage and Eternal Families because we were able to have a member, Bogi, come. Being married, and having had many experiences, Bogi was a great help during the lesson, and was able to relate a lot of good thoughts and stories....Swett Elder and I don't quite have any marriage experiences yet, or tales of being heads of our own families, so we stuck to the doctrine. During TRC we taught Daybell Testver about the importance of going to church. Lastly, something I forgot to write yesterday; during consecration week, I have given up English, Milk, and we're all wearing ties from "The Ugly Tie Rack".
Friday, 19 August
Friday, 19 August
I was tired today. Enough so that I nearly fell asleep in the middle of a lesson. This morning I had the idea for us to use "District Study" to all write letters to Harvey Elder; which we did. Hopefully he's doing well and enjoys them. We taught Lilla about Moroni 6 and the baptismal questions today.
Saturday, 20 August
Halfway done with Consecration Week. Today we taught 2 lessons: one to Lilla about the importance of church, prayer, and scripture reading, and one to Hajnalka, Zoltan and Aron on our purpose here on Earth. Both were improvements from yesterday.
Sunday, 21 August
Finally, a day with plenty of personal study time to read a decent block of the scriptures. =) Only one Sunday left here. We had the long-awaited departure lesson today. The reality of everything is finally starting to sink in. I had a great time during the temple walk, and finished the day with a Fireside by Stephen B Allen. Like always, his talk was great. He choose to change his talk to focusing on Obedience and the Holy Ghost. (I say "change" because he was very guided by the Spirit. He was supposed to speak in 2-3 weeks, and had planned on teaching about something else, but a couple days ago, he felt prompted to ask President Brown if he could speak this week, and this afternoon, within hours of the Fireside, he felt prompted to change subjects). He obeyed both these promptings, and it resulted in a very enjoyable, very relatable, and very powerful talk. He finished by having all missionaries memorize the end of 2 Nephi 33:15, in which, Nephi writes his very last words on the plates: "I will obey. Amen." A very good motto for everyone.
Monday, 22 August
We didn't teach any lessons today. Gyula's still out of town, and Lilla was short on time, so the five of us spent nearly an hour practicing teaching each other. We woke up at 5:30 today so that we could be sure to sign up for haircuts, and even then, there were only 6 spots left (and we took 4 of them). The MTC is just way too crowded. (Although, I guess that's a good thing, as it means there are lots of missionaries). This morning we did our last service assignment. Only a day and a half left of Consecration week! That's all for today =)
Tuesday, 23 August
Today's been an interesting day. We taught Lilla this morning about Charity and Service. It is strange to teach someone about 2 of the things you feel weakest about yourself, although, at the same time, it makes everything seem to relate to yourself as well, and can provide another source of motivation and desire to teach. We also had a Devotional tonight by Claudio D Zivic of the Seventy. He was quite possible the most powerful speaker we have had yet. He spoke of ways to view life and our missions, and things to do to help or to do when we see either a certain way. Just a sliver of his talk that I would like to quote (although, now I think of two) is, "It takes 3 things to make a Man: Know where you are; Know where you want to go; Make every effort to get there". The 2nd was a quote from Ghandi, "Total Dedicational is Complete Victory".
I hope everyone enjoyed this week's post. My next one will be from Hungary.
I love you all!
Szeretettel,
Shipp Elder
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)