Happy 4th of July. Believe me when I say, we didn't forget. We tried finding some fireworks, but then thought that may not be the best way to represent the Lord. But we did have a little party.
So thanks for the advice on talking with families. It is very difficult right now to get them to talk with us and when we do, they don't have much desire to meet. Hopefully as I try to focus more on the blessings that the gospel will bring into their lives, they will have a desire to enter into the covenant of baptism. Right now as a mission, we are focusing on baptisms as we prepare people for the temple. It is incredible to see how we as a mission are getting out there and working hard towards a huge goal of 50 baptisms in twelve weeks. We are now down to about 8 and the baptisms are starting to stack up. It is great to see how the Lord blesses us as we all strive towards this goal. Even though the work is still really slow for Elder Parker and I, we are starting to find those people who will hopefully desire to prepare for baptism and I am learning to better follow the Spirit. The Lord is definitely teaching us right now.
So, you did tell me about Kit. Let me know how he is doing and how his mission was. I am sure he has grown so much since he left and that he is prepared to go forward now and be a faithful servant of the Lord long into the future. One thing that I have really realized since I have come out is how we must always act to fulfill our duty to God. President Eyring talked about it in the Priesthood Session, about how we, especially holders of the Priesthood, must always diligently strive to serve others. Service is a duty of ours as members of the church, one that I didn't fully understand before I began my mission. The new Duty to God program that was developed sounds like it will help Young Men better understand their duty which is great. As President Eyring taught us, we must strive to understand our duty and then act in all diligence. If we are lazy and don't fulfill our duty, then we are not growing and becoming like Heavenly Father. I really like President Eyring's talks too :)
Well, I don't know what else to say. I am grateful for your love and support. There is not a lot going on here right now for me to tell you about, but I am doing my best to learn what the Lord wants for me. We are all looking forward to the Temple which will shortly be opening. It is absolutely beautiful! The Lord is preparing the people here in Ukraine. He has been doing it for a long time, and in a short 20 years, the Church here has grown from its beginnings to this, the dedication of a House of the Lord. My love for the people and for the Lord has grown as I have seen His hand here. I am thankful for His example and His sacrifice, so that all of us can return to live with Him. This is His work and it will never be slowed or stopped. He won't allow it. I am grateful for that knowledge which I have, and for His love for all of us. I love you and want you to know that I know Christ loves us. This is His Church and He leads it today.
Love,
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