Hello Family!
It has been a week full of events. I'll begin with the news is that I have a new companion. I am still with Elder Ashcraft, but he is training a new missionary name Elder Herrin from Sandy (went to Jordan High School). So I am in a three-some. It is different but I like it. When we find people, I'm flying solo. I just go run and speak to everyone on my own while the other two are together. When we tract, I'm across the street on my own as well. Three is a bit intimidating and not really effective at a door. I'm enjoying it thus far. Elder Herrin came in on Friday night from Provo and was there for four weeks due to visa issues.
Billy wasn't able to be taught last week. We couldn't get a hold of him for six days because he was in Ireland taking care of his mom since her partner died and he didn't make us aware. We were able to get in touch with him Friday and Sunday via phone. We should be seeing him this week. The way of trying to have members contact him will be in the process soon.
Wednesday we had Zone Conference and President gave a presentation on the Apostasy. It was absolute incredible. It has always made sense to me how we are the only one with authority from Heavenly Father but it was also pointed all to me that from an average Joe perspective, only us or the Catholics are right. If the Catholics are right, we are wrong and so is very other Christian church since they are all breakoffs, if we are right, then the Catholics have no authority claim from Peter and there was a need for a Restoration. President went into great detail about the line of authority the Catholics have to claim and there is no way they do. There was so much detail that it would be impossible to cover but it is amazing the evidence Heavenly Father provides for His true Church.
Also had quite the experience Thursday. We were waiting for a bus to get home for dinner and the bus didn't come until a half hour later than it should have. In the mean time, Elder Ashcraft and I were speaking to people while we waited by the bus stop. I went across the street and stopped this man who was a Born Again Christian Preacher. He started to lay into me with Anti-Mormon rubbish. I told him he doesn't understand the gospel of Christ. He said that baptism wasn't essential to salvation and that to be born of the water means simply to be born of life. We went into a bible bash and he couldn't answer my questions. I asked him why Jesus Christ was baptized. He couldn't answer. I told him that He was baptized to "fulfill all rightousness". Would we not want to follow His example as close as we could and "fulfill all rightousness"? He avoided the question with more anti-mormon rubbish. I would have brought up 1 Cor. 15:29 and asked him if Paul was a liar. If baptism wasnt essential, why would they do baptisms for the dead is a question I would have asked him. I told him that I wasn't going to have conversation anymore because it wasn't going anywhere.
While I was still waiting at the bus stop. He went to pick up garlic bread and walk over to me. He said he was apologizing but again he went and tried to twist scriptures to make Josph Smith not be a prophet. I told him that he was ridiculous. I bore testimony that God has answered my prayers through the Holy Ghost about the Restoration. He asked me what I felt. I told him the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. He didn't say anything. I asked him to read the Book of Mormon and pray to ask God to know if it is true. He wasn't willing to and left. What a silly and lost child of God.
I'm glad to hear Duncan's farewell went good. He has a great spirit and personality, but Ukraine will be anything but easy. I love him and wish him the best. I'm glad Colton had fun at Winger's with the gang, those are great times. I'd love to hear from Colton as well :)
Mapleton sounds like fun and the rest of Utah. I send my love to all you see. Some more vitamins would be good on my birhday. Maybe a Batman action figure I could role play to for companionship study as well ha. I don't know how much money I have on my card so if you could look at that that would be fantastic.
I love you all. Keep praying for Billy and I will keep praying for all of you as well. The knee is really about the same. Im just excited for the MRI
Love Cameron
Monday, March 28, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
Week 25-Manchester England-Birkenhead
Hi Family!
Another great week in Birkenhead. Busy as usual and more missionary experience to put under my belt. With regards to the knee, I have an MRI scheduled on April 1. I talked to President and he said he will see what he can do. He says it will be hard to get anything worth the time and effort before the first and since the medical advisor for the UK was released a few weeks ago that makes it a little bit tougher as well. But he is aware and he is working on it.
Tell Bro. Maughn I went to Ellesmere Port on Friday. No one was in at the Mallets address so I dont know if they are still there, but I did meet Paul Harrington. I told him that Elder Maughn was wanting to get in contact with him so I gave him the email address. He was a friendly man and said he would send pictures of his family to Bro. Maughn. He said, "Sorry. Im not going to let you in because I'm probably not going back to church" I didn't want to push it or ask why to inflict the communication process in any way. It is sad to see what anti-Mormon literature does to people. They don't focus on the good and happiness the gospel brings. Instead, they center on negatives on others and doubts and expect perfection from everyone. I've heard a lot of people try and bring up that rubbish to me and none of them are good reasons. If something is good, hold onto it and take it in. Don't cast it out because of others unbelief.
We taught a man named Fred yesterday from Ghana. He is a member referral and Fred is a co-worker with the member, Les Roberts. The lesson on the Restoration went well. He has had a lot taught to him by the member already and just needs to let it all sink in. He has been praying about the Book of Mormon but hasn't appllied Moroni's Promise to the T yet. He is hesitant and needs to go forward asking with "faith unwavering (James1:6). We expressed that to him and mentioned that is the only way he will recieve his answer.
Billy has unfotrunately been sick. He had a bad cold over the weekend so his date has been pushed back until after General Conference. Pray that we stay in contact with him, teach him regulary, and that he continues to progress.
I was reading this morning in Alma 57 and studying how the sons of Helaman "obeyed with exactness." Obedience was an obvious trait these young men had as the followed the counsel of their leaders and the Lord. Obedience often shows our level of humility and faith. When we are humbly and faithfully obeying, we are showing that the desires of our hearts are pure.
Thanks for the update on Duncan, Zach, and Brent. I loved that conversation Zach had with Colton. It made me laugh out loud. I wrote Zach a letter on Wednesday so he should be expecting one soon. I miss all of those boys. It still amazes me that they still think about me and include me in everything when I am 5000 miles away. It was great to see the temple picture too. I love those boys. Tell Duncan I send my love and miss him, that he will do fantastic on his farewell, and look forward to hearing all about it. Tell me how Brent and Zach are and what you all talk about while you are there.
I love you and continue to pray for you. My heart is full as I see the blessings of the Lord continue to flow upon our family as "the dews from heaven." Keep up on those mission papers little bro and continue to prepare to serve the Lord of Lords and King of Kings. He is the great Almighty. He is the Savior for you, me, and everyone you will ever see.
Love,
Cameron
Another great week in Birkenhead. Busy as usual and more missionary experience to put under my belt. With regards to the knee, I have an MRI scheduled on April 1. I talked to President and he said he will see what he can do. He says it will be hard to get anything worth the time and effort before the first and since the medical advisor for the UK was released a few weeks ago that makes it a little bit tougher as well. But he is aware and he is working on it.
Tell Bro. Maughn I went to Ellesmere Port on Friday. No one was in at the Mallets address so I dont know if they are still there, but I did meet Paul Harrington. I told him that Elder Maughn was wanting to get in contact with him so I gave him the email address. He was a friendly man and said he would send pictures of his family to Bro. Maughn. He said, "Sorry. Im not going to let you in because I'm probably not going back to church" I didn't want to push it or ask why to inflict the communication process in any way. It is sad to see what anti-Mormon literature does to people. They don't focus on the good and happiness the gospel brings. Instead, they center on negatives on others and doubts and expect perfection from everyone. I've heard a lot of people try and bring up that rubbish to me and none of them are good reasons. If something is good, hold onto it and take it in. Don't cast it out because of others unbelief.
We taught a man named Fred yesterday from Ghana. He is a member referral and Fred is a co-worker with the member, Les Roberts. The lesson on the Restoration went well. He has had a lot taught to him by the member already and just needs to let it all sink in. He has been praying about the Book of Mormon but hasn't appllied Moroni's Promise to the T yet. He is hesitant and needs to go forward asking with "faith unwavering (James1:6). We expressed that to him and mentioned that is the only way he will recieve his answer.
Billy has unfotrunately been sick. He had a bad cold over the weekend so his date has been pushed back until after General Conference. Pray that we stay in contact with him, teach him regulary, and that he continues to progress.
I was reading this morning in Alma 57 and studying how the sons of Helaman "obeyed with exactness." Obedience was an obvious trait these young men had as the followed the counsel of their leaders and the Lord. Obedience often shows our level of humility and faith. When we are humbly and faithfully obeying, we are showing that the desires of our hearts are pure.
Thanks for the update on Duncan, Zach, and Brent. I loved that conversation Zach had with Colton. It made me laugh out loud. I wrote Zach a letter on Wednesday so he should be expecting one soon. I miss all of those boys. It still amazes me that they still think about me and include me in everything when I am 5000 miles away. It was great to see the temple picture too. I love those boys. Tell Duncan I send my love and miss him, that he will do fantastic on his farewell, and look forward to hearing all about it. Tell me how Brent and Zach are and what you all talk about while you are there.
I love you and continue to pray for you. My heart is full as I see the blessings of the Lord continue to flow upon our family as "the dews from heaven." Keep up on those mission papers little bro and continue to prepare to serve the Lord of Lords and King of Kings. He is the great Almighty. He is the Savior for you, me, and everyone you will ever see.
Love,
Cameron
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Week 24-Manchester England-Birkenhead
Dear Family,
I hope all is going brilliant back home and that you continue to see success in all that you do. Sorry that I forgot to mention that we had transfers this week so you wouldn't be hearing from me until Wednesday. But Elder Aschraft and I will be in Birkenhead together for another five weeks. I'm really excited about being with him again. We have a lot of fun and connect with the ward very well. The ward I would say loves us. Everyone at church always wants to talk to us.
Went to the hospital last Monday and still no diagnosis. I have called to set up an appointment to get an MRI and they still haven't managed to confirm one for lack of "sent information." I should have one in the next couple of weeks but I will not find out the the results until the 18 of April. It has been quite frustrating to say the least to deal with this. I won't have a physiotherapy apppointment until the 11 of April. My knee is about the same. I can go most of the day with minimal pain but occasionaly it will hurt for a short time period. I can mangae to run and do a lot of walking but it is sore (not hurting) at the end of days. Still definitely not completely healthy still. The doctor's best guess is it is a partially torn ligament. I would best guess that is it but I am no knee expert and Im not sure which ligament it is. The health care is simply not effective is the problem. This has just gone on for way too long. I will give Presidnet a call tonight about it.
Billy (our investigator with a baptismal date on the 26 of March) is such a miracle to me because he was found and taught on the spot at a bus stop. We only taught him for 15 minutes since we had an appointment. I would have never guessed that he would be as prepared as he was considering the circumstances of our quick lesson. He as accepted and understood all of the doctrine and commitments. We asked him to give up tea on Sunday and he applied it head on immediately. He has came to church both weeks and has absolutley loved his experience there. The ward is doing a fantastic job at befriending him and wanting to include him in everything. I have a testimony of beginning our finding time with prayer and consecrating our finding time to the Lord. It truly brings forth miracles continually.
I did recieve Loretta's parcel. Tell her thank you and that I appreciate it.
Thanks for your wonderful emails. I loved your insights and all that you shared with me. I love hearing your spirtual experiences and seeing the impact it has on you. I'm glad my love for sports rubbed off Mom. It was meant to :) it is a fantastic attribute to have. Sorry this email wasn't very detailed and that I went on about my knee. But I'm really excited about Billy. Continue to pray that he follows our counsel and that we will continue to see him and help progress. Thank you all for your prayers in my behalf!
Love,
Cameron
I hope all is going brilliant back home and that you continue to see success in all that you do. Sorry that I forgot to mention that we had transfers this week so you wouldn't be hearing from me until Wednesday. But Elder Aschraft and I will be in Birkenhead together for another five weeks. I'm really excited about being with him again. We have a lot of fun and connect with the ward very well. The ward I would say loves us. Everyone at church always wants to talk to us.
Went to the hospital last Monday and still no diagnosis. I have called to set up an appointment to get an MRI and they still haven't managed to confirm one for lack of "sent information." I should have one in the next couple of weeks but I will not find out the the results until the 18 of April. It has been quite frustrating to say the least to deal with this. I won't have a physiotherapy apppointment until the 11 of April. My knee is about the same. I can go most of the day with minimal pain but occasionaly it will hurt for a short time period. I can mangae to run and do a lot of walking but it is sore (not hurting) at the end of days. Still definitely not completely healthy still. The doctor's best guess is it is a partially torn ligament. I would best guess that is it but I am no knee expert and Im not sure which ligament it is. The health care is simply not effective is the problem. This has just gone on for way too long. I will give Presidnet a call tonight about it.
