Hello Family!
We saw the hand of the Lord in helping us get in contact with Julian. We were unable to make contact while he was away due to the fact that it was going straight to voicemail when we called and no one answered the door when we tried by. While traveling to an appointment by bus when I felt impressed to try by Julian's home again. The impression came right after speaking to an atheist next to me. The stop was immediately following so I jumped off and told Elder Suss, "Let's go."
We got off and knocked to find him in! He had lost his phone while on holiday and expressed to us that he still wanted to continue learning. He had also read in the Book of Mormon while he was away to our great surprise. It was an answer to numerous prayers I had made to my Heavenly Father. Looks like the Spirit whispered to our family in numerous ways this week. An increased testimony from each of us has been developed as mentioned in D&C 130 that every blessing we receive is predicated upon obedience. Whether it be attending the temple or sharing the gospel, the principle is the same. We will be seeing Julian tomorrow.
Sister Gregson called me during companionship study a couple of days ago to also share the experience with me. I was greatly touched. My love for Elder Suss continues to increase day by day. I am still working on the principle of patience in certain occasions in the work, but nonetheless, my love increases as I am aware in developing this Christlike attribute.
We saw many other great occurrences this week. One being a less-active member named Ona. She is from Lithuania and we saw her the previous week. She lives the gospel perfectly except to the fact of church attendance due to her work schedule. We went by to teach her but after speaking to her son Giedrus, he told us she wasn't in. I then asked him a few questions and talked to him about the gospel for a minute or two. I then asked if we could come in and teach him and accepted. He had been taught by the missionaries about a year or so ago. We shared the Restoration with him and seemed to understand most of it. We are seeing him as well tomorrow.
Elder Lamb and I street contacted a man named Kenneth the day before transfers. He is from Houston but his wife is English and they're are both black. We set up an appointment with him and taught him a couple of days ago. His wife wasn't in the lesson. She is a devout Pentecostal Christian and Kenneth has a belief in God but desires a real answer to know he is there. Due to his wife's faith, she has tried to help him develop an answer through the Holy Ghost by speaking in tongues and being "slain" by the Spirit. We discussed this with him and how the Holy Ghost can and does work. We also mentioned the Restoration and Book of Mormon and committed him to read and pray.
We also taught a man named John whom I bus contacted a couple of weeks back. He is English and is an evangelical Christian. He has attended numerous churches in the past and is a studier of the Bible. He is one who picks and chooses the doctrine he likes in these different churches he has attended. We also shared the Restoration with him. He was asking many questions in regard to the great apostasy and priesthood authority in Jesus Christ's Church. I did a lot of the talking in that lesson due to the types of questions and vocabulary he was using. We discussed scriptures in the Bible to refer to each others viewpoint concerning his questions. I am grateful that it was never a bash but was a very good discussion. We also had questions in regards to the Holy Ghost and what His nature and purpose is according to our doctrine. Elder Suss and I each both bore powerful testimony of the divinity of the Book of Mormon to close. We are seeing him in a couple of weeks.
Driving lessons continue to go well. I am doing one lesson a week for one hour until my practical test on September 28th. Just working on minor touches to this point and making things habits to ensure I pass my test, but I am completely comfortable driving a manual at this point. I wouldn't mind driving one when I return :)
I am glad to hear everything went superb this first full week of school. Does everyone like their teachers and classes? Are we happy? How is Colton being at home? Anxious/excited/ nervous? How is the mission preperation going?
What is Elissa's address? I sent her a letter a month or so ago but it came back with an incorrect address. I forgot to mention that I got a letter from Tom and the family. They were all fantastic and enjoyed each of what they said. I also got a letter from Zach and his mother that were also briliant around the same time as Tom's.
My conclude by expressing my love and gratitude for each of your examples and continuous love towards me. I am grateful for my upbringing. That I was taught the principles of rightouesness and how to have true happiness through them. And that throught those principles, I have progressed into the individual I am today. I am grateful for you continual spiritual experiences and examples. Remember this teaching, "How is it done (Enos 1:7-8)?" Become.
Love,
Cameron
Monday, September 5, 2011
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Week 46-Manchester England-Manchester
Hi Family!
I forgot to mention that Monday was a bank holiday and yesterday we went on a church history tour for our Zone Conference. So that is why I am emailing you today.
Last week was a tough one. The week was definitely harder on Elder Suss than on me. He became frustrated with things falling through. It doesn't hinder me anymore. I was rather bold and expressed to him that you're going to have days like this (quite often) and you're going to have to get through it. Elder Suss speaks good English but is having a difficult time understanding it. It has put me in the position to take a lot of load in finding and teaching situations. We have been working on everything together in companionship study and he is improving very well. I feel I am doing my best to help him become and develop patience. Nothing to worry about at all family :) it is just how missionary life is. Just pray for him to develop more faith, patience, and recognize the Spirit.
We tried to get a hold of Julian, we went by his home yesterday but he unfortunately wasn't in. Pray that we get in contact with him.
We have had successful experiences regardless, however. We have taught lessons this week to other investigators. It is all a matter of having these people increase their knowledge and application on the first principle of the gospel: Faith in Jesus Christ.
We also had a great experience yesterday teaching a family of three yesterday. We tracted into them on Sunday afternoon and met the wife/mother named Denice is an inactive member. Her husband Norman and son Sam joined in on the lesson as well. We were truly able to teach to their needs. We had a great discussion on the nature of God, recognizing the Spirit through prayer, and our Heavenly Father's plan for us.
Denise brought up in the discussion the doctrine of becoming like our Heavenly Father. She agrees with and finds the doctrine wonderful. I felt impressed to hold on to that particular point due to the fact they had blatantly declined the invitation to attend church with us the Sunday before. I expressed the brilliance and love of this principle. I told them that no doctrine is more simple or basic than man can become as his Maker. If we are children of our Heavenly Father, why can we not progress and become as He is? It is the same way here on earth, why not in Heaven? No other church offers that. Our Church offers this expression of Deity in greater amounts more than any other church: that is love. No one else's a plan to salvation offers as much love as than that of Christ's restored gospel. Life is about progressing to become. The scriptures teach us that we learn "line upon line, precept upon precept." As Joseph Smith said that the principles of the gospel are like taking one step at a time on a ladder, so is our way to and through eternal progression and happiness.
Denice than expressed to me that what I told her had a profound influence on her. The presence of the Spirit was there as both Elder Suss and I testified of truth to them. Although they were opposed to coming to church, they did accept the invitation to read and pray about the Book of Mormon after Denice's comments. We are very much looking forward to helping them accept invitations on our next visit.
The Church History Tour was fantastic. We went to Liverpool, Preston, and Downham village. Great things happened at these places and I wish that I had the time to tell you but unfortunately I do not.
I loved the letters you wrote. It touched to read your studies and experiences you had this week as always. Talk to you on Monday!
Love,
Cameron
I forgot to mention that Monday was a bank holiday and yesterday we went on a church history tour for our Zone Conference. So that is why I am emailing you today.
Last week was a tough one. The week was definitely harder on Elder Suss than on me. He became frustrated with things falling through. It doesn't hinder me anymore. I was rather bold and expressed to him that you're going to have days like this (quite often) and you're going to have to get through it. Elder Suss speaks good English but is having a difficult time understanding it. It has put me in the position to take a lot of load in finding and teaching situations. We have been working on everything together in companionship study and he is improving very well. I feel I am doing my best to help him become and develop patience. Nothing to worry about at all family :) it is just how missionary life is. Just pray for him to develop more faith, patience, and recognize the Spirit.
We tried to get a hold of Julian, we went by his home yesterday but he unfortunately wasn't in. Pray that we get in contact with him.
We have had successful experiences regardless, however. We have taught lessons this week to other investigators. It is all a matter of having these people increase their knowledge and application on the first principle of the gospel: Faith in Jesus Christ.
We also had a great experience yesterday teaching a family of three yesterday. We tracted into them on Sunday afternoon and met the wife/mother named Denice is an inactive member. Her husband Norman and son Sam joined in on the lesson as well. We were truly able to teach to their needs. We had a great discussion on the nature of God, recognizing the Spirit through prayer, and our Heavenly Father's plan for us.
Denise brought up in the discussion the doctrine of becoming like our Heavenly Father. She agrees with and finds the doctrine wonderful. I felt impressed to hold on to that particular point due to the fact they had blatantly declined the invitation to attend church with us the Sunday before. I expressed the brilliance and love of this principle. I told them that no doctrine is more simple or basic than man can become as his Maker. If we are children of our Heavenly Father, why can we not progress and become as He is? It is the same way here on earth, why not in Heaven? No other church offers that. Our Church offers this expression of Deity in greater amounts more than any other church: that is love. No one else's a plan to salvation offers as much love as than that of Christ's restored gospel. Life is about progressing to become. The scriptures teach us that we learn "line upon line, precept upon precept." As Joseph Smith said that the principles of the gospel are like taking one step at a time on a ladder, so is our way to and through eternal progression and happiness.
Denice than expressed to me that what I told her had a profound influence on her. The presence of the Spirit was there as both Elder Suss and I testified of truth to them. Although they were opposed to coming to church, they did accept the invitation to read and pray about the Book of Mormon after Denice's comments. We are very much looking forward to helping them accept invitations on our next visit.
The Church History Tour was fantastic. We went to Liverpool, Preston, and Downham village. Great things happened at these places and I wish that I had the time to tell you but unfortunately I do not.
I loved the letters you wrote. It touched to read your studies and experiences you had this week as always. Talk to you on Monday!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, August 15, 2011
Week 45-Manchester England-Manchester
Hi Family!
Before I forget, this next week is transfers and the idea of leaving Stretford is ultra-unlikely. I will either email your next Wednesday or Thursday. Whether I have a new companion or not it completely up in the air.
Julian is still doing quite well. He loves being around us. We had tea with a member from Mexico with him the other day and he loved it. He also loved church yesterday. He was a bit hesitant on the Law of Chastity intially due to passed circumstances but all was well the second time around. We are teaching him the Word of Wisdom tomorrow and pray that goes well. He does drink but I think it is more socially. He is definitely a 20-year-old Colombian kid who likes to party so hopefully the Spirit can touch his heart tomorrow of the truthfulness of the inspired principle.
As far as safety goes, everything is well. The rioters are only rioting for the sake of it here in Manchester and it only really happened one day. We were asked to avoid Piccadilly for a day and we stayed in for the evening the day it all happened. Luckily, we had Multi-Zone Trainings that day. After that nothing happened and everything is under control. Some of the shops around Piccadilly have boards where some windows were smashed.
I had quite the experience setting up an appointment with someone on the bus who was deaf. We were on a double-decker and I went to the back of the bus to sit next to him on the top floor. I started speaking when he immediately signaled with his hands pointing to his ears that he couldn't hear me. I however persisted in lipping words very slowly. We were able to show thumbs-up and smiles to communicate agreement/understanding. I was able to use hand gestures, the Restoration leaflet, and the Book of Mormon to have a quality gospel converstaion on the bus to someone who couldn't even speak! I was able to show so simply the principle of authority, prophets, and prayer all by using visual movements and pictures. I then gestured that we wanted to tell him more about the Book of Mormon and he accepted. I pulled out my planner and started thumbing through which day was best for him. He selected Monday (today) at seven. I was able to get his address and name as well. I hope we do see him.
It was absolutely fascinating to me how the simplicity of the event had a very profound impact on me as I have reflected upon it. I thought about a man with humble situations and circumstances who couldn't hear, let alone speak, could understand simple gospel principles better than all of the educated and eloquent people who are only intrigued with the doctrines of men rather than the truthfulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether we teach him or not, I know that both Winston Wellington and I were taught in both of our minds and in our hearts that day on the 256 double-decker bus.
We were able to teach two Hindu's yesterday named Reda and BJ. They were very kind and very devot in their religion. They are both from India and are fantastic. We were able to exchange beliefs but we were able to pray and teach them the message of the Restoration. They invited us to their Hindu temple to have food and we invited them to church, reading and praying about the Book of Mormon, and baptism. The accepted the first two of the three extended :) We are teaching them again Sunday but I don't know about attending the Hindu temple, we will no doubt need approval for that.
Lastly, I'll share some of my thoughts and feelings on Alma 5. In the previous chapter, it discusses the thousands of converts who were baptized and entered the Church. Shortly thereafter however, pride and contention inflated among Church members, thus disallowing progression to occur among the Church. Alma shows his love and concern for the welfare of the saints souls by leaving the judgment-seat and solely dedicating himself to his calling as high priest over the Chruch. I thought abould that great act of boldnesss and faith to make for the people he presides over.
A thought that came to me as I was studying verses 4-13 was Moroni's Promise. Alma preaches to the land of Zarahemla to remember the mercy of the Lord to them personally and to their fathers. When we remember the tender mercies of the Lord from the beginning to now, we too can have the promise that Alma extends that Heavenly Father will change our hearts as we yield to his will.
I abosolutely love his thought provoking/inspiried questions thorughout the chapter. I loved verse 38 as well. I could feel the Spirit of the increase amount of love Alma showed after heavily rebuking them. The Good Shepherd truly does continually call us to come and follow Him. What a sacred action and invitation.
Unfortunately that is all the time I have to share but I love you and will speak to you next week!
Love,
Cameron
Before I forget, this next week is transfers and the idea of leaving Stretford is ultra-unlikely. I will either email your next Wednesday or Thursday. Whether I have a new companion or not it completely up in the air.
Julian is still doing quite well. He loves being around us. We had tea with a member from Mexico with him the other day and he loved it. He also loved church yesterday. He was a bit hesitant on the Law of Chastity intially due to passed circumstances but all was well the second time around. We are teaching him the Word of Wisdom tomorrow and pray that goes well. He does drink but I think it is more socially. He is definitely a 20-year-old Colombian kid who likes to party so hopefully the Spirit can touch his heart tomorrow of the truthfulness of the inspired principle.
As far as safety goes, everything is well. The rioters are only rioting for the sake of it here in Manchester and it only really happened one day. We were asked to avoid Piccadilly for a day and we stayed in for the evening the day it all happened. Luckily, we had Multi-Zone Trainings that day. After that nothing happened and everything is under control. Some of the shops around Piccadilly have boards where some windows were smashed.
I had quite the experience setting up an appointment with someone on the bus who was deaf. We were on a double-decker and I went to the back of the bus to sit next to him on the top floor. I started speaking when he immediately signaled with his hands pointing to his ears that he couldn't hear me. I however persisted in lipping words very slowly. We were able to show thumbs-up and smiles to communicate agreement/understanding. I was able to use hand gestures, the Restoration leaflet, and the Book of Mormon to have a quality gospel converstaion on the bus to someone who couldn't even speak! I was able to show so simply the principle of authority, prophets, and prayer all by using visual movements and pictures. I then gestured that we wanted to tell him more about the Book of Mormon and he accepted. I pulled out my planner and started thumbing through which day was best for him. He selected Monday (today) at seven. I was able to get his address and name as well. I hope we do see him.
It was absolutely fascinating to me how the simplicity of the event had a very profound impact on me as I have reflected upon it. I thought about a man with humble situations and circumstances who couldn't hear, let alone speak, could understand simple gospel principles better than all of the educated and eloquent people who are only intrigued with the doctrines of men rather than the truthfulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether we teach him or not, I know that both Winston Wellington and I were taught in both of our minds and in our hearts that day on the 256 double-decker bus.
We were able to teach two Hindu's yesterday named Reda and BJ. They were very kind and very devot in their religion. They are both from India and are fantastic. We were able to exchange beliefs but we were able to pray and teach them the message of the Restoration. They invited us to their Hindu temple to have food and we invited them to church, reading and praying about the Book of Mormon, and baptism. The accepted the first two of the three extended :) We are teaching them again Sunday but I don't know about attending the Hindu temple, we will no doubt need approval for that.
Lastly, I'll share some of my thoughts and feelings on Alma 5. In the previous chapter, it discusses the thousands of converts who were baptized and entered the Church. Shortly thereafter however, pride and contention inflated among Church members, thus disallowing progression to occur among the Church. Alma shows his love and concern for the welfare of the saints souls by leaving the judgment-seat and solely dedicating himself to his calling as high priest over the Chruch. I thought abould that great act of boldnesss and faith to make for the people he presides over.
A thought that came to me as I was studying verses 4-13 was Moroni's Promise. Alma preaches to the land of Zarahemla to remember the mercy of the Lord to them personally and to their fathers. When we remember the tender mercies of the Lord from the beginning to now, we too can have the promise that Alma extends that Heavenly Father will change our hearts as we yield to his will.
I abosolutely love his thought provoking/inspiried questions thorughout the chapter. I loved verse 38 as well. I could feel the Spirit of the increase amount of love Alma showed after heavily rebuking them. The Good Shepherd truly does continually call us to come and follow Him. What a sacred action and invitation.
Unfortunately that is all the time I have to share but I love you and will speak to you next week!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, August 8, 2011
Week 44-Manchester England-Manchester
Dear family,
Another good week here in Manchester. Especially with Julian. It was a bit mad with all of the travel we have to do in this area but all is well. Elder Lamb and I continue to have a good relationship and find ways that we can improve upon.
I read Mosiah 4 earlier this week. King Benjamen's words inspired me as I felt the Holy Ghost enlighten my mind and heart as I studied. I pondered much on the humility of King Benjamen's people, especially on how it described their meekness to find themselves to be "even less than the dust of the earth(v. 2)." How open their hearts must have been to have the words of their king to influence their desires to submit to their level of humility.
I also loved verse 11. Even those who come to a knowledge of our Heavenly Father's reality and divinity have only "tasted" of His love. Tasted. To believe that I have only felt a minuscule amount of my Father's love for me on earth leads me to ponder on the incomprehensible way He express His perfect love whilst in His presence. Our Father offers all that He has. All glory, dominions, power, principalities, kingdoms, etc., can be ours because of His perfect and infinite capacity to express love. What blessings are also promised in verse 12 as we heed King Benjamen's counsel in this verse.
