Make Every Day Count...

I love working with the leaders of a District because they take what we as Missionaries say alot more seriously because they have to answer to President Perez and we represent President Perez here in Tarapoto. Yesterday Elder Vasquez and I put on a giant training for the Branch Presidencies, Branch Missionaries, and Branch Mission Leaders. It went so well and turned out to be alot of fun. We know that the only way the Tarapoto will be able to become a stake is only if the leaders and the missionaries are able to work together and efficiently. We watched a few little videos as well as did some practices. I reminded me of the MTC with all of the practices and the awkwardness that was present but it was great for these leaders to put into practice the doctrine. That is kind of what Elder Vasquez and I are focusing on ¨Putting the Doctrine into action¨. Alot more Work and alot less Talk is what´s going to help Tarapoto progress.

I´m excited for the coming weekend because we have a few baptisms lined up with some very great and special people. I´ll have to wait until the next letter to tell you more about them. I´m so glad to hear that you are all happy and well and just loving life. Take advantage of every moment because once its gone, its gone forever. Make everyday count and end it without regrets. I know that this is the work of the Lord and I am so grateful to wear his name on my chest for two years. I know that we are lead today by an inspired and chosen prophet who loves us and if we follow him, we cannot fail. Never loose sight of just how blessed and loved we are. I love you all so much!

Landon's First Emergency Room Visit--And It's Peruvian Style! Ouch!

Like I´ve always said there just isn´t a dull moment in the mission and this week definitely supported that thought. I officially got my first experience with the Emergency Room and I got it Peruvian style.
Last Wednesday we did a giant service project as a zone where we were going to help clean up an elderly sisters garden and yard. We all showed up with our shovels, rakes, and machetes. We began by cutting limbs and branches and I wish the limbs part only pertained to the trees but it doesn’t always turn out the way you plan it. While I was cutting up high I hit a knot in the tree and it caused me to drop my machete and as it came down it decided to do a little damage. It gashed opened my left hand above the fingers and made for a lot of blood. I looked at it and looked at my comp and said ¨Hey Elder Vasquez, me corte, VAMOS! (Hey Elder Vasquez, I cut myself, LETS GO!) Elder Seaman, from SLC and my district leader, dutifully applied the first-aid techniques approved by the Boy Scouts of America by ripping his shirt in a masculine fashion and applying direct pressure to the wound...EPIC! We jumped in a little moto-taxi and headed for the nearest medical clinic to find the best medical attention which the jungles of Peru has to offer. Luckily it was only two blocks but seeing the condition of the clinic I was definitely willing to look for another place but I didn´t complain. The first thing they asked us before letting us in was ¨Who´s going to pay?¨ and ¨What happened?¨ in that order. They took me into a back room and started to sow me back up. The bill came to a whomping 24 soles (8 dollars) which is great reflection of the quality of medical care that we can get here in the jungle. It was a great adventure but one that I don´t really want to experience again here soon.

Love You All!

Well family I hope this finds you all happy and well. I appreciate you all so much and love hearing about all the little things that you are all up to. Keep on keeping on and do what’s right. I love ya tons and don´t you forget it!
PS Can you thank Bill Workman for the great letter that he wrote me this past week? I am going to write him a hand written one this week but just let him know that it meant a lot to me. Thanks!

A Camping Trip Every Night!

We got settled in our new little cottage and needless to say, we are definitely showing an example of humility. Our entire zone has really nice rooms with everything they need, while Elder Vasquez and I have a very tiny two room house with one little bathroom. The only parts that are covered by a roof are our bedroom (well part of it) and where we study. But I am not complaining, I feel like I am camping every night and it just can´t get any better than that. We have already had visits from frogs, snakes, and other junglish creatures, but its all part of the job. Besides, sitting on the toilet under a full sky of stars has got to be something that just not everyone gets to experience, lol.

I STILL HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO!

I absolutely love my zone of Tarapoto and the way that my bunch of Elders are already meshing together and enjoying the joy that this work brings. They definitely make my responsibilities light and worth wild. I am so thankful for Elder Vasquez and everything he has already taught me. He is a great guy with lots of patience with me. Being zone leader has really made me look at the work in a different way and has really helped me to widen by vision as a missionary. It’s definitely a time to learn and grow and to make every second count. I have loved all of the little obstacles and new challenges that the Lord has trusted me with, and I feel as if I did my best and learned what he wanted me to learn. BUT I STILL HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO!

Elder Holland's Special Easter Message From Conference

And for our Spanish speaking friends--

Landon's Testimony of Conference

Yesterday afternoon, as the afternoon session concluded I turned to one of the Elders in my zone and told him ¨I wish conference was all day everyday¨. I came away from this Aprils conference full of new energy, excitement, determination, and a stronger sense of the love that our Heavenly Father has for us. One thing is for sure though; no matter what is going on in the world we will always have that shining beacon showing us the way if we always follow the councils of our loving Prophet, Thomas S. Monson.

