Hello there!
So here I am, writting again because suddenly it's Monday again! The days really do seem to be flying by, which is both good and bad. I am doing very well this day, and as always am pressed for time, so I'll write what I can.
Teaching is going pretty well. We've had some trouble with some of our investigators and the Word of Wisdom, but we're always here to help them out. That's what we're here for, after all. We lost some investigators, and we gained some new ones. We just don't know what will happen with anyone, so we just have to keep on keeping on. I seem to use that phrase a lot. Anyway, yeah. We just have to keep on working, even if there are challenges and such.
EAT THE SOUP. It's good, I promise! Dad and Jeffrey I'm fairly certain will like it. Also, you should send me the recipe so that I know what's in it haha.
Yay Elizabeth!! I'm sure that you sounded amazing with your solo and duet. I'm sure it was great fun to watch you sing, too. You can be a rather animated singer at times, and it's kinda funny.
I am kinda dying of curiosity to find out what the award is that Jeffrey's receiving. But only kinda dying. :)
Oh, before I forget, I finally got pouch again! I got stuff from the beginning of April to about early May I believe. I also got the Easter package from mi familia! Thank you so very much for all that you sent me, and thank you all who sent me letters! I do so enjoy hearing from all of you guys. I'll do my best to write back to you, but some of you might not hear from me for another month or so. I'll do my best though. (Also, madre, if you could let Michelle know that I still haven't received her birthday package to me, and that I'm fairly certain it has been lost, I would appreciate that. Thank you!)
Guinea pig is called cui down here, and I'm fairly certain I'll have it. They don't serve it on the coast or reginons thereabouts, but they do in the sierras and orrient. I'll let you know as soon as I can when I have it.
Mom, I am so very proud of you for all the hard work you've been doing. Starting up college again is quite a big deal, and so is losing 31 pounds! You are doing such a great job, and I know that it's a blessing for trusting in your Heavenly Father and putting your life in his hands. Keep up the good work!
We had our zone conference this past Friday (oh yeah, there's a district meeting for all districts in the zone on Thursdays, and a meeting for leaders on Friday, and once a month a zone conference, so I see a lot of missionaries a lot), and it was very good, as usual. After we were mostly done with the meeting, Presidente Sloan took me aside and told me that I'm doing a fantastic job, and that he's incredibly proud of the work that I'm doing and who I'm becoming. He also said that Elder Huarahuara said that he's learned things from me, which I didn't think was possible, seeing as I'm a greeny and he only has 19 days left in his mission. That kinda shocked and humbled me. I don't know how I'm doing anything exceptionally praiseworthy or anything. All I do is work like I think I should, nothing special or anything. But now I know something for sure; I need to work harder. There's always room for improvement, and I'm sure I can find that room and fill it. I have to, because the people here are counting on me. I've gotta work hard.
Hmm. I don't quite know what else to say. I'm in good health and spirits, and I'm learning new things every day. I absolutely love the mission work, and I couldn't leave early even if you asked me super nice. I'll try to write more next week. Hopefully we'll have some baptisms this upcoming week (as in on Saturday...wow, that was a lot of prepositions). I love all of you so very very much. Thank you all for your prayers. I'm sure that they are helping me out. I'll try to send a letter package this Thursday. Let me know when you get the other two that I've sent (I think I sent two...).
Anyway, cuidase! Les amo!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
Monday, May 16, 2011
Monday, May 9, 2011
Well, I survived cambios!
Hello beloved family and friends!
Well, today we got calls for changes (that means that some of us were assigned to a different sector/zone, and some weren't). And I will be in...La Concordia! Yep, no change for me nor Elder Huarahuara. Elder Buckland's compañero, Elder Estrada, was reassigned to a sector in Quito, and he just left a couple of minutes ago. So, yep. I get the heat and humidity of the coast for at least 6 more weeks. I'm okay with that though. There's more work to be finished and started here.
So, I thought I'd tell you about an observation that I made earlier this week during a zone mini-conference; a good missionary is a marvellous thing. I have to specify a missionary as a "good" missionary because a regular missionary is, in my opinion, little more than a 19-21 year old guy. So, why is a good missionary a marvellous thing? Because a good missionary has the power of the Holy Ghost. A good missionary has a special feel about him/her. A good missionary teaches with power, even if he's only practicing teaching. A good missionary has to work hard - ridiculously hard - to be a good missionary. When a missionary tries to be a good missionary, everyone who is around that missionary can feel that difference. People are more drawn to that missionary, and they will want to listen. And why? Because he has the power of the Holy Ghost. He has the authority of God, the priesthood, to do all things to bring about the salvation of man. He has accepted that he has been called of God through a prophet to bring about that salvation, and he understands what that entails. When a missionary has done all of these things, he becomes a good missionary and a marvellous thing. A miracle, really. How else could a 20-something-year-old bring about the salvation of men? Only through being divinely appointed, receiving divine power, working hard, and then working harder. Anyway, those are my two cents.
I have cause to shout praises to the heavens, and I shall do so right now! My little sister is going to be singing a solo and a duet in the upcoming Pops Concert at her high school! Oh yeah, she's also a freshman. I'm pretty much excited beyond belief for that. Elizabeth, you are awesome. Keep up the good work! And there's more! Jeffrey will be receiving an award of some kind at the upcoming award banquet at his high school. How awesome is that? I know that everything that is happening to my family are blessings because they have decided to be disciples of Christ. Keep up the good work family!
I guess I don't really have a lot to write about today (I got to call home yesterday for Mother's Day...oh, by the way, Happy belated Mother's Day to all the mothers who read this blog...no, Happy Mother's Day to ALL mothers!). Sorry about that. We haven't had a lot really happen. I guess times could be called tough since we've been having troubles with our investigators and them not keeping certain commandments, which delays their baptismal dates, but thus is the life of a missionary. We just have to love them more and help them through all things. That's why we're here, after all, to help people.
Food update! There's an amazing soup here called encebollado. It's a milk-based soup (I think...I might just be making that up) with some sort of awesome spices, fish, sometimes shrimp, onions, and yucca (I think), served with tortilla chips that you crunch up and put in the soup. Then you put some mustard in it and some lime juice, and then you have that for breakfast. It's absolutely delicious, and I suggest that everyone try it out (by that I mean try to find a recipe online and then make it). It's special to Ecuador, but I'm thinking it's something that'll stay special to me for longer than my time here. Warning: this soup does not do pretty things to your breath, so have it before you brush your teeth, or have gum handy.