Driving has gone very well but also very expensive. I'm putting in my reimbursements tomorrow so I will have a lot more money, but I probably need another $150. My instructor says I'm nearly ready for my practical test and if I pass that, I will have my licence. I probably won't take that until the beginning of October due to the long wait to take it. I feel badly for the economic burden this all is but if I could have it as soon as possible the better so I can book my test as early as possible. Yes, it is pretty much the same reason as before.
Julian as I mentioned is doing fantastic. He went to church again yesterday and is doing amazing. He has been highlighting all of the verses that impress him and those he has questions on. He had a Book of Mormon in English for a little while because we didn't have one in Spanish at the time. He was looking up words in the dictionary to improve his English and going on mormon.org in Spanish. He continues to give fantastic prayers in both languages. I have been able to develop a really good relationship with him this past week. One of his friends named Claudia is from Chile and she has expressed to Julian that she has some interest as well. We are planning on teaching her this week too, please pray that we do so.
I am grateful I was taught early on in my mission how to bus contact and speak to everyone on the bus. Even though there are many instances where passengers/bus drivers get very upset and threaten you I have seen miracles from that way of contacting people. Some of my best conversations have been on trains and buses. I have a testimony of speaking to everyone that is in your eyesight, even if they are 100 yards away and you have to run after them. You don't need to worry about speaking to the right person if you are speaking to everyone. I always strive to be a forever finder wherever I am and always ask for the Lord's help as I do my best to do so. I absolutely love speaking to people. If I wouldn't have spoken to Julian, we would have not had him as an investigator with a baptismal date and a referral from him as well. I can't express to you how much my self-motivation and work ethic has increased because of my mission.
I enjoyed each of your emails this week. I always look at the Sacred Missionary Document to evaluate where I am as a missionary and set goals and make plans to help me become. I also have a testimony of revelation at the temple, Dad. I learn something new from and feel the influence in the Spirit every time I pray to my Heavenly Father when I enter the Celestial Room.
Well I am happy to hear that I probably won't be missing any NBA this next season due to the lockout. That is a great sup rise. That Kevin Durant story was unbelievable. 66 points while being triple-teamed! I had no idea that was occurring. Manchester United had a game at their stadium against a New York team that they beat 6-0. Around six o'clock the streets were absolutely flooded around our flat's area with Man U fans. The official Premier League starts this upcoming week I believe.
I was laughing out loud as I read the stories about the dogs and Jaela. I can't believe they were laying in the middle of the street and weren't moving. Lauren was right in the letter she wrote to me, they really are so lazy! Do we not have a fence at our house. Sorry for ignorance, I just haven't seen my new home so I have no idea. Tell Jaela that Cameron says Happy Birthday!
I am excited to hear Colton, that you got a good topic to speak on for you farewell. Did you get to choose that? How did you manage to do two? Are you excited? That is great opportunity that you have to do two talks.
Continue to pray that we have new investigators and that we invite everyone effectively as you expressed, Dad. We as a companionship are now going through our former and potential investigators and calling them. I have done this in all my other areas but it is something in the missionary work side of things I can better apply and how to become.
I will read Alma 5 and will follow-up on it with you next week, Dad. I hope I can gain great knowledge and be able to best evaluate myself and what I need to improve on in my continual becoming process. I keep you all in my prayers and fast for you every fast Sunday. I know you all do the same for me and I express my gratitude for doing so. Have a great, becoming week!
Love,
Cameron
Another good week here in Manchester. Especially with Julian. It was a bit mad with all of the travel we have to do in this area but all is well. Elder Lamb and I continue to have a good relationship and find ways that we can improve upon.
I read Mosiah 4 earlier this week. King Benjamen's words inspired me as I felt the Holy Ghost enlighten my mind and heart as I studied. I pondered much on the humility of King Benjamen's people, especially on how it described their meekness to find themselves to be "even less than the dust of the earth(v. 2)." How open their hearts must have been to have the words of their king to influence their desires to submit to their level of humility.
I also loved verse 11. Even those who come to a knowledge of our Heavenly Father's reality and divinity have only "tasted" of His love. Tasted. To believe that I have only felt a minuscule amount of my Father's love for me on earth leads me to ponder on the incomprehensible way He express His perfect love whilst in His presence. Our Father offers all that He has. All glory, dominions, power, principalities, kingdoms, etc., can be ours because of His perfect and infinite capacity to express love. What blessings are also promised in verse 12 as we heed King Benjamen's counsel in this verse.
Driving has gone very well but also very expensive. I'm putting in my reimbursements tomorrow so I will have a lot more money, but I probably need another $150. My instructor says I'm nearly ready for my practical test and if I pass that, I will have my licence. I probably won't take that until the beginning of October due to the long wait to take it. I feel badly for the economic burden this all is but if I could have it as soon as possible the better so I can book my test as early as possible. Yes, it is pretty much the same reason as before.
Julian as I mentioned is doing fantastic. He went to church again yesterday and is doing amazing. He has been highlighting all of the verses that impress him and those he has questions on. He had a Book of Mormon in English for a little while because we didn't have one in Spanish at the time. He was looking up words in the dictionary to improve his English and going on mormon.org in Spanish. He continues to give fantastic prayers in both languages. I have been able to develop a really good relationship with him this past week. One of his friends named Claudia is from Chile and she has expressed to Julian that she has some interest as well. We are planning on teaching her this week too, please pray that we do so.
I am grateful I was taught early on in my mission how to bus contact and speak to everyone on the bus. Even though there are many instances where passengers/bus drivers get very upset and threaten you I have seen miracles from that way of contacting people. Some of my best conversations have been on trains and buses. I have a testimony of speaking to everyone that is in your eyesight, even if they are 100 yards away and you have to run after them. You don't need to worry about speaking to the right person if you are speaking to everyone. I always strive to be a forever finder wherever I am and always ask for the Lord's help as I do my best to do so. I absolutely love speaking to people. If I wouldn't have spoken to Julian, we would have not had him as an investigator with a baptismal date and a referral from him as well. I can't express to you how much my self-motivation and work ethic has increased because of my mission.
I enjoyed each of your emails this week. I always look at the Sacred Missionary Document to evaluate where I am as a missionary and set goals and make plans to help me become. I also have a testimony of revelation at the temple, Dad. I learn something new from and feel the influence in the Spirit every time I pray to my Heavenly Father when I enter the Celestial Room.
Well I am happy to hear that I probably won't be missing any NBA this next season due to the lockout. That is a great sup rise. That Kevin Durant story was unbelievable. 66 points while being triple-teamed! I had no idea that was occurring. Manchester United had a game at their stadium against a New York team that they beat 6-0. Around six o'clock the streets were absolutely flooded around our flat's area with Man U fans. The official Premier League starts this upcoming week I believe.
I was laughing out loud as I read the stories about the dogs and Jaela. I can't believe they were laying in the middle of the street and weren't moving. Lauren was right in the letter she wrote to me, they really are so lazy! Do we not have a fence at our house. Sorry for ignorance, I just haven't seen my new home so I have no idea. Tell Jaela that Cameron says Happy Birthday!
I am excited to hear Colton, that you got a good topic to speak on for you farewell. Did you get to choose that? How did you manage to do two? Are you excited? That is great opportunity that you have to do two talks.
Continue to pray that we have new investigators and that we invite everyone effectively as you expressed, Dad. We as a companionship are now going through our former and potential investigators and calling them. I have done this in all my other areas but it is something in the missionary work side of things I can better apply and how to become.
I will read Alma 5 and will follow-up on it with you next week, Dad. I hope I can gain great knowledge and be able to best evaluate myself and what I need to improve on in my continual becoming process. I keep you all in my prayers and fast for you every fast Sunday. I know you all do the same for me and I express my gratitude for doing so. Have a great, becoming week!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, August 1, 2011
Week 43-Manchester England-Manchester
Dear family,
It was a fantastic week here in Manchester. I was able to see great blessings in occurance throughout the week. A lot of work still needed to be done here in the vineyard of Stretford, but I hope that all continues to go well with yourselves and I.
First, I will share some thoughts and insights in my studies this past week. I went through "Preach My Gospel" on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As I was reading and studying on the topic of repentance, I turned to the Bible Dictionary. In Greek, repentance means a change of mind. I then found myself reflecting on the idea that the Spirit's influence must be present in order for us to have this change of mind to occur. Those who have the necessity to feel the Spirit witness to them of the second principle of the Savior's gospel must first show the primary step that takes the initial leap of faith: humility. In order for one to repent and feel the influence of the Holy Ghost, they must be submissive to anything that draws them to the Redeemer. Whether it be an action, event ,circumstance, or environment it must influence one's self to show humility towards faith in the Master.
My exchange with Elder Metseranta was brilliant. Throughout our exchange, we were able to have great conversations on desires, the importance of continual progression, and experiences in our time as missionaries. It was a "refiner's fire" kind of day. We had mostly finding on our first day together, but that is when we were able to get to know each other and learn from one another the best. Elder Metseranta was a great example in diligence as well as teaching to meet the needs of the investigator. I absolutely loved it.
We also have an investigator dated for the 27 of August. His name is Julian Ruiz and he is from Colombia and is 20. I spoke to him a about a week and half a go on the bus to interviews and trainings. He obviously spoke Spanish so we had a minimal conversation in his native tongue. He didn't have any belief in God and I talked about and showed him the Book of Mormon. I mentioned that it was proof that God exsists and that He loves all of His children. I then set up an appointment with him that intially fell through due to his schedule. We arranged another time and since we have seen him twice. He came to church with us yesterday and enjoyed it.
After sacrament, I followed-up with him on how his prayers were. He gave a very detailed description in what he had said in his prayer the night before and how he felt as he did so. He mentioned that it felt a little bit like he was praying to no one. I just told him keep working at it and that it just takes practice. I was very grateful for his humility on keeping all the commitments we have extended to him thus far. Pray that he continues to progress and that the language barrier won't effect his progression.
Dan Campbell unfortunately did not make it to church. We taught him on Saturday about desires with refrences to Dallin H. Oaks last conference talk. He expressed that he wants to commit to full activity again and have the vision of attending the temple to recieve his endowment. He said he was taking the bus to church but unfortuntely did not show. We will be seeing him later on in the week.
The wards here are not doing this 15 program. They have a ward mission plan and a list of 5 names to each set of missionaries in this ward. Dan Campbell is one of ours. The ward mission leader is great and is doing a lot of great things to help the ward progress. They have reach-out nights every two weeks to try by less/inactives.
We have been doing a between an hour of two of service at a charity shop the past couple of weeks. We move furniture from downstairs to upstairs and vice-versa. I offer to service nearly everyone I meet but the English are a very closed people and are difficult to the idea of accepting help. Working with charities or small organizations is probably the most effective way to build service oriented relationships in order to share the gospel in this country. Luckily I am told but nearly all that the north is very much more friendlier than the south and am grateful for that. But don't misunderstand me from these statements, I love English and everything about them!
I hope your last summer month goes fantastically! When does school start? Is anyone exicted? I myself can't believe how quickly the time has gone either. It seems like yesterday was my first day in Southport.
We went to the driving range last Monday (P-Day). It took me a while to get some distance at all but I finally did and ended well with a nice blister on my thumb. We are going to he Manchester University Museum today so that should be great as well.
Here are some pictures of Elder Lamb and I as well as the other Elders in our flat/area. Elder Davey (left) from Sussex, England and Elder Gianotti from Milan Italy.
I have a fantastic driving instructor named Ian from Nottingham. I'm the first American he has taught and we started a good relationship right off the get-go. I had a very good lesson with him last week and I have two lessons this week for tomorrow and Wednesday.
I love you all and again hope all is well in Potato Land. May we continually recognize the Lord's hand in all that we do as we are obedient to the principles and ordinances of HIs gospel.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I just sent Colton an email regarding last weeks letter. Also, if you could possibly send a letter to Elder Lamb, that would be fantastic!
It was a fantastic week here in Manchester. I was able to see great blessings in occurance throughout the week. A lot of work still needed to be done here in the vineyard of Stretford, but I hope that all continues to go well with yourselves and I.
First, I will share some thoughts and insights in my studies this past week. I went through "Preach My Gospel" on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As I was reading and studying on the topic of repentance, I turned to the Bible Dictionary. In Greek, repentance means a change of mind. I then found myself reflecting on the idea that the Spirit's influence must be present in order for us to have this change of mind to occur. Those who have the necessity to feel the Spirit witness to them of the second principle of the Savior's gospel must first show the primary step that takes the initial leap of faith: humility. In order for one to repent and feel the influence of the Holy Ghost, they must be submissive to anything that draws them to the Redeemer. Whether it be an action, event ,circumstance, or environment it must influence one's self to show humility towards faith in the Master.
My exchange with Elder Metseranta was brilliant. Throughout our exchange, we were able to have great conversations on desires, the importance of continual progression, and experiences in our time as missionaries. It was a "refiner's fire" kind of day. We had mostly finding on our first day together, but that is when we were able to get to know each other and learn from one another the best. Elder Metseranta was a great example in diligence as well as teaching to meet the needs of the investigator. I absolutely loved it.
We also have an investigator dated for the 27 of August. His name is Julian Ruiz and he is from Colombia and is 20. I spoke to him a about a week and half a go on the bus to interviews and trainings. He obviously spoke Spanish so we had a minimal conversation in his native tongue. He didn't have any belief in God and I talked about and showed him the Book of Mormon. I mentioned that it was proof that God exsists and that He loves all of His children. I then set up an appointment with him that intially fell through due to his schedule. We arranged another time and since we have seen him twice. He came to church with us yesterday and enjoyed it.
After sacrament, I followed-up with him on how his prayers were. He gave a very detailed description in what he had said in his prayer the night before and how he felt as he did so. He mentioned that it felt a little bit like he was praying to no one. I just told him keep working at it and that it just takes practice. I was very grateful for his humility on keeping all the commitments we have extended to him thus far. Pray that he continues to progress and that the language barrier won't effect his progression.
Dan Campbell unfortunately did not make it to church. We taught him on Saturday about desires with refrences to Dallin H. Oaks last conference talk. He expressed that he wants to commit to full activity again and have the vision of attending the temple to recieve his endowment. He said he was taking the bus to church but unfortuntely did not show. We will be seeing him later on in the week.
The wards here are not doing this 15 program. They have a ward mission plan and a list of 5 names to each set of missionaries in this ward. Dan Campbell is one of ours. The ward mission leader is great and is doing a lot of great things to help the ward progress. They have reach-out nights every two weeks to try by less/inactives.
We have been doing a between an hour of two of service at a charity shop the past couple of weeks. We move furniture from downstairs to upstairs and vice-versa. I offer to service nearly everyone I meet but the English are a very closed people and are difficult to the idea of accepting help. Working with charities or small organizations is probably the most effective way to build service oriented relationships in order to share the gospel in this country. Luckily I am told but nearly all that the north is very much more friendlier than the south and am grateful for that. But don't misunderstand me from these statements, I love English and everything about them!
I hope your last summer month goes fantastically! When does school start? Is anyone exicted? I myself can't believe how quickly the time has gone either. It seems like yesterday was my first day in Southport.
We went to the driving range last Monday (P-Day). It took me a while to get some distance at all but I finally did and ended well with a nice blister on my thumb. We are going to he Manchester University Museum today so that should be great as well.
Here are some pictures of Elder Lamb and I as well as the other Elders in our flat/area. Elder Davey (left) from Sussex, England and Elder Gianotti from Milan Italy.
I have a fantastic driving instructor named Ian from Nottingham. I'm the first American he has taught and we started a good relationship right off the get-go. I had a very good lesson with him last week and I have two lessons this week for tomorrow and Wednesday.
I love you all and again hope all is well in Potato Land. May we continually recognize the Lord's hand in all that we do as we are obedient to the principles and ordinances of HIs gospel.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I just sent Colton an email regarding last weeks letter. Also, if you could possibly send a letter to Elder Lamb, that would be fantastic!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Week 42-Manchester England-Manchester
Dear family,
My flat address is: 17 Mellor Street
Stretford, Manchester
M32 0PP
England
I'll begin with my interview with President Preston. It was more of a "get to know me" interview so nothing too major. He has a lot of love about him. He is always smiling and is very sincere. He is definitely very English as well. He asked me about what I have thought about my mission and what I have learned. I expressed that my mission has changed me in every aspect. I told him the most important things I have learned thus far were from President Bullock and the concept of becoming. It went very well and we have a good relationship now from the get-go.
I miracle we saw this week was teaching a less-active named Dan Campbell. He has struggled to come to church for a long while due to personal circumstances. He understands the gospel very well and knows its principles. We taught him twice this past week. Those might be the some of the most spirtual lessons I have had on my mission.
The first visit, he asked for a blessing with a certain illness. I sealed the annointing and gave the blessing. It was a sacred experience to have the words given to me in my mind and heart to what I should say. I was rather bold in what I felt impressed to say. I remember specifics of saying that Dan has been given great knowledge and understanding of the gospel. I also mentioned that the Lord expects him to apply that knowledge. The blessing also discussed how he has been given sufficient time to accomplish what Heavenly Father wants him to accomplish and become. It is very important that he makes the most of that time. I blessed him that he would be able to have strength and courage he needed to perform and his body would be healthy enough to do so. After the blessing was finished, he was in tears.
We went back two days later and I felt impressed that we should share the home teaching message of President Uchtdorf on commitment. Dan definitely got the message in the middle of the lesson and asked "Do you feel that I need more commitment?" Elder Lamb struggled to respond directly to the question and so I simply said "Yes." We sat in silence for a good five seconds and he looked up at me and said "Okay." The Spirit was very strong in that moment and we commited him to church. Dan attended and I later learned that was the first time he had been to church in two years and he loved it. He is an incredible man with great intellegence. I feel that he needed some boldness and it paid off. He expressed to me after the second lesson that he cried for an hour after I had given him the blessing and how grateful he was for it. It was definitely another sacred experience for my mission.
In my studies this past week, I read in Jacob 3:1-2. Something that particularly stuck out to me was the word "feast." My trainer taught me from the scriptures that feasting is simply more than indulging. It is a time of considerable preparation. Jacob counsels us to feast on our Heavenly Father's love with the preparation of firm minds, exceedingly faithful prayer and heeding to the console of Him. As we do so, we yield our hearts unto God and receive the blessing of purifying and sanctifying our hearts to Him (Helaman 3:35).
