Week 78

Early in the week we became a trio as the elder that had just arrived a week ago was transferred away. It was difficult to take care of 2 areas with 3 elders this week, especially when my companion was sick for a few days. But even still we were able to see many miracles.

Integration night was a hit as always and we counted 46, the majority being youth investigators. We themed the activity on the iron rod. We blindfolded everyone and they had to make their way to the other side of the room by holding on to a rope. However, we were there to convince them to let go and follow us, which many did. Afterwards we shared a message about the iron rod.

Henrique told us on Friday how he'd run home after the Integration Night. When he got home all tired from running he remembered what we'd invited him to do so he kneeled down and said a prayer, asking to know if God actually exists and if the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the true church. After saying the prayer he got up and saw a picture of Christ on one of the pamphlets we'd left with him and all his tiredness left immediately. He told us how that was all the answer he needed! He went to his third Integration Night this Thursday and to church for the first time this Sunday. According to him, all he needs to do is talk to his dad that he can be baptized this next week.

We contacted a young woman named Michele this week. I'd contacted her in the street one day and we were able to visit her. When she asked us how she could know if the Old and New Testament were true and we were inspired to teach her the Book of Mormon along with the Restoration. When we invited her to be baptized she said something I'd never heard before. She said, "Yes, I want to go to the United States so that I may be baptized in this true church." We were happy to tell her that this true church is worldwide, and that the closest church building is here in Canela.

This Sunday we switched to Sacrament Meeting first, and everyone noticed a difference. It was a lot better spiritually. Lucas showed up all fancy with a tie, white shirt, black pants, shiny shoes, and complete with a leather bag to hold his manuals and scriptures. I was super impressed. He was able to bless the sacrament for the first time too. He helped out the other Elder a lot during the week as he didn't have a companion anymore.

Lucas

The best part of the week was Suana's baptism! She was super excited the whole week and afterwards she got a journal from her new young women's leader. Afterwards she told us how she wrote down her feelings after her baptism so that she wouldn't forget.

Saturday night Iraçí made a super good dinner for us. She is most on-fire recent converts I've ever seen. She also received a calling this Sunday.