Que mas, que mas...oh, when sending packages, I just wanted to remind you that it cannot be over 4 kilos, it's illegal to put money in the packages, and you should cover the box in religious stickers. So, yeah, just little reminders. I should have a chance to check pouch on Thursday, so I'll see if my 3-week dry spell has just been accumulating somewhere. (Side note: when I say how long it's been since I received packages/letters, it's soley to let those who have sent things know that I haven't received it yet. It's not a pitiful plea for more packages or anything like that. I just like to keep people updated, that's all.)
Well, I don't have a lot more to say. I love all of you very much. Oh, I hope that all that had or will have finals soon do well on them! I can't wait to hear how you did! (*coughcough*) Haha, anyway, I hope all is well with all y'all in the States. Also, you guys are so ridiculously blessed to live in the States. You don't even know. You guys really are in the Promised Land. Okay, Imma go for now. Cuidase!
Well, today we got calls for changes (that means that some of us were assigned to a different sector/zone, and some weren't). And I will be in...La Concordia! Yep, no change for me nor Elder Huarahuara. Elder Buckland's compañero, Elder Estrada, was reassigned to a sector in Quito, and he just left a couple of minutes ago. So, yep. I get the heat and humidity of the coast for at least 6 more weeks. I'm okay with that though. There's more work to be finished and started here.
So, I thought I'd tell you about an observation that I made earlier this week during a zone mini-conference; a good missionary is a marvellous thing. I have to specify a missionary as a "good" missionary because a regular missionary is, in my opinion, little more than a 19-21 year old guy. So, why is a good missionary a marvellous thing? Because a good missionary has the power of the Holy Ghost. A good missionary has a special feel about him/her. A good missionary teaches with power, even if he's only practicing teaching. A good missionary has to work hard - ridiculously hard - to be a good missionary. When a missionary tries to be a good missionary, everyone who is around that missionary can feel that difference. People are more drawn to that missionary, and they will want to listen. And why? Because he has the power of the Holy Ghost. He has the authority of God, the priesthood, to do all things to bring about the salvation of man. He has accepted that he has been called of God through a prophet to bring about that salvation, and he understands what that entails. When a missionary has done all of these things, he becomes a good missionary and a marvellous thing. A miracle, really. How else could a 20-something-year-old bring about the salvation of men? Only through being divinely appointed, receiving divine power, working hard, and then working harder. Anyway, those are my two cents.
I have cause to shout praises to the heavens, and I shall do so right now! My little sister is going to be singing a solo and a duet in the upcoming Pops Concert at her high school! Oh yeah, she's also a freshman. I'm pretty much excited beyond belief for that. Elizabeth, you are awesome. Keep up the good work! And there's more! Jeffrey will be receiving an award of some kind at the upcoming award banquet at his high school. How awesome is that? I know that everything that is happening to my family are blessings because they have decided to be disciples of Christ. Keep up the good work family!
I guess I don't really have a lot to write about today (I got to call home yesterday for Mother's Day...oh, by the way, Happy belated Mother's Day to all the mothers who read this blog...no, Happy Mother's Day to ALL mothers!). Sorry about that. We haven't had a lot really happen. I guess times could be called tough since we've been having troubles with our investigators and them not keeping certain commandments, which delays their baptismal dates, but thus is the life of a missionary. We just have to love them more and help them through all things. That's why we're here, after all, to help people.
Food update! There's an amazing soup here called encebollado. It's a milk-based soup (I think...I might just be making that up) with some sort of awesome spices, fish, sometimes shrimp, onions, and yucca (I think), served with tortilla chips that you crunch up and put in the soup. Then you put some mustard in it and some lime juice, and then you have that for breakfast. It's absolutely delicious, and I suggest that everyone try it out (by that I mean try to find a recipe online and then make it). It's special to Ecuador, but I'm thinking it's something that'll stay special to me for longer than my time here. Warning: this soup does not do pretty things to your breath, so have it before you brush your teeth, or have gum handy.
Que mas, que mas...oh, when sending packages, I just wanted to remind you that it cannot be over 4 kilos, it's illegal to put money in the packages, and you should cover the box in religious stickers. So, yeah, just little reminders. I should have a chance to check pouch on Thursday, so I'll see if my 3-week dry spell has just been accumulating somewhere. (Side note: when I say how long it's been since I received packages/letters, it's soley to let those who have sent things know that I haven't received it yet. It's not a pitiful plea for more packages or anything like that. I just like to keep people updated, that's all.)
Well, I don't have a lot more to say. I love all of you very much. Oh, I hope that all that had or will have finals soon do well on them! I can't wait to hear how you did! (*coughcough*) Haha, anyway, I hope all is well with all y'all in the States. Also, you guys are so ridiculously blessed to live in the States. You don't even know. You guys really are in the Promised Land. Okay, Imma go for now. Cuidase!
From the madre:
Links for your perusal:
http://laylita.com/recipes/2008/03/01/encebollado-de-pescado-or-tuna-soup/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Encebollado
Monday, May 2, 2011
May 2, 2011
Hello there guys!
Sorry about last week. I had to go to Quito to get my censo, which is basically a driver's license thingy that says that I'm allowed to be here. We had to take the long way to Quito since the main route was closed due to mud slides, so I had to spend the night in Quito. Also, I don't know how much time I have here today. Time seems to be something I never have enough of, especially on P-days. Also, I just heard about Bin Laden earlier today from one of my zone leaders. That's pretty big news. I don't really think it means a lot down here, but it might. Oh, I also heard that Ecuador and the US aren't on the greatest of terms, so ALL packages are going to be searched before they get to me. I'm glad to hear that the package that mi madre sent arrived at the offices. It hasn't made it to me yet, but I have been getting a little mail. This past week was a bit slow, but that's okay. I'm finding that I'm getting pretty caught up and lost in the work here. I'd like to appologize if I accidentally neglect any of you because of getting caught up in the work. Also, the Thursday before last I sent another package, so it should be arriving soon I hope. I'll be sending another package this Thursday if I have a chance to. It might be a smaller package because of my lack of time to write letters, but I'll try to see what I can do.