Pray that we find new investigators. There are people all over the place and we just need to find the "one" as you mentioned Dad. It was a good week for finding but we just need solid ones now. I feel we are due this week.
Sorry that this email is much shorter but I am running out of time. I got a letter from Cassie Tobler (complete suprise) and Jayci a few weeks ago but I wont expect anything from anyone else for two weeks.
Thank you for your wonderful email Colton. I enjoyed reading it and hope that you will continue to strengthen your testimony and keep your focus continually on your mission. I love you all!
Love,
Cameron
My flat address is: 17 Mellor Street
Stretford, Manchester
M32 0PP
England
I'll begin with my interview with President Preston. It was more of a "get to know me" interview so nothing too major. He has a lot of love about him. He is always smiling and is very sincere. He is definitely very English as well. He asked me about what I have thought about my mission and what I have learned. I expressed that my mission has changed me in every aspect. I told him the most important things I have learned thus far were from President Bullock and the concept of becoming. It went very well and we have a good relationship now from the get-go.
I miracle we saw this week was teaching a less-active named Dan Campbell. He has struggled to come to church for a long while due to personal circumstances. He understands the gospel very well and knows its principles. We taught him twice this past week. Those might be the some of the most spirtual lessons I have had on my mission.
The first visit, he asked for a blessing with a certain illness. I sealed the annointing and gave the blessing. It was a sacred experience to have the words given to me in my mind and heart to what I should say. I was rather bold in what I felt impressed to say. I remember specifics of saying that Dan has been given great knowledge and understanding of the gospel. I also mentioned that the Lord expects him to apply that knowledge. The blessing also discussed how he has been given sufficient time to accomplish what Heavenly Father wants him to accomplish and become. It is very important that he makes the most of that time. I blessed him that he would be able to have strength and courage he needed to perform and his body would be healthy enough to do so. After the blessing was finished, he was in tears.
We went back two days later and I felt impressed that we should share the home teaching message of President Uchtdorf on commitment. Dan definitely got the message in the middle of the lesson and asked "Do you feel that I need more commitment?" Elder Lamb struggled to respond directly to the question and so I simply said "Yes." We sat in silence for a good five seconds and he looked up at me and said "Okay." The Spirit was very strong in that moment and we commited him to church. Dan attended and I later learned that was the first time he had been to church in two years and he loved it. He is an incredible man with great intellegence. I feel that he needed some boldness and it paid off. He expressed to me after the second lesson that he cried for an hour after I had given him the blessing and how grateful he was for it. It was definitely another sacred experience for my mission.
In my studies this past week, I read in Jacob 3:1-2. Something that particularly stuck out to me was the word "feast." My trainer taught me from the scriptures that feasting is simply more than indulging. It is a time of considerable preparation. Jacob counsels us to feast on our Heavenly Father's love with the preparation of firm minds, exceedingly faithful prayer and heeding to the console of Him. As we do so, we yield our hearts unto God and receive the blessing of purifying and sanctifying our hearts to Him (Helaman 3:35).
Pray that we find new investigators. There are people all over the place and we just need to find the "one" as you mentioned Dad. It was a good week for finding but we just need solid ones now. I feel we are due this week.
Sorry that this email is much shorter but I am running out of time. I got a letter from Cassie Tobler (complete suprise) and Jayci a few weeks ago but I wont expect anything from anyone else for two weeks.
Thank you for your wonderful email Colton. I enjoyed reading it and hope that you will continue to strengthen your testimony and keep your focus continually on your mission. I love you all!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, July 18, 2011
Week 41-Manchester England-Manchester
Dear family,
Well not much has happened really since I last emailed sadly. We wont see Mark and Laura until the end of this week because they are in the south of England until Wednesday night. The ward seems strong and quite solid. We had a great tea appointment with the Diamond family yesterday. They reminded me a lot of our family with how they interacted and such so it was great to get to know them.
We went finding in Piccadilly near the Manchester University. It was totally different to me because of the mass number of people. I'm used to speaking with everyone I can see but in the situation in was nearly impossible with the amount of people. There are a lot of foreigners here. You meet a lot of people from Africa, the Middle East, and China. I actually had quite the experience with stopping a man from Mexico. His english was very limited and I was able to speak enough broken Spanish that he could understand what I was saying. I remember thinking to myself how amazed I was with some the words and terms I was able to remember. I was grateful for what the Spirit was able to give me.
I love the Chinese. They are so innocent and friendly. We actually stopped a woman whose english name was Nancy and taught her on the spot. It wasn't really a proper lesson, but we talked about the Spirit and how to recognize it. We also discussed our relationship with our Heavenly Father. She asked us what made us want to give up two years of our lives and speak to random people everyday. I then told her very simply that because we are children of our Father in Heaven, we are all brothers and sisters. I remember saying to her "Nancy, I'm your brother and you're my sister. We speak to everyone because we are all God's children and we want all of our brothers and sisters to be happy forever!" She replied in her fantastic Chinese accent "Wow! That's amazing! I have never thought of it like that before!" We have Chinese Elders that should be getting in contact with her. Unfortunately I can't teach her because we pass on all the Chinese to the Chinese Elders. She was amazing. I could feel my love for her grow throughout our conversation. I find it amazing how the Spirit can touch you in to develop Christlike love for someone in such a short amount of time. I thought and laughed at the thought after teaching her "I could have easily served in China."
It has been very cold and wet the past two days. I don't like it when it rains all day because sharing the gospel is hard because everyone is put into a rubbish mood. Elder Lamb is doing great. I'm teaching him a lot of things throughout the day and he has been very humble and teachable throughout. I've been quite impressed by how well teaches for how long he has been out. I've been trying to help him use some more personality in finding by example and I have been sharing how I do so.
Most people are transfered after about two or three. More likely three. Birkenhead and South Ribble were only two. Southport was three. So I think that this one will be at least three possibly four. I'm going to find a driving instructor within the next two days. I should be able to just start where I left off so there shouldn't be too much of a setback, if any.
Reading from Jesus the Christ recently has been very uplifting. I am grateful for the opportunity I have to read it about every other morning. The insights James E. Talmage has are simply brilliant. Through reading and feeling of the Spirit, it has helped me come to know my Savior better and how amazing the Master truly is. His ability to teach others is thought provoking and inspired. I hope and pray to do my best to apply His principles as I share the gospel with my brothers and sisters.
President Preston is definitely different than President Bullock. He is more laid back and seems to be less strict. He has a lot of love for others and he shows it. I have my first interview with him tomorrow so I will write and tell you how that all goes.
I love you all and hope you are enjoying your summer as much as I am! May the Lord continue to bless our lives immensely!
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I am looking forward to meeting Bob Davidson as well. What faith is he? The pictures I sent were from Leyland my last day. That was my favorite park called Worden Park. St. Andrew church was built in the 1550's I believe and that cross in the middle of the road is from the 11th century. Simply amazing. Also my district leader, Elder Hughes from Oklahoma serving in Blackpool
Well not much has happened really since I last emailed sadly. We wont see Mark and Laura until the end of this week because they are in the south of England until Wednesday night. The ward seems strong and quite solid. We had a great tea appointment with the Diamond family yesterday. They reminded me a lot of our family with how they interacted and such so it was great to get to know them.
We went finding in Piccadilly near the Manchester University. It was totally different to me because of the mass number of people. I'm used to speaking with everyone I can see but in the situation in was nearly impossible with the amount of people. There are a lot of foreigners here. You meet a lot of people from Africa, the Middle East, and China. I actually had quite the experience with stopping a man from Mexico. His english was very limited and I was able to speak enough broken Spanish that he could understand what I was saying. I remember thinking to myself how amazed I was with some the words and terms I was able to remember. I was grateful for what the Spirit was able to give me.
I love the Chinese. They are so innocent and friendly. We actually stopped a woman whose english name was Nancy and taught her on the spot. It wasn't really a proper lesson, but we talked about the Spirit and how to recognize it. We also discussed our relationship with our Heavenly Father. She asked us what made us want to give up two years of our lives and speak to random people everyday. I then told her very simply that because we are children of our Father in Heaven, we are all brothers and sisters. I remember saying to her "Nancy, I'm your brother and you're my sister. We speak to everyone because we are all God's children and we want all of our brothers and sisters to be happy forever!" She replied in her fantastic Chinese accent "Wow! That's amazing! I have never thought of it like that before!" We have Chinese Elders that should be getting in contact with her. Unfortunately I can't teach her because we pass on all the Chinese to the Chinese Elders. She was amazing. I could feel my love for her grow throughout our conversation. I find it amazing how the Spirit can touch you in to develop Christlike love for someone in such a short amount of time. I thought and laughed at the thought after teaching her "I could have easily served in China."
It has been very cold and wet the past two days. I don't like it when it rains all day because sharing the gospel is hard because everyone is put into a rubbish mood. Elder Lamb is doing great. I'm teaching him a lot of things throughout the day and he has been very humble and teachable throughout. I've been quite impressed by how well teaches for how long he has been out. I've been trying to help him use some more personality in finding by example and I have been sharing how I do so.
Most people are transfered after about two or three. More likely three. Birkenhead and South Ribble were only two. Southport was three. So I think that this one will be at least three possibly four. I'm going to find a driving instructor within the next two days. I should be able to just start where I left off so there shouldn't be too much of a setback, if any.
Reading from Jesus the Christ recently has been very uplifting. I am grateful for the opportunity I have to read it about every other morning. The insights James E. Talmage has are simply brilliant. Through reading and feeling of the Spirit, it has helped me come to know my Savior better and how amazing the Master truly is. His ability to teach others is thought provoking and inspired. I hope and pray to do my best to apply His principles as I share the gospel with my brothers and sisters.
President Preston is definitely different than President Bullock. He is more laid back and seems to be less strict. He has a lot of love for others and he shows it. I have my first interview with him tomorrow so I will write and tell you how that all goes.
I love you all and hope you are enjoying your summer as much as I am! May the Lord continue to bless our lives immensely!
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I am looking forward to meeting Bob Davidson as well. What faith is he? The pictures I sent were from Leyland my last day. That was my favorite park called Worden Park. St. Andrew church was built in the 1550's I believe and that cross in the middle of the road is from the 11th century. Simply amazing. Also my district leader, Elder Hughes from Oklahoma serving in Blackpool
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Week 40-Manchester England-Manchester
Hello Family!
Well I predicted correctly and now I am serving to what some call "the beast" of the mission. I left South Ribble yesterday and have now moved to the Stretford Area, which covers the heart of Manchester. I am literally in the middle of it all. Manchester United's football stadium is in our area and I can see it not too far from our flat. This area is crawling with people everywhere. I have been here for less than 24 hours and I am loving every second of it. I fell in love with Manchester the second I stepped foot into it when I was at the MTC. I have a feeling that I will be here for a while and I hope that my wish comes true.
I am serving with Elder Lamb from Essex, England. He has only been out for one transfer so I am "follow-up" training. His last companion, Elder Whitworth was from Fort Worth, Texas and goes home today. He seems great to this point and we get along very well. I am really looking forward to this transfer.
Yesterday, we were blessed with two new investigators my first night here. Mark and Laura were street contacted earlier in the week and they were fantastic. Mark had read the introduction to the Book of Mormon and enjoyed his reading. He found it quite interesting. As we asked questions to get to know them better, it was great to see the desire the two had. The both expressed that being able to have a faith would be important. Laura in particular expressed that she "envy's" others who do believe because it is always something to hold on to. I sincerely told here that this is why us as missionaries are here. I told here that she doesn't need to envy. She can have exactly what we have. She was grateful for that. We shared the Restoration with them, I felt we taught quite well to their needs considering it was our first time teaching together. We were able to help them recognize the Spirit and share with them how having a faith in Jesus Christ could help them have hope now and for the future. Unfortunately the aren't married, but we can work with that. They seemed very commited and we will be seeing them again on Monday night. Unfortunately they are away for the weekend so they can't attend church with us. But it truly was a fantastic way to start the transfer.
I have been reading in 2 Nephi the past couple of weeks and have reflected and pondered on what I have studied. The Isaiah chapters are challenging, but I have put a sincere focus on how the prophecies that are included in those chapters help strengthen my testimony in the Restoration and looking forward with faith to the Master's Second Coming. It has been brilliant process to learn a little more about the House of Israel and how it all relates to the Savior and His Gospel.
My time in South Ribble was very much a learning and growing experience for me. But as you mentioned Dad in your email that trials were never meant to be fair. I am grateful for how that shaped me and helped me take an extra step up. I did my best to keep to my highest standard and I was blessed to help someone come into the fold of God for doing so.
I aced my theory test getting a 49/50 the second time around and still did well on the hazard perception. I had two driving lessons before I left South Ribble and they both went very well. I am now working on maneuvers since I have the manual part almost down, but now I have to find a new driving instructor. I really loved my last one.
I am glad to hear that Colton had a special day when he received his endowment. I am glad he had a lot of support from others as well. I would like to hear from him (yes, you Colton) on how he felt and what thoughts and impressions came to him as he was in the House of the Lord. I loved your last two letters and the Spirit I felt. I look forward to hearing from you on Monday.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Pictures to come Monday
Well I predicted correctly and now I am serving to what some call "the beast" of the mission. I left South Ribble yesterday and have now moved to the Stretford Area, which covers the heart of Manchester. I am literally in the middle of it all. Manchester United's football stadium is in our area and I can see it not too far from our flat. This area is crawling with people everywhere. I have been here for less than 24 hours and I am loving every second of it. I fell in love with Manchester the second I stepped foot into it when I was at the MTC. I have a feeling that I will be here for a while and I hope that my wish comes true.
I am serving with Elder Lamb from Essex, England. He has only been out for one transfer so I am "follow-up" training. His last companion, Elder Whitworth was from Fort Worth, Texas and goes home today. He seems great to this point and we get along very well. I am really looking forward to this transfer.
Yesterday, we were blessed with two new investigators my first night here. Mark and Laura were street contacted earlier in the week and they were fantastic. Mark had read the introduction to the Book of Mormon and enjoyed his reading. He found it quite interesting. As we asked questions to get to know them better, it was great to see the desire the two had. The both expressed that being able to have a faith would be important. Laura in particular expressed that she "envy's" others who do believe because it is always something to hold on to. I sincerely told here that this is why us as missionaries are here. I told here that she doesn't need to envy. She can have exactly what we have. She was grateful for that. We shared the Restoration with them, I felt we taught quite well to their needs considering it was our first time teaching together. We were able to help them recognize the Spirit and share with them how having a faith in Jesus Christ could help them have hope now and for the future. Unfortunately the aren't married, but we can work with that. They seemed very commited and we will be seeing them again on Monday night. Unfortunately they are away for the weekend so they can't attend church with us. But it truly was a fantastic way to start the transfer.
I have been reading in 2 Nephi the past couple of weeks and have reflected and pondered on what I have studied. The Isaiah chapters are challenging, but I have put a sincere focus on how the prophecies that are included in those chapters help strengthen my testimony in the Restoration and looking forward with faith to the Master's Second Coming. It has been brilliant process to learn a little more about the House of Israel and how it all relates to the Savior and His Gospel.
My time in South Ribble was very much a learning and growing experience for me. But as you mentioned Dad in your email that trials were never meant to be fair. I am grateful for how that shaped me and helped me take an extra step up. I did my best to keep to my highest standard and I was blessed to help someone come into the fold of God for doing so.
I aced my theory test getting a 49/50 the second time around and still did well on the hazard perception. I had two driving lessons before I left South Ribble and they both went very well. I am now working on maneuvers since I have the manual part almost down, but now I have to find a new driving instructor. I really loved my last one.
I am glad to hear that Colton had a special day when he received his endowment. I am glad he had a lot of support from others as well. I would like to hear from him (yes, you Colton) on how he felt and what thoughts and impressions came to him as he was in the House of the Lord. I loved your last two letters and the Spirit I felt. I look forward to hearing from you on Monday.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Pictures to come Monday
Monday, July 4, 2011
Week 39-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Hello family!
The weather has been brillant the past three days. The sun has been out and left me with a tan on my face. I hope it continues. I have been taking my vitamin D so no worries there. I love when it is sunny because speaking to people is so much funner because they are happy :) I think I can honestly say that street contacting is one of my favorite parts about missionary work, especially when the weather is nice so it is easier to put a smile on their face.
Well, the theory test was rubbish. I easily passed the hazard perception part where you click everytime you see a hazard on a film strip, but the multiple- choice questions I got a 42 out of 50. You need a 43 to pass. I was completely frustrated. But, I am taking it tomorrow and am pretty confident that I should pass. I studied more this week as well from the test prep book.
My first driving lesson went a little bit better than I expected. My instructor is very good and taught me well. I can get going properly most of the time. I only stalled twice, but other than that I did well. I was going around round-abouts and through stop lights by the end of it. It was very different in the fact I was on the other side of the road and car, I haven't driven in nearly 10 months, and I was using a manual. I was happy with the progress I had made by the end of it. They are much more strict on driving standards here then they are in the states. I was constantly using mirrors from left-to-right and vice-versa. My next lesson is Saturday so hopefully I'll progress even considerably more.
Robert is much the same. I will be more bold and frank with him because right now, he isn't getting the picture at all. Edgars is doing well. We had a good lesson with him on the Plan of Salvation despite the language barrier. Pray that they both will read, pray and attend church this Sunday.
From my studies this week, one of the things I learned was from 2 Nephi 2:8. Lehi is telling his family the importance of letting everyone know of the Savior's Atonement. The line that was penetrating to me was "and taketh it (meaning His life) again by the power of the Spirit." It was amazing to me that without the power of the Holy Ghost, the Atonement could not be performed. Through His perfect humility, He showed his submissive nature to use His Godhead companions along side with Him to perform the greatest event of all time and history. How important is it for us to hearken and heed to the Holy Ghost in order for us to choose Eternal Life (v.27-28).
Transfers are next Wednesday so you won't get an email from me until Wednesday the 13 or Thursday the 14. I think that I will leave from the impression President Bullock gave me in the interview, but the guarantee is that I will get a new companion from what President Bullock said as well. I met President Preston about a month ago at a fireside in Ashton (Greater Manchester Area where he used to live) but I will again get to meet him on Wednesday.