Billy (our investigator with a baptismal date on the 26 of March) is such a miracle to me because he was found and taught on the spot at a bus stop. We only taught him for 15 minutes since we had an appointment. I would have never guessed that he would be as prepared as he was considering the circumstances of our quick lesson. He as accepted and understood all of the doctrine and commitments. We asked him to give up tea on Sunday and he applied it head on immediately. He has came to church both weeks and has absolutley loved his experience there. The ward is doing a fantastic job at befriending him and wanting to include him in everything. I have a testimony of beginning our finding time with prayer and consecrating our finding time to the Lord. It truly brings forth miracles continually.
I did recieve Loretta's parcel. Tell her thank you and that I appreciate it.
Thanks for your wonderful emails. I loved your insights and all that you shared with me. I love hearing your spirtual experiences and seeing the impact it has on you. I'm glad my love for sports rubbed off Mom. It was meant to :) it is a fantastic attribute to have. Sorry this email wasn't very detailed and that I went on about my knee. But I'm really excited about Billy. Continue to pray that he follows our counsel and that we will continue to see him and help progress. Thank you all for your prayers in my behalf!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, March 7, 2011
Week 23: Manchester England-Birkenhead
Hiyah family!
I think it has been a bit warmer here in the Wirral than it has been in IF. It has been sunny a couple of days and has been really gloomy others. Just the way England is I guess. I love serving here in Birkenhead. It is a great place and I hope I am here for a while.
It was Elder Ashcraft's birthday on Sunday so on Saturday we celebrated by some subway and having cake and ice cream the next day. It was good to do something American again. It has been a while.
My knee has been about the same. Some days it is fantastic and it can be really tight others. It is stronger and I have been able to do more with it. The swelling hasn't gone done a whole lot so back to the hospital today to see what happens next. Thank you all for your continued fasting and prayers.
We had a miracle on Sunday with a man named Billy. We taught him a week ago on the spot at a bus stop on a cold Sunday evening. He recognized the Spirit and accepted all of our commitment invitations. Before we found him, Elder Ashcraft and I consecrated a half hour to finding since that was all the time we had that day. Through our finding we ran into Billy. Our follow-up appointment fell through however, but he called us ahead of time to make us aware. He mentioned he was still planning on church.
As a part of my fast, I prayed that he would be able to come to church as he mentioned. You get a lot of people who say they will come that you teach and you do all that you can to get them there and they still don't. My prayers were answered. He walked from his home and asked for directions from a man who offered him a lift to church. He loved the experience and the members and is looking forward to church next week. Fasting brings forth miracles.
In my study this morning, I started again at the beginning of PMG and was able to again realize the simple principle of gaining wisdom. 1 Study 2. Apply 3. Evaluate. By these three steps is how we are to gain wisdom in any practice, concept, or action. I love what the Spirit teaches through our studies! (PMG pg. vii)
I was also reading in Alma 44 this morning. These war chapters are some of my favorites in the Book of Mormon. Notice at the very beginning, Captain Moroni wants to make peace and the first thing he mentions is his gratitude and testimony for Heavenly Father and the success they had. Zerahemnah reacts with pride by making excuses to why the lost and wants to put salt in the wound by continuing to fight. We all know what happens to the Lamanites.
I thought about how Moroni testifies to all about all that Heavenly Father has done for the Nephites. He mentions those blessings that come and righteous desires they are fighting for unlike the Lamanites. Moroni put the Lord first.
I'm glad to hear Colton has a great last game. I absolutely love the photos as well. The one with the Bob Marley on the floor was fantastic. Nice work #35 :) It is sad to hear though that it is at an end. Something I still find hard to believe sometimes. I hope the Lord provides an opportunity for you in the future.
I didn't even recognize Duncan initially. What a blessing it is to see those photos of him entering the House of the Lord. If I could, I would go to the temple every week. I love it there. I look forward to hearing from you about his farewell talk. Tell Dunc I love him, miss him, and congrats from England. Ukraine won't know what hit him :)
I love you all and am so grateful for you. Thanks for your continued detailed letters. I hope and pray you continue to see success in all each of you do. The Lord has blessed so abundantly as a family. I can see the effects since the day I left on my mission. May he continue to do so as we strive to obtain his word and submit ourselves in humble prayer.
Love,
Cameron
I think it has been a bit warmer here in the Wirral than it has been in IF. It has been sunny a couple of days and has been really gloomy others. Just the way England is I guess. I love serving here in Birkenhead. It is a great place and I hope I am here for a while.
It was Elder Ashcraft's birthday on Sunday so on Saturday we celebrated by some subway and having cake and ice cream the next day. It was good to do something American again. It has been a while.
My knee has been about the same. Some days it is fantastic and it can be really tight others. It is stronger and I have been able to do more with it. The swelling hasn't gone done a whole lot so back to the hospital today to see what happens next. Thank you all for your continued fasting and prayers.
We had a miracle on Sunday with a man named Billy. We taught him a week ago on the spot at a bus stop on a cold Sunday evening. He recognized the Spirit and accepted all of our commitment invitations. Before we found him, Elder Ashcraft and I consecrated a half hour to finding since that was all the time we had that day. Through our finding we ran into Billy. Our follow-up appointment fell through however, but he called us ahead of time to make us aware. He mentioned he was still planning on church.
As a part of my fast, I prayed that he would be able to come to church as he mentioned. You get a lot of people who say they will come that you teach and you do all that you can to get them there and they still don't. My prayers were answered. He walked from his home and asked for directions from a man who offered him a lift to church. He loved the experience and the members and is looking forward to church next week. Fasting brings forth miracles.
In my study this morning, I started again at the beginning of PMG and was able to again realize the simple principle of gaining wisdom. 1 Study 2. Apply 3. Evaluate. By these three steps is how we are to gain wisdom in any practice, concept, or action. I love what the Spirit teaches through our studies! (PMG pg. vii)
I was also reading in Alma 44 this morning. These war chapters are some of my favorites in the Book of Mormon. Notice at the very beginning, Captain Moroni wants to make peace and the first thing he mentions is his gratitude and testimony for Heavenly Father and the success they had. Zerahemnah reacts with pride by making excuses to why the lost and wants to put salt in the wound by continuing to fight. We all know what happens to the Lamanites.
I thought about how Moroni testifies to all about all that Heavenly Father has done for the Nephites. He mentions those blessings that come and righteous desires they are fighting for unlike the Lamanites. Moroni put the Lord first.
I'm glad to hear Colton has a great last game. I absolutely love the photos as well. The one with the Bob Marley on the floor was fantastic. Nice work #35 :) It is sad to hear though that it is at an end. Something I still find hard to believe sometimes. I hope the Lord provides an opportunity for you in the future.
I didn't even recognize Duncan initially. What a blessing it is to see those photos of him entering the House of the Lord. If I could, I would go to the temple every week. I love it there. I look forward to hearing from you about his farewell talk. Tell Dunc I love him, miss him, and congrats from England. Ukraine won't know what hit him :)
I love you all and am so grateful for you. Thanks for your continued detailed letters. I hope and pray you continue to see success in all each of you do. The Lord has blessed so abundantly as a family. I can see the effects since the day I left on my mission. May he continue to do so as we strive to obtain his word and submit ourselves in humble prayer.
Love,
Cameron
Monday, February 28, 2011
Week 22: Manchester England-Birkenhead
Dear Fam,
It has been a great week here in Birkenhead. We have had six new investigators this week and we have taught 11 investigator lessons. That is the highest I have taught on my mission thus far in a week to investigators. With the investigators we have, we feel great about three of them. Allan is from Scotland and was bus contacted. He has a great desire to put his old life away through baptism. He is 29 years old.
The second is Kyle. He is from here and recently got back from Afghanistan in October after serving in the military and is probably in his early twenties. He was the second door I have been able to go into the home from tracting in my mission. The other one was in Southport that wanted to try and prove us wrong but that is another story.
Last is Naomi from Ghana. We have planned to see her on Thursday after we were
finally able to get in contact with her. She was in an awkward place to get to in Wallasey. Pray that we will be able to see these particular three on a consistant basis and that we will be able to help them get to church.
Exciting to hear that IF is going to state! I will pray that they will perform to their best and that Colton will play a lot. I'm glad to hear that Colton is embarrassed over his recent success in many aspects of life. It shows his humility. Definitely a quality you do not want to lose.
Thank you for your prayers and fasts. They were answered in the way we like :) My knee is still swollen. It still hurts occasionally but definitely not as much. The doctor didn't tell me anything I didn't know already last week. He said it is still hard to tell since it is still swollen. I go in next week again and if it is still as swollen as it has been I will have an MRI. Should be a fun experience. President Bullock is aware of my knee situation and told me to be careful and keep him updated.
I forgot to mention that our new mission president has been called. It was a suprsie because he is English and lives in the mission boundaries (which doesn't happen often) in Ashton. President Preston is his name and everyone has told me he is an incredible man and will do a fantastic job. I don't look forward to the Bullock's leaving because they mean the world to me but I'm glad to hear we are in good hands. He will take over on June 30.
We didn't go to Ellesmere Port last week but we most likely will in two weeks time. Ellesmere Port was in Chester ward a few years ago but was added to Moreton/Birkenhead ward. Basically, our ward is the whole Wirral. More fritos would be lovely and maybe a few more skittles, swedish fish, and sour patch watermelon. Thank you so much those were so delicious. I miss American fruit candy. But I don't need anything else.
The gospel is true and those who don't have it are lost and generally ignorant. I meet atheists everyday and they have no idea what they miss out on no matter how much you try to show evidence. They aren't willing to read from the Book of Mormon and therefore are very ignorant and we tell them that. We are so blessed to have the one and only true gospel of Jesus Christ. I love you all and look forward to hearing you soon!
Love,
Cameron
It has been a great week here in Birkenhead. We have had six new investigators this week and we have taught 11 investigator lessons. That is the highest I have taught on my mission thus far in a week to investigators. With the investigators we have, we feel great about three of them. Allan is from Scotland and was bus contacted. He has a great desire to put his old life away through baptism. He is 29 years old.
The second is Kyle. He is from here and recently got back from Afghanistan in October after serving in the military and is probably in his early twenties. He was the second door I have been able to go into the home from tracting in my mission. The other one was in Southport that wanted to try and prove us wrong but that is another story.
Last is Naomi from Ghana. We have planned to see her on Thursday after we were
finally able to get in contact with her. She was in an awkward place to get to in Wallasey. Pray that we will be able to see these particular three on a consistant basis and that we will be able to help them get to church.
Exciting to hear that IF is going to state! I will pray that they will perform to their best and that Colton will play a lot. I'm glad to hear that Colton is embarrassed over his recent success in many aspects of life. It shows his humility. Definitely a quality you do not want to lose.
Thank you for your prayers and fasts. They were answered in the way we like :) My knee is still swollen. It still hurts occasionally but definitely not as much. The doctor didn't tell me anything I didn't know already last week. He said it is still hard to tell since it is still swollen. I go in next week again and if it is still as swollen as it has been I will have an MRI. Should be a fun experience. President Bullock is aware of my knee situation and told me to be careful and keep him updated.
I forgot to mention that our new mission president has been called. It was a suprsie because he is English and lives in the mission boundaries (which doesn't happen often) in Ashton. President Preston is his name and everyone has told me he is an incredible man and will do a fantastic job. I don't look forward to the Bullock's leaving because they mean the world to me but I'm glad to hear we are in good hands. He will take over on June 30.
We didn't go to Ellesmere Port last week but we most likely will in two weeks time. Ellesmere Port was in Chester ward a few years ago but was added to Moreton/Birkenhead ward. Basically, our ward is the whole Wirral. More fritos would be lovely and maybe a few more skittles, swedish fish, and sour patch watermelon. Thank you so much those were so delicious. I miss American fruit candy. But I don't need anything else.
The gospel is true and those who don't have it are lost and generally ignorant. I meet atheists everyday and they have no idea what they miss out on no matter how much you try to show evidence. They aren't willing to read from the Book of Mormon and therefore are very ignorant and we tell them that. We are so blessed to have the one and only true gospel of Jesus Christ. I love you all and look forward to hearing you soon!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, February 21, 2011
Week 21: Manchester Mission-Birkenhead
Hello Family!
It has been another busy week, but unfortunately less teaching. My head is still high and everything is still okay :) I have gotten used to the idea that England is a harder place to serve than others but as we continue to work hard the Lord will bless us with those who are ready to recieve the gospel. This area has so much potential it makes me go crazy over the fact we haven't found anyone really solid yet. We will definitely be finding those who are though.