OH, HAPPY NEWS. This Sunday I get to call home!! I'll be calling at around 2 PM my time, which should be 12 PM your time. Be ready!!
Some have wondered where I have internet access. We got to cyber cafes to write. That's basically where everyone who wants to go online goes. Sometimes it's difficult to find room, but it's not too terrible. It does make me appreciate the States much more though. (Oh, also, the US is in fact the best country in the world, though Ecuador is pretty cool too.)
Yesterday was a pretty special day as far as priesthood activities go. I got to participate in 3 blessings. The first was one of comfort that I was just a participant in, one I got to do an annointing, and another I got to give a blessing of healing. It was pretty amazing. That was the first blessing of healing that I'd done in español. I think it went fairly well.
This past week we didn't have any baptisms, and we won't have any this week I don't think, but it hasn't gotten me down. Right now we have 16 investigators with commitments to baptism, and we'll definitely be getting more dates as the week goes on. The work is going very well here. The Santo Domingo zone (that's our zone) is actually famous in the mission because, and I don't mean to sound stuck up, it's just a fact proven by numbers, we're the best in the mission. I feel very blessed to have arrived in this zone very first, though I do wonder about what that means for my future. Also, since I'm entering into my 5th week in the field, Elder Huarahuara has kinda made me acting senior companion. That's gonna be quite a thing. I have to decide who we visit, how we plan, all kinds of stuff. It will be a good learning experience though. Also, we're going to be getting calls about changes very soon (supposedly today), so we'll see what happens there.
I'm very sorry to hear that Atlas passed away. He was a good cat, but I guess he was just tired of holding up the world.
We have lunch at a mamasita's house about 4 days of the week, and the rest of the time we either eat at a restaurant (usually chinese because it's cheap, and it's not chinese like you guys know. You guys have better food all the way around, except fruit. I dunno. Oh, along with this aside is another; I've found that I absolutely love apples now.), or we cook at home. I have never had as much rice in my life, but that's okay. I like rice, especially when I cook it, cause then I can be creative (like rice with sugar and grilled pineapple in it). Oh, also, I had the most declicious drink. It's called jugo de fresa con leche, which basically means strawberry milkshake minus the icecream. If I had a blender (and I've had to refrain from buying one just to make more drinks like this) I'd have it every day. It's delicious.
I was so thrilled to hear about Robby's baptism and Elizabeth's Easter Cantata!! I'm very proud of you, Robby, for making the decision for yourself to be baptized. I hope you had a very good time, and that you continue to build your testimony. Also, good job Elizabeth!! I cannot wait to hear your singing. I'm sure it's lovely.
It's weird to think about snow. That's so far from a possibility here in La Concordia. It might be possible in Quito (the nights are pretty chilly, and the rain is not warm at all), but definitely not here.
Nothing really big happened on Easter. The week of Easter seemed to be bigger than Easter itself. There wasn't really anything special in church, but all the Catholics here went all out for the Santa Semana. But not a lot happened. There were some talks on the Savior, but not much other than that.
Oh, I still have all of my body parts (tonsils included), so no worries. I've been fairly healthy. Since I've been here there have been a few days when I just did not feel good, but in general all is well.
Okay, I should probably go now. I love all of you! I'm very sorry to those who won't get to receive cards from me for awhile longer, but being a servant of the Lord takes up all of my time. I love you all very very much. Keep staying strong, and keep on sending letters (not cards, since they don't seem to make it, and insurance might be a good thing for packages. Also, DO NOT send money in the mail at all. It's actually something that I was supposed to tell you that I don't know if I did. Thank you!), and I'll do my best to respond. I love you all!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
Sorry about last week. I had to go to Quito to get my censo, which is basically a driver's license thingy that says that I'm allowed to be here. We had to take the long way to Quito since the main route was closed due to mud slides, so I had to spend the night in Quito. Also, I don't know how much time I have here today. Time seems to be something I never have enough of, especially on P-days. Also, I just heard about Bin Laden earlier today from one of my zone leaders. That's pretty big news. I don't really think it means a lot down here, but it might. Oh, I also heard that Ecuador and the US aren't on the greatest of terms, so ALL packages are going to be searched before they get to me. I'm glad to hear that the package that mi madre sent arrived at the offices. It hasn't made it to me yet, but I have been getting a little mail. This past week was a bit slow, but that's okay. I'm finding that I'm getting pretty caught up and lost in the work here. I'd like to appologize if I accidentally neglect any of you because of getting caught up in the work. Also, the Thursday before last I sent another package, so it should be arriving soon I hope. I'll be sending another package this Thursday if I have a chance to. It might be a smaller package because of my lack of time to write letters, but I'll try to see what I can do.
OH, HAPPY NEWS. This Sunday I get to call home!! I'll be calling at around 2 PM my time, which should be 12 PM your time. Be ready!!
Some have wondered where I have internet access. We got to cyber cafes to write. That's basically where everyone who wants to go online goes. Sometimes it's difficult to find room, but it's not too terrible. It does make me appreciate the States much more though. (Oh, also, the US is in fact the best country in the world, though Ecuador is pretty cool too.)
Yesterday was a pretty special day as far as priesthood activities go. I got to participate in 3 blessings. The first was one of comfort that I was just a participant in, one I got to do an annointing, and another I got to give a blessing of healing. It was pretty amazing. That was the first blessing of healing that I'd done in español. I think it went fairly well.
This past week we didn't have any baptisms, and we won't have any this week I don't think, but it hasn't gotten me down. Right now we have 16 investigators with commitments to baptism, and we'll definitely be getting more dates as the week goes on. The work is going very well here. The Santo Domingo zone (that's our zone) is actually famous in the mission because, and I don't mean to sound stuck up, it's just a fact proven by numbers, we're the best in the mission. I feel very blessed to have arrived in this zone very first, though I do wonder about what that means for my future. Also, since I'm entering into my 5th week in the field, Elder Huarahuara has kinda made me acting senior companion. That's gonna be quite a thing. I have to decide who we visit, how we plan, all kinds of stuff. It will be a good learning experience though. Also, we're going to be getting calls about changes very soon (supposedly today), so we'll see what happens there.