I'm excited about the pictures next week and about Colton's endowment and Parker's farewell. Tell the family I send my love from England. My endowment was a sacred experience for me and I hope it is for Colton as well.
Now how I described my temple experience to President Bullock in our last interview. It was a week or two before Christmas in Southport. The work was very slow and frustrating for both Elder Jolliffe and I. We were never frustrated with each other, we had a very good relationship but together we both sensed and felt the discouragement we were both having. No one was listening that we spoke to and it was freezing cold. We were always finding all day everyday. Because of the circumstances and environment around me, I was discouraged and would find myself at times throughout the day longing for home.
Because of the situation, my prayers grew and progressed in sincerity. I was pleading with the Lord for spiritual strength and guidance. I remember specifically asking for a significant spiritual experience to help in those prayers. Those prayers were most definitely answered in the way I wanted.
Elder Jolliffe was a fantastic companion. If ever he sensed anything was bothering me, he would ask and we would talk about it. I remember President Bullock saying to both of us on my first day in the field about to board the coach that he had a "very strong" impression that we were to be serving together at that time. I am a witness that we absolutely were. He taught me many great and incredible things that helped me immensely as a missionary. He was a great strength to me during the time we served together. I couldn't have asked for a better trainer.
Christmas Zone Conference was my significant spiritual experience. I prayed as well that my temple session would give me a great abundance of the Spirit and that it would rejuvenate me for the work. As I mentioned to you in the phone call home at Christmas, I proceeded through the veil and was greeted by the Bullock's at the entrance to the Celestial Room. President's arms were outstretched and open as he whispered "Elder Starr." As we embraced and as I sat and expressed my gratitude to my Heavenly Father in prayer, I was immediately filled with what I can only describe to you as "perfect love." I was enlightened and filled with the power of the Comforter. I had indeed received a spiritual witness that was my answer to my sincere prayers. That I again received witness from the Holy Ghost that everything about the temple including the covenants and blessings are very real and sacred. It was also confirmed to me that the England Manchester Mission is where I am supposed to be.
I know that the power of prayer is very real and am eternally grateful to know that I have a Father in Heaven who is always aware of my situation and answers my prayers in a way He knows is best for me. I have received so much strength and power as I have sincerely kneeled before my Maker and have humbly expressed to Him the desires of my heart. I know that He continues to do so daily. I love you all and have felt your love from your prayers. May we continue to humble ourselves our Heavenly Father in kneeling prayer and express our love and desires to Him as did our perfect example: the Savior and Redeemer of the world.
Love,
Cameron
The weather has been brillant the past three days. The sun has been out and left me with a tan on my face. I hope it continues. I have been taking my vitamin D so no worries there. I love when it is sunny because speaking to people is so much funner because they are happy :) I think I can honestly say that street contacting is one of my favorite parts about missionary work, especially when the weather is nice so it is easier to put a smile on their face.
Well, the theory test was rubbish. I easily passed the hazard perception part where you click everytime you see a hazard on a film strip, but the multiple- choice questions I got a 42 out of 50. You need a 43 to pass. I was completely frustrated. But, I am taking it tomorrow and am pretty confident that I should pass. I studied more this week as well from the test prep book.
My first driving lesson went a little bit better than I expected. My instructor is very good and taught me well. I can get going properly most of the time. I only stalled twice, but other than that I did well. I was going around round-abouts and through stop lights by the end of it. It was very different in the fact I was on the other side of the road and car, I haven't driven in nearly 10 months, and I was using a manual. I was happy with the progress I had made by the end of it. They are much more strict on driving standards here then they are in the states. I was constantly using mirrors from left-to-right and vice-versa. My next lesson is Saturday so hopefully I'll progress even considerably more.
Robert is much the same. I will be more bold and frank with him because right now, he isn't getting the picture at all. Edgars is doing well. We had a good lesson with him on the Plan of Salvation despite the language barrier. Pray that they both will read, pray and attend church this Sunday.
From my studies this week, one of the things I learned was from 2 Nephi 2:8. Lehi is telling his family the importance of letting everyone know of the Savior's Atonement. The line that was penetrating to me was "and taketh it (meaning His life) again by the power of the Spirit." It was amazing to me that without the power of the Holy Ghost, the Atonement could not be performed. Through His perfect humility, He showed his submissive nature to use His Godhead companions along side with Him to perform the greatest event of all time and history. How important is it for us to hearken and heed to the Holy Ghost in order for us to choose Eternal Life (v.27-28).
Transfers are next Wednesday so you won't get an email from me until Wednesday the 13 or Thursday the 14. I think that I will leave from the impression President Bullock gave me in the interview, but the guarantee is that I will get a new companion from what President Bullock said as well. I met President Preston about a month ago at a fireside in Ashton (Greater Manchester Area where he used to live) but I will again get to meet him on Wednesday.
I'm excited about the pictures next week and about Colton's endowment and Parker's farewell. Tell the family I send my love from England. My endowment was a sacred experience for me and I hope it is for Colton as well.
Now how I described my temple experience to President Bullock in our last interview. It was a week or two before Christmas in Southport. The work was very slow and frustrating for both Elder Jolliffe and I. We were never frustrated with each other, we had a very good relationship but together we both sensed and felt the discouragement we were both having. No one was listening that we spoke to and it was freezing cold. We were always finding all day everyday. Because of the circumstances and environment around me, I was discouraged and would find myself at times throughout the day longing for home.
Because of the situation, my prayers grew and progressed in sincerity. I was pleading with the Lord for spiritual strength and guidance. I remember specifically asking for a significant spiritual experience to help in those prayers. Those prayers were most definitely answered in the way I wanted.
Elder Jolliffe was a fantastic companion. If ever he sensed anything was bothering me, he would ask and we would talk about it. I remember President Bullock saying to both of us on my first day in the field about to board the coach that he had a "very strong" impression that we were to be serving together at that time. I am a witness that we absolutely were. He taught me many great and incredible things that helped me immensely as a missionary. He was a great strength to me during the time we served together. I couldn't have asked for a better trainer.
Christmas Zone Conference was my significant spiritual experience. I prayed as well that my temple session would give me a great abundance of the Spirit and that it would rejuvenate me for the work. As I mentioned to you in the phone call home at Christmas, I proceeded through the veil and was greeted by the Bullock's at the entrance to the Celestial Room. President's arms were outstretched and open as he whispered "Elder Starr." As we embraced and as I sat and expressed my gratitude to my Heavenly Father in prayer, I was immediately filled with what I can only describe to you as "perfect love." I was enlightened and filled with the power of the Comforter. I had indeed received a spiritual witness that was my answer to my sincere prayers. That I again received witness from the Holy Ghost that everything about the temple including the covenants and blessings are very real and sacred. It was also confirmed to me that the England Manchester Mission is where I am supposed to be.
I know that the power of prayer is very real and am eternally grateful to know that I have a Father in Heaven who is always aware of my situation and answers my prayers in a way He knows is best for me. I have received so much strength and power as I have sincerely kneeled before my Maker and have humbly expressed to Him the desires of my heart. I know that He continues to do so daily. I love you all and have felt your love from your prayers. May we continue to humble ourselves our Heavenly Father in kneeling prayer and express our love and desires to Him as did our perfect example: the Savior and Redeemer of the world.
Love,
Cameron
Monday, June 27, 2011
Week 38-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Dear Family,
I'll first share about the week here in South Ribble. Kim is doing well and still seems illuminated. She had a hard time understanding about Adam and Eve and how they are a blessing. We simply read 2 Nephi 2:22-25 and discussed it. I then felt impressed to ask if she would like to be taught the plan of salvation again. She said yes and we taught it. It was a very powerful lesson to be a part of and I am grateful that I listened to the prompting of the Spirit. Something that I have been setting a goal on is teaching in a very powerful manner so that those I teach can feel the Spirit and have true conversion. I meet people everyday who say that I can't convince them about what we share. I always tell them "You're right I can't. That's why we let God do the convincing."
Robert took some time away this weekend in the outdoors. I feel it was good thing for him to do. Because he went away, we only saw him once and just read from the Book of Mormon with him. Thank you for the advice and insights you shared, Dad. I'll try to put those into account.
I take my Theory Test tomorrow and have my first driving lesson on Wednesday. Pray that both of those go well.
I also went on an exchange with my Zone Leader, Elder Boswell in Preston. He is from Taylorsville, Utah and is incredible. He is very confident, but is sacred. He carries himself a lot like Kyle Collinsworth. He played college baseball at a small school near Lubbock, Texas and also Salt Lake Community College. He played catcher He taught me so many wonderful things. We had some appointments fall through and an anology occured to me. I told him that I was taught this in basketball. Some games, your shot just isn't going to be there and you can't do much about it. But no matter what kind of game you have on the offensive end, you can always play good defense. Like in missionary work, you're going to have appointments fall through and you can't help it. But you can always be a good finder. He liked that as well as I. He is very diligent and urgent. We ran from door to door and everywhere else if there was no one around. Something I am doing now to be more effective. We also taught two on the spot lessons. One man was from Ireland, the other from Sirre Leone.
Last week was very wet and a bit cool. Today is quite warm however. The weather here is very inconsistent. I am excited to hear about Lindsey's blessing and glad that it went very well. I still have the two dollar bill. Maybe Colton will get one from President Slack when he goes to Manti.
Now, last Thursday was President and Sister Bullock's last Zone Conference. The end got a bit emotional for me (no suprise really since I am quite sensitve). They both gave brillant remarks and wonderful testimonies and experiences. The Spirit was amazing there. At the end, we stood and sang as you mentioned Mom "God Be with You Til We Meet Again." Tears were hard to hold back from that point on. After the prayer we were all able to give hugs to both of them. It reminded me a lot about my temple experience and the love that occured there. I'll conclude with the letter that I wrote to President.
President Bullock,
I was blessed with a great week. Zone Conference was amazing and wonderful, I had a great exchange with Elder Boswell, and I was taught many things by the Holy Ghost. I can say the one fruit of the Spirit I felt the most this week was love.
I went to Preston with Elder Boswell on Friday evening to Sunday morning. What he was able to teach and pass down to me has strengthened my testimony of the culture of this mission. I asked him questions and suggestions throughout and he shared his wisdom with me. He corrected and assisted with love and praised me continually our time together as well. I love the way he leads and hope to take some the characteristics he has and apply it. I can't say enough about how sacred Elder Boswell truly is. What a blessing it was to see miracles through our labors. He has helped me become a better leader.
Zone Conference was hard for me at the end. Because of the continuous love that Sister Bullock and yourself have shown it has changed my life. It has made me want to become. Through what you have taught me to this point in my mission I have learned to cast out fear through love.
Something that I noticed in Elder Boswell so vividly is his ability to recognize and close the gaps as Elder Maxwell mentions in the Sacred Missionary Document. That is something I am continuing to apply as the Spirit is helping me recognize what I need to do in order to close the gaps in my becoming process. I always think of something that I have seen and heard in athletics "It isn't how you start, but how you finish." We may begin things out of fear or duty, but we must finish those gaps through love. If we have love, it is as the Sacred Missionary Document says, we "do it because we want to and not because we have to." The mission vision of Pure in Heart, Exact Obedience, and Preach My Gospel has played a major factor in this process.
You taught me that it wasn't enough to be good, but that I must be good for something. I mentioned in our interview that I always looked at the gospel as an equation before my mission. If I went and did what what was right and made and kept covenants with Heavenly Father, I was guaranteed exaltation. How wrong I was. Since day one of my mission, the Holy Ghost through you has taught me what the gospel of Jesus Christ is really all about, and that is becoming.
I can't express all that I feel in words. I feel as Nephi "neither am I mighty in writing." My testimony has been strengthened as I have strived to live the gospel, apply it, and become. I know that God is our Heavenly Father and that He and His Son, Jesus Christ, live and love us. I know that through the Savior's Atonement that I all things are possible, that I can return to live in Their presence, and become as they are. I know that Joseph Smith saw each of them and through him, the gospel was restored in its fullness and the Thomas S. Monson is the prophet of Christ's Church. I know that the England Manchester Mission is where I was meant to labor among the Lord's children. I know that the principles and truths I have learned here are true. And I know all these things by the power of the Holy Ghost.
May the Lord bless each of you in all that you do as well as your family. I am eternally grateful for the sacred experiences I have had on my mission and how they have changed me. Thank you for always living the example "that the principles of the gospel form the one and only true path to success and happiness."
With love,
Elder Starr
If I came to the England Manchester Mission one reason alone, I believe that it was because of the Bullocks. They are truly "sacred" members.
I hope that you all have a great week and that all goes well in all you do. Good luck at camp Mom and Lauren! Thank you for all that you shared with me.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I will email about the temple experience next week. Sorry, I'm running out of time.
I'll first share about the week here in South Ribble. Kim is doing well and still seems illuminated. She had a hard time understanding about Adam and Eve and how they are a blessing. We simply read 2 Nephi 2:22-25 and discussed it. I then felt impressed to ask if she would like to be taught the plan of salvation again. She said yes and we taught it. It was a very powerful lesson to be a part of and I am grateful that I listened to the prompting of the Spirit. Something that I have been setting a goal on is teaching in a very powerful manner so that those I teach can feel the Spirit and have true conversion. I meet people everyday who say that I can't convince them about what we share. I always tell them "You're right I can't. That's why we let God do the convincing."
Robert took some time away this weekend in the outdoors. I feel it was good thing for him to do. Because he went away, we only saw him once and just read from the Book of Mormon with him. Thank you for the advice and insights you shared, Dad. I'll try to put those into account.
I take my Theory Test tomorrow and have my first driving lesson on Wednesday. Pray that both of those go well.
I also went on an exchange with my Zone Leader, Elder Boswell in Preston. He is from Taylorsville, Utah and is incredible. He is very confident, but is sacred. He carries himself a lot like Kyle Collinsworth. He played college baseball at a small school near Lubbock, Texas and also Salt Lake Community College. He played catcher He taught me so many wonderful things. We had some appointments fall through and an anology occured to me. I told him that I was taught this in basketball. Some games, your shot just isn't going to be there and you can't do much about it. But no matter what kind of game you have on the offensive end, you can always play good defense. Like in missionary work, you're going to have appointments fall through and you can't help it. But you can always be a good finder. He liked that as well as I. He is very diligent and urgent. We ran from door to door and everywhere else if there was no one around. Something I am doing now to be more effective. We also taught two on the spot lessons. One man was from Ireland, the other from Sirre Leone.
Last week was very wet and a bit cool. Today is quite warm however. The weather here is very inconsistent. I am excited to hear about Lindsey's blessing and glad that it went very well. I still have the two dollar bill. Maybe Colton will get one from President Slack when he goes to Manti.
Now, last Thursday was President and Sister Bullock's last Zone Conference. The end got a bit emotional for me (no suprise really since I am quite sensitve). They both gave brillant remarks and wonderful testimonies and experiences. The Spirit was amazing there. At the end, we stood and sang as you mentioned Mom "God Be with You Til We Meet Again." Tears were hard to hold back from that point on. After the prayer we were all able to give hugs to both of them. It reminded me a lot about my temple experience and the love that occured there. I'll conclude with the letter that I wrote to President.
President Bullock,
I was blessed with a great week. Zone Conference was amazing and wonderful, I had a great exchange with Elder Boswell, and I was taught many things by the Holy Ghost. I can say the one fruit of the Spirit I felt the most this week was love.
I went to Preston with Elder Boswell on Friday evening to Sunday morning. What he was able to teach and pass down to me has strengthened my testimony of the culture of this mission. I asked him questions and suggestions throughout and he shared his wisdom with me. He corrected and assisted with love and praised me continually our time together as well. I love the way he leads and hope to take some the characteristics he has and apply it. I can't say enough about how sacred Elder Boswell truly is. What a blessing it was to see miracles through our labors. He has helped me become a better leader.
Zone Conference was hard for me at the end. Because of the continuous love that Sister Bullock and yourself have shown it has changed my life. It has made me want to become. Through what you have taught me to this point in my mission I have learned to cast out fear through love.
Something that I noticed in Elder Boswell so vividly is his ability to recognize and close the gaps as Elder Maxwell mentions in the Sacred Missionary Document. That is something I am continuing to apply as the Spirit is helping me recognize what I need to do in order to close the gaps in my becoming process. I always think of something that I have seen and heard in athletics "It isn't how you start, but how you finish." We may begin things out of fear or duty, but we must finish those gaps through love. If we have love, it is as the Sacred Missionary Document says, we "do it because we want to and not because we have to." The mission vision of Pure in Heart, Exact Obedience, and Preach My Gospel has played a major factor in this process.
You taught me that it wasn't enough to be good, but that I must be good for something. I mentioned in our interview that I always looked at the gospel as an equation before my mission. If I went and did what what was right and made and kept covenants with Heavenly Father, I was guaranteed exaltation. How wrong I was. Since day one of my mission, the Holy Ghost through you has taught me what the gospel of Jesus Christ is really all about, and that is becoming.
I can't express all that I feel in words. I feel as Nephi "neither am I mighty in writing." My testimony has been strengthened as I have strived to live the gospel, apply it, and become. I know that God is our Heavenly Father and that He and His Son, Jesus Christ, live and love us. I know that through the Savior's Atonement that I all things are possible, that I can return to live in Their presence, and become as they are. I know that Joseph Smith saw each of them and through him, the gospel was restored in its fullness and the Thomas S. Monson is the prophet of Christ's Church. I know that the England Manchester Mission is where I was meant to labor among the Lord's children. I know that the principles and truths I have learned here are true. And I know all these things by the power of the Holy Ghost.
May the Lord bless each of you in all that you do as well as your family. I am eternally grateful for the sacred experiences I have had on my mission and how they have changed me. Thank you for always living the example "that the principles of the gospel form the one and only true path to success and happiness."
With love,
Elder Starr
If I came to the England Manchester Mission one reason alone, I believe that it was because of the Bullocks. They are truly "sacred" members.