My knee doing a bit better. I wear a neoprene support everyday and it is becoming more flexible. It is still a bit swollen but is has gone down over time. I still experience pain on both sides of the knee cap but not near as bad as it was at the beginning. It is more of a sore kind of pain. It "pops" around the knee a few times a day when I am walking. It is getting stronger and I have ran a short distance about twice to talk to people which I havent been able to do. It definitely is still weak and not fully healthy. Elder Ashcraft gave me a blessing the night it happened.
Another reason socialized health care is ridiculous is that I was suppossed to have physio twice before my appointment today. They said they would contact me either by phone or by mail but neither happened during this two week period. Hopefully the doctor can have a better idea what the diagnosis truly is today. President is not aware of my knee but he will be informed this Wednesday since I will see him at Specialized Trainings in Chester.
Wedenesday evening, we will also be having an exchange with the Assistants. We have three (which is not common but President felt inspired to) this transfer. Elder Ashcraft will be working in a threesome and I will be with Elder Cowley. It is odd that we are exchanging because Assistants usually only exchange with new missionaries and zone leaders, but I am excited anyway because they are such incredible missionaries. I hope that all goes well with that.
As a mission, we have been doing a study on the Doctrine and Covenants and marking every scripture that 1) refers to missionary work in any way and 2) focuses on teaching, especially teaching by the Spirit. It has been an absolute eye opener to see how much it talks about missionary work! It truly is the missionaries guidebook.
We should be going on splits with ward members to Ellesmere Port to work with less-actives so I will do my best to get in contact with those people Tuesday night Bro. Maughn. Ellesmere Port is awkward because or buss/train passes don't go that far and it is at the bottom of our area so we would have to pay extra to get down there. I will do my best to find a good time to go there in the coming weeks.
I will continue to pray for Colton and his teams success. That would be awesome to play in the state tournament! If I wasn't doing the Lord's work I would make sure the coach has some strategy to his game. Brut ball is the worst kind of ball to play because it is so easy to beat.
I apologize again for not bringing the pictures I will bring them next week! Thank you all so much for the wonderful package and homemade cards! It made my week to read them! May the Lord continue to bless us all with success!
Love,
Cameron
It has been another busy week, but unfortunately less teaching. My head is still high and everything is still okay :) I have gotten used to the idea that England is a harder place to serve than others but as we continue to work hard the Lord will bless us with those who are ready to recieve the gospel. This area has so much potential it makes me go crazy over the fact we haven't found anyone really solid yet. We will definitely be finding those who are though.
My knee doing a bit better. I wear a neoprene support everyday and it is becoming more flexible. It is still a bit swollen but is has gone down over time. I still experience pain on both sides of the knee cap but not near as bad as it was at the beginning. It is more of a sore kind of pain. It "pops" around the knee a few times a day when I am walking. It is getting stronger and I have ran a short distance about twice to talk to people which I havent been able to do. It definitely is still weak and not fully healthy. Elder Ashcraft gave me a blessing the night it happened.
Another reason socialized health care is ridiculous is that I was suppossed to have physio twice before my appointment today. They said they would contact me either by phone or by mail but neither happened during this two week period. Hopefully the doctor can have a better idea what the diagnosis truly is today. President is not aware of my knee but he will be informed this Wednesday since I will see him at Specialized Trainings in Chester.
Wedenesday evening, we will also be having an exchange with the Assistants. We have three (which is not common but President felt inspired to) this transfer. Elder Ashcraft will be working in a threesome and I will be with Elder Cowley. It is odd that we are exchanging because Assistants usually only exchange with new missionaries and zone leaders, but I am excited anyway because they are such incredible missionaries. I hope that all goes well with that.
As a mission, we have been doing a study on the Doctrine and Covenants and marking every scripture that 1) refers to missionary work in any way and 2) focuses on teaching, especially teaching by the Spirit. It has been an absolute eye opener to see how much it talks about missionary work! It truly is the missionaries guidebook.
We should be going on splits with ward members to Ellesmere Port to work with less-actives so I will do my best to get in contact with those people Tuesday night Bro. Maughn. Ellesmere Port is awkward because or buss/train passes don't go that far and it is at the bottom of our area so we would have to pay extra to get down there. I will do my best to find a good time to go there in the coming weeks.
I will continue to pray for Colton and his teams success. That would be awesome to play in the state tournament! If I wasn't doing the Lord's work I would make sure the coach has some strategy to his game. Brut ball is the worst kind of ball to play because it is so easy to beat.
I apologize again for not bringing the pictures I will bring them next week! Thank you all so much for the wonderful package and homemade cards! It made my week to read them! May the Lord continue to bless us all with success!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, February 14, 2011
Week 20: Manchester England:Birkenhead
Happy V-Day fam!
We had a great week with seven new investigators! That is the most I have had in a week on my mission thus far. The unfortunate part is that four of them committed to church and none of them came. So pray that Naomi, Vicky & Kyle, and Linda will have a desire to come to church and that we will continue to teach them. Naomi is from Accra, Ghana which was exciting to find out! She said that when I visit Ghana that I will love it.
My knee has progressed a little better but is not normal. I had fluid drained last week and the doc said "Wow, they usually don't have this much" referring to the fluid. He said also that it is most likely damaged cartlidge or, less likely, a partial tear in the ligament. It has became more flexible as time has came but I still experience pain. Less pain, but it is still there. I probably have been too hard on it this week just because I don't want to be idle and slow the work, but I will take better care this week for sure. It is still swollen a bit so hopefully that will eventually go away. I have a physio appointment next week at the hospital.
Yesterday during our tea break, I was reading through my patriarchal blessing and was touched by the Spirit with truth and impressions. Things stuck out like they never have before. It lead to the fact that my goals that I have set for this year will play a big factor in my contributions as a missionary. The connection was so clear and amazing. I am now more motivated to better apply my goals so I can received those promised blessings from the Lord.
I will get those packages on Wednesday at Zone Conference. I will do my best to save the Fritos :) The new one is the one that broke. I wouldn't recommend one with the 360 degree turning. It doesn't do anything and the wheels are tiny and have no strength. A new one would be a fantastic idea.
I loved all of the photos you sent. You all look a little bit different which was weird to see. Maybe it is just the long time I haven't seen you. I will send you photos next week. Keep your photos coming as well. I love seeing all of y'all.
It touched me to see 35 on the back of Colton's jersey. I don't know if that was for me, an increased love for Kevin Durant, or it is just better than any other number. But, I was happy to see it. Thanks Colt :) I know Whitney is pretty and that is not going to change. Read your scriptures daily and pray multiple times. Listen to Mom and Dad and stay focused. She is pretty though, nice work :)
Thanks for all the lovely info you shared. It really put it into perspective how blessed we are to be in the situation we are in. Mosiah 2:41 doesn't lie. You are all of my valentines this V-Day and I love you all! May Heavenly Father continue to bless us in all that we do! Keep shooting the ball, especially at the free throw line, and you will find your shot!
Love,
Cameron
We had a great week with seven new investigators! That is the most I have had in a week on my mission thus far. The unfortunate part is that four of them committed to church and none of them came. So pray that Naomi, Vicky & Kyle, and Linda will have a desire to come to church and that we will continue to teach them. Naomi is from Accra, Ghana which was exciting to find out! She said that when I visit Ghana that I will love it.
My knee has progressed a little better but is not normal. I had fluid drained last week and the doc said "Wow, they usually don't have this much" referring to the fluid. He said also that it is most likely damaged cartlidge or, less likely, a partial tear in the ligament. It has became more flexible as time has came but I still experience pain. Less pain, but it is still there. I probably have been too hard on it this week just because I don't want to be idle and slow the work, but I will take better care this week for sure. It is still swollen a bit so hopefully that will eventually go away. I have a physio appointment next week at the hospital.
Yesterday during our tea break, I was reading through my patriarchal blessing and was touched by the Spirit with truth and impressions. Things stuck out like they never have before. It lead to the fact that my goals that I have set for this year will play a big factor in my contributions as a missionary. The connection was so clear and amazing. I am now more motivated to better apply my goals so I can received those promised blessings from the Lord.
I will get those packages on Wednesday at Zone Conference. I will do my best to save the Fritos :) The new one is the one that broke. I wouldn't recommend one with the 360 degree turning. It doesn't do anything and the wheels are tiny and have no strength. A new one would be a fantastic idea.
I loved all of the photos you sent. You all look a little bit different which was weird to see. Maybe it is just the long time I haven't seen you. I will send you photos next week. Keep your photos coming as well. I love seeing all of y'all.
It touched me to see 35 on the back of Colton's jersey. I don't know if that was for me, an increased love for Kevin Durant, or it is just better than any other number. But, I was happy to see it. Thanks Colt :) I know Whitney is pretty and that is not going to change. Read your scriptures daily and pray multiple times. Listen to Mom and Dad and stay focused. She is pretty though, nice work :)
Thanks for all the lovely info you shared. It really put it into perspective how blessed we are to be in the situation we are in. Mosiah 2:41 doesn't lie. You are all of my valentines this V-Day and I love you all! May Heavenly Father continue to bless us in all that we do! Keep shooting the ball, especially at the free throw line, and you will find your shot!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, February 7, 2011
Week 19: Manchester England-Birkenhead
Hello Family!
The cripple is doing fine and well. I did it at the train station in Birkenhead. I was carrying my luggage bag (the wheels broke first transfer) and tried to squeeze past a man who was in the way. Somehow my weight shifted my knee and then I fell to the ground. It hurt initially, but I was able to manage home. We tracted that evening as I had a cane that was too small for me to use and the pain became worse as the night went on. I managed to finish out the evening and went to bed.
The next day was hilarious. I could barely walk and I probably looked so ridiculous. I called Sis. Bullock and she told me to go to the nearest hospital so I did after emailing you last week.
I am a living witness that socialized health care is a joke. We went to the emergency room and we were there for a total of four and half hours. What happens is you check in at the desk and you sit in the waiting room until they call your name. They called my name after waiting for about an hour, went in and told them what happened and put me back in the waiting room. Waited for about another hour and then sat in one of the cubicle waiting things to get x-rays. Waited for x-rays for another hour and finally had them done. Then I waited in the cubicle thing for another hour when the finally gave me a knee brace, crutches that are too small for me, and some pain meds. It was completely hillarious and ridiculous. If I was bleeding profusley, I would have died.
Our cashier told us at our shopping place that he injured himself of a wakeboard and the board cut his leg open. He went to the ER and sat there for three hours while he applied pressure on his leg and the janitor would come mop up his blood every once in a while that was on the floor. I was laughing so hard when he told that story. I have an appointment today and my knee has been starting to feel better as I have been using the crutches and the brace. I will know a diagnosis today.
But my knee hasn't hindered the work, other than making me slower. I am off the crutches today and am just wearing the brace. Saturday we had a lot of rain and because of that we tracted most of the day. We were soaked to the bone by the end of the day. I am surprised my crutches didn't rust. We were not let in any doors but we manage to stop two different people in the street who became new investigators while tracting. One came in the late afternoon and let us into his home. His name is Dan and is really excited about developing a stronger faith in Christ. He has completely turned his life around from what it once was. He is very excited and we are teaching him tomorrow.
The other came in the last couple hours in the evening teaching him in the pouring rain. His name was Pete and we are seeing him tomorrow as well. We are a little worried that he is possibly gay because of his painted fingernails he had. Hopefully all goes well there, but he was very interested in having a belief in his life. It ceases to amaze me how the Lord blesses us. Even though it is in His time, he always does. The blessings are so rewarding after the trial of our faith.
Something in the scriptures I learned was in Ezekial 33 on accountability. It discusses how there is a watchmen chosen and is to sound the trump when trouble comes. The people have the choice to listen or not, if they don't the blood will be upon their heads. Those who do will be prepared. I related us as missionaries to the watchmen. We are to sound the trump to everyone possible. It is our calling to make sure everyone hears God's message. If we don't, we will be held responsible for not fulfilling our duty. Sharing the gospel with everyone possible is so essential in this work.
I love Elder Ashcraft! He is so funny and we get along so well. Birkenhead has a big area boundary as well so there are a lot of different places to go and a lot of people. It goes as far south as Ellesmere Port and as far north of the top of the tiny penisula. Something Southport didn't really have. The flat is a bit nicer than Southport and the bed is so much better. At the end of my Southport era I thought my back was going to break if I slept on it too much longer.