I'm very sorry to hear that Atlas passed away. He was a good cat, but I guess he was just tired of holding up the world.
We have lunch at a mamasita's house about 4 days of the week, and the rest of the time we either eat at a restaurant (usually chinese because it's cheap, and it's not chinese like you guys know. You guys have better food all the way around, except fruit. I dunno. Oh, along with this aside is another; I've found that I absolutely love apples now.), or we cook at home. I have never had as much rice in my life, but that's okay. I like rice, especially when I cook it, cause then I can be creative (like rice with sugar and grilled pineapple in it). Oh, also, I had the most declicious drink. It's called jugo de fresa con leche, which basically means strawberry milkshake minus the icecream. If I had a blender (and I've had to refrain from buying one just to make more drinks like this) I'd have it every day. It's delicious.
I was so thrilled to hear about Robby's baptism and Elizabeth's Easter Cantata!! I'm very proud of you, Robby, for making the decision for yourself to be baptized. I hope you had a very good time, and that you continue to build your testimony. Also, good job Elizabeth!! I cannot wait to hear your singing. I'm sure it's lovely.
It's weird to think about snow. That's so far from a possibility here in La Concordia. It might be possible in Quito (the nights are pretty chilly, and the rain is not warm at all), but definitely not here.
Nothing really big happened on Easter. The week of Easter seemed to be bigger than Easter itself. There wasn't really anything special in church, but all the Catholics here went all out for the Santa Semana. But not a lot happened. There were some talks on the Savior, but not much other than that.
Oh, I still have all of my body parts (tonsils included), so no worries. I've been fairly healthy. Since I've been here there have been a few days when I just did not feel good, but in general all is well.
Okay, I should probably go now. I love all of you! I'm very sorry to those who won't get to receive cards from me for awhile longer, but being a servant of the Lord takes up all of my time. I love you all very very much. Keep staying strong, and keep on sending letters (not cards, since they don't seem to make it, and insurance might be a good thing for packages. Also, DO NOT send money in the mail at all. It's actually something that I was supposed to tell you that I don't know if I did. Thank you!), and I'll do my best to respond. I love you all!
Love,
Elder Schomburg
Monday, April 25, 2011
Followers of Christ
Well, we didn't get an e-mail from Elder Schomburg today, so I've decided to share a talk from General Conference. I think Andrew would approve. In the meantime, pray for his safety, health, and comfort. I'm sure we'll hear from him next week.
http://lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/followers-of-christ?lang=eng
http://lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/followers-of-christ?lang=eng
Followers of Christ
Walter F. González
Of the Presidency of the Seventy
Last October my wife and I accompanied Elder and Sister Neil L. Andersen for the groundbreaking of a new temple in Córdoba, Argentina. As is customary, a press conference followed the ceremony. A journalist, not a member of our church, commented that she had observed how well the men treated their wives. Then she unexpectedly asked, “Is that real or fiction?” I am sure that she saw and felt something different among our members. She might have perceived the desire of our members to follow Christ. Members all over the world have such a desire. At the same time, millions who are not members of the Church also have a desire to follow Him.
Recently my wife and I were impressed by the people we saw in Ghana and Nigeria. Most were not members of our church. We were happy to see their desire to follow Christ expressed in many of their conversations in their houses, on their cars, on their walls, and on their billboards. We had never seen so many Christian churches next to one another.
As Latter-day Saints, ours is the duty to invite millions such as these to come and see what our church can add to the good things that they already have. Any person from any continent, climate, or culture can know for himself or herself that the Prophet Joseph Smith saw the Father and the Son in a vision. He or she can know that heavenly messengers restored the priesthood and that the Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ. In the words of the Lord to Enoch, “Righteousness [has been sent] down out of heaven; and truth [has been sent] forth out of the earth to [testify of the] Only Begotten [of the Father].” 1
The Savior has promised, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” 2 Followers of Christ pattern their lives after the Savior to walk in the light. Two characteristics can help us recognize to what extent we follow Him. First, followers of Christ are loving people. Second, followers of Christ make and keep covenants.
The first characteristic, being loving, is probably one thing the journalist in Córdoba noticed among our Church members. We follow Christ because we love Him. When we follow the Redeemer out of love, we are following His own example. Through love the Savior was obedient to the will of the Father under any circumstance. Our Savior was obedient even when it meant great physical and emotional pain, even when it meant being whipped and mocked, even when it meant that His enemies would torture Him while His friends abandoned Him. The atoning sacrifice, which is unique to the mission of the Savior, is the greatest expression of love ever. “The chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” 3
Following Christ may mean forsaking many dear things, as Ruth the Moabite did. As a new convert, out of love for God and Naomi, she left everything behind to live her religion. 6
It may also mean withstanding adversity and temptation. In his youth Joseph was sold into slavery. He was taken away from everything he loved. Later he was tempted to be unchaste. He resisted the temptation and said, “How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” 7 His love for God was more powerful than any adversity or temptation.
Today we have modern Ruths and Josephs all over the world. When Brother Jimmy Olvera from Guayaquil, Ecuador, received his mission call, his family was struggling greatly. The day he was leaving, he was told that if he walked out the door, he would lose his family. With a broken heart he walked out that door. While he was on his mission, his mother asked him to stay longer in the field because they were receiving so many blessings. Today Brother Olvera serves as a stake patriarch.
Truly loving Christ provides the required strength to follow Him. The Lord Himself showed this when He asked Peter three times, “Lovest thou me?” After Peter reaffirmed his love for Him out loud, the Lord told Peter about upcoming difficulties. Then the admonition came: “Follow me.” The Savior’s question to Peter can also be asked of us: “Lovest thou me?” followed by the call to action: “Follow me.” 8
Love is a powerful influence in our hearts in our effort to be obedient. Love for our Savior inspires us to keep His commandments. Love for a mother, father, or spouse can also inspire our obedience to gospel principles. The way we treat others reflects to what extent we follow our Savior in loving one another. 9 We show our love for Him when we stop to assist others, when we are “perfectly honest and upright in all things,” 10 and when we make and keep covenants.