I hope that you all have a great week and that all goes well in all you do. Good luck at camp Mom and Lauren! Thank you for all that you shared with me.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I will email about the temple experience next week. Sorry, I'm running out of time.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Week 37-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Hello Family!
Well.... Kim was BAPTIZED! It was a wonderful service. Elder Cole came from Warrington to baptize her and it all went well. A member of the ward confirmed her yesterday. Bro. Higgins is his name and he is one of my favorite members here. Sis. Adam is a ward member and told me yesterday that you could see and feel a difference about her. I have seen it in both Anja and Kim, something changes once they have been baptized and confirmed. Their confidence levels shoot up and they smile more. What a great blessing it was.
Robert, unfortunately, did not make it to church. He had an excuse of his door being broken and not lockable, which was honestly the case because I saw it yesterday. Pretty sure this might be his make-it or break-it week. There is also a bit a social reason associated with it because he expressed after trying to figure out what else the problem was that he feels claustrophobic around others. Pray that he comes this Sunday.
I've just again started the Book of Mormon this past week and am learning some great things. It is amazing to me how much something that occured in 600 B.C. relates to much with today's day and age. In 1 Nephi 2, Lehi would try to teach Laman and Lemuel valuable lessons, but they rebelled and were stiffnecked. They have the same desires and excuses the world has today. Money and possessions are their desires and having a belief in God is a "foolish imagination of the heart (2:9-11)."
Also Nephi was the perfect example of someone who is seeking for truth. It never said in his account that he absolutely believed everything his father said, but he had a desire to know. He humbled himself before the Lord and because of his faith, diligence, and lowliness of heart, he received his witness (2:16-19).
Now, my last interview with President Bullock. It was definitely my favorite. He first asked about the family and how they are doing. He again expressed how different mine and Colton's missions are going to be since he had a few sons serve there. He also said there will be a lot to talk about when Colton and I sit down and discuss each other's missions when the day comes.
He then asked me the most significant event thus far of my mission. I then told him about the temple experience I had at Christmas and how it was an answer to prayer. I discussed with the situation and all the detail that were involved in and leading up to that event as well. He thanked me for sharing that experience with him and thanked me for how much him and Sis. Bullock have meant to me.
He also asked me to share one of my favorite quotes with him. I told him the one Elder Jolliffe shared with me, "Don't be surprised if all the miracles happen at the end." I told him how that quote became and how it has effected my mission.
He then asked what I want to achieve on my mission. I told him that I want to become a sacred missionary. Then he said, "Now I want you to think of the missionaries you looked up to early on in your mission. Can you name a few for me?" I told him some of the Zone Leaders, Assistants, and Elder Jolliffe. He then responded "Elder Starr, I see you as one of those missionaries. You have the ability, talent, and traits for younger missionaries to look up to you in the same way you looked up to those you just mentioned. I expect you to accomplish great things and to be a strength and leader in this mission." I was deeply touched that I was thought of that way. He then expressed his love. I forgot to mention that he also said "I would have loved to have you for your full two years." I will receive his personal info this week at his last Zone Conference. He said not to hesitate to stay in contact and to pop by if I'm around his home in Colorado. We then hugged as I left the room.
You all now how much I love President and how much he means to me. I have decided to dedicate next week's letter that I write to you on what he has taught me and how he has influenced me. I'll tell you some of the highlights of this coming week as well.
I have not had a driving lesson yet due to the insane schedule this past week. As I mentioned before, I have my theory test on the 28th. Pray that I will be able to do well on the test and that I will pass so I don't have to take it again.
I'll end on this funny story. There is a man in the ward named Les Wright who is older and has a thick Liverpool accent. He is something else and is absolutely hilarious. He jokes around all of the time. He gave a talk at Kim's baptism and mentioned how grateful he is for the ward. He then pointed out some members in the congregation and picked on Sis. Rojas who is from Spain. He went Johnny Lingo on her and said she was a 10 cow kind of lady. She took offence to it because she is a bigger woman. Bro. Wright told me that she came up to him after the baptism and asked him if he thought that she was big. He said "No of course not Sis. Rojas, let me shake your hoof." I was about to fall on the floor I was laughing so hard. She wasn't very happy and Bro. Wright apologized to her and said he was only kidding. Definitely one for the ages.
Thank you for the money as well and for getting the PIN settled. I like the number by the way haha. I love you and am so grateful for your guidance and support. I always look forward to what my family writes every Monday. It always gives me a boost! May we all keep striving to become like our Heavenly Father.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I received the ensign, letters and candy. Thank you very much for that.
Well.... Kim was BAPTIZED! It was a wonderful service. Elder Cole came from Warrington to baptize her and it all went well. A member of the ward confirmed her yesterday. Bro. Higgins is his name and he is one of my favorite members here. Sis. Adam is a ward member and told me yesterday that you could see and feel a difference about her. I have seen it in both Anja and Kim, something changes once they have been baptized and confirmed. Their confidence levels shoot up and they smile more. What a great blessing it was.
Robert, unfortunately, did not make it to church. He had an excuse of his door being broken and not lockable, which was honestly the case because I saw it yesterday. Pretty sure this might be his make-it or break-it week. There is also a bit a social reason associated with it because he expressed after trying to figure out what else the problem was that he feels claustrophobic around others. Pray that he comes this Sunday.
I've just again started the Book of Mormon this past week and am learning some great things. It is amazing to me how much something that occured in 600 B.C. relates to much with today's day and age. In 1 Nephi 2, Lehi would try to teach Laman and Lemuel valuable lessons, but they rebelled and were stiffnecked. They have the same desires and excuses the world has today. Money and possessions are their desires and having a belief in God is a "foolish imagination of the heart (2:9-11)."
Also Nephi was the perfect example of someone who is seeking for truth. It never said in his account that he absolutely believed everything his father said, but he had a desire to know. He humbled himself before the Lord and because of his faith, diligence, and lowliness of heart, he received his witness (2:16-19).
Now, my last interview with President Bullock. It was definitely my favorite. He first asked about the family and how they are doing. He again expressed how different mine and Colton's missions are going to be since he had a few sons serve there. He also said there will be a lot to talk about when Colton and I sit down and discuss each other's missions when the day comes.
He then asked me the most significant event thus far of my mission. I then told him about the temple experience I had at Christmas and how it was an answer to prayer. I discussed with the situation and all the detail that were involved in and leading up to that event as well. He thanked me for sharing that experience with him and thanked me for how much him and Sis. Bullock have meant to me.
He also asked me to share one of my favorite quotes with him. I told him the one Elder Jolliffe shared with me, "Don't be surprised if all the miracles happen at the end." I told him how that quote became and how it has effected my mission.
He then asked what I want to achieve on my mission. I told him that I want to become a sacred missionary. Then he said, "Now I want you to think of the missionaries you looked up to early on in your mission. Can you name a few for me?" I told him some of the Zone Leaders, Assistants, and Elder Jolliffe. He then responded "Elder Starr, I see you as one of those missionaries. You have the ability, talent, and traits for younger missionaries to look up to you in the same way you looked up to those you just mentioned. I expect you to accomplish great things and to be a strength and leader in this mission." I was deeply touched that I was thought of that way. He then expressed his love. I forgot to mention that he also said "I would have loved to have you for your full two years." I will receive his personal info this week at his last Zone Conference. He said not to hesitate to stay in contact and to pop by if I'm around his home in Colorado. We then hugged as I left the room.
You all now how much I love President and how much he means to me. I have decided to dedicate next week's letter that I write to you on what he has taught me and how he has influenced me. I'll tell you some of the highlights of this coming week as well.
I have not had a driving lesson yet due to the insane schedule this past week. As I mentioned before, I have my theory test on the 28th. Pray that I will be able to do well on the test and that I will pass so I don't have to take it again.
I'll end on this funny story. There is a man in the ward named Les Wright who is older and has a thick Liverpool accent. He is something else and is absolutely hilarious. He jokes around all of the time. He gave a talk at Kim's baptism and mentioned how grateful he is for the ward. He then pointed out some members in the congregation and picked on Sis. Rojas who is from Spain. He went Johnny Lingo on her and said she was a 10 cow kind of lady. She took offence to it because she is a bigger woman. Bro. Wright told me that she came up to him after the baptism and asked him if he thought that she was big. He said "No of course not Sis. Rojas, let me shake your hoof." I was about to fall on the floor I was laughing so hard. She wasn't very happy and Bro. Wright apologized to her and said he was only kidding. Definitely one for the ages.
Thank you for the money as well and for getting the PIN settled. I like the number by the way haha. I love you and am so grateful for your guidance and support. I always look forward to what my family writes every Monday. It always gives me a boost! May we all keep striving to become like our Heavenly Father.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I received the ensign, letters and candy. Thank you very much for that.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Week 36-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Hi Starr Family!
I'll begin with the whole credit card situation. First off, Tesco is where we do are shopping for food. I have used my mission card to pay for the driving licence stuff thus far because I owed myself money from having to purchase missionary items with personal funds at times in the past. Because of the drivers licence situation, it is now apparent that I am low on both cards. I virtually have under a dollar on my mission card and I am waiting for my reimbursements to come in which will put £24 on my card. So I have been using personal funds to pay for some of my shopping and traveling to meetings to make sure I have enough money on both sides. So much for that plan. This whole driving thing is expensive and is putting both funds about bone dry. Next week tell me what the amount is on my card so I can budget around it.
I will need money asap to start my driving lessons this week, the only problem is, I'm pretty sure it will need to be cash and I don't have a PIN number to withdraw. I take my theory test on the 28th of this month and that is all paid for. I don't mean to be a burden and I'm not spending money for any personal items. I haven't done so since last month around my birthday. The easiest thing is probably just to order a new card then so go ahead with that. Again, I apologize for the financial situation this has been.
Our investigator has been doing good except one thing... She is apprehensive on the Law of Tithing which I had an idea that should be before we taught it due to her current financial situation. She has heard about five strong testimonies/stories about the tithing, which seems to put her at ease. She still wants baptism and is now due to be baptized this Friday. She has loved church, our visits, and the members. We also went to the 400th Anniversary of the King James Bible Concert with her and she enjoyed it. Pray that she will have faith in tithing and that she will love her baptism.
Rob has seemed to progress a little bit. We have now convinced him to come to church and to leave his dog outside and he can go see it occasionally during church. He loves the Book of Mormon and the teachings but he talks way too much. We were more direct and bold with him yesterday and it obviously helped.
I have my last interview with President Bullock on Wednesday before he leaves the mission. I'm very much looking forward to it but quite sad that he leaves in two weeks time. I'll tell you about how the interview went next week.
Elder Le Cornu and I's relationship and has strengthened. He has been very open with me and because of that I was able to give him a blessing of comfort and counsel. Things are going well. There was pride on my side as well that I needed to let go of. Some of it was my fault and not being sensitve to needs. I had to stop looking for faults and start looking for strengths. Continual acts of service or kindness has worked miracles in our companionship.
Something that came up on my studies was 1 Nephi 7. I look at Nephi's example to his brothers for standing up for what is right. However, even those who are righteous in their words, thoughts, and actions susceptible to the negative consequences of others. Even though Nephi took his stand, his brothers still rebelled and sought to limit his progression towards his goal. As we know through his faith in the Lord and the help of others, he was able to progress. We all face rebellion that limits our potential. As we show our faith and diligence, the Lord provides his children with a way out of bondage and to move forward to what they want or must achieve. Faith always endures.
My driving instructor is a member who lives in Chorley. I'm kind of nervous to touch a manual. Hopefully he can teach me how to do it easily and then I'll be alright. I don't know if I have mentioned this is the past but the drivers here are so courteous. They always wave you through, let you in, stop in the road to let someone turn across trafic. They proabably are the best overall drivers in the world. The bus and semi-truck drivers work miracles to me! They fit into the tightest spaces. I remember when I got on my first bus I thought we were going to do because we were so close to sideswipping cars because the roads are so much narrower here.
The pictures you have are some at the choir concert at the temple, my England jersey, and Elder Le Cornu and I right before we walked into the library (which is an awful picture of me I look so nerdy ha).
I love you all and pray for your success. Live 3 Nephi 13:33 and I know it will continue to bless it always does. Thank you for sending what you did about your temple experience as well Mom. I enjoyed it.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Graduation/any other photos??? The details on the money/card situation will be great as well next week. Way to keep the Manti tradition! Best temple I have ever stepped foot in.
As long as Miami didn't win the championship, I'm happy!
I'll begin with the whole credit card situation. First off, Tesco is where we do are shopping for food. I have used my mission card to pay for the driving licence stuff thus far because I owed myself money from having to purchase missionary items with personal funds at times in the past. Because of the drivers licence situation, it is now apparent that I am low on both cards. I virtually have under a dollar on my mission card and I am waiting for my reimbursements to come in which will put £24 on my card. So I have been using personal funds to pay for some of my shopping and traveling to meetings to make sure I have enough money on both sides. So much for that plan. This whole driving thing is expensive and is putting both funds about bone dry. Next week tell me what the amount is on my card so I can budget around it.
I will need money asap to start my driving lessons this week, the only problem is, I'm pretty sure it will need to be cash and I don't have a PIN number to withdraw. I take my theory test on the 28th of this month and that is all paid for. I don't mean to be a burden and I'm not spending money for any personal items. I haven't done so since last month around my birthday. The easiest thing is probably just to order a new card then so go ahead with that. Again, I apologize for the financial situation this has been.
Our investigator has been doing good except one thing... She is apprehensive on the Law of Tithing which I had an idea that should be before we taught it due to her current financial situation. She has heard about five strong testimonies/stories about the tithing, which seems to put her at ease. She still wants baptism and is now due to be baptized this Friday. She has loved church, our visits, and the members. We also went to the 400th Anniversary of the King James Bible Concert with her and she enjoyed it. Pray that she will have faith in tithing and that she will love her baptism.
Rob has seemed to progress a little bit. We have now convinced him to come to church and to leave his dog outside and he can go see it occasionally during church. He loves the Book of Mormon and the teachings but he talks way too much. We were more direct and bold with him yesterday and it obviously helped.
I have my last interview with President Bullock on Wednesday before he leaves the mission. I'm very much looking forward to it but quite sad that he leaves in two weeks time. I'll tell you about how the interview went next week.
Elder Le Cornu and I's relationship and has strengthened. He has been very open with me and because of that I was able to give him a blessing of comfort and counsel. Things are going well. There was pride on my side as well that I needed to let go of. Some of it was my fault and not being sensitve to needs. I had to stop looking for faults and start looking for strengths. Continual acts of service or kindness has worked miracles in our companionship.
Something that came up on my studies was 1 Nephi 7. I look at Nephi's example to his brothers for standing up for what is right. However, even those who are righteous in their words, thoughts, and actions susceptible to the negative consequences of others. Even though Nephi took his stand, his brothers still rebelled and sought to limit his progression towards his goal. As we know through his faith in the Lord and the help of others, he was able to progress. We all face rebellion that limits our potential. As we show our faith and diligence, the Lord provides his children with a way out of bondage and to move forward to what they want or must achieve. Faith always endures.
My driving instructor is a member who lives in Chorley. I'm kind of nervous to touch a manual. Hopefully he can teach me how to do it easily and then I'll be alright. I don't know if I have mentioned this is the past but the drivers here are so courteous. They always wave you through, let you in, stop in the road to let someone turn across trafic. They proabably are the best overall drivers in the world. The bus and semi-truck drivers work miracles to me! They fit into the tightest spaces. I remember when I got on my first bus I thought we were going to do because we were so close to sideswipping cars because the roads are so much narrower here.
The pictures you have are some at the choir concert at the temple, my England jersey, and Elder Le Cornu and I right before we walked into the library (which is an awful picture of me I look so nerdy ha).
I love you all and pray for your success. Live 3 Nephi 13:33 and I know it will continue to bless it always does. Thank you for sending what you did about your temple experience as well Mom. I enjoyed it.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Graduation/any other photos??? The details on the money/card situation will be great as well next week. Way to keep the Manti tradition! Best temple I have ever stepped foot in.
As long as Miami didn't win the championship, I'm happy!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Week 35-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Hello family!
Well I am still here in South Ribble but I have a new companion. Elder Le Cornu is from Austrailia. He has been out for a year and a half and the call him the grandpa of the mission because he is the oldest in age. He seems really good and I am excited to serve with him here.
President Bullock also sends his congrats for Colton:
Elder Starr, congratulations on the call of your brother to Brazil. We had 3 sons serve in Brazil and he will have a wonderful but very different experience from you. Please send my congratulations to your family.
You are doing great, keep up the good work. With love, President Bullock
Kim and Robert are both doing well. We taught both of them yesterday. Robert's only issues holding him back is some minor smoking of cigars and he needs a dog sitter to go anywhere. He has been keeping all of the commitments, and even applying the scriptures to his own life (which you don't get very much out of investigators), now we just need to get him to church. He says he has a great desire to be baptized and you can see it. He has a humble personality and is a very eager learner.
My testimony of teaching people and not lessons has increased as well this week. We had planned to teach a certain lesson during our exchange and the day before we were to teach Kim the lesson it didn't seem right. I then prayed on the matter and the thought came to teach on prayer. We had already taught that both to her personally, addressed it many times in lessons before, and it was also taught in our Gospel Principles class at church. On paper it didn't seem to make sense, but that is the direction I felt that it should go. I was impressed on what direction to take the lesson and the end result was her overcoming some of the apprehensive obstacles that were in her way. Yesterday, she then told us she wants to move her baptimsal date to June 11. I'm thankful for the counsel I recieved from the Lord on that occasion and for the blessings I now see from it. All we really need to teach is tithing now. Pray that she will be willing to accept and understand the law of tithing.
I was able to exchange with Elder Hughes from Stillwater, Oklahoma. We had a lot of fun together. Talked a little bit about football. The second and last day of our exchange, we had nothing planned but nine hours of finding. I have had quite a few days like that on my mission, but as you're diligent they fly by. That day full of nothing was really something after it was over. I was able to learn a lot from Elder Hughes and I am grateful for that.
In response to your comment, Mom.....Everyone seems to want to do whats easy and fun rather than what is right and meaningful. The small pleasures and vices don't will never endure. Living in the moment only lasts as long as the moment. We must continually build in order to become. Becoming endures and is everlasting.