This last conference I decided to do something a little different to try to get the most out of it and to give me the chance to receive my own personal revelation. I thought of ten questions that I thought we help me grow as a person and my ability to show this Gospel. Everyone one of my questions was answered more than once in so many different ways. I want to share one of the questions that I thought of as well as the answers I received. I asked myself ¨How can I strengthen my Family while being far away. ¨ One thing that seemed to always come up was our loyalty to the convenants that we as a family have made to be sealed together. If I do my part and stay worthy of the blessings that come from the temple, that example will leak out and help those around me. I loved how it was repeated so many times to draw near to the house of the Lord and to always be worthy of the blessings that can only come from the temple. I love you guys and hope that you never forget or doubt that for a moment. I know we are guided by a living prophet who loves us and will only show us the right thing to do. I have many imperfections and many things that I want to change, but I know I can always do better thanks to the love of my Heavenly Father.

Looking Forward to Conference!

I´m really excited for conference this weekend. Its amazing but even here in the remote mountain jungle of Peru, the saints will be able to participate. I love hearing the councils of our Prophets. I just want you to know that I sustain each and every one of them. They are men called of God in this time to prepare us to return with our loving Heavenly Father.

Well , family sorry this is short but I am alive, well, and just loving what gets thrown at me. I love you all, and i hope you can always see the love of our heavenly father in your lives.

The Lord is Mindful of Each of Us...

We have a great deal of work to do here in Tarapoto but the entire zone is looking forward to the challenge. Tarapoto is actually a district with about 5 little branches. Before we got on the plane President Perez told us quite frankly what our mission will entail. ¨Tarapoto has to be a stake by the end of the year¨. So that is what we are going to do, we have to build and strength Tarapoto enough to meet the requirements of being a Stake. I´m more than excited for the challenge and the trust that the Lord and President Perez has put in us.
I´m quickly learning that there is never a dull moment here in the mish. This past week we have been faced with the reality of not knowing the area, the land lady has given us by the end of the day to pack our bags and find a new house, and the assuredly that the Lord is taking great care of his missionaries. Even in the midst of so much worry and stress, the Lord quickly reminds me that he is there and willing to carry his part of the load. This past week I have really leaned on him alot and he hasn´t let me down. I have found the peace and comfort that comes from trusting in him and putting His will before my own. He loves and is taking care of me, as well as each one of you.

Loving the Work!

Saying that I am enjoying my time back in the Jungle World be an understatement!!! I´m in the coveted area of the mission, TARAPOTO!!! It is definitely what you would think of when you think of ¨Jungle¨. The jungle covered mountains and the white waterfalls, this place is amazing. Elder Vasquez and I have the Junglish area in the zone of which I am just happy with. We are constantly fording through muddy roads, hiding under palm trees to escape the rain, and eating our fair share of coconut and bananas. I love staring the day out with a clean white shirt and returning home at night covered in mud and being soaked to the bone. I´m just loving it!

Planting Good Seeds in Peru

Like the saying goes ¨You can count the seeds in an apple, but you can’t count the apples in a seed¨ I love this work!!!

¨Encontré mi AMIGO!¨ (I found my Friend!)

This past week I was reminded of just how special my time in Iquitos was and how it has a big spot in my heart. During my time there we befriended a less active member and began working with him to get him active and excited about serving a mission. His name is Elmer Garcia. We would always invite him to go on visits with us and sometimes late at night he would show up at our room looking for someone to talk to. We shared a lot of great moments together including the receiving his mission call. While his was waiting for his call to arrive he came to our room late one night to share with us a dream that he had.
He was in the Pre existence with all of his family and a friend. The friend that he was with was he best friend in the pre existence but didn’t know his name or remember very well his face. He remembers the way that they both felt together and waiting for their call to come to earth. He said that he felt the same excitement and feelings waiting for his call to come to earth as he feels for his mission call. Then one day a messenger came and delivered two letters, one to Elmer and one to his friend. The letter to Elmer said that he had bee called to earth and would be raised in the true church and would have many challenges but would be able to share the truth with many. The letter to his friend said that he wouldn’t be raised in the truth but would pass threw many hard times, confused with the meaning of life, and would have to work hard to find the truth and return to God’s presence. Before the dream ended Elmer made a promise to his friend that he would do everything possible to find him and bring him the truth. As he told us the dream he mentioned that he wasn’t quite sure what it meant but that he knew that what he was doing, with going on a mission, felt like the right thing to do. When I left Iquitos he left for the CCM and I hadn’t heard from him since until last week when I got a letter from him. It was a full piece of paper with three words on it ¨Encontré mi AMIGO¨. (I found my Friend). It was such a strong sense of accomplish and strength to me, knowing that he is being a worthy servant of God and that he is an instrument in his hands. This is Lords work and we are finding his children, our friend, and our brothers and sisters.
Well family sorry this letter isn’t too newsy but I really wanted to share that experience with you all. By small and simple things are great things brought to pass. We can’t underestimate even the smallest of efforts to share this great message.