The second characteristic that followers of Christ have is making and keeping covenants, as He did. Moroni pointed out that “the shedding of the blood of Christ … is in the covenant of the Father unto the remission of your sins, that ye become holy, without spot.” 11
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that even before the organization of this earth, covenants were made in heaven. 12 Ancient prophets and patriarchs made covenants. The Savior Himself gave the example. He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness by one with the proper authority. Through His baptism, the Savior witnessed unto the Father that He would be obedient in keeping all the Father’s commandments. 13 As in days of old, we also follow Christ and make covenants through priesthood ordinances.
Making covenants is something that millions who are not members of our church can add to the very good things that they already have. Making covenants is an expression of love. It is a way of saying to Him, “Yes, I will follow Thee because I love Thee.”
Covenants include promises, “even of life eternal.” 14 All things will work together for our good if we remember our covenants. 15 They must be made and kept to fully receive the promises they provide. Love for the Savior and remembering our covenants will help us keep them. Partaking of the sacrament is one way to remember them. 16 Another way is to attend the temple often. I remember a young married couple in South America who wanted to separate because they could not get along. A priesthood leader counseled them to attend the temple and pay specific attention to the words and promises of the covenants made there. They did so and their marriage was saved. The power of our covenants is greater than any challenge we face or we may face.
To those members who are not active in the gospel, please come back. Feel the blessing of remembering and renewing covenants through the sacrament and temple attendance. Doing so is an expression of love and shows a willingness to be a true follower of Christ. It will qualify you to receive all the promised blessings.
To those who are not members of our church, I invite you to exercise faith, repent, and qualify to receive the covenant of baptism in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. By doing so, you will show your love to our Heavenly Father and your willingness to follow Christ.
I testify that we are happier when we follow the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ. As we strive to follow Him, the blessings of heaven will come unto us. I know His promises will be fulfilled as we make and keep covenants and become true followers of Christ. I testify of His great love for each one of us, and I do so in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Hide References
- 1. Moses 7:62.
- 2. John 8:12.
- 3. Isaiah 53:5.
- 4. 2 Corinthians 12:7.
- 5. See 1 Nephi 1:20.
- 6. See Ruth 1:16.
- 7. See Genesis 39:7–9.
- 8. See John 21:15–19.
- 9. See John 13:35.
- 10. Alma 27:27.
- 11. Moroni 10:33.
- 12. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 42; see also Spencer W. Kimball, “Be Ye Therefore Perfect” (devotional address, Salt Lake Institute of Religion, Jan. 10, 1975): “We made vows, solemn vows, in the heavens before we came to this mortal life. … We have made covenants. We made them before we accepted our position here on the earth.”
- 13. See 2 Nephi 31:5–7.
- 14. Abraham 2:11. See also John A. Widtsoe, “Temple Worship” (lecture, Assembly Hall, Salt Lake City, Oct. 12, 1920), 10: “The covenant gives life to truth; and makes possible the blessings that reward all those who use knowledge properly.”
- 15. See Doctrine and Covenants 90:24.
- 16. See, for example, 3 Nephi 18:7–11.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Week 11 1/2
Hello there!!
So, this week (as of the start today ;)) I am doing very well. Last week I was a bit sick. I don't know specifically why, but my stomach just decided to go haywire, and I had some bad stomach pains, "bicileta" (I'll leave you all to figure out that one), and got sick one night, but I'm all over that now. Also, one day I just hurt all over. My whole body ached, and I had no strength whatsoever, but I still went out and worked. I don't know how effective I was that day, but I tried.
We do meet in a church building. All the church buildings that I've been in in South America have been really new, and fairly nice. The church really does things right. There are still limitations in some aspects, but that's due to the region. We do the best we can with what we have.
I think I'm still getting along well with Elder Huarahuara...haha there's still a bit of a language barrier, but he's still teaching me, and we're still teaching together. Actually, I'm getting the opportunity to teach more as of late. Usually I smile and try really hard to understand and then give a little snippet of information that I have, and then Elder Huarahuara takes over again, but now I'm close to teaching full principles, which is a good feeling. I guess I'm progressing, at least a little bit. Also, I am starting to think in Spanish, so that's exciting.
So far we have been received very well. There haven't been any threatenings or even mean words said to us (that I know of), and we generally always get an opportunity to teach, even to hardcore Catholics. If people turn us away, it's always because they say, "Estoy ocupado," ["I'm busy"] even though they really aren't. But we still get new investigators, and we still get the chance to teach other people. Todos esta bien en el campo misional. [All is well in the mission field.]
Oh, we had another baptism on Saturday, and I got to perform it again! (Note: when I say we, I generally mean my companionship and not our district; our district had two baptisms en Sabado.) I absolutely love baptisms. There isn't anything about a baptism that I don't like. I get to help someone receive a saving ordinance and the opportunity for eternal life and exhaltation. It's so exciting! My mission will definitely have been worth it even if these three people that I've baptized are the only three that I baptize. Also, I may have very exciting news involving a rockstar next week. Stay tuned!
OH!! I got pouch!! I received letters from the end of March (roughly March 20-30), so that was exciting. Also, I'd like to point out that someone is a goof, but that person is much more awesome because of it. Goofs are the best.
Jeffrey, this part is directed specifically to you (but madre, I'd like if this goes in my blog as well). I am so darn proud of you. Your choice to no longer whatch R-rated movies and to not play Call of Duty anymore is a very mature decision to make. It's all the more impressive because of your reason; you wanted to follow the counsel of the prophet. That is quite incredible. Also, I am so proud of you for standing up for your decision, even when your priesthood quorum gave you a hard time about it. That's a true sign that you are a disciple of Christ, and you are an excellent example for both your priesthood quorum and also for your family. Keep on keeping on bro. I love you man.