Thanks for the letter Matt! It was good to hear from you. It's okay to start with a bang, I like it like that :) Thanks for your prayers, counsel, and example. You are completely right when it comes to obedience. Something I have learned and taken to heart is the more obedient we are, the less we have to sacrifice. Alma 57:21, always obey with exactness. Even though the Lakers were complete rubbish this year, its okay, because I wasn't there and I still love you uncle Mateos.
I love and continually pray specifically for each of you. I hope you enjoy this fresh start to summer and I look forward to hear from you on Monday!
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Big scriptures are amazing to study with! But I would not reccomend hogging them around all day. You can mail the Ensign to the office. I will send pictures on Monday. Do you have any to send from graduation?
Well I am still here in South Ribble but I have a new companion. Elder Le Cornu is from Austrailia. He has been out for a year and a half and the call him the grandpa of the mission because he is the oldest in age. He seems really good and I am excited to serve with him here.
President Bullock also sends his congrats for Colton:
Elder Starr, congratulations on the call of your brother to Brazil. We had 3 sons serve in Brazil and he will have a wonderful but very different experience from you. Please send my congratulations to your family.
You are doing great, keep up the good work. With love, President Bullock
Kim and Robert are both doing well. We taught both of them yesterday. Robert's only issues holding him back is some minor smoking of cigars and he needs a dog sitter to go anywhere. He has been keeping all of the commitments, and even applying the scriptures to his own life (which you don't get very much out of investigators), now we just need to get him to church. He says he has a great desire to be baptized and you can see it. He has a humble personality and is a very eager learner.
My testimony of teaching people and not lessons has increased as well this week. We had planned to teach a certain lesson during our exchange and the day before we were to teach Kim the lesson it didn't seem right. I then prayed on the matter and the thought came to teach on prayer. We had already taught that both to her personally, addressed it many times in lessons before, and it was also taught in our Gospel Principles class at church. On paper it didn't seem to make sense, but that is the direction I felt that it should go. I was impressed on what direction to take the lesson and the end result was her overcoming some of the apprehensive obstacles that were in her way. Yesterday, she then told us she wants to move her baptimsal date to June 11. I'm thankful for the counsel I recieved from the Lord on that occasion and for the blessings I now see from it. All we really need to teach is tithing now. Pray that she will be willing to accept and understand the law of tithing.
I was able to exchange with Elder Hughes from Stillwater, Oklahoma. We had a lot of fun together. Talked a little bit about football. The second and last day of our exchange, we had nothing planned but nine hours of finding. I have had quite a few days like that on my mission, but as you're diligent they fly by. That day full of nothing was really something after it was over. I was able to learn a lot from Elder Hughes and I am grateful for that.
In response to your comment, Mom.....Everyone seems to want to do whats easy and fun rather than what is right and meaningful. The small pleasures and vices don't will never endure. Living in the moment only lasts as long as the moment. We must continually build in order to become. Becoming endures and is everlasting.
Thanks for the letter Matt! It was good to hear from you. It's okay to start with a bang, I like it like that :) Thanks for your prayers, counsel, and example. You are completely right when it comes to obedience. Something I have learned and taken to heart is the more obedient we are, the less we have to sacrifice. Alma 57:21, always obey with exactness. Even though the Lakers were complete rubbish this year, its okay, because I wasn't there and I still love you uncle Mateos.
I love and continually pray specifically for each of you. I hope you enjoy this fresh start to summer and I look forward to hear from you on Monday!
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Big scriptures are amazing to study with! But I would not reccomend hogging them around all day. You can mail the Ensign to the office. I will send pictures on Monday. Do you have any to send from graduation?
Monday, May 23, 2011
Week 34-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Hello from raining Enlgand!
It has been wet pretty much for a week now and I am definitely ready for the sun to come back. The rain has been on and off most days but it is always threatning. But its the rain that makes England... England I guess.
My talk went well yesterday. As I mentioned last week, it was on "Coming unto Christ." I started out by asking two questions 1. "Why should we come unto Christ?" and 2. "How can I come unto Christ?" I mentioned how I'm asked when talking to people how can Christ help them. I then gave an experience of how at basketball practice we would run, run, and run to the point that when we got a water break, no amount to water could quench my thirst. I then went to John 4 and expounded on the story of the Woman of Samaria at Jacob's Well.
I like to let the scriptures do the teaching and told the congregation that Christ offers us "living water" in other words, the love of God (1 Nephi 11:25). Love is one of, if not, the most powerful feelings us as humans have. Heavenly Father's love is perfect and never ends. Because of His love, he provides not only peace and happiness not only in this life, but in the eternities. That is what Christ offers. No amount of worldly possessions, passions, and vices can quench that thirst we all want gone. Only Christ and His teachings can because He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
I then answered question two by using a quote in Preach My Gospel on pg. 116. How we come closer to Christ is through our faith in Him. The quote mentions strengthening our faith by diligent scripture study, prayer, dedicated service, and obedience to the commandments and promptings the Holy Ghost gives us.
I went on to expound once we are doing these things we must become. The way we get closest to Christ is becoming as He and our Heavenly Father are (3 Nephi 27:27, Matt. 5:48). I used Helaman 3:35 to expound how we become once we have applied. We must purify and sanctify our lives yielding to our Father in Heaven's will. I then bore my testimony. This was pretty much all of it and Bishop Adam didn't want me to speak too long. I don't have the notes in front of me but I'm pretty sure this was what my notes said.
Kim came to church as well. She seemed to really enjoy it and had a smile on the whole time. The only thing she seems to be apprehensive about to this point is Joseph Smith. She believes all of the doctrine and I feel she has felt the Spirit confirm to her multiple times that he was a prophet. We are hoping to resolve that concern by watching the Joseph Smith movie shown in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building tonight. I have felt over the past week that she needs to see this film. Joseph's life alone is a testimony to me that he was a prophet of God. Her baptism date is June 4th. Pray that she recieves a spiritual witness and that she progresses to her baptismal date.
A miracle that came from using the Book of Mormon was from a new investigator named Rob. We spoke to Rob on the street earlier in the week and really focused on the Book of Mormon and how it related to him and his beliefs. We weren't able to set up an appointment but we left our details on a pass-along card. The next day, we felt good about a street to go tract and when we were heading home, we saw Rob again and he asked me if he could have a copy of the Book of Mormon. Through that conversation, we were able to see him a couple of days later. He is eager to learn more about the gospel. We are seeing him again tomorrow and I hope that all goes well there. He seeks for knowledge in all things. He is in his fifties and is a very nice man. Pray that we will be able to teach him and help him come to church.
Some compasses I noticed this week were the ward and its leaders, my mission leaders and mission president. I love how Elder Holland mentioned in that talk you just shared with me that faith is looking forward. That was put so dbrillantly and I learned a lot from what he mentioned. I meet people everday who dwell on the negatives of others around them or the condescending things they have heard and/or researched. They are not being Christlike as Elder Holland explains. Thank you for sharing that talk with me Big Fella. That is how those I mentioned above our compasses. They can recieve revelation for their callings through their faith. They continually look forward.
Thank you for the wonderful gifts you gave me for my birthday. I also forgot to mention last week to thank you also for the wonderful letter you sent me Mom. It touched my heart and I appreciated your words and your thoughts. Thanks for the effort put into that and I look forward to recieving the other letters as well when they arrive.
Wednesday we are having another Sports Day! I'm very excited to put my Kobe's back on and touch a ball again. My knee has been feeling quite well but I will make sure not overdue anything. Transfers are next Wednesday (June 1) so you will either hear from me on that day or the Thursday following.
I had that chocolate pudding at the Bishop's house in Birkenhead. It was probably my favortie dessert I have had thus far with a close second to apple crumbe and hot custard.
I want you all to know that I have seen your growth as well since I have been serving. Your testimonies have strengthened and you are all striving to become. I exhort that you continue to do so. I love you all very much and will hear from the emails you send next Tuesday.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Thanks for sending the pictures of Colton's Prom. Looking good Spock, but you should have went with the Bond look. You would have looked even that much more brillant in your appearance :)
P.S.S. I would like to request if you would, a collection of all of your emails and mine throughout my mission. I would like to see all of those together when the time comes. Would that be okay?
It has been wet pretty much for a week now and I am definitely ready for the sun to come back. The rain has been on and off most days but it is always threatning. But its the rain that makes England... England I guess.
My talk went well yesterday. As I mentioned last week, it was on "Coming unto Christ." I started out by asking two questions 1. "Why should we come unto Christ?" and 2. "How can I come unto Christ?" I mentioned how I'm asked when talking to people how can Christ help them. I then gave an experience of how at basketball practice we would run, run, and run to the point that when we got a water break, no amount to water could quench my thirst. I then went to John 4 and expounded on the story of the Woman of Samaria at Jacob's Well.
I like to let the scriptures do the teaching and told the congregation that Christ offers us "living water" in other words, the love of God (1 Nephi 11:25). Love is one of, if not, the most powerful feelings us as humans have. Heavenly Father's love is perfect and never ends. Because of His love, he provides not only peace and happiness not only in this life, but in the eternities. That is what Christ offers. No amount of worldly possessions, passions, and vices can quench that thirst we all want gone. Only Christ and His teachings can because He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
I then answered question two by using a quote in Preach My Gospel on pg. 116. How we come closer to Christ is through our faith in Him. The quote mentions strengthening our faith by diligent scripture study, prayer, dedicated service, and obedience to the commandments and promptings the Holy Ghost gives us.
I went on to expound once we are doing these things we must become. The way we get closest to Christ is becoming as He and our Heavenly Father are (3 Nephi 27:27, Matt. 5:48). I used Helaman 3:35 to expound how we become once we have applied. We must purify and sanctify our lives yielding to our Father in Heaven's will. I then bore my testimony. This was pretty much all of it and Bishop Adam didn't want me to speak too long. I don't have the notes in front of me but I'm pretty sure this was what my notes said.
Kim came to church as well. She seemed to really enjoy it and had a smile on the whole time. The only thing she seems to be apprehensive about to this point is Joseph Smith. She believes all of the doctrine and I feel she has felt the Spirit confirm to her multiple times that he was a prophet. We are hoping to resolve that concern by watching the Joseph Smith movie shown in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building tonight. I have felt over the past week that she needs to see this film. Joseph's life alone is a testimony to me that he was a prophet of God. Her baptism date is June 4th. Pray that she recieves a spiritual witness and that she progresses to her baptismal date.
A miracle that came from using the Book of Mormon was from a new investigator named Rob. We spoke to Rob on the street earlier in the week and really focused on the Book of Mormon and how it related to him and his beliefs. We weren't able to set up an appointment but we left our details on a pass-along card. The next day, we felt good about a street to go tract and when we were heading home, we saw Rob again and he asked me if he could have a copy of the Book of Mormon. Through that conversation, we were able to see him a couple of days later. He is eager to learn more about the gospel. We are seeing him again tomorrow and I hope that all goes well there. He seeks for knowledge in all things. He is in his fifties and is a very nice man. Pray that we will be able to teach him and help him come to church.
Some compasses I noticed this week were the ward and its leaders, my mission leaders and mission president. I love how Elder Holland mentioned in that talk you just shared with me that faith is looking forward. That was put so dbrillantly and I learned a lot from what he mentioned. I meet people everday who dwell on the negatives of others around them or the condescending things they have heard and/or researched. They are not being Christlike as Elder Holland explains. Thank you for sharing that talk with me Big Fella. That is how those I mentioned above our compasses. They can recieve revelation for their callings through their faith. They continually look forward.
Thank you for the wonderful gifts you gave me for my birthday. I also forgot to mention last week to thank you also for the wonderful letter you sent me Mom. It touched my heart and I appreciated your words and your thoughts. Thanks for the effort put into that and I look forward to recieving the other letters as well when they arrive.
Wednesday we are having another Sports Day! I'm very excited to put my Kobe's back on and touch a ball again. My knee has been feeling quite well but I will make sure not overdue anything. Transfers are next Wednesday (June 1) so you will either hear from me on that day or the Thursday following.
I had that chocolate pudding at the Bishop's house in Birkenhead. It was probably my favortie dessert I have had thus far with a close second to apple crumbe and hot custard.
I want you all to know that I have seen your growth as well since I have been serving. Your testimonies have strengthened and you are all striving to become. I exhort that you continue to do so. I love you all very much and will hear from the emails you send next Tuesday.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Thanks for sending the pictures of Colton's Prom. Looking good Spock, but you should have went with the Bond look. You would have looked even that much more brillant in your appearance :)
P.S.S. I would like to request if you would, a collection of all of your emails and mine throughout my mission. I would like to see all of those together when the time comes. Would that be okay?
Monday, May 16, 2011
Week 33-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Hello Family!
Wow, exciting news! Brazil fits Spock. Looks like it is going to be exactly three years between the two of us. Good timing there. I too feel like Mom, that both calls were inspired and they go well with us. Two totally different cultures and countries. Are you going to start learning Portugese? I bet Tom loved the call.
I'm also glad to hear that Prom was good. I would have loved to drive a '67 Camaro! But the Denali was always one of my favorite vehicles anyways. It is a bit sad that it was a bunch of lasts for the two boys. It is amazing to see how fast time flys. I'm also glad to hear that the talk went well. Those were great things to focus on regarding the Doctrine and Covenants.
The training that was given by President Bullock that I mentioned last week was fantastic.
Here are the seven things he mentioned that the Holy Ghost does:
1. Comforter/Confidence/Peace
2. Teach You All Things
3. Show You What to Do
4. Guides to All Truth
5. Gives You Words to Say
6. Brings to Our Rememberance
7. Testifies of the Father and the Son
The scriptures he used were John 14:26,16:13, 2 Nephi 32:5, Helaman 5:18, D&C 42:17.
South Ribble was wet this week, but it was very enjoyable. We have seen good things happen from our investigator Kim this week. She has kept the commitments we have been leaving her and is starting to gain an understanding about the gospel. Now we just have to get her to church. She works on Sundays during church hours so we will really be stressing that this week. Monday, we took our bishop and his wife to fellowhip with us. The two of them were able to resolve minor concerns concerning the three kingdoms of glory without us stepping in at all. They also commited her to attend a relief society activity without even asking. Kim attended and enjoyed the activity. It was amazing to see the great love these members have for the investigator. What a blessing it is to have excellent fellowshipers in the ward. She has now been taught the first three lessons, the Word of Wisdom, and tonight we are teaching her the Law of Chastity.
Earlier this week, I was given the opportunity to speak in church this coming Sunday on "Coming unto Christ." I have been thinking recently about my approach to this oppurtnity and took the matter to church to recieve direction. It was amazing what the Spirit put into my mind and heart during sacrament meeting. It all seemed to come just flowing. I'm grateful for that experience and now have a stronger testimony of taking questions and to seek inspiration from church. I'll let you how that goes on next week.
Transfers are on June 1. I sent all of the pink ones home because the mission didn't find them conservative. So I just decided to send all of the pink ones home. I got Mom's letter on Tuesday after emails this last week and that was a complete suprise. I don't know how one managed to get here but the others didn't. I did get my glasses and they do fit and look well. I will email you a picture of them next week. I get my provisional license most likely in a couple of weeks. After I get that, I will then have to take the theory test before I can take driving lessons.
I do think of the Liahona as the compass. I love the scripture in 1 Nephi 16:28 (if I'm not mistaken) how it mentions that the Liahona works according to the faith and direction. If we have faith and diligence in all that we do. I will do my best to identify compasses and follow-up with you on them next week.
I love you all and am excited to be in the service at the same time with Colton. All hail the lands of England and Brazil!
Love,
Cameron
Wow, exciting news! Brazil fits Spock. Looks like it is going to be exactly three years between the two of us. Good timing there. I too feel like Mom, that both calls were inspired and they go well with us. Two totally different cultures and countries. Are you going to start learning Portugese? I bet Tom loved the call.
I'm also glad to hear that Prom was good. I would have loved to drive a '67 Camaro! But the Denali was always one of my favorite vehicles anyways. It is a bit sad that it was a bunch of lasts for the two boys. It is amazing to see how fast time flys. I'm also glad to hear that the talk went well. Those were great things to focus on regarding the Doctrine and Covenants.
The training that was given by President Bullock that I mentioned last week was fantastic.
Here are the seven things he mentioned that the Holy Ghost does:
1. Comforter/Confidence/Peace
2. Teach You All Things
3. Show You What to Do
4. Guides to All Truth
5. Gives You Words to Say
6. Brings to Our Rememberance
7. Testifies of the Father and the Son
The scriptures he used were John 14:26,16:13, 2 Nephi 32:5, Helaman 5:18, D&C 42:17.
South Ribble was wet this week, but it was very enjoyable. We have seen good things happen from our investigator Kim this week. She has kept the commitments we have been leaving her and is starting to gain an understanding about the gospel. Now we just have to get her to church. She works on Sundays during church hours so we will really be stressing that this week. Monday, we took our bishop and his wife to fellowhip with us. The two of them were able to resolve minor concerns concerning the three kingdoms of glory without us stepping in at all. They also commited her to attend a relief society activity without even asking. Kim attended and enjoyed the activity. It was amazing to see the great love these members have for the investigator. What a blessing it is to have excellent fellowshipers in the ward. She has now been taught the first three lessons, the Word of Wisdom, and tonight we are teaching her the Law of Chastity.
Earlier this week, I was given the opportunity to speak in church this coming Sunday on "Coming unto Christ." I have been thinking recently about my approach to this oppurtnity and took the matter to church to recieve direction. It was amazing what the Spirit put into my mind and heart during sacrament meeting. It all seemed to come just flowing. I'm grateful for that experience and now have a stronger testimony of taking questions and to seek inspiration from church. I'll let you how that goes on next week.
Transfers are on June 1. I sent all of the pink ones home because the mission didn't find them conservative. So I just decided to send all of the pink ones home. I got Mom's letter on Tuesday after emails this last week and that was a complete suprise. I don't know how one managed to get here but the others didn't. I did get my glasses and they do fit and look well. I will email you a picture of them next week. I get my provisional license most likely in a couple of weeks. After I get that, I will then have to take the theory test before I can take driving lessons.
