Wed, 10 Jun 2009

Dear Everybody,

That's right, 11 months. I can't believe I'm already about 2/3 done. It's amazing how fast time flies here.

Let's update you all on the week. Let's see, first of all--we had a baptism! James was finally able to meet his goal to be baptized, after changing so many things in his life. And when he came out of the water, man, you could tell he was a new man. He was confirmed on Sunday a member of the Church by Bro. Miller--him and his wife have been there for James pretty much since the Sisters started teaching him. They take him to church and activities, and they really love him. Actually, everybody in the ward seems to really care about him. After losing his mom and not having his family near by, he really feels like he has found a family in the Goodyear ward. It's pretty cool.

I think the best part is to hear him bear his own testimony of what he has learned. He loves this stuff so much, during his free time he reads the Gospel Principles manual from his class at church and takes notes, asks himself questions and searches the scriptures for answers. I know life-long members who don't take their studies that seriously! Heck, I know I'm not that diligent.

We also have another date set for baptism--a 9-yr-old girl whose grandma is a member who takes her to church. It's pretty cool to see this girl, even though she's still so young, understanding the gospel and really--she chose to be baptized because she wants to, because she loves it, not because of her grandma or anybody else.

My testimony to you is that the Gospel really IS for everybody--we are all so different, no two people think or feel or learn the same. But their really is one way that works for everyone, and that is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He tells us not to search our own paths, trust in the arm of flesh, follow just any wind of doctrine--no, we need to follow HIM, because HE is the way, the truth and the light. There is only one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism. It is only through the way that He has set up that we will truly have the Eternal Life that is promised in the scriptures.

But you can't just believe me because it's something I know. Ask Heavenly Father, and He'll tell you the Truth.

Sister Rosser--I'm stoked to do the review. :D

Christopher--ha ha ha. :P

Esteleen--thanks for the email! In the area I'm serving in we go from west Avondale (just west of Phoenix), and we go out as far as tonopah. That's just if we find anyone Spanish-speaking who wants to come to church. But yeah, I didn't actually say anything about that in the letter.

Frank--thanks for the letter! You have no idea how awesome it is to be thought of. I hope Alaska is treating you well! I'll write you a real letter soon. I still owe a bunch of people again. . . Lol.

Until next week.

Love,
Hna. Crowley