I'm very glad to hear that everything is going well at home. You all are such good examples for your friends and co-workers. I'm so very proud of everything that you're doing. Good job with the costumes Elizabeth! I will be anxiously awaiting pictures of them (:D). Yay for Cub Scouts for Robby! Robby, you'll have such a good time with Scouts. I didn't get to do Scouts as much, but I think it'll be a good thing for you to do, especially if you stick with it. Yay Dad! Work is always good. Oh, also, Padre, there are many cars and many motorcycles here. Most of the cars are different from in the States, and all of the bikes are wimpier. There's a truck here that I like called the Chevy L5. They're used by the local police force. Also, there are a bunch of Renaults, though they're only seen as taxis. Most taxis are Hyundais, Renaults, or Kias. I did see a BMW X5 yesterday, but that's the nicest car I've seen here in Ecuador.
Well, I should probably go now. I shall continue to let you know if I'm in need of things (oh, I'll probably be buying an umbrella soon; I'm tired of getting drenched basically every day, and my raincoat is too hot to wear here) and when I receive mail. I'll be sending a mail package this Thursday, so be looking for mail in the next few weeks. Also, when you receive mail from me, could you let me know? Thank you. Okay, I shall go. I love you all! Keep on keeping on, and stay strong in your testimonies. Also, to others not of our faith who read my blog, if you ever want to know anything about our religion, please write me! I want you to know and I'll get mail too, so it works for everyone! Woo! Okay, I love you! Bye!
Elder Schomburg
P.S. They don't sell Reces (oh no...I think I've forgotten how to spell that!!) down here, which makes me a tad sad. Also, peanut butter is not sold here in La Concordia, which is also sad, so I can't make do-it-yourself Reces. But all is well still! Okay, bye!!
I will consider this motherly instinct as I have already sent him peanut butter... I know my boy! Hopefully it will actually arrive at its destination and he can make his own Reeses. :)
So, this week (as of the start today ;)) I am doing very well. Last week I was a bit sick. I don't know specifically why, but my stomach just decided to go haywire, and I had some bad stomach pains, "bicileta" (I'll leave you all to figure out that one), and got sick one night, but I'm all over that now. Also, one day I just hurt all over. My whole body ached, and I had no strength whatsoever, but I still went out and worked. I don't know how effective I was that day, but I tried.
We do meet in a church building. All the church buildings that I've been in in South America have been really new, and fairly nice. The church really does things right. There are still limitations in some aspects, but that's due to the region. We do the best we can with what we have.
I think I'm still getting along well with Elder Huarahuara...haha there's still a bit of a language barrier, but he's still teaching me, and we're still teaching together. Actually, I'm getting the opportunity to teach more as of late. Usually I smile and try really hard to understand and then give a little snippet of information that I have, and then Elder Huarahuara takes over again, but now I'm close to teaching full principles, which is a good feeling. I guess I'm progressing, at least a little bit. Also, I am starting to think in Spanish, so that's exciting.
So far we have been received very well. There haven't been any threatenings or even mean words said to us (that I know of), and we generally always get an opportunity to teach, even to hardcore Catholics. If people turn us away, it's always because they say, "Estoy ocupado," ["I'm busy"] even though they really aren't. But we still get new investigators, and we still get the chance to teach other people. Todos esta bien en el campo misional. [All is well in the mission field.]
Oh, we had another baptism on Saturday, and I got to perform it again! (Note: when I say we, I generally mean my companionship and not our district; our district had two baptisms en Sabado.) I absolutely love baptisms. There isn't anything about a baptism that I don't like. I get to help someone receive a saving ordinance and the opportunity for eternal life and exhaltation. It's so exciting! My mission will definitely have been worth it even if these three people that I've baptized are the only three that I baptize. Also, I may have very exciting news involving a rockstar next week. Stay tuned!
OH!! I got pouch!! I received letters from the end of March (roughly March 20-30), so that was exciting. Also, I'd like to point out that someone is a goof, but that person is much more awesome because of it. Goofs are the best.
Jeffrey, this part is directed specifically to you (but madre, I'd like if this goes in my blog as well). I am so darn proud of you. Your choice to no longer whatch R-rated movies and to not play Call of Duty anymore is a very mature decision to make. It's all the more impressive because of your reason; you wanted to follow the counsel of the prophet. That is quite incredible. Also, I am so proud of you for standing up for your decision, even when your priesthood quorum gave you a hard time about it. That's a true sign that you are a disciple of Christ, and you are an excellent example for both your priesthood quorum and also for your family. Keep on keeping on bro. I love you man.
I'm very glad to hear that everything is going well at home. You all are such good examples for your friends and co-workers. I'm so very proud of everything that you're doing. Good job with the costumes Elizabeth! I will be anxiously awaiting pictures of them (:D). Yay for Cub Scouts for Robby! Robby, you'll have such a good time with Scouts. I didn't get to do Scouts as much, but I think it'll be a good thing for you to do, especially if you stick with it. Yay Dad! Work is always good. Oh, also, Padre, there are many cars and many motorcycles here. Most of the cars are different from in the States, and all of the bikes are wimpier. There's a truck here that I like called the Chevy L5. They're used by the local police force. Also, there are a bunch of Renaults, though they're only seen as taxis. Most taxis are Hyundais, Renaults, or Kias. I did see a BMW X5 yesterday, but that's the nicest car I've seen here in Ecuador.
Well, I should probably go now. I shall continue to let you know if I'm in need of things (oh, I'll probably be buying an umbrella soon; I'm tired of getting drenched basically every day, and my raincoat is too hot to wear here) and when I receive mail. I'll be sending a mail package this Thursday, so be looking for mail in the next few weeks. Also, when you receive mail from me, could you let me know? Thank you. Okay, I shall go. I love you all! Keep on keeping on, and stay strong in your testimonies. Also, to others not of our faith who read my blog, if you ever want to know anything about our religion, please write me! I want you to know and I'll get mail too, so it works for everyone! Woo! Okay, I love you! Bye!
Elder Schomburg
P.S. They don't sell Reces (oh no...I think I've forgotten how to spell that!!) down here, which makes me a tad sad. Also, peanut butter is not sold here in La Concordia, which is also sad, so I can't make do-it-yourself Reces. But all is well still! Okay, bye!!
I will consider this motherly instinct as I have already sent him peanut butter... I know my boy! Hopefully it will actually arrive at its destination and he can make his own Reeses. :)
Monday, April 11, 2011
Well hello there all y'all!