Where Is Landon?

Well its that time again, six weeks down which means TRANSFERS! Well my wish came true and I am heading back to the Jungle. I’m not going back to Iquitos but instead I’m going to Tarapoto. Its what they call ¨selva alta¨ (high jungle) so its going to be mountainous and junglish, a mix of two of my favorite terrains. My new comp is going to be Elder Vasquez and the two of us are entering the area new as Zone Leaders. I’m definitely excited for the change and for all of the new adventures that await me there in Tarapoto. I’m going to miss working so close with each missionary from my district and giving them trainings every week but I’m excited for the new challenges and opportunities which await. This is a video from Tarapoto. It is in Spanish, so I don't know what is says, but the pictures are awesome and the people seem so inviting. Located in the High Amazon Jungle of Northeastern Peru, Tarapoto is the center of the regions economic activity. With it´s easy access to the jungle, tropical climate, spectacular scenery, and fascinating indigenous cultures,Tarapoto has much to offer. This certainly offers two of Landon's favorite places to be-mountains and jungles!

A Break From Chicken and Rice!

Well today my old pensionista from Palermo, ANGELA, invited us over for lunch and she is going to make us TACOS. Yes I know, it is something that doesn’t include rice or chicken, so by hearing that I was totally willing to take her up on her offer. I worked with one of the Zone Leaders last week in Palermo so it was great to see how the area has progressed and how the work just keeps on chugging

Can We Help?

I have a bit of a funny to share with you that happened to us with one of our appointments. We are teaching a guy whose wife delivers babies inside her house and one morning we went to teach him and he answers the door and tells us that he ¨esta con parto¨ (He’s delivering a baby). Well being the gringo that I am, I didn’t understand him correctly and I instantly ask him if we can HELP! He gave me the funniest look and then it hit me just what exactly he told us. We arranged another appointment to return and we went on our way. Yeah it’s good to laugh at yourself at times as well.

Learning More Leadership Skills

I can’t believe this change is almost over, I feel as if it just got started. We finished the week a several baptisms both here in Puente Piedra as well as a few back in Los Rosales. I feel as if I have finally come around and have realized just what the Lord was trying to teach me by leaving Los Rosales and still putting me in charge of the work and its progress.
Having to lead an area without being in that area requires a lot of trust and confidence in others, knowing that they are going to do their part to get things done. Before the mission I wasn’t one who put a lot of trust in others with respect to important things that needed to get done. I have always been one of those ¨I’ll do it my self kind of guys¨. Not really willing to pass the load or rely on to many people to get things done. This last change has been quite a big growing experience for me, one that I know I will always look back on and be thankful for it. I have had to rely on so many people to verify the progress of my investigators, accompany them to church, help to answer questions, and aiding them with overcoming challenges. At first I found my self really frustrated sharing the load but as time went on I realized that I was actually learning a very valuable and life long trait. I’m so thankful for the little challenges and bumps in the road that the Lord gives me because I always learn something new and he helps me to grow so much. If we always look at the bumps of life with a positive attitude, we will always come away that much stronger and that much closer to the Lord.

Time Is Flying!!

I did receive your package last week and loved everything in it, especially the CALENDAR! It’s hard to believe that you are able to already make a calendar we more than a years worth of pictures, TIME IS FLYING!!! It brought back so many great memories as well as feeling the love and support you all show me. It is hung proudly on my wall, Thanks so much. And yes the Twinkies and cupcakes were very well received!

It sounds as if Brian and Dad had a good time in the SNOW! I hope you all have another great week. I know I say it a lot, but thank you so much for the great letters and news from the home front. Its so exciting and great to see how each and every one of you are growing so much and how the Lord continues to bless and take care of you all. I love you all and think the world of each and everyone of you. Love you tons and then some!

An Interesting Encounter

I´m not quite sure what happened this week but we sure had our fair share of running into some of the strangest people with the most ridiculous way of looking at things. It is usually a common everyday thing to make a contact with someone who thinks that we came strait from hell to pollute and destroy men. But this week we ran into people from the church called ¨The Ark of Jesus¨, Israelites, Atheists, and the list continues. But one of our surprise encounters came from a contact that we made who invited us back the next day to teach him more. When we arrived at his house we discovered that he had invited some ¨friends¨ to come and listen as well. Before we entered his house I just had a strange feeling, I turned to Elder Andrade and whispered to him ¨They are only here to contend, we will just answer their questions, bear testimony, and we are out¨. That is just what we did it was amazing.