That is quite the call Kyle received. He will be fantastic if he uses his great personality and works hard. I would have never guessed he would have gotten called there though. When does he leave?
I am keeping my title of liberty and am really excited about the chili. You are fine to send it to the flat. We will make it work. I still have Dad's charger as well and if I ever remember I will send it off one of these weeks.
I love you all and am so grateful for your wonderful emails. Thanks for sharing that Glen Rawson story as well Dad. Members are so essential in missionary work. I actually used some of those scriptures in my farewell talk. Also tell me about Ghana and how great it was! I am looking forward to that as well as the pictures for basketball and the dance.
Love ya all!
Cameron
The cripple is doing fine and well. I did it at the train station in Birkenhead. I was carrying my luggage bag (the wheels broke first transfer) and tried to squeeze past a man who was in the way. Somehow my weight shifted my knee and then I fell to the ground. It hurt initially, but I was able to manage home. We tracted that evening as I had a cane that was too small for me to use and the pain became worse as the night went on. I managed to finish out the evening and went to bed.
The next day was hilarious. I could barely walk and I probably looked so ridiculous. I called Sis. Bullock and she told me to go to the nearest hospital so I did after emailing you last week.
I am a living witness that socialized health care is a joke. We went to the emergency room and we were there for a total of four and half hours. What happens is you check in at the desk and you sit in the waiting room until they call your name. They called my name after waiting for about an hour, went in and told them what happened and put me back in the waiting room. Waited for about another hour and then sat in one of the cubicle waiting things to get x-rays. Waited for x-rays for another hour and finally had them done. Then I waited in the cubicle thing for another hour when the finally gave me a knee brace, crutches that are too small for me, and some pain meds. It was completely hillarious and ridiculous. If I was bleeding profusley, I would have died.
Our cashier told us at our shopping place that he injured himself of a wakeboard and the board cut his leg open. He went to the ER and sat there for three hours while he applied pressure on his leg and the janitor would come mop up his blood every once in a while that was on the floor. I was laughing so hard when he told that story. I have an appointment today and my knee has been starting to feel better as I have been using the crutches and the brace. I will know a diagnosis today.
But my knee hasn't hindered the work, other than making me slower. I am off the crutches today and am just wearing the brace. Saturday we had a lot of rain and because of that we tracted most of the day. We were soaked to the bone by the end of the day. I am surprised my crutches didn't rust. We were not let in any doors but we manage to stop two different people in the street who became new investigators while tracting. One came in the late afternoon and let us into his home. His name is Dan and is really excited about developing a stronger faith in Christ. He has completely turned his life around from what it once was. He is very excited and we are teaching him tomorrow.
The other came in the last couple hours in the evening teaching him in the pouring rain. His name was Pete and we are seeing him tomorrow as well. We are a little worried that he is possibly gay because of his painted fingernails he had. Hopefully all goes well there, but he was very interested in having a belief in his life. It ceases to amaze me how the Lord blesses us. Even though it is in His time, he always does. The blessings are so rewarding after the trial of our faith.
Something in the scriptures I learned was in Ezekial 33 on accountability. It discusses how there is a watchmen chosen and is to sound the trump when trouble comes. The people have the choice to listen or not, if they don't the blood will be upon their heads. Those who do will be prepared. I related us as missionaries to the watchmen. We are to sound the trump to everyone possible. It is our calling to make sure everyone hears God's message. If we don't, we will be held responsible for not fulfilling our duty. Sharing the gospel with everyone possible is so essential in this work.
I love Elder Ashcraft! He is so funny and we get along so well. Birkenhead has a big area boundary as well so there are a lot of different places to go and a lot of people. It goes as far south as Ellesmere Port and as far north of the top of the tiny penisula. Something Southport didn't really have. The flat is a bit nicer than Southport and the bed is so much better. At the end of my Southport era I thought my back was going to break if I slept on it too much longer.
That is quite the call Kyle received. He will be fantastic if he uses his great personality and works hard. I would have never guessed he would have gotten called there though. When does he leave?
I am keeping my title of liberty and am really excited about the chili. You are fine to send it to the flat. We will make it work. I still have Dad's charger as well and if I ever remember I will send it off one of these weeks.
I love you all and am so grateful for your wonderful emails. Thanks for sharing that Glen Rawson story as well Dad. Members are so essential in missionary work. I actually used some of those scriptures in my farewell talk. Also tell me about Ghana and how great it was! I am looking forward to that as well as the pictures for basketball and the dance.
Love ya all!
Cameron
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Week 18-Manchester England: Birkenhead
Hello Family from Moreton/Birkenhead!
I was transferred to a new area yesterday and I am excited. I am serving with Elder Ashcraft from SLC. He went to Olympus High School and he is absolutely hilarious and fantastic!
Leaving Southport was full of mixed emotions. I love the ward there and was able to develop great relationships, but going to the same places all of the time was getting a bit old. Anja was upset when she found out I was leaving. She really loved Elder Jolliffe and I. I left her with a spiritual thought and a handshake goodbye. What an incredible person she has become.
I had the wonderful experience of getting slapped in the face about a week ago. We were doing finding and I ran across the street to talk to this man probably late 50's early 60's. I said "We are sharing a message....,"
"Not today!" he interrupted.
I was going to ask him for a referral and said "Well...."
"Not today means not today!" Than he slapped me in the face with his and took off walking as fast as he could. I told him to have a nice day.
It was so hilarious how people are sometimes. One man on Sunday just blew up on us telling Elder Ericksen and I that we weren't Christian (which we get occasionally) and that we need to know the Bible and forgot about the Book of Mormon. We told him to leave but he kept following us and kept wanting to bash.
We aren't suppose to bash, but I felt it was the only way to get out of the situation. Elder Ericksen was struggling with answering his questions. I then came in and asked him questions about the bible. The one that shut him up was where Paul refers to a "third heaven" He said there was only one heaven and I frankly, blew him away. He could not answer any scriptures I told him and why they were in the bible and not included in his doctrine. After the references I gave him, I told him to have a nice day and that he should study his bible a little more. He said I was an idiot (nice comeback) and left. He wasted about 30 min of our time.
We each bore testimony as we spoke to him but his heart was so incredibly hard it had no effect. He was so set in his Baptist ways he couldn't feel anything. It also has been amazing that I read about Alma and Amulek while all this went on. I definitely have nothing to complain about compared to them.
Sounds like you had a fantastic week as a family. Exciting stuff with basketball game and the dance. Atta boy Colt :) I honestly don't think that customs checks the packages often at all (at least the packages I have seen), but maybe I am just saying that so I can get some of that awesome chili. If you're ever feeling rich you can send it.
I have been writing in my journal yes but it is only happening probably twice a week. So i need to make time to write more. The main thing I would do differently is know the scripture masteries and read all of PMG. I would also recommend teaching the lessons to the family using what it says (without the manual) and using the scriptures in teaching. Also apply the teaching skills chapter with that. He will be way ahead with everyone if he knows the doctrine in the lessons and knows how to teach it.
My address is:
47 Downing Close
Prenton
Wirral CH43 5XQ
England
If you could update it on facebook that would be great.
Thank you all for the wonderful family you always have been, are, and continue to be. I love you all and look forward to hearing from you on Monday! I will also take a look at those tea towels.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. My knee is quite injured so I am going to a walk in clinic to get it looked at. I sprained it pretty well yesterday and I am using a cane that is too small for me. It hurts quite bad and I am moving so slow. So if you could keep my knee in your prayers that would be great!
I was transferred to a new area yesterday and I am excited. I am serving with Elder Ashcraft from SLC. He went to Olympus High School and he is absolutely hilarious and fantastic!
Leaving Southport was full of mixed emotions. I love the ward there and was able to develop great relationships, but going to the same places all of the time was getting a bit old. Anja was upset when she found out I was leaving. She really loved Elder Jolliffe and I. I left her with a spiritual thought and a handshake goodbye. What an incredible person she has become.
I had the wonderful experience of getting slapped in the face about a week ago. We were doing finding and I ran across the street to talk to this man probably late 50's early 60's. I said "We are sharing a message....,"
"Not today!" he interrupted.
I was going to ask him for a referral and said "Well...."
"Not today means not today!" Than he slapped me in the face with his and took off walking as fast as he could. I told him to have a nice day.
It was so hilarious how people are sometimes. One man on Sunday just blew up on us telling Elder Ericksen and I that we weren't Christian (which we get occasionally) and that we need to know the Bible and forgot about the Book of Mormon. We told him to leave but he kept following us and kept wanting to bash.
We aren't suppose to bash, but I felt it was the only way to get out of the situation. Elder Ericksen was struggling with answering his questions. I then came in and asked him questions about the bible. The one that shut him up was where Paul refers to a "third heaven" He said there was only one heaven and I frankly, blew him away. He could not answer any scriptures I told him and why they were in the bible and not included in his doctrine. After the references I gave him, I told him to have a nice day and that he should study his bible a little more. He said I was an idiot (nice comeback) and left. He wasted about 30 min of our time.
We each bore testimony as we spoke to him but his heart was so incredibly hard it had no effect. He was so set in his Baptist ways he couldn't feel anything. It also has been amazing that I read about Alma and Amulek while all this went on. I definitely have nothing to complain about compared to them.
Sounds like you had a fantastic week as a family. Exciting stuff with basketball game and the dance. Atta boy Colt :) I honestly don't think that customs checks the packages often at all (at least the packages I have seen), but maybe I am just saying that so I can get some of that awesome chili. If you're ever feeling rich you can send it.
I have been writing in my journal yes but it is only happening probably twice a week. So i need to make time to write more. The main thing I would do differently is know the scripture masteries and read all of PMG. I would also recommend teaching the lessons to the family using what it says (without the manual) and using the scriptures in teaching. Also apply the teaching skills chapter with that. He will be way ahead with everyone if he knows the doctrine in the lessons and knows how to teach it.
My address is:
47 Downing Close
Prenton
Wirral CH43 5XQ
England
If you could update it on facebook that would be great.
Thank you all for the wonderful family you always have been, are, and continue to be. I love you all and look forward to hearing from you on Monday! I will also take a look at those tea towels.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. My knee is quite injured so I am going to a walk in clinic to get it looked at. I sprained it pretty well yesterday and I am using a cane that is too small for me. It hurts quite bad and I am moving so slow. So if you could keep my knee in your prayers that would be great!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Week 17:Manchester England-Southport
Mi Familia,
It has been another good week here in Southport. It was really nice weather early in the week and then it became freezing at the end. Those afternoons and evenings can be really long and tough in the cold. I have thought about my motivation and how much it has increased since coming on a mission. Without the Spirit, my set-appart calling, and the power of prayer, I don't think there is anyway I could make it through some days. I have noticed that because of the Spirit I have been able to push through everyday. The Lord is truly with us in this work.
A great experience I had this past week was having dinner with a active member and her less active husband. They are so lovely and some of the most wonderful people I have met on my mission. Their names are Sister Gill and Brother Eddie Hughes. Elder Ericksen and I were deciding on what to share with them. We thought a conference talk would be good. We pulled out the Ensign and I said we should do one on faith. We selected the talk "Faith-the choice is yours."
The day we were to go, we both forgot to review it. Elder Ericksen questioned if we should bring it and I told him boldly that is the message we needed to bring. I don't know why but it was. We then read it together and the Spirit was building up in me as we did. I felt impressed to share with them how I recieved my testimony of the gospel. I shared when I was 14 at EFY, my leader asked us to pray that evening if we hadn't already to know that the gospel was true. I took the challenge and did just that. I remember this so vividly, getting on my knees and asked Heavenly Father if the Book of Mormon was true, if Joseph Smith was a prophet, and if Jesus was the Christ. When I closed my prayer that night 5 and half years ago, I immediately was overwhelmed by the Spirit.
As I shared that with them, I again was overwhelmed with that same Spirit. Tears filled and my eyes and I recieved again that same answer. What an incredible experience it was. I needed that moment. I needed that talk that evening. That is why I needed to share it with them.
I also had thew oppurtunity to have an interview with President this week. I love that man. Unfortuantely, interviews should only be 10 minutes so it is very short. We discussed goals I had for this year and he thought they were good. He also mentioned with me in that interview that he has heard great things about me from leaders in the mission. He said that I had a great work ethic and that my talents and abilities would be used in great ways in the future of this mission.
My title said "ye are the light of the world" in the middle of it. One corner says "You'll Never Walk Alone" which is Liverpool Football Club's motto. I love it because it reminds me that the Savior is always walking with us and we are never alone. Another corner says "I KnowThat My Redeemer Lives" because that is my favorite hymn. Another says "Love the People and they will love back" got that from you Mom. I cant remember what the other one says but I will let you know next week.