Things are going pretty well here. Today for P-day we went to a farm out in the middle of nowhere. We played fútbol there for awhile, and I somewhow scored the winning goal. I also managed to rip the knee of a pair of jeans, but these things happen. It was fun all the same.
So, on Saturday I baptized my first two people! That was such a wonderful experience. We didn't actually have enough water to completely fill the faunt, so I had to kneel in the water and the two people had to sit down, but by golly they received baptism! It was so amazing. Their names are Alexis (an hermano of 11 years) and Alejandra (un hermana of 17 years). We've been teaching them for awhile now, so it was amazing to finally baptize them. I was going to try to include pictures, but the computer didn't want to accept my camera. Oh well.
Oh, that reminds me, I sent a package on Friday with some letters, and I've decided I'll only be sending a letter package every 2 weeks. Also, madre, if you could email me my account balances/let me know how much I have for sending letters each week, that would be good. Oh, and pouch still hasn't come yet. I guess things have been slow at the office, and this week they should be caught up. Hopefully.
Okay, question answering time!
There isn't actually a temple in Quito, it's in Guayaquil, which isn't in my mission at all, so I probably won't know what it looks like for a very long time.
Oh, church! Well, our branch had about 60 or more people come this Sunday. That was something. It's not nearly as organized as it is in the States, and I was having an off day already, so Church kinda made me a tad frustrated. It was very nice to get the sacrament though.
I have not yet been chased by any rabid dogs. All the dogs stay away from people for the most part. I can't really describe where I'm serving. It's not rich at all. Houses are cement buildings with tin roofs, there's a lot of dirt roads, and the city part is small and noisy as all get out.
The juice here is fantastic. They all have different looks, but they all taste really good. And they really just look like juice.
I don't have a lot more time, sorry! I walk, every day seems really hard, but at the end it seems rewarding (except when I get a pang of homesickness, and then I have to pray and just keep going). If I needed anything it might be vitamins and more food (I seem to always be hungry). Hmm....I'm living in an apartment that's on the 4th floor (no elevator) and is on main street right by where the buses stop. But I fall asleep quick every night.
Okay, I have to go now. I love you all! My testimony grows every day, and I hope yours does too! Keep sending letters if you are! I'm bound to get them one of these days. I love you all. Bye!
Elder Schomburg
So, on Saturday I baptized my first two people! That was such a wonderful experience. We didn't actually have enough water to completely fill the faunt, so I had to kneel in the water and the two people had to sit down, but by golly they received baptism! It was so amazing. Their names are Alexis (an hermano of 11 years) and Alejandra (un hermana of 17 years). We've been teaching them for awhile now, so it was amazing to finally baptize them. I was going to try to include pictures, but the computer didn't want to accept my camera. Oh well.
Oh, that reminds me, I sent a package on Friday with some letters, and I've decided I'll only be sending a letter package every 2 weeks. Also, madre, if you could email me my account balances/let me know how much I have for sending letters each week, that would be good. Oh, and pouch still hasn't come yet. I guess things have been slow at the office, and this week they should be caught up. Hopefully.
Okay, question answering time!
There isn't actually a temple in Quito, it's in Guayaquil, which isn't in my mission at all, so I probably won't know what it looks like for a very long time.
Oh, church! Well, our branch had about 60 or more people come this Sunday. That was something. It's not nearly as organized as it is in the States, and I was having an off day already, so Church kinda made me a tad frustrated. It was very nice to get the sacrament though.
I have not yet been chased by any rabid dogs. All the dogs stay away from people for the most part. I can't really describe where I'm serving. It's not rich at all. Houses are cement buildings with tin roofs, there's a lot of dirt roads, and the city part is small and noisy as all get out.
The juice here is fantastic. They all have different looks, but they all taste really good. And they really just look like juice.
I don't have a lot more time, sorry! I walk, every day seems really hard, but at the end it seems rewarding (except when I get a pang of homesickness, and then I have to pray and just keep going). If I needed anything it might be vitamins and more food (I seem to always be hungry). Hmm....I'm living in an apartment that's on the 4th floor (no elevator) and is on main street right by where the buses stop. But I fall asleep quick every night.
Okay, I have to go now. I love you all! My testimony grows every day, and I hope yours does too! Keep sending letters if you are! I'm bound to get them one of these days. I love you all. Bye!
Elder Schomburg
Monday, April 4, 2011
Well howdies!
Hello familia and all!
So here I am, in the great country of Ecuador! More specifically, I'm in the town La Concordia. Maybe it's a town, no se. Anyway, it's hot here. Siempre está calore, y siempre está humido. That's okay though, because the people here are fantastic. The first day that I got here, Elder Huarahuara (my trainer/primero compañero del campo) took me out to work. The first day we actually got three people to commit to baptism! That was pretty crazy, especially since two of the people committed on the first time we'd ever met them. Let's see, the food here is actualy really good. I like it a lot more than the CCM's food. Also, most of the juice here is out-of-this-world good, probably because it's all generally really fresh. Oh yeah, Elder Huarahuara! He's a great guy. When I got here he'd been in the field for 22 months, so I'm his last companion! He's from Perú, and he's the only member in his family. As you can expect, he's really good at teaching and getting people to trust him. Also, he's a hard worker, which is very good. He speaks no English though, so there have been some interesting (read: semi-frustrating) moments when I'm trying to tell him something, but things are all good. I can already undestand Spanish better, but there are times when I just cannot understand at all. Truth be told, missions are hard. If anyone ever tells you that their mission was easy, they're either lying or they didn't actually work during their mission. It's tough out here. All the missionaries I've met have said that my Spanish is pretty good and that I'm learning quickly, but I just have to take their word for that. But it's amazing out here. On Saturday after General Conference we had baptisms, and that was pretty amazing. I got to see one of our investigators get baptized, and a bunch more. It was really amazing. Also, General Conference was pretty darn fantastic. I noticed that the three most talked about things were the temple, marriage, and tithing. At least, that's what I remember about it. So yeah, Elder Scott's talk was almost difficult for me to listen to because it brought up a bit of homesickness, but it was still amazing and powerful nonetheless.