I do think of the Liahona as the compass. I love the scripture in 1 Nephi 16:28 (if I'm not mistaken) how it mentions that the Liahona works according to the faith and direction. If we have faith and diligence in all that we do. I will do my best to identify compasses and follow-up with you on them next week.
I love you all and am excited to be in the service at the same time with Colton. All hail the lands of England and Brazil!
Love,
Cameron
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Week 32-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Dear Family,
Just as you, I enjoyed our Skype conversation as well. It was good to hear from all of you and see your wonderful faces (including Ebony, too bad you couldn't lift up Kobe, maybe next time)! I didn't mean to seem so serious. Ha maybe the Joker can put a smile on my face :)
We had a Mission Conference yesterday with Elder Packer of the Seventy (Sis. Bullock's brother/Pres. Packer's son). He talked a lot about recognizing the Spirit and things relative to missionary work. President Bullock also gave a training on the Holy Ghost and the roles and blessings that come from it's influence. I'm telling you, President Bullock, is something else. I still express enough how much he has taught me and meant to me on my mission. I'll give you some notes on what he talked about on Monday.
We taught the investigator I mentioned on Skype named Kim. She has studied with the Jehovah's Witnesses in the past and has some concerns with a couple of points of our doctrine. Her daughter is a less-active. Our fellowshipers have also been extending commintments and help try to resolve her concerns. You can see the difference in the lesson as members help teach and testify. You can also see the difference in Kim as well. What a blessing! She is attending a Relief Society social tonight and possibly church on Sunday. We will be seeing her tomorrow and Friday as well. Pray she recieves an answer to her prayers concerning the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith.
This morning, I was reading in Mormon 3. The Lord had commanded Mormon not to share the gospel until this point in the book. He then starts to declare according to the Lord's counsel, but then he recoginzes that his preaching "was in vain" due to the peoples wickedness and abominations. It made me think about the times where I felt strongly impressed to act on a certain prompting and either little or nothing come out of it, but I know the Lord gives us those impressions for various reasons. As I have followed them, the Spirit confirms to me that what I did was right.
I had such an experience yesterday with a man named Simon. We walked past him on the way to an appointment while he was in his car with his two young children. As we walked past, I immediately started feeling like I needed to go back and talk to him, to the point it seemed to be eating at me. So I turned around and talked to him outside of his car about families. It was a really good conversation, but he didn't set up the appointment, I gave him our phone number and referred him to mormon.org. After the conversation, I felt so much better about and felt the Spirit confirm.
I looked at what the mission uses to send things for our address and it reads:
6 The Tiger
Leyland
LANCS
PR25 1XA
England
I didn't recieve the package yesterday at the Mission Conference because they didn't give out any mail. I will get it next Thursday at Specialized Trainings. I don't know if you could send the letters to the mission office if they would get there on time for next Thursday but do whatever you think is best.
In regards to finances again, I have been spending a fortune and I apologize. Today I'll have to spend £55 to get my learner's permit. Just that part of the liscence has to come out of personal funds. I will also have to spend another £105 when my glasses come in. I feel like complete rubbish for the increbile amount of money spent, but if it is possible to make sure that I have enough money to cover both of those expenses in my account. If it isn't, just let me know and I can talk to President about the situation.
I wrote Duncan and Zach both two weeks ago so hopefully I hear from them soon. I had Duncan's MTC address from a few weeks ago.
I'm very excited about Colton's call next week and can't wait to read it on Monday. I've been thinking about it often for this past week. Wherever it is, it will be awesome. I'm still sticking with the verde, blanco, y rojo de Mexico! Can't wait! I love you all!
Love,
Cameron
Just as you, I enjoyed our Skype conversation as well. It was good to hear from all of you and see your wonderful faces (including Ebony, too bad you couldn't lift up Kobe, maybe next time)! I didn't mean to seem so serious. Ha maybe the Joker can put a smile on my face :)
We had a Mission Conference yesterday with Elder Packer of the Seventy (Sis. Bullock's brother/Pres. Packer's son). He talked a lot about recognizing the Spirit and things relative to missionary work. President Bullock also gave a training on the Holy Ghost and the roles and blessings that come from it's influence. I'm telling you, President Bullock, is something else. I still express enough how much he has taught me and meant to me on my mission. I'll give you some notes on what he talked about on Monday.
We taught the investigator I mentioned on Skype named Kim. She has studied with the Jehovah's Witnesses in the past and has some concerns with a couple of points of our doctrine. Her daughter is a less-active. Our fellowshipers have also been extending commintments and help try to resolve her concerns. You can see the difference in the lesson as members help teach and testify. You can also see the difference in Kim as well. What a blessing! She is attending a Relief Society social tonight and possibly church on Sunday. We will be seeing her tomorrow and Friday as well. Pray she recieves an answer to her prayers concerning the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith.
This morning, I was reading in Mormon 3. The Lord had commanded Mormon not to share the gospel until this point in the book. He then starts to declare according to the Lord's counsel, but then he recoginzes that his preaching "was in vain" due to the peoples wickedness and abominations. It made me think about the times where I felt strongly impressed to act on a certain prompting and either little or nothing come out of it, but I know the Lord gives us those impressions for various reasons. As I have followed them, the Spirit confirms to me that what I did was right.
I had such an experience yesterday with a man named Simon. We walked past him on the way to an appointment while he was in his car with his two young children. As we walked past, I immediately started feeling like I needed to go back and talk to him, to the point it seemed to be eating at me. So I turned around and talked to him outside of his car about families. It was a really good conversation, but he didn't set up the appointment, I gave him our phone number and referred him to mormon.org. After the conversation, I felt so much better about and felt the Spirit confirm.
I looked at what the mission uses to send things for our address and it reads:
6 The Tiger
Leyland
LANCS
PR25 1XA
England
I didn't recieve the package yesterday at the Mission Conference because they didn't give out any mail. I will get it next Thursday at Specialized Trainings. I don't know if you could send the letters to the mission office if they would get there on time for next Thursday but do whatever you think is best.
In regards to finances again, I have been spending a fortune and I apologize. Today I'll have to spend £55 to get my learner's permit. Just that part of the liscence has to come out of personal funds. I will also have to spend another £105 when my glasses come in. I feel like complete rubbish for the increbile amount of money spent, but if it is possible to make sure that I have enough money to cover both of those expenses in my account. If it isn't, just let me know and I can talk to President about the situation.
I wrote Duncan and Zach both two weeks ago so hopefully I hear from them soon. I had Duncan's MTC address from a few weeks ago.
I'm very excited about Colton's call next week and can't wait to read it on Monday. I've been thinking about it often for this past week. Wherever it is, it will be awesome. I'm still sticking with the verde, blanco, y rojo de Mexico! Can't wait! I love you all!
Love,
Cameron
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Week 31-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Hi family!
I'll mention first mention the Royal Wedding of William and Catherine. We got a call saying that we were allowed to watch it for two hours. I was excited to watch some British History on my mission, especially in regards that William is likely to be the king in the future. We watched it at a members house from the point where all of the royalty was arriving, to when the Royal Couple arrived at Buckingham Palace. Yesterday, I went looking for a tea towel and have not found anything of the sort. I will continue to look.
My birthday was great as well. I had tea with some members named the Rojas (from Spain) and we had some great food there. I was also able to have some chocolate-peanut butter cheesecake. I bought myself a couple of football jerseys as well. One is Liverpool and the other is an England long sleeve top to have my name and #35 on the back of the jersey. We also ate a very good chinese buffet yesterday in Preston.
Something that has been on my mind was something the Assistants wrote in last week's newsletter to the mission. The reminder of being exactly obedient with the daily schedule really caused me to adjust and make sure that I am doing my very best to be on time for the Lord. I know that He will pour out His blessings as we strive to have our knees right on time, all of the time. Obedience is what sets us free and I'm reengergized to do my part to recieve the blessings that come from it.
I haven't been in contact with Andrew lately so he seems to have been another one hit wonder. We have had a couple of those this past week. But I as strive to be urgent and as sacred as possible I know that the Lord will bless us those who are prepared to teach.
I know I'm not where I want to be yet, when all is said and done, but I do know that our Heavenly Father's plan is about progression. We all have areas where we need to improve and its about taking those weaknesses and making them strenghts (Ether 12:27). Unless we are progressing to become like our Heavenly Father, we are digressing. Unless we set goals and do our best to achieve them, we won't achieve what we want to become. We will be living below our privelages as Pres. Uchtdorf would say. We need to do all we can to become "sacred" individuals. President Bullock's counsel and love has absolutey changed my mission and life.
Exciting stuff for Lauren and Dad. I hope you each look forward to your new experiences you have in your new opportunities. Also exciting for Colton as well. He will do great! I wish I got to speak at any graduation back in the day.
I look forward to Skyping you at 3:30 England time :) I don't know if it will be able to be as private as it was last time because I was in a conservetory with doors shut but my companion could still see me. I don't think it will be as ideal this time around.
I love you all! Happy Birthday Lauren! I will be sending a letter next Tuesday for your birthday!
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Today I went to the Optometrist and I'm getting glasses. Unfortunately, glasses are incredibley expensive here, to get a pair of Oakley's was like £200. I paid £75 today for the down payment on my appointment, perscription, and nike glasses. I still owe about £105. Again Im sorry for the ridiculous amount of money I had to spend. It was so cheapest place I could find. So if I could get £105 in my account, that would be great. Pictures to come next week
I'll mention first mention the Royal Wedding of William and Catherine. We got a call saying that we were allowed to watch it for two hours. I was excited to watch some British History on my mission, especially in regards that William is likely to be the king in the future. We watched it at a members house from the point where all of the royalty was arriving, to when the Royal Couple arrived at Buckingham Palace. Yesterday, I went looking for a tea towel and have not found anything of the sort. I will continue to look.
My birthday was great as well. I had tea with some members named the Rojas (from Spain) and we had some great food there. I was also able to have some chocolate-peanut butter cheesecake. I bought myself a couple of football jerseys as well. One is Liverpool and the other is an England long sleeve top to have my name and #35 on the back of the jersey. We also ate a very good chinese buffet yesterday in Preston.
Something that has been on my mind was something the Assistants wrote in last week's newsletter to the mission. The reminder of being exactly obedient with the daily schedule really caused me to adjust and make sure that I am doing my very best to be on time for the Lord. I know that He will pour out His blessings as we strive to have our knees right on time, all of the time. Obedience is what sets us free and I'm reengergized to do my part to recieve the blessings that come from it.
I haven't been in contact with Andrew lately so he seems to have been another one hit wonder. We have had a couple of those this past week. But I as strive to be urgent and as sacred as possible I know that the Lord will bless us those who are prepared to teach.
I know I'm not where I want to be yet, when all is said and done, but I do know that our Heavenly Father's plan is about progression. We all have areas where we need to improve and its about taking those weaknesses and making them strenghts (Ether 12:27). Unless we are progressing to become like our Heavenly Father, we are digressing. Unless we set goals and do our best to achieve them, we won't achieve what we want to become. We will be living below our privelages as Pres. Uchtdorf would say. We need to do all we can to become "sacred" individuals. President Bullock's counsel and love has absolutey changed my mission and life.
Exciting stuff for Lauren and Dad. I hope you each look forward to your new experiences you have in your new opportunities. Also exciting for Colton as well. He will do great! I wish I got to speak at any graduation back in the day.
I look forward to Skyping you at 3:30 England time :) I don't know if it will be able to be as private as it was last time because I was in a conservetory with doors shut but my companion could still see me. I don't think it will be as ideal this time around.
I love you all! Happy Birthday Lauren! I will be sending a letter next Tuesday for your birthday!
Love,
Cameron
P.S. Today I went to the Optometrist and I'm getting glasses. Unfortunately, glasses are incredibley expensive here, to get a pair of Oakley's was like £200. I paid £75 today for the down payment on my appointment, perscription, and nike glasses. I still owe about £105. Again Im sorry for the ridiculous amount of money I had to spend. It was so cheapest place I could find. So if I could get £105 in my account, that would be great. Pictures to come next week
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Week 30-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Dear Family,
I'm glad to hear that you had a good Easter back home and that life is still going well. My Easter sad to say was really nothing special. We didn't have a meal at a member's home or anything! But I still enjoyed myslef and quite frankly, forgot it was Easter once church was over. At church, I got to meet the ward. They are very good and have some great families.
We were able to see a miracle as well on Easter. We were riding around speaking to people while trying by some referrals we had. I stopped a man named Andrew and we started talking. He had really good questions and I asked him if we could teach him right then and he invited us over to his house. The lesson went well and he accepted our commitments. Hopefully we will teach him for our appointment tomorrow. You have a lot of one hit wonders as a missionary.
Yesterday, we went to the temple and took about 40 minutes to get up there. My legs were on fire after and I was sweating quite well by the time we got there. But one of the best parts was while I was locking my bike up at the MTC, some missionaries from the MTC were walking back down from exercise. One of them looked at me and said "Cameron?!" It was Kelly Cloward! He lives in the Collinsworth's ward and was hillarious in high school. He is going to the Birmingham Mission. We only talked for a second because our session was about to start, but he said I had a serious accent going on. His companion didn't believe I was American at first. I can't event tell I have one, but maybe you all can on Mother's Day!
Speaking of which, it is actually going to be 8:30 am your time. We did the math wrong in our heads and I couldn't tell because I figured it out right after I was done. That is still be subject to change because the members we are doing it at have a son in the London South Mission and they are guessing he will most likely Skype in the evening. But I will give you the final blow on Monday.
I don't know how I feel about turning 20. Ha I never thought that this day would actually come and I really don't want to be old already, but I guess that is what happens, life goes on. Where did all of the time go? Don't worry about the birthday stuff, I'm not upset about it all. It will get here when it gets here. Thanks for the effort, time and money you have put in. I'm sure I'll enjoy it :)
In regards to my driving license, I think I'm going to need to see an optometrist. My eyes probably aren't good enough to be able to read a license plate to 60-65 feet away. So it will also take some cash to make sure that all gets sorted. I will probably set up an appointment in the next couple of weeks. I don't know whether to do glasses or contacts though...
President Bullock wrote me this:
Elder Starr, I know that your time in Moreton was short but there is always a reason for every move. South Ribble is a great place and you will be a strong support to Elder Cole. I am very pleased with your progress as a missionary. I feel that you are ready to be a senior companion but unfortunately we just don’t have the spots available with the low turnover in the mission. But that will change in the next few transfers so start preparing yourself for that to happen. Keep up the good work.
I definitely felt ready to be senior comp after this past transfer so I was a little discouraged at first, but now I understand why. Elder Cole has six months left and will have been in South Ribble for six months after this transfer is over. We are very different but he has a good personality. Hopefully our companionship can continue to be strengthened.
I love and miss you all. I'm looking forward to speaking to you all on Mother's Day! I will pray Colton gets his call before then, but if not, that's just the way the ball bounced. May Heavenly Father continue to bless our family as we strive to keep the sacred covenants we have made both at baptism and at the temple.
Love,
Cameron
Family,
I forgot that next Monday is a bank holiday as well, so you wont here from me until Tuesday again. I love you all!
Love,
Elder Starr
D&C 68:4
I'm glad to hear that you had a good Easter back home and that life is still going well. My Easter sad to say was really nothing special. We didn't have a meal at a member's home or anything! But I still enjoyed myslef and quite frankly, forgot it was Easter once church was over. At church, I got to meet the ward. They are very good and have some great families.
We were able to see a miracle as well on Easter. We were riding around speaking to people while trying by some referrals we had. I stopped a man named Andrew and we started talking. He had really good questions and I asked him if we could teach him right then and he invited us over to his house. The lesson went well and he accepted our commitments. Hopefully we will teach him for our appointment tomorrow. You have a lot of one hit wonders as a missionary.
Yesterday, we went to the temple and took about 40 minutes to get up there. My legs were on fire after and I was sweating quite well by the time we got there. But one of the best parts was while I was locking my bike up at the MTC, some missionaries from the MTC were walking back down from exercise. One of them looked at me and said "Cameron?!" It was Kelly Cloward! He lives in the Collinsworth's ward and was hillarious in high school. He is going to the Birmingham Mission. We only talked for a second because our session was about to start, but he said I had a serious accent going on. His companion didn't believe I was American at first. I can't event tell I have one, but maybe you all can on Mother's Day!
Speaking of which, it is actually going to be 8:30 am your time. We did the math wrong in our heads and I couldn't tell because I figured it out right after I was done. That is still be subject to change because the members we are doing it at have a son in the London South Mission and they are guessing he will most likely Skype in the evening. But I will give you the final blow on Monday.
I don't know how I feel about turning 20. Ha I never thought that this day would actually come and I really don't want to be old already, but I guess that is what happens, life goes on. Where did all of the time go? Don't worry about the birthday stuff, I'm not upset about it all. It will get here when it gets here. Thanks for the effort, time and money you have put in. I'm sure I'll enjoy it :)
In regards to my driving license, I think I'm going to need to see an optometrist. My eyes probably aren't good enough to be able to read a license plate to 60-65 feet away. So it will also take some cash to make sure that all gets sorted. I will probably set up an appointment in the next couple of weeks. I don't know whether to do glasses or contacts though...
President Bullock wrote me this:
Elder Starr, I know that your time in Moreton was short but there is always a reason for every move. South Ribble is a great place and you will be a strong support to Elder Cole. I am very pleased with your progress as a missionary. I feel that you are ready to be a senior companion but unfortunately we just don’t have the spots available with the low turnover in the mission. But that will change in the next few transfers so start preparing yourself for that to happen. Keep up the good work.
I definitely felt ready to be senior comp after this past transfer so I was a little discouraged at first, but now I understand why. Elder Cole has six months left and will have been in South Ribble for six months after this transfer is over. We are very different but he has a good personality. Hopefully our companionship can continue to be strengthened.
I love and miss you all. I'm looking forward to speaking to you all on Mother's Day! I will pray Colton gets his call before then, but if not, that's just the way the ball bounced. May Heavenly Father continue to bless our family as we strive to keep the sacred covenants we have made both at baptism and at the temple.