Paul kept every commitment we left him... except coming to church yesterday. We are seeing him tonight to teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and on Wednesday the Word of Wisdom. Pray that he will have an increase of faith, and a desire to attend church and live the Word of Wisdom.
I am keeping all my letters so no worries. Also transfers are next week. So you wont hear from me until Wednesday or Thursday. I'm anxious to find out if I will be here another 6 weeks (which would be a total of six months in Southport if I am here one more) or if I will leave. I think I know the whole area of Southport better than I knew Mapleton back home and that I have been everywhere here. If you put me anywhere in Southport, I'm pretty sure I could tell you what you were by and how far it is from our flat. Another transfer might be a bit of a struggle.
Thank you very much for your letters and the details you put in them about life back home. It is always great to hear how things are. Thank you for your constant prayers. If there is anything you would like me to pray for let me know.
Love your son,
Cameron
It has been another good week here in Southport. It was really nice weather early in the week and then it became freezing at the end. Those afternoons and evenings can be really long and tough in the cold. I have thought about my motivation and how much it has increased since coming on a mission. Without the Spirit, my set-appart calling, and the power of prayer, I don't think there is anyway I could make it through some days. I have noticed that because of the Spirit I have been able to push through everyday. The Lord is truly with us in this work.
A great experience I had this past week was having dinner with a active member and her less active husband. They are so lovely and some of the most wonderful people I have met on my mission. Their names are Sister Gill and Brother Eddie Hughes. Elder Ericksen and I were deciding on what to share with them. We thought a conference talk would be good. We pulled out the Ensign and I said we should do one on faith. We selected the talk "Faith-the choice is yours."
The day we were to go, we both forgot to review it. Elder Ericksen questioned if we should bring it and I told him boldly that is the message we needed to bring. I don't know why but it was. We then read it together and the Spirit was building up in me as we did. I felt impressed to share with them how I recieved my testimony of the gospel. I shared when I was 14 at EFY, my leader asked us to pray that evening if we hadn't already to know that the gospel was true. I took the challenge and did just that. I remember this so vividly, getting on my knees and asked Heavenly Father if the Book of Mormon was true, if Joseph Smith was a prophet, and if Jesus was the Christ. When I closed my prayer that night 5 and half years ago, I immediately was overwhelmed by the Spirit.
As I shared that with them, I again was overwhelmed with that same Spirit. Tears filled and my eyes and I recieved again that same answer. What an incredible experience it was. I needed that moment. I needed that talk that evening. That is why I needed to share it with them.
I also had thew oppurtunity to have an interview with President this week. I love that man. Unfortuantely, interviews should only be 10 minutes so it is very short. We discussed goals I had for this year and he thought they were good. He also mentioned with me in that interview that he has heard great things about me from leaders in the mission. He said that I had a great work ethic and that my talents and abilities would be used in great ways in the future of this mission.
My title said "ye are the light of the world" in the middle of it. One corner says "You'll Never Walk Alone" which is Liverpool Football Club's motto. I love it because it reminds me that the Savior is always walking with us and we are never alone. Another corner says "I KnowThat My Redeemer Lives" because that is my favorite hymn. Another says "Love the People and they will love back" got that from you Mom. I cant remember what the other one says but I will let you know next week.
Paul kept every commitment we left him... except coming to church yesterday. We are seeing him tonight to teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and on Wednesday the Word of Wisdom. Pray that he will have an increase of faith, and a desire to attend church and live the Word of Wisdom.
I am keeping all my letters so no worries. Also transfers are next week. So you wont hear from me until Wednesday or Thursday. I'm anxious to find out if I will be here another 6 weeks (which would be a total of six months in Southport if I am here one more) or if I will leave. I think I know the whole area of Southport better than I knew Mapleton back home and that I have been everywhere here. If you put me anywhere in Southport, I'm pretty sure I could tell you what you were by and how far it is from our flat. Another transfer might be a bit of a struggle.
Thank you very much for your letters and the details you put in them about life back home. It is always great to hear how things are. Thank you for your constant prayers. If there is anything you would like me to pray for let me know.
Love your son,
Cameron
Monday, January 17, 2011
Week 16:Manchester England-Southport
Hello Family!
It has been a week full of patience and we saw the blessings come at the end. England is starting to get warmer. The snow has been gone for a few weeks and it has not rained that much. I'll share with you what we do when we go find people. Presidents favorite line in Preach My Gospel is "Nothing happens in missionary work until you find someone to teach." (Chapter 9, "Finding People")
Every night at nine o'clock, we account for our day and make plans for the next. The most productive kind of finding there is is street contacting. We pick streets that stick out to us and we make plans to be in those areas for a certain amount of time. When we have teaching appointments, in case they fall through (which they do a lot) we always have a back-up plan. In street contacting, we usually do that in the morning between 10-12 and in the afternoon from 1-5. We speak to everyone possible in those areas using a tool president has give us called power statements. I'll send you a copy of those in the future.
In the evenings, it is most productive to go and tract. There are not that many people around in the night time because it is cold. We will speak to all the people on the buses and wherever we are tracting in that particular area.
This week was full of all of the above. But Sunday, the Lord blessed us. We were able to receive a member refferal and teach him in his home (the live in the same complex). He was able to accept baptism and we will be teaching him hopefully 3-4 times a week. His name is Paul. The refferal came from Chris Zajac (pronounced like science except with a z. I don't know how that works but he is English). The Spirit was great in the lesson and he took it in very well. He seems to be the second most solid investigator I have had since Anja so pray for him.
The Portugese men fell through unfortunately. They weren't in on the planned time and we tried by again yesterday but one was drinking and the other was out. We will try again another time at some point.
You are absolutely right Dad with the game plan. That analogy has brought even more attention to me now. I went on an exchange with my District Leader, Elder Moses, and he gave some great suggestions on planning and calling former investigators as well as potential investigators. We will also be having a training this Thursday on the new member refferal program which will be great as well.
Sundays are like any other day. You go to church the whole time, eat dinner with a family, and then you go out to do work whether it be street contacting or tracting. This time of year, tracting is definitely the most productive thing on a Sunday.
Thank you for the wonderful insights you shared as well. I always love reading your emails. Thanks for the wonderful letter you sent as well Mom. I got it on Friday and it was a good boost :) I will do my best to apply what you have mentioned to me this week. Give Conner a hug and kiss for me and tell him happy bday for me! Give Kobe and Ebony a hug too (Dad gives Kobe the hug haha)! I love you all!
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I dont think I need anything at the moment. If something comes to mind, I will let you know next week.
It has been a week full of patience and we saw the blessings come at the end. England is starting to get warmer. The snow has been gone for a few weeks and it has not rained that much. I'll share with you what we do when we go find people. Presidents favorite line in Preach My Gospel is "Nothing happens in missionary work until you find someone to teach." (Chapter 9, "Finding People")
Every night at nine o'clock, we account for our day and make plans for the next. The most productive kind of finding there is is street contacting. We pick streets that stick out to us and we make plans to be in those areas for a certain amount of time. When we have teaching appointments, in case they fall through (which they do a lot) we always have a back-up plan. In street contacting, we usually do that in the morning between 10-12 and in the afternoon from 1-5. We speak to everyone possible in those areas using a tool president has give us called power statements. I'll send you a copy of those in the future.
In the evenings, it is most productive to go and tract. There are not that many people around in the night time because it is cold. We will speak to all the people on the buses and wherever we are tracting in that particular area.
This week was full of all of the above. But Sunday, the Lord blessed us. We were able to receive a member refferal and teach him in his home (the live in the same complex). He was able to accept baptism and we will be teaching him hopefully 3-4 times a week. His name is Paul. The refferal came from Chris Zajac (pronounced like science except with a z. I don't know how that works but he is English). The Spirit was great in the lesson and he took it in very well. He seems to be the second most solid investigator I have had since Anja so pray for him.
The Portugese men fell through unfortunately. They weren't in on the planned time and we tried by again yesterday but one was drinking and the other was out. We will try again another time at some point.
You are absolutely right Dad with the game plan. That analogy has brought even more attention to me now. I went on an exchange with my District Leader, Elder Moses, and he gave some great suggestions on planning and calling former investigators as well as potential investigators. We will also be having a training this Thursday on the new member refferal program which will be great as well.
Sundays are like any other day. You go to church the whole time, eat dinner with a family, and then you go out to do work whether it be street contacting or tracting. This time of year, tracting is definitely the most productive thing on a Sunday.
Thank you for the wonderful insights you shared as well. I always love reading your emails. Thanks for the wonderful letter you sent as well Mom. I got it on Friday and it was a good boost :) I will do my best to apply what you have mentioned to me this week. Give Conner a hug and kiss for me and tell him happy bday for me! Give Kobe and Ebony a hug too (Dad gives Kobe the hug haha)! I love you all!
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I dont think I need anything at the moment. If something comes to mind, I will let you know next week.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Week 15: Manchester Mission: Southport
My dear family,
It has been a lot of finding efforts here in Southport. It has been fun at times and there were some instances where it was frustrating. I have put a lot of effort in these past two weeks. We led the mission last week with 90 Quality Gospel Conversations and I have a feeling we will lead this week as well with 110. But we have no investigators still. We have some potentials. We have a couple of Portuguese men we feel good about that we are teaching tomorrow. I have been trying to study a little bit of my Spanish at meal times so the language barrier isn't as difficult. As missionaries, we are encouraged to not fast more than once a month. We can fast for special purposes on rare occasions. Families are allowed to fast for us but in the white handbook it says that we do not ask families to join in special fasts. I will fast this Sunday morning though.
I had the opportunity of working here in Southport for two days with Elder Darrow. The leaders of the mission are so inspired and are a great strength to the missionaries that they serve. Elder Darrow is another wonderful example of one of those Elders. We obviously had a lot of finding. I remember we were waiting for a bus and no one was stopping to talk to us. He asked how I felt. I told him that I was bit frustrated but I know that it would all be okay. He told me in our exchange inventory that one of my strengths was my diligence. He said that I knew the best way to handle adversity: Plow through it. I hope that I will continue to be urgent and diligent and while plowing I will be able to find great people to teach. We had a lot of fun together and I enjoyed the counsel Elder Darrow gave me. It was a great two-day exchange.
I got a lot of post this Thursday. I received Tom and Lonni's Christmas card, Duncan’s box (Ukraine will be awesome! Maybe Anja can teach him some Russian! I will be writing him back today), Wesli Peay, Bre Bate, Brooke Budge, Bishop Fagan, and the YM President. Tell them all thank you for the wonderful letters!
As a mission we are reading the Doctrine and Covenants and marking any scripture that 1) talks about missionary work in any way and 2) teaching especially by the Spirit. I applied that to a little study this morning I did on teaching from the heart. My study journal says, "Listen to your heart. It tells us so many things. It tells us right from wrong, what is true and what is false, and what we should say. The Lord gives us what to say in the very moment and puts it into our hearts. Like Samuel the Lamanite we need to speak as a trump as well as with solemnity and meekness. The Lord is with us through this great work! (Jacob 5:70-75, Helaman 13:3-5, D&C 33:8-10, 75:2-11, 100:5-8).
Thank you for your prayers I love and miss you all!
Love,
Cameron
It has been a lot of finding efforts here in Southport. It has been fun at times and there were some instances where it was frustrating. I have put a lot of effort in these past two weeks. We led the mission last week with 90 Quality Gospel Conversations and I have a feeling we will lead this week as well with 110. But we have no investigators still. We have some potentials. We have a couple of Portuguese men we feel good about that we are teaching tomorrow. I have been trying to study a little bit of my Spanish at meal times so the language barrier isn't as difficult. As missionaries, we are encouraged to not fast more than once a month. We can fast for special purposes on rare occasions. Families are allowed to fast for us but in the white handbook it says that we do not ask families to join in special fasts. I will fast this Sunday morning though.
I had the opportunity of working here in Southport for two days with Elder Darrow. The leaders of the mission are so inspired and are a great strength to the missionaries that they serve. Elder Darrow is another wonderful example of one of those Elders. We obviously had a lot of finding. I remember we were waiting for a bus and no one was stopping to talk to us. He asked how I felt. I told him that I was bit frustrated but I know that it would all be okay. He told me in our exchange inventory that one of my strengths was my diligence. He said that I knew the best way to handle adversity: Plow through it. I hope that I will continue to be urgent and diligent and while plowing I will be able to find great people to teach. We had a lot of fun together and I enjoyed the counsel Elder Darrow gave me. It was a great two-day exchange.