I just remembered that the enter key on this computer works! Woo!! Okay, things you should know. If you send packages, make sure they have some kind of green sticker that says what's in it on the package, and don't make packages more than 2 or 4 kilos. The green sticker should be at the post office. Keep sending to the address that involves Calles 640 and Amazonas or whatever it is, because that goes to the mission headquarters, and then they send it out via pouch on Saturdays. So, I'll receive mail on Saturdays only, and I didn't receive any this Saturday (in case you were wonderig if I had received anything you sent). Also, I won't be able to send out a lot of mail, because it's $2 to send one letter. Elder Martin, my zone leader, said that I can send about 5 letters in one package for $5, but that's still not cheap. Entonces, I won't be sending a lot of letters due to a lack of fundage, but I'll still do what I can. Also, I'll probably send that one package to mi madre, and if she is able to I'll have her send them out from there. So, any mail I send will take a bit longer than it already has I think. Sorry guys!
Oh, so, Ecuador is beautiful. Where I am is basically jungle. Well, it's a city, but just on the outskirts of town it's pretty jungley. The drive here was through pretty mountainous roads, but it was so lush and green that it didn't really seem like we were in the mountains, except for all of the switchbacks and such. Quito itself is pretty gorgeous. It's much cooler there. It's similar to Colorado in spring/later-ish fall, though a bit more humid. Not a lot more though. And it's very hilly. Everywhere here is hilly, but that's okay. I love it here.
I'm so excited to hear about everything going on back home! You guys are doing incredible things. Also, Jeffrey, if you could graduate early and get a headstart on saving up for your mission, that would be a great idea I think. Also, if you aren't doing it (talking to whole family, and anyone else really), I think family home evening could really be very rewarding.
Well, that's about all I have for now. I'll try to email some pictures next Monday (oh yeah, P-days are lunes), and if that doesn't work I'll probably mail one of my SD cards so that photos can be put on facebook/blog/christmas cards/whatever. I love all you guys! Thank you for all of your support. I know the Church is true, and it was restored by the power of our Heavenly Father through the prophet Joseph Smith. The Book of Mormon is true, and really is the word of God. It testifies of the Bible and Christ, just as the Bible testifies of the Book of Mormon and Christ. Thomas S. Monson is truly a prophet in these latter-days, and I leave you with this testimony in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Love,
Elder Schomburg
So here I am, in the great country of Ecuador! More specifically, I'm in the town La Concordia. Maybe it's a town, no se. Anyway, it's hot here. Siempre está calore, y siempre está humido. That's okay though, because the people here are fantastic. The first day that I got here, Elder Huarahuara (my trainer/primero compañero del campo) took me out to work. The first day we actually got three people to commit to baptism! That was pretty crazy, especially since two of the people committed on the first time we'd ever met them. Let's see, the food here is actualy really good. I like it a lot more than the CCM's food. Also, most of the juice here is out-of-this-world good, probably because it's all generally really fresh. Oh yeah, Elder Huarahuara! He's a great guy. When I got here he'd been in the field for 22 months, so I'm his last companion! He's from Perú, and he's the only member in his family. As you can expect, he's really good at teaching and getting people to trust him. Also, he's a hard worker, which is very good. He speaks no English though, so there have been some interesting (read: semi-frustrating) moments when I'm trying to tell him something, but things are all good. I can already undestand Spanish better, but there are times when I just cannot understand at all. Truth be told, missions are hard. If anyone ever tells you that their mission was easy, they're either lying or they didn't actually work during their mission. It's tough out here. All the missionaries I've met have said that my Spanish is pretty good and that I'm learning quickly, but I just have to take their word for that. But it's amazing out here. On Saturday after General Conference we had baptisms, and that was pretty amazing. I got to see one of our investigators get baptized, and a bunch more. It was really amazing. Also, General Conference was pretty darn fantastic. I noticed that the three most talked about things were the temple, marriage, and tithing. At least, that's what I remember about it. So yeah, Elder Scott's talk was almost difficult for me to listen to because it brought up a bit of homesickness, but it was still amazing and powerful nonetheless.
I just remembered that the enter key on this computer works! Woo!! Okay, things you should know. If you send packages, make sure they have some kind of green sticker that says what's in it on the package, and don't make packages more than 2 or 4 kilos. The green sticker should be at the post office. Keep sending to the address that involves Calles 640 and Amazonas or whatever it is, because that goes to the mission headquarters, and then they send it out via pouch on Saturdays. So, I'll receive mail on Saturdays only, and I didn't receive any this Saturday (in case you were wonderig if I had received anything you sent). Also, I won't be able to send out a lot of mail, because it's $2 to send one letter. Elder Martin, my zone leader, said that I can send about 5 letters in one package for $5, but that's still not cheap. Entonces, I won't be sending a lot of letters due to a lack of fundage, but I'll still do what I can. Also, I'll probably send that one package to mi madre, and if she is able to I'll have her send them out from there. So, any mail I send will take a bit longer than it already has I think. Sorry guys!
Oh, so, Ecuador is beautiful. Where I am is basically jungle. Well, it's a city, but just on the outskirts of town it's pretty jungley. The drive here was through pretty mountainous roads, but it was so lush and green that it didn't really seem like we were in the mountains, except for all of the switchbacks and such. Quito itself is pretty gorgeous. It's much cooler there. It's similar to Colorado in spring/later-ish fall, though a bit more humid. Not a lot more though. And it's very hilly. Everywhere here is hilly, but that's okay. I love it here.
I'm so excited to hear about everything going on back home! You guys are doing incredible things. Also, Jeffrey, if you could graduate early and get a headstart on saving up for your mission, that would be a great idea I think. Also, if you aren't doing it (talking to whole family, and anyone else really), I think family home evening could really be very rewarding.
Well, that's about all I have for now. I'll try to email some pictures next Monday (oh yeah, P-days are lunes), and if that doesn't work I'll probably mail one of my SD cards so that photos can be put on facebook/blog/christmas cards/whatever. I love all you guys! Thank you for all of your support. I know the Church is true, and it was restored by the power of our Heavenly Father through the prophet Joseph Smith. The Book of Mormon is true, and really is the word of God. It testifies of the Bible and Christ, just as the Bible testifies of the Book of Mormon and Christ. Thomas S. Monson is truly a prophet in these latter-days, and I leave you with this testimony in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Love,
Elder Schomburg
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