Love,
Cameron
Family,
I forgot that next Monday is a bank holiday as well, so you wont here from me until Tuesday again. I love you all!
Love,
Elder Starr
D&C 68:4
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Week 29-Manchester England-South Ribble/Leyland
Dear Family,
I am no longer in Birkenhead which was no suprise at all. It was sad to leave there since my time was so short and I loved being working in a trio. Elders Ashcraft, Herrin, and I had a lot of fun together. It is now only those two in Birkenhead. Charlotte is still doing well. Now she just has to be taught and live the commandments. We weren't able to see Steve at all last week because of family matters throughout the whole week. I was able to see him the day before I left and hopefully all will work out.
But, that is enough sad news. The good news is that I am serving in a place called South Ribble/Leyland. It is between Preston and Chorley and the River Ribble is where a lot of the first converts in England were baptized. I am now serving with Elder Cole who is from Ohio. We do use bikes in this area so that will be a new experience. It's been ages since I have done any leg work besides running after people and my legs were already getting tired only about 10 min on a bike to here. Ha I'm so out of shape I hate it. But the bike will be a big help.
I also got a call two days ago from one of the Assistants. He said that President wants me to get started on obtaining a UK driver's license, which is quite the process here. So at some point, I'm going be learning how to drive a manual and on the other side of the road. Exciting and nervous since I haven't done either before.
My new address is:
66 Leyland Lane
6 The Tiger
Leyland, LANCS
PR25 1XA
The weather in England has been amazing! It has been so nice and sunny and perfect to do missionary work. Perfect for Easter as well. Speaking of holidays, Mother's Day is coming up soon and I will be able to do it on Skype again so I will need your Skype address again. The not so good news is that it will most likely have to be at 6:30 in the morning for you due to a broken family situation for Elder Cole and a fireside we are attending that evening. That is the most likely situation and I apologize for that.
Keep working towards the mission Colton and make sure you are doing all that you can to stay away from the influence of evil. Remember this: "Satan don't kick no dead dogs." He doesn't care about the ones that are already bad because he doesn't have to do anything to influence them. He only wants the good ones. You're definitely a dog that is alive and well and he knows that. Do all you can to come closer to the Lord.
Exciting stuff for Paker! Tell them I send my love and congrats. People already getting married sounds so silly. It makes me feel so old and I don't want to turn twenty in a week and a half, but all good things must come to an end (except the gospel).
I got Zach's letter a little over a week ago and I was laughing throughout the whole thing. That letter made my night and I enjoyed it a lot. I'll probably write him back most likely on Monday. You won't get an email on Monday due to the bank holiday.
The pictures I have are the trio, Elder Jolliffe and the other missionary he trained, and Elder Darrow. Elder Darrow was a Zone Leader in Liverpool who meant a lot to me and taught me some great things on our two day exchange in Southport. He goes home today back to Arizona where he was a national championship wrestler. He had a scholarship to wrestle at Stanford and turned it down to go on a mission. I didn't hear about any of that until Elder Ashcraft told me. We talked about wrestiling on our exchange but he never mentioned any of that. Shows his humility.
I love and wish you all a happy Easter! Go England!
Love,
Cameron
I am no longer in Birkenhead which was no suprise at all. It was sad to leave there since my time was so short and I loved being working in a trio. Elders Ashcraft, Herrin, and I had a lot of fun together. It is now only those two in Birkenhead. Charlotte is still doing well. Now she just has to be taught and live the commandments. We weren't able to see Steve at all last week because of family matters throughout the whole week. I was able to see him the day before I left and hopefully all will work out.
But, that is enough sad news. The good news is that I am serving in a place called South Ribble/Leyland. It is between Preston and Chorley and the River Ribble is where a lot of the first converts in England were baptized. I am now serving with Elder Cole who is from Ohio. We do use bikes in this area so that will be a new experience. It's been ages since I have done any leg work besides running after people and my legs were already getting tired only about 10 min on a bike to here. Ha I'm so out of shape I hate it. But the bike will be a big help.
I also got a call two days ago from one of the Assistants. He said that President wants me to get started on obtaining a UK driver's license, which is quite the process here. So at some point, I'm going be learning how to drive a manual and on the other side of the road. Exciting and nervous since I haven't done either before.
My new address is:
66 Leyland Lane
6 The Tiger
Leyland, LANCS
PR25 1XA
The weather in England has been amazing! It has been so nice and sunny and perfect to do missionary work. Perfect for Easter as well. Speaking of holidays, Mother's Day is coming up soon and I will be able to do it on Skype again so I will need your Skype address again. The not so good news is that it will most likely have to be at 6:30 in the morning for you due to a broken family situation for Elder Cole and a fireside we are attending that evening. That is the most likely situation and I apologize for that.
Keep working towards the mission Colton and make sure you are doing all that you can to stay away from the influence of evil. Remember this: "Satan don't kick no dead dogs." He doesn't care about the ones that are already bad because he doesn't have to do anything to influence them. He only wants the good ones. You're definitely a dog that is alive and well and he knows that. Do all you can to come closer to the Lord.
Exciting stuff for Paker! Tell them I send my love and congrats. People already getting married sounds so silly. It makes me feel so old and I don't want to turn twenty in a week and a half, but all good things must come to an end (except the gospel).
I got Zach's letter a little over a week ago and I was laughing throughout the whole thing. That letter made my night and I enjoyed it a lot. I'll probably write him back most likely on Monday. You won't get an email on Monday due to the bank holiday.
The pictures I have are the trio, Elder Jolliffe and the other missionary he trained, and Elder Darrow. Elder Darrow was a Zone Leader in Liverpool who meant a lot to me and taught me some great things on our two day exchange in Southport. He goes home today back to Arizona where he was a national championship wrestler. He had a scholarship to wrestle at Stanford and turned it down to go on a mission. I didn't hear about any of that until Elder Ashcraft told me. We talked about wrestiling on our exchange but he never mentioned any of that. Shows his humility.
I love and wish you all a happy Easter! Go England!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, April 11, 2011
Week 28-Manchester England-Birkenhead
Hello Starr Fam!
I have a lot to say in a short amount of time. It has been an amazing week in the Birkenhead! We had two investigators at church this week and they both loved it. We have been extremely urgent in every aspect of the work and have seen the blessings from the Lord.
But first, my results from my MRI are in. I was told that no major damage was done. To this point, I have bruising underneath and around my knee cap and some fiber damage around the ligaments which is the reason it is still a bit swollen. With regular, basic exercieses that the physio therapist gave me today, the knee should fully recover in a short time period. I'm glad I didn't tear my cruican ligament or whatever its called because it would have required surgery and 3-6 months of rehab.
First with our investigator named Steve. We were out street contacting in the morning on a main road in Birkenhead. There wasn't a lot of people around me at this particular moment and there was a block of terrace housing next to me. The thought came to knock on a few of the doors. The first three I knocked on all rejected, but the fourth is was Steve. I started talking to him about prophets and thought it would be marvelous to have one right now. We continued on for about ten minutes in conversation on the how he has been going to numerous churches for the past two or three years and hasn't really found one that he has felt good at. He invited me to come in right then and there but it wasn't good at that point and time for us and he had to leave fairly quickly so we set up an appointment.
To keep a long story short, we taught him five times last week and he has progressed flawlessly. He has accepted and kept every commitment we have left him including law of chastity and word of wisdom. He is about 58 years old and is divorced from his wife who committed adultery. When I taught him the Plan of Salvation on an exchange, he thought since we were children of God, it would make sense that we could over time progress and become like him. I didn't say anything to lead into his comment and I nearly fell on the floor after he said that. No one believes in that except us! He also said that Jesus Christ's sacrifice is like an "everlasting covenant." He has been an aboslute joy to teach. He loves the Book of Mormon to death. Pray for him and that he will continue to progress.
We also taught a recent convert/less active's girlfriend named Charlotte after church on Sunday. The recent convert is young and is in a wheelchair. They are both a bit rough around the edges. She has never been to church before or heard of it. She was raised a Jehovah's Witness but left it at 14. We shared the Restoration lesson with her and after we shared the first vision, she described her feelings as "speechless" and "happy." It was one of the most powerful Restoration lessons I have taught so far on my mission. She accepted a commitment to baptism as well as Steve and did so without hesitation We are seeing her tonight. Pray for her as well.
The Royal Wedding is building some hype but some aren't really that happy because it is taking a day away from businesses. It's going to be fun to see that atmosphere of the whole thing and I'll do my best to get one of those tea towels.
Sad that Butler lost but no doubt Brad Stevens will get his ring in the very near future. I also may need a couple of more short sleeve shirts since the weather is getting quite warm. It has been very nice the past few days. I will have pictures for you next Wednesday of Thursday since it is transfers next week.
I will do my best to be more creative with asking for referrals. I ask everyone I meet if they no anyone in specific we could teach with things like a new child, death in the family, recently moved in, religious, etc. So I have been doing my best to my knowledge. We have taught the Family Mission Paln (which is a referral program) to most of the ward. The less-active and inactive is a good idea. I will work on that.
Thanks for the email bro. It was good to hear from you and see how you are doing! Keep up the good work!
My shirt size is 15/35 (french cuff preferably :) ) Ha random side note. Sis Bullock did a presentation on ironing shirts at interviews which I cant believe some missionaries do not no how to do. She used Presidents shirt.
I love you all so much. Thaks for your continued support! Tara!
Love,
Cameroni
I have a lot to say in a short amount of time. It has been an amazing week in the Birkenhead! We had two investigators at church this week and they both loved it. We have been extremely urgent in every aspect of the work and have seen the blessings from the Lord.
But first, my results from my MRI are in. I was told that no major damage was done. To this point, I have bruising underneath and around my knee cap and some fiber damage around the ligaments which is the reason it is still a bit swollen. With regular, basic exercieses that the physio therapist gave me today, the knee should fully recover in a short time period. I'm glad I didn't tear my cruican ligament or whatever its called because it would have required surgery and 3-6 months of rehab.
First with our investigator named Steve. We were out street contacting in the morning on a main road in Birkenhead. There wasn't a lot of people around me at this particular moment and there was a block of terrace housing next to me. The thought came to knock on a few of the doors. The first three I knocked on all rejected, but the fourth is was Steve. I started talking to him about prophets and thought it would be marvelous to have one right now. We continued on for about ten minutes in conversation on the how he has been going to numerous churches for the past two or three years and hasn't really found one that he has felt good at. He invited me to come in right then and there but it wasn't good at that point and time for us and he had to leave fairly quickly so we set up an appointment.
To keep a long story short, we taught him five times last week and he has progressed flawlessly. He has accepted and kept every commitment we have left him including law of chastity and word of wisdom. He is about 58 years old and is divorced from his wife who committed adultery. When I taught him the Plan of Salvation on an exchange, he thought since we were children of God, it would make sense that we could over time progress and become like him. I didn't say anything to lead into his comment and I nearly fell on the floor after he said that. No one believes in that except us! He also said that Jesus Christ's sacrifice is like an "everlasting covenant." He has been an aboslute joy to teach. He loves the Book of Mormon to death. Pray for him and that he will continue to progress.
We also taught a recent convert/less active's girlfriend named Charlotte after church on Sunday. The recent convert is young and is in a wheelchair. They are both a bit rough around the edges. She has never been to church before or heard of it. She was raised a Jehovah's Witness but left it at 14. We shared the Restoration lesson with her and after we shared the first vision, she described her feelings as "speechless" and "happy." It was one of the most powerful Restoration lessons I have taught so far on my mission. She accepted a commitment to baptism as well as Steve and did so without hesitation We are seeing her tonight. Pray for her as well.
The Royal Wedding is building some hype but some aren't really that happy because it is taking a day away from businesses. It's going to be fun to see that atmosphere of the whole thing and I'll do my best to get one of those tea towels.
Sad that Butler lost but no doubt Brad Stevens will get his ring in the very near future. I also may need a couple of more short sleeve shirts since the weather is getting quite warm. It has been very nice the past few days. I will have pictures for you next Wednesday of Thursday since it is transfers next week.
I will do my best to be more creative with asking for referrals. I ask everyone I meet if they no anyone in specific we could teach with things like a new child, death in the family, recently moved in, religious, etc. So I have been doing my best to my knowledge. We have taught the Family Mission Paln (which is a referral program) to most of the ward. The less-active and inactive is a good idea. I will work on that.
Thanks for the email bro. It was good to hear from you and see how you are doing! Keep up the good work!
My shirt size is 15/35 (french cuff preferably :) ) Ha random side note. Sis Bullock did a presentation on ironing shirts at interviews which I cant believe some missionaries do not no how to do. She used Presidents shirt.
I love you all so much. Thaks for your continued support! Tara!
Love,
Cameroni
Monday, April 4, 2011
Week 27-Manchester England-Birkenhead
Dear Family,
It has been a week of a spiritual feast both with interview and trainings as well as General Conference. It has been a good week. Being in a three-some is still a learning process. My MRI went well on Friday morning. It was very quick and easy, only about twenty minutes. The knee has been about the same for a few weeks now. Pain fluxuates at different levels from time to time but nothing too serious. I have a return appointment for my MRI results on the 18th of April. I might find out before than but no later than the following date.
First, I had my interview with President Bullock this past Wednesday. It was great. He said he continued to hear good things about me and that he feels I will be a leader in the mission. He also said that I would be leaving after this transfer (April 20) unless the Lord says otherwise. He emailed me the following letter this week:
Elder Starr,
I am pleased with your progress and feel that you are making good strides on your mission. You will have the unique opportunity to help Elder Ashcraft train Elder Herrin until the end of the transfer so there is much for you the learn in that process. Keep up the good work and let’s work on getting your knee fixed. Keep us informed on how the MRI goes.
General Conference was a spritual feast. I absolutely loved it! There is nothing quite like Conference as a missionary. President asked us take to take questions with us to Conference and promised they would be answered. I prayerfuly selected two questions and kept them in mind throughout. We were able to watch every session except Sunday Afternoon (it wouldnt be broadcasted until 9 pm), it was the same last time as well. Both of the questions I took were answered in the same talk by Elder Bednar. The Spirit witnessed to me of the truthfulness. It was a sacred experience. I am so grateful for the Lord's continued answers to prayers and for the wonderful guidance the prophets and apostles give us.
Teaching has been lacking lately. We can get some lessons on the spot but nothing consistent. Have still not been able to get in contact with Billy. We have called everyday and have tried by his home a few times as well. We have taken the idea on board of having members starting to ring him and his contact details have been given out to the members so that is in the process. With that in mind, my Spirit is high and I'm doing fine. We are a forever finding mission, but we don't want to be finding forever. We have been working very hard speaking to everyone, everywhere and our finidng number have been enormous. The Lord will bless us as we continue to be diligent.
I did get the chilli a couple weeks ago and had frito pie last night. It was great but not fantastic. I don't think it will ever be fantastic until you make it again mama because you make it with love :) Birhtday wishes may be a wide-collared cuff link shirt, maybe something texas with pictures and old spice deodorant. They dont have old spice stick in England. But again those are just wishes and they don't have to be granted. Old Spice for sure though. I think that is almost a need ha
I love you all. I love the gospel. I love how our prophets and apostles teach it so simply and profound. That is what the Gospel of Jesus Christ is. It is pure religion and love. God's love continues to manifest His love to us in so many ways. I love the covenants that each of us have made with our Heavenly Father and the promised blessings in them. Thanks again for your wonder emails you send and the great detail you talk about back home. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Love,
Cameron
It has been a week of a spiritual feast both with interview and trainings as well as General Conference. It has been a good week. Being in a three-some is still a learning process. My MRI went well on Friday morning. It was very quick and easy, only about twenty minutes. The knee has been about the same for a few weeks now. Pain fluxuates at different levels from time to time but nothing too serious. I have a return appointment for my MRI results on the 18th of April. I might find out before than but no later than the following date.
First, I had my interview with President Bullock this past Wednesday. It was great. He said he continued to hear good things about me and that he feels I will be a leader in the mission. He also said that I would be leaving after this transfer (April 20) unless the Lord says otherwise. He emailed me the following letter this week:
Elder Starr,
I am pleased with your progress and feel that you are making good strides on your mission. You will have the unique opportunity to help Elder Ashcraft train Elder Herrin until the end of the transfer so there is much for you the learn in that process. Keep up the good work and let’s work on getting your knee fixed. Keep us informed on how the MRI goes.
General Conference was a spritual feast. I absolutely loved it! There is nothing quite like Conference as a missionary. President asked us take to take questions with us to Conference and promised they would be answered. I prayerfuly selected two questions and kept them in mind throughout. We were able to watch every session except Sunday Afternoon (it wouldnt be broadcasted until 9 pm), it was the same last time as well. Both of the questions I took were answered in the same talk by Elder Bednar. The Spirit witnessed to me of the truthfulness. It was a sacred experience. I am so grateful for the Lord's continued answers to prayers and for the wonderful guidance the prophets and apostles give us.
Teaching has been lacking lately. We can get some lessons on the spot but nothing consistent. Have still not been able to get in contact with Billy. We have called everyday and have tried by his home a few times as well. We have taken the idea on board of having members starting to ring him and his contact details have been given out to the members so that is in the process. With that in mind, my Spirit is high and I'm doing fine. We are a forever finding mission, but we don't want to be finding forever. We have been working very hard speaking to everyone, everywhere and our finidng number have been enormous. The Lord will bless us as we continue to be diligent.
I did get the chilli a couple weeks ago and had frito pie last night. It was great but not fantastic. I don't think it will ever be fantastic until you make it again mama because you make it with love :) Birhtday wishes may be a wide-collared cuff link shirt, maybe something texas with pictures and old spice deodorant. They dont have old spice stick in England. But again those are just wishes and they don't have to be granted. Old Spice for sure though. I think that is almost a need ha
I love you all. I love the gospel. I love how our prophets and apostles teach it so simply and profound. That is what the Gospel of Jesus Christ is. It is pure religion and love. God's love continues to manifest His love to us in so many ways. I love the covenants that each of us have made with our Heavenly Father and the promised blessings in them. Thanks again for your wonder emails you send and the great detail you talk about back home. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Love,
Cameron
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