I got a lot of post this Thursday. I received Tom and Lonni's Christmas card, Duncan’s box (Ukraine will be awesome! Maybe Anja can teach him some Russian! I will be writing him back today), Wesli Peay, Bre Bate, Brooke Budge, Bishop Fagan, and the YM President. Tell them all thank you for the wonderful letters!
As a mission we are reading the Doctrine and Covenants and marking any scripture that 1) talks about missionary work in any way and 2) teaching especially by the Spirit. I applied that to a little study this morning I did on teaching from the heart. My study journal says, "Listen to your heart. It tells us so many things. It tells us right from wrong, what is true and what is false, and what we should say. The Lord gives us what to say in the very moment and puts it into our hearts. Like Samuel the Lamanite we need to speak as a trump as well as with solemnity and meekness. The Lord is with us through this great work! (Jacob 5:70-75, Helaman 13:3-5, D&C 33:8-10, 75:2-11, 100:5-8).
Thank you for your prayers I love and miss you all!
Love,
Cameron
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Week 14: Manchester Mission: Southport
Dear Family,
I am glad to hear you had a fun New year with the family. Our New Years was great as well. We went to Liverpool and attended a baptism. We also played basketball and watched the first Narnia is was a great day. It is as big here as it is in the US. Happy Birthday to you Dad! I sent a letter to you as well as in response to Lindsey's so you should be recieving it within a weeks time. It was a normal prostleiting day yesterday so we still worked, but the library was closed because it was a Bank Holiday. I will be making goals for this year. President has each missionary doing it and reporting them to him in our interviews in a couple of weeks.
I am excited to hear about your study as a family that you will be doing. Share insights, thoughts, and feelings that you get from it. I know that it will help you develop a greater love for the scriptures.
Elder Ericksen and I have witnessed miracles here in Southport. Sunday we were out doing finding most of the day. That night, we had about an hour left. We did not have any appointments to account for but we spoke with many wonderful people. I thought about what Elder Jolliffe said to me before on a similar kind of day, "Don't be surprised if all the miracles come at the end." In the last 15 minutes or so before we had to go in, we spoke to a young man and he wanted to know more about how God is there. We shared how he could know through reading and prayer and were able to set up an appointment.
Then continuing up that street, a man on a bike stopped before we reached him and told us that he wanted to improve his life. We shared more with him and were able to set up another appointment. It truly is after the trial of our faith that miracles do happen. I had seen similar things happen before on my mission and it didn't surprise me that it happened again.
I thought about how I could better apply the Spirit in my work this week. My question was answered more simply than I expected. I read in Preach My Gospel on pg. 121 where President Benson mentions that when we work we will get the Spirit. I reflected on that and thought that it all starts with work. People will not know the truth of our message unless we work. Once we have worked, we will be able to teach and testify by the Spirit (D&C 42:14, 50:13-22).
Presdient Bullock sent me this email a couple days ago:
Elder Starr, Happy New Year! I continue to hear good things about you. Now that you are in your third transfer, you are no longer considered a new missionary. While there is still much more for you to learn, you have been out long enough that the Lord can use your talents in many ways and even expects more from you. Do all that you can to support Elder Erickson and help more with the workload.
We are glad to have you in the mission. You are doing well and I am pleased with your progress.
I hope that I can live up to my potential here as a missionary. We are going on exchanges with the Zone Leaders today. I have served with Zone Leaders three times prior but this one is a little different. Usually, you only exchange for a 24 hour period. This is a 48 hour one. I think there are a few reasons for this but I am looking forward to learning more from Elder Darrow here in Southport. I will report on it next week.
The answers to all your questions about Elder Eriksen are yes. We are still getting to know each other and how we work but I feel that we have a lot of potential as a companionship. I do know an Elder Okeson. He is serving in Preston right now teaching all of the Chinese students that go to university there.
The Lord is always with me in this work. Someitmes it is hard to keep that in mind at all times but He really is. I love you all and always look forward to the wonderful letters and mail that you send. Thanks for your prayers for me, my companionship, and the work we do here. Continue to do so. Continue to study your scriptures daily and to always pray often. I love you always!
Love,
Cameron
I am glad to hear you had a fun New year with the family. Our New Years was great as well. We went to Liverpool and attended a baptism. We also played basketball and watched the first Narnia is was a great day. It is as big here as it is in the US. Happy Birthday to you Dad! I sent a letter to you as well as in response to Lindsey's so you should be recieving it within a weeks time. It was a normal prostleiting day yesterday so we still worked, but the library was closed because it was a Bank Holiday. I will be making goals for this year. President has each missionary doing it and reporting them to him in our interviews in a couple of weeks.
I am excited to hear about your study as a family that you will be doing. Share insights, thoughts, and feelings that you get from it. I know that it will help you develop a greater love for the scriptures.
Elder Ericksen and I have witnessed miracles here in Southport. Sunday we were out doing finding most of the day. That night, we had about an hour left. We did not have any appointments to account for but we spoke with many wonderful people. I thought about what Elder Jolliffe said to me before on a similar kind of day, "Don't be surprised if all the miracles come at the end." In the last 15 minutes or so before we had to go in, we spoke to a young man and he wanted to know more about how God is there. We shared how he could know through reading and prayer and were able to set up an appointment.
Then continuing up that street, a man on a bike stopped before we reached him and told us that he wanted to improve his life. We shared more with him and were able to set up another appointment. It truly is after the trial of our faith that miracles do happen. I had seen similar things happen before on my mission and it didn't surprise me that it happened again.
I thought about how I could better apply the Spirit in my work this week. My question was answered more simply than I expected. I read in Preach My Gospel on pg. 121 where President Benson mentions that when we work we will get the Spirit. I reflected on that and thought that it all starts with work. People will not know the truth of our message unless we work. Once we have worked, we will be able to teach and testify by the Spirit (D&C 42:14, 50:13-22).
Presdient Bullock sent me this email a couple days ago:
Elder Starr, Happy New Year! I continue to hear good things about you. Now that you are in your third transfer, you are no longer considered a new missionary. While there is still much more for you to learn, you have been out long enough that the Lord can use your talents in many ways and even expects more from you. Do all that you can to support Elder Erickson and help more with the workload.
We are glad to have you in the mission. You are doing well and I am pleased with your progress.
I hope that I can live up to my potential here as a missionary. We are going on exchanges with the Zone Leaders today. I have served with Zone Leaders three times prior but this one is a little different. Usually, you only exchange for a 24 hour period. This is a 48 hour one. I think there are a few reasons for this but I am looking forward to learning more from Elder Darrow here in Southport. I will report on it next week.
The answers to all your questions about Elder Eriksen are yes. We are still getting to know each other and how we work but I feel that we have a lot of potential as a companionship. I do know an Elder Okeson. He is serving in Preston right now teaching all of the Chinese students that go to university there.
The Lord is always with me in this work. Someitmes it is hard to keep that in mind at all times but He really is. I love you all and always look forward to the wonderful letters and mail that you send. Thanks for your prayers for me, my companionship, and the work we do here. Continue to do so. Continue to study your scriptures daily and to always pray often. I love you always!
Love,
Cameron
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Week 13: Manchester Mission: Southport: Ericksen
Happy New Year family!
The companionship of Elder Jolliffe and Elder Starr ended yesterday. I am here in Southport for another five weeks (one week less than normal because last transfer was a seven week transfer). Elder Jolliffe went to Rochdale and is with another missionary that came out the same time I did.
My new companion is from Tremonton, Utah. His name is Elder Ericksen. He is great and loves basketball as much as I do. He is playing at a JC in Wyoming when he goes home. He was on the state championship Bear River team when I was a junior. They went 23-1. He has been out only one transfer more than me. Our companionship is probably the youngest in the mission. We only have about 8 and a half months experience combined. However, we are excited and feel like that we can work miracles here in Southport.
I obviously enjoyed the phone call very much. It was wonderful to see and hear from you all. Time seems to never be long enough but being obedient is the most important thing. Those missionaries that Mom referred to that got sent home were a part of this mission. President did a training after it happened about how obedience is so important.
Speaking of obedience, I learned in my study of obedience this week was in PMG and the scripture reference of 2 Kings 5:10-14. I related myself to Naaman and asked myself how often are we like him. We are asked to do something and are expecting something greater to do. Do we question what we are to do because we think we know better or do we humble ourselves and do what we are asked? Naaman was humble enough to listen to his servants.
Like Naaman, sometimes we need that extra push to do what the Lord commands us. Whether it be church leaders, friends, or family, that push helps us see the true blessings of being obedient to what Heavenly Father asks of us. Thanks for your wonderful spiritual insights and kind words this week. I enjoyed the Spirit of your letters and the uplifting things that were talked about.
Who won the Lakers-Heat game? That thought just came to mind so you can share that with me when I email you again this Monday the 3rd. Something else that I need that I forgot to mention was family photos. When we go on exchanges, missionaries always show pictures of their families. I have none. So if you could send an album of photos of our family, including us with vacations, basketball, etc., that would be wonderful.
Here a some pictures from Christmas. The England jersey was a gift I bought myself for Christmas. Isn't beautiful?? I will send pictures of Elder Eriksen and myself on Monday. The family we spent Christmas with are the McMannus family. They are wonderful. Bro. McMannus is an amazing cook. He made the best onion soup I have ever had.
I love you all so much. These emails and our Skype call were so incredible. I know the Lord continues to bless me out here. Thank you for your continual prayers. I truly do feel them. Pray that Elder Erikesen and I will have success and we will see that success through investigators progressing towards baptism. It is great to hear from you and I will look forward to speaking with you again Monday!
Love,
Cameron
The companionship of Elder Jolliffe and Elder Starr ended yesterday. I am here in Southport for another five weeks (one week less than normal because last transfer was a seven week transfer). Elder Jolliffe went to Rochdale and is with another missionary that came out the same time I did.
My new companion is from Tremonton, Utah. His name is Elder Ericksen. He is great and loves basketball as much as I do. He is playing at a JC in Wyoming when he goes home. He was on the state championship Bear River team when I was a junior. They went 23-1. He has been out only one transfer more than me. Our companionship is probably the youngest in the mission. We only have about 8 and a half months experience combined. However, we are excited and feel like that we can work miracles here in Southport.
I obviously enjoyed the phone call very much. It was wonderful to see and hear from you all. Time seems to never be long enough but being obedient is the most important thing. Those missionaries that Mom referred to that got sent home were a part of this mission. President did a training after it happened about how obedience is so important.
Speaking of obedience, I learned in my study of obedience this week was in PMG and the scripture reference of 2 Kings 5:10-14. I related myself to Naaman and asked myself how often are we like him. We are asked to do something and are expecting something greater to do. Do we question what we are to do because we think we know better or do we humble ourselves and do what we are asked? Naaman was humble enough to listen to his servants.
Like Naaman, sometimes we need that extra push to do what the Lord commands us. Whether it be church leaders, friends, or family, that push helps us see the true blessings of being obedient to what Heavenly Father asks of us. Thanks for your wonderful spiritual insights and kind words this week. I enjoyed the Spirit of your letters and the uplifting things that were talked about.
Who won the Lakers-Heat game? That thought just came to mind so you can share that with me when I email you again this Monday the 3rd. Something else that I need that I forgot to mention was family photos. When we go on exchanges, missionaries always show pictures of their families. I have none. So if you could send an album of photos of our family, including us with vacations, basketball, etc., that would be wonderful.
Here a some pictures from Christmas. The England jersey was a gift I bought myself for Christmas. Isn't beautiful?? I will send pictures of Elder Eriksen and myself on Monday. The family we spent Christmas with are the McMannus family. They are wonderful. Bro. McMannus is an amazing cook. He made the best onion soup I have ever had.
I love you all so much. These emails and our Skype call were so incredible. I know the Lord continues to bless me out here. Thank you for your continual prayers. I truly do feel them. Pray that Elder Erikesen and I will have success and we will see that success through investigators progressing towards baptism. It is great to hear from you and I will look forward to speaking with you again Monday!
Love,
Cameron
Monday, December 20, 2010
Week 12: Manchester England: SouthPort
Happy Christmas from England!
I only have a little bit of time because the library is closing for
the weather, which I don’t understand because it has been a winter
wonderland for three days now.
It wasn't the funnest of weeks since the weather took a toll on the
work. But I hope and pray I can have diligence (this weeks Christlike attribute) through it all.
I related diligence to an athlete. We all have "bad games" every
once in a while. It is when we do all that we can that limits the
number of bad games we have. There might be days when we don’t say exactly the right things or have a few mess-ups. But as long as we are diligent in doing the Lord's work I know that we will have success in all that we do. Some good scriptures I found were D&C 75:2-5, 121:4, and Moroni 9:6. I also love the quote from Spencer W. Kimball on pg. 121 in PMG.
Call me at 7 pm England time so I can get your Skype address. And then we will figure it out from there. Sorry this is all rushed but I look forward to talking to you! Keep up the prayers!
Love,
Cameron
I only have a little bit of time because the library is closing for
the weather, which I don’t understand because it has been a winter
wonderland for three days now.
It wasn't the funnest of weeks since the weather took a toll on the
work. But I hope and pray I can have diligence (this weeks Christlike attribute) through it all.
I related diligence to an athlete. We all have "bad games" every
once in a while. It is when we do all that we can that limits the
number of bad games we have. There might be days when we don’t say exactly the right things or have a few mess-ups. But as long as we are diligent in doing the Lord's work I know that we will have success in all that we do. Some good scriptures I found were D&C 75:2-5, 121:4, and Moroni 9:6. I also love the quote from Spencer W. Kimball on pg. 121 in PMG.
Call me at 7 pm England time so I can get your Skype address. And then we will figure it out from there. Sorry this is all rushed but I look forward to talking to you! Keep up the prayers!
Love,
Cameron
Week 12: Manchester Mission: SouthPort
Hello Family,
We have the choice to have Skype now for Christmas. I'm sending this quick email to you right now so that you can respond with me your feelings and thoughts. I will be back on at 3:30 pm England time.
We have one hour to communicate with our families. If we use Skype, it will have to be at a member home and my companion will have to be able to see me. Which would make the conversation not private.
However, I would like to see you all. I don’t know if that will make me homesick because I would be able to or if I would regret not using Skype if I just call. Could you send me your Skype address? This was just okayed by the brethren of the church, so I am assuming that it will be available for mother's day and future as well.
Again let me know on your feedback and I will send you another email 4:30 or so.
Love you,
Cameron
Monday, December 13, 2010
Week 11: Manchester England: SouthPort
Family, Family, Family,
England is doing well and fine. I continue to adapt more and more to mission life everyday. I think I'm getting the hang of things now. It was a tough week as far as numbers go, but we will make the necessary plans to move on and be able to have more success. We both felt we worked hard but we just need to little things a bit better.
Things have are in the full Christmas swing here in England. It is
wonderful to see and feel it all around. I am really excited for
Christmas week. A lot of fun and exciting things going on! It wasn't too cold this week but it is supposed to be this week so we will see.
I'm glad you have had a fun week yourselves with Dad's talk, Christmas Carol, basketball, Colton's lip, etc. I hope you continue to have a wonderful Christmas Season. I think the Christmas Carol was my favorite tradition as well. Probably the one I miss the most.
In my study of humility this morning, I thought about the Savior and how He always showed it. He demonstrated humility before the world was. He did all that the Father asked. And after all He did, He gave all of the glory to our Father. It made me think of how we need to always heed the counsel who are over us and do what they ask.
I also loved in Alma 32:15-16 how those who are not compelled to be humble receive greater blessings than those that are. I remember when Bishop Fitzgerald said that the Lord will have a humble people. Whether we choose to be or we are compelled, in the end we will all have humility. I hope and pray that I can have the humility to continue to believe and receive knowledge through it.
I had the opportunity to give my first blessing this week. His name
is James Brown and he is a member. He still struggles with smoking and other things in his family life. He has a wife and two boys. Surprisingly, I wasn't that nervous. Everything seemed to flow so easy and peacefully through the blessing. I blessed him that he would go to the Lord in faithful prayer, scripture study that he would resist the temptations of the adversary. I also promised through faithful service that he would be a good example to his family and be able to fulfill his role as a husband and father. The Spirit was amazing. I'm so grateful for the power of the Priesthood and how it has affected my life and others. Miracles happen everyday because of it.
Lee is doing fine, just needs to understand the importance of the Word of Wisdom. We will be stressing tonight this evening with his lesson on Follow the Prophet. We are in contact with Jenny's family still but seems that it will have to be a lucky break to teach them before Christmas. Continue to pray for them.
We taught Anja this week and she is so amazing. She is in 3 Nephi
right now and has so many great questions from her scripture study. You can see she has a love for the scriptures. She is serving in Young Women's and sometimes doesn't know how she can help. I told her that she has stories and experiences that no one else has. Because she is a convert, she can reflect on life without the gospel and the blessing with it. I also expressed that she can teach them what it's like to be taught by the missionaries. I said that she could tell me what that’s like because I have no idea even though I am a missionary. She continues to see miracles in her life through faith and prayer. I love it when we teach her once a week the lessons again!
7 pm will work out fine. You can call me on Skype or from the
mobile/landline. If you want me to still get a calling card I can,
just let me know what you want me to do next week.
I haven’t seen any bidets here. I haven't honestly thought about them much, but now that you mentioned it I DO! You should get one for the new home. Continue to inform me about Colton and basketball. I will continue to pray that he gets more minutes. Keep working hard Colt! Does Kyle get a lot of playing time right now? It doesn't surprise me that he is doing well for a freshman so early right now.
I love you all and continue to pray for each of you. If there is
anything you would like me to pray for specifically please let me
know. Keep the faith and keep praying for me as well in the work.
May Heavenly Father continue to bless us in all that we do.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I miss you too Lauren :) by the way the charger doesn’t fit my toothbrush sorry :(
England is doing well and fine. I continue to adapt more and more to mission life everyday. I think I'm getting the hang of things now. It was a tough week as far as numbers go, but we will make the necessary plans to move on and be able to have more success. We both felt we worked hard but we just need to little things a bit better.
Things have are in the full Christmas swing here in England. It is
wonderful to see and feel it all around. I am really excited for
Christmas week. A lot of fun and exciting things going on! It wasn't too cold this week but it is supposed to be this week so we will see.
I'm glad you have had a fun week yourselves with Dad's talk, Christmas Carol, basketball, Colton's lip, etc. I hope you continue to have a wonderful Christmas Season. I think the Christmas Carol was my favorite tradition as well. Probably the one I miss the most.
In my study of humility this morning, I thought about the Savior and how He always showed it. He demonstrated humility before the world was. He did all that the Father asked. And after all He did, He gave all of the glory to our Father. It made me think of how we need to always heed the counsel who are over us and do what they ask.
I also loved in Alma 32:15-16 how those who are not compelled to be humble receive greater blessings than those that are. I remember when Bishop Fitzgerald said that the Lord will have a humble people. Whether we choose to be or we are compelled, in the end we will all have humility. I hope and pray that I can have the humility to continue to believe and receive knowledge through it.
I had the opportunity to give my first blessing this week. His name
is James Brown and he is a member. He still struggles with smoking and other things in his family life. He has a wife and two boys. Surprisingly, I wasn't that nervous. Everything seemed to flow so easy and peacefully through the blessing. I blessed him that he would go to the Lord in faithful prayer, scripture study that he would resist the temptations of the adversary. I also promised through faithful service that he would be a good example to his family and be able to fulfill his role as a husband and father. The Spirit was amazing. I'm so grateful for the power of the Priesthood and how it has affected my life and others. Miracles happen everyday because of it.
Lee is doing fine, just needs to understand the importance of the Word of Wisdom. We will be stressing tonight this evening with his lesson on Follow the Prophet. We are in contact with Jenny's family still but seems that it will have to be a lucky break to teach them before Christmas. Continue to pray for them.
We taught Anja this week and she is so amazing. She is in 3 Nephi
right now and has so many great questions from her scripture study. You can see she has a love for the scriptures. She is serving in Young Women's and sometimes doesn't know how she can help. I told her that she has stories and experiences that no one else has. Because she is a convert, she can reflect on life without the gospel and the blessing with it. I also expressed that she can teach them what it's like to be taught by the missionaries. I said that she could tell me what that’s like because I have no idea even though I am a missionary. She continues to see miracles in her life through faith and prayer. I love it when we teach her once a week the lessons again!
7 pm will work out fine. You can call me on Skype or from the
mobile/landline. If you want me to still get a calling card I can,
just let me know what you want me to do next week.
I haven’t seen any bidets here. I haven't honestly thought about them much, but now that you mentioned it I DO! You should get one for the new home. Continue to inform me about Colton and basketball. I will continue to pray that he gets more minutes. Keep working hard Colt! Does Kyle get a lot of playing time right now? It doesn't surprise me that he is doing well for a freshman so early right now.
I love you all and continue to pray for each of you. If there is
anything you would like me to pray for specifically please let me
know. Keep the faith and keep praying for me as well in the work.
May Heavenly Father continue to bless us in all that we do.
Love,
Cameron
P.S. I miss you too Lauren :) by the way the charger doesn’t fit my toothbrush sorry :(
Monday, December 6, 2010
Week 10: Manchester England: Southport
Happy December Family!
Things in Southport are amazing as usual! We went to the Mission Home Fireside with an investigator named Lee. He enjoyed it and the spirit was wonderful! Sis. Bullock makes the best snickerdoodle cookies by the way.
It has still been cold but has never reached the cold like that
evening. I have been keeping warm. My wimpy hands get cold but I manage. To be honest, I haven't put the thermals on yet! I always forget, but I will wear them this week and tell you how they are. A more pairs of thermal garments would be lovely.
Thanks for all your wonderful insights on the Becoming Like Him. One thing I learned in knowledge this past week was that we all are given the knowledge because we have the light of Christ. When we act correctly and acknowledge that light, that's when Heavenly Father is able to bring things to our remembrance through the Holy Ghost (Helaman 14:30, John 14:26).
This morning in my patience study, I read in Mosiah 24. In verse 15, I loved how it said that they were "cheerful" in their patience to all of the Lord's will. The thought came to my mind was how cheerful we are in the midst of adversity truly shows our level of faith and patience.
I also love what it says with patience in PMG. "When you are patient, you hold up under pressure and are able to face adversity calmly and hopefully."
Jenny's family was again unavailable. It is frustrating to see how
wonderful and lovely the family is and not be able to see them. The gospel changes lives. It would incredible to see how it would change theirs. Jenny is taking extra shifts and is very lacked on time. I fasted that we would be able to teach them and that they would progress.
I hope that you are sending packages to the "mission office" and not "mission home." I assume you are. It's the Booths Park, Knutsford address.
Thanks for your love, support, and prayers. I continue to see the
effect they have on me. Sounds like things are crazy as usual this
Christmas season. Especially with the dogs!
I will call on Christmas in the evening here either 6,7, or 8. Which
one is best for you? I will have a calling card that I can purchase
so no worries. But, I will clarify to make sure.
Love you,
Cameron
Things in Southport are amazing as usual! We went to the Mission Home Fireside with an investigator named Lee. He enjoyed it and the spirit was wonderful! Sis. Bullock makes the best snickerdoodle cookies by the way.
It has still been cold but has never reached the cold like that
evening. I have been keeping warm. My wimpy hands get cold but I manage. To be honest, I haven't put the thermals on yet! I always forget, but I will wear them this week and tell you how they are. A more pairs of thermal garments would be lovely.
Thanks for all your wonderful insights on the Becoming Like Him. One thing I learned in knowledge this past week was that we all are given the knowledge because we have the light of Christ. When we act correctly and acknowledge that light, that's when Heavenly Father is able to bring things to our remembrance through the Holy Ghost (Helaman 14:30, John 14:26).
This morning in my patience study, I read in Mosiah 24. In verse 15, I loved how it said that they were "cheerful" in their patience to all of the Lord's will. The thought came to my mind was how cheerful we are in the midst of adversity truly shows our level of faith and patience.
I also love what it says with patience in PMG. "When you are patient, you hold up under pressure and are able to face adversity calmly and hopefully."
Jenny's family was again unavailable. It is frustrating to see how
wonderful and lovely the family is and not be able to see them. The gospel changes lives. It would incredible to see how it would change theirs. Jenny is taking extra shifts and is very lacked on time. I fasted that we would be able to teach them and that they would progress.
I hope that you are sending packages to the "mission office" and not "mission home." I assume you are. It's the Booths Park, Knutsford address.
Thanks for your love, support, and prayers. I continue to see the
effect they have on me. Sounds like things are crazy as usual this
Christmas season. Especially with the dogs!