I instantly opened the floor up for questions and once they started asking us things Elder Andrade and I both felt as if someone else took over and began speaking to them through us. We answered every one of their questions with scriptures and testimony and by the end of the lesson they honestly could not ask us anything else. They were honestly trembling trying to come up with something to contradict us. We both ended with out testimony of the Restoration and how today we are guided by a living prophet. When we got up to leave one of the friends that was invited to listen to us pulled us aside and asked us to come to his house to teach him more. It was one of those long shot miracles that you wish for, and it happened.

The Lord Directs This Work

Last Wednesday we had our interviews with President Perez and I was really looking forward to being able to talk with him a little about the situation in Los Rosales. He told me that he was in constant contact with President Alarcon but President Perez doesn’t feel like missionaries will be back there within six months. When I heard that my heart just sank. Even though I was disappointed and a little discouraged I had to just pull myself together and remember that I am not the one guiding this work. The Lord knows what is best and when the time is right he will give the nod to President Perez and missionaries will be back in Los Rosales. President wants me to keep in contact with the Leaders and all of the investigators so that things keep rolling and they still have success. I’m so thankful for modern day revelation and how that is the way the Lord directs this work. I know that President Perez was and is called of God to be our President here in the North Mission.

Share Your Testimonies!!

This past week I got to thinking quite a bit of something that I really regret not doing more of before the mission. It really hit me that before the mission I wasn’t really open with sharing my testimony with those around me. I guess it just hit me because seeing what this gospel can do to help put structure in ones life, give meaning to ones life, and to feel the love that our Heavenly father has for us, it made me think of all of my friends that don’t know the truth of all these things and that I could have made a difference. I know that Brian will have a great opportunity to share a little bit of what he believes with his friend Bailee. It takes a lot of strength to stand up for something but I know that my little bro will make it happen and that he will be much happier for doing it. I too am thankful for the way my friends respected and help to accommodate me with my beliefs and I too am much happier for it.

Well family I hope this letter finds you all very very well and very very happy. I think the world of each and every one of you and am so very blessed to have your love and support. Elder Andrade and I are working hard and just loving the work. Thanks again for everything. I love you guys!

A Neat "Reunion"

Thank you so much for the great letter this week, it gave me so much strength and courage to just keep on keeping on even in the midst of challenges and adversity. We are safe and very anxious to get back to work in the little ward of Los Rosales. Thanks for the concern and the prayers, they are being answered and the Lord definitely loves and takes care of his missionaries.

Yesterday was the Peru Lima Puente Piedra Stake Conference and it felt a lot like a giant home coming. I have served in four wards that belong to the Puente Piedra Stake and being together with all of the great members and people yesterday felt like a giant home coming. I was able to visit with those from Miramar, Palermo, Los Rosales, as well as Puente Piedra. It was really special seeing my converts at the conference, knowing that they are still young and tender in the faith, but are making the strides and sacrifices to become strong and valiant. All of the members from Los Rosales were extremely thankful and glad to know that we were safe and that soon they will have their missionaries back in the ward. The neatest part of the entire morning was the feeling that I felt, I felt as if I was amongst family and friends. Seeing them all brought me so much joy and strength and it was just another testimony builder that this work is true and this Gospel blesses and changes lives.

Seeing the Gospel Bless Lives...

I am happy to tell you that this past week we spent a lot more time with Margarita and she accepted to be baptized along with her daughter and her granddaughter. She has already told us that she has felt a huge difference in her house by inviting us in her house and listening to the lessons. I feel as if this one will be for Grandma. I know that she is playing a huge part in helping Margarita along and to come to an understanding of how true this Gospel is. This weekend we are going to be able to baptize all of my investigators that I left in Los Rosales. It has taken quite a bit of coordinating and a lot of time on the phone but this weekend we will get r´ done.

Feeling Help and Support From Grandma Zweifel

I had a really neat experience yesterday with a lady that we contacted. We met an elderly lady by the name of Margarita and once we got talking to her I knew there was something special about her. She invited us in here house and after a couple of minutes talking with her I felt as though I already knew her. She made me think so much of Grandma Zweifel. They way she just had that loving spark about her and her eagerness to learn and get to know you. We taught her about the Book of Mormon and she loved it and invited us to come back. We are going to challenge her to baptism Tuesday and I can’t wait to do it. She was a great little lady and it was really neat because I felt as