I will call on Christmas in the evening here either 6,7, or 8. Which
one is best for you? I will have a calling card that I can purchase
so no worries. But, I will clarify to make sure.
Love you,
Cameron
Monday, November 29, 2010
Week 9: Manchester England: Southport
Hello Family!
Hope you had a good Thanksgiving! As you know, I got to play sports
all day on mine. Yes we did have Costco pizza and it was wonderful.
Its the best pizza I have had since I have been here. Sports Day was
a blast! I played american football. I had my Texas pullover on
outisde in the freezing cold. President Bullock was QB most of the
time but I was a prime reciever. I felt like I was Jordan Shipley and
President was Colt McCoy throwing ball after ball to me :)
I was able to play basketball but it was kind of lame. There was too
many people and too many of them didnt know what they were doing but
it was good to do a little ball after it had been so long. We also
played volleyball. I am not in good cardio shape but I was in a lot
better shape than most of the Elders. Probably because I am newer.
Yes, that was only half of the mission in that photo.
Thank you all for the wonderful Thanksgiving letters! I actually
didnt get it until the 23rd but I was able to catch up. I enjoyed all
of them and had a good laugh at a few. It was good to them this week.
Jenny and her family has been frustrating but still promising. She
works all the time. We have dropped by to teach them twice but
neither appointment has been good. We do have planned to see them on
Tuesday which will be great! Jenny was very apologetic and says that
Tuesday will work. Continue to pray for them. I hope that all goes
well.
In my "Becoming Like Him" study this morning, I really enjoyed
learning how important knowledge really is in the gospel. I think of
the Savior and how He had a perfect knowledge of things and how we
should always strive for knowledge.
We must gain spiritual knowledge and apply it to our own lives. When
it is applied, we should use our knowledge in our examples to
everyone. Jesus used His knowledge in His teachings by showing us the
perfect example. In Luke 1:77, it says one of the Savior's purpose's
was to help us recieve a knowledge of salvation. I hope that I can be
a good example of what I have learned and be able share that with
others as a servant of the Lord. Thanks for your wonderful input on
virtue. I learned a lot from what you said :)
With regards to the shipping questions, yes they we will get the
packages on the 23rd if the mission office gets them before then. We
get mail every training/zone conference that we have that is sent to
the mission office. That is no problem to sent an envelope with the
charger to the flat. It should be okay.
I have some pics attached that are from a few weeks ago. That was
first experience of English fish and chips that I brought home. They
were incredible WITH the malted vinegar. The way the are made,
battered, and fried is much better than the U.S. I think my pallet
has changed for most English food. We also made that apple crumbe and
had custard one evening when we had to be in early on Guy Fawkes
night. It was divine as well.
I forgot to tell you that last transfer, Elder Jolliffe and I led the
mission as a single companionship for QGC's (Quality Gospel
Conversations).
I heard that Miami Heat lost their first game
to Boston! That was probably a while ago but I was very happy to hear
that from another missionary.
I'd like to mention that it is so
freezing here and last night tracting for 2.5 hours it was around -8
degrees celcius. If you could tell me what that is in farenheit that
would be great. We will be calling for Christmas I'm pretty sure and
we will have an hour to talk. I will ask about Skype but it seems
very unlikely.
Hope you had a good Thanksgiving! As you know, I got to play sports
all day on mine. Yes we did have Costco pizza and it was wonderful.
Its the best pizza I have had since I have been here. Sports Day was
a blast! I played american football. I had my Texas pullover on
outisde in the freezing cold. President Bullock was QB most of the
time but I was a prime reciever. I felt like I was Jordan Shipley and
President was Colt McCoy throwing ball after ball to me :)
I was able to play basketball but it was kind of lame. There was too
many people and too many of them didnt know what they were doing but
it was good to do a little ball after it had been so long. We also
played volleyball. I am not in good cardio shape but I was in a lot
better shape than most of the Elders. Probably because I am newer.
Yes, that was only half of the mission in that photo.
Thank you all for the wonderful Thanksgiving letters! I actually
didnt get it until the 23rd but I was able to catch up. I enjoyed all
of them and had a good laugh at a few. It was good to them this week.
Jenny and her family has been frustrating but still promising. She
works all the time. We have dropped by to teach them twice but
neither appointment has been good. We do have planned to see them on
Tuesday which will be great! Jenny was very apologetic and says that
Tuesday will work. Continue to pray for them. I hope that all goes
well.
In my "Becoming Like Him" study this morning, I really enjoyed
learning how important knowledge really is in the gospel. I think of
the Savior and how He had a perfect knowledge of things and how we
should always strive for knowledge.
We must gain spiritual knowledge and apply it to our own lives. When
it is applied, we should use our knowledge in our examples to
everyone. Jesus used His knowledge in His teachings by showing us the
perfect example. In Luke 1:77, it says one of the Savior's purpose's
was to help us recieve a knowledge of salvation. I hope that I can be
a good example of what I have learned and be able share that with
others as a servant of the Lord. Thanks for your wonderful input on
virtue. I learned a lot from what you said :)
With regards to the shipping questions, yes they we will get the
packages on the 23rd if the mission office gets them before then. We
get mail every training/zone conference that we have that is sent to
the mission office. That is no problem to sent an envelope with the
charger to the flat. It should be okay.
I have some pics attached that are from a few weeks ago. That was
first experience of English fish and chips that I brought home. They
were incredible WITH the malted vinegar. The way the are made,
battered, and fried is much better than the U.S. I think my pallet
has changed for most English food. We also made that apple crumbe and
had custard one evening when we had to be in early on Guy Fawkes
night. It was divine as well.
I forgot to tell you that last transfer, Elder Jolliffe and I led the
mission as a single companionship for QGC's (Quality Gospel
Conversations).
I heard that Miami Heat lost their first game
to Boston! That was probably a while ago but I was very happy to hear
that from another missionary.
I'd like to mention that it is so
freezing here and last night tracting for 2.5 hours it was around -8
degrees celcius. If you could tell me what that is in farenheit that
would be great. We will be calling for Christmas I'm pretty sure and
we will have an hour to talk. I will ask about Skype but it seems
very unlikely.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Week 8: Manchester Mission: Southport
Hello from Southport!
It has been another great week here in Southport. We had a miracle this week in finding a family and teaching them. But I’ll give some background first.
During Weekly Planning a couple weeks back, Elder Jolliffe and I were looking at what areas we wanted to street contact and tract. I was looking at the map and nothing was coming. I just picked out a street called “Cypress Road.” We went tracting on it that week one evening and had no success. But we kept it in our plans for the next week and decided to try again some other time.
The other time came on Monday night. The night before, I mentioned in Nightly Planning to go back since it had been a while. We were on our way to tract and were speaking with everyone along the way as usual. There was a woman across the street with her two children. from where I was so I went to go speak with her. She wasn’t initially interested and said she was catholic. She also is from Liverpool (fyi the Liverpool accent is hilarious, you have to hear it). But, we continued in conversation and she asked if I was American. She then told me that her family was hoping to move to Louisiana in a year so that her son could get a soccer scholarship for school. We had some more small talk and we brought it back to the gospel. She then became interested and set up an appointment.
We taught her and her family the next day. She has SEVEN children! She was very interested and then mentioned to us that her and her son talked about that coming across us was fate. She wanted to strengthen her faith and she felt that meeting an American was an absolute blessing. We then shared what I have talked about planning. The Spirit truly does prepare others to receive the gospel. Being persistent and sticking to plans is so important. Miracles happen everyday. You just have to look for them and do what you are supposed to. Her name is Jenny. We also have two other investigators that are African. One is named Luke, and the other is called Precious. They both need to gain a spiritual witness of the gospel. I hope and pray all goes well with them.
My study of virtue this morning was amazing. In Preach My Gospel it says, “What you choose to think and do when you are alone and you believe no one is watching is a strong measure of your virtue.”
With this quote in mind, I was thinking how this is applicable with the Savior. I then thought of the instance of when Jesus had been fasting and Satan came to tempt Him. Christ was alone and Satan, being the evil one he is, knew this was one of the best opportunities had to tempt Christ.
James E. Talmage notes in Jesus the Christ that if Jesus would have performed the miracles to prove to Satan that He was the Son of God, doubt would have been in the Savior’s mind. He also would have been thinking selfishly, but as we know, Christ was triumphant. He was obedient to His fast to the Father and defeated the cunning one. Virtue was most definitely in the Savior’s thoughts. Virtue was never ceasing.
A normal day goes like this:
6:30 am: Get up and pray
630-800: Exercise, shower, breakfast, get ready.
8 am: Personal Study
9 am: Companionship Study
10am: Out the door to find and teach
12: Lunch
1pm: Out the door to find and teach.
5: Tea (dinner)
6: Out the door to find and teach.
9: Nightly planning for the next day.
10:30: Pray and Sleep
It’s pretty easy to not have time as you can see.
I don’t know what happened with Colton’s letter. I wrote him one the week before Lindsey’s and sent it to the old house address. But I will write a new one today. Tell Layne thanks for the wonderful email and kind words. I cant write to him unless I have his home address though. The house looks good. Tell Colton congrats on the basketball team! The Lord answers prayers. I know he does because he has said yes to too many of my prayers.
I love you all and pray daily for you as you have for me. May the Lord bless you in all you do! Continue your study on Becomig Like Him!
Love,
Elder Starr
It has been another great week here in Southport. We had a miracle this week in finding a family and teaching them. But I’ll give some background first.
During Weekly Planning a couple weeks back, Elder Jolliffe and I were looking at what areas we wanted to street contact and tract. I was looking at the map and nothing was coming. I just picked out a street called “Cypress Road.” We went tracting on it that week one evening and had no success. But we kept it in our plans for the next week and decided to try again some other time.
The other time came on Monday night. The night before, I mentioned in Nightly Planning to go back since it had been a while. We were on our way to tract and were speaking with everyone along the way as usual. There was a woman across the street with her two children. from where I was so I went to go speak with her. She wasn’t initially interested and said she was catholic. She also is from Liverpool (fyi the Liverpool accent is hilarious, you have to hear it). But, we continued in conversation and she asked if I was American. She then told me that her family was hoping to move to Louisiana in a year so that her son could get a soccer scholarship for school. We had some more small talk and we brought it back to the gospel. She then became interested and set up an appointment.
We taught her and her family the next day. She has SEVEN children! She was very interested and then mentioned to us that her and her son talked about that coming across us was fate. She wanted to strengthen her faith and she felt that meeting an American was an absolute blessing. We then shared what I have talked about planning. The Spirit truly does prepare others to receive the gospel. Being persistent and sticking to plans is so important. Miracles happen everyday. You just have to look for them and do what you are supposed to. Her name is Jenny. We also have two other investigators that are African. One is named Luke, and the other is called Precious. They both need to gain a spiritual witness of the gospel. I hope and pray all goes well with them.
My study of virtue this morning was amazing. In Preach My Gospel it says, “What you choose to think and do when you are alone and you believe no one is watching is a strong measure of your virtue.”
With this quote in mind, I was thinking how this is applicable with the Savior. I then thought of the instance of when Jesus had been fasting and Satan came to tempt Him. Christ was alone and Satan, being the evil one he is, knew this was one of the best opportunities had to tempt Christ.
James E. Talmage notes in Jesus the Christ that if Jesus would have performed the miracles to prove to Satan that He was the Son of God, doubt would have been in the Savior’s mind. He also would have been thinking selfishly, but as we know, Christ was triumphant. He was obedient to His fast to the Father and defeated the cunning one. Virtue was most definitely in the Savior’s thoughts. Virtue was never ceasing.
A normal day goes like this:
6:30 am: Get up and pray
630-800: Exercise, shower, breakfast, get ready.
8 am: Personal Study
9 am: Companionship Study
10am: Out the door to find and teach
12: Lunch
1pm: Out the door to find and teach.
5: Tea (dinner)
6: Out the door to find and teach.
9: Nightly planning for the next day.
10:30: Pray and Sleep
It’s pretty easy to not have time as you can see.
I don’t know what happened with Colton’s letter. I wrote him one the week before Lindsey’s and sent it to the old house address. But I will write a new one today. Tell Layne thanks for the wonderful email and kind words. I cant write to him unless I have his home address though. The house looks good. Tell Colton congrats on the basketball team! The Lord answers prayers. I know he does because he has said yes to too many of my prayers.
I love you all and pray daily for you as you have for me. May the Lord bless you in all you do! Continue your study on Becomig Like Him!
Love,
Elder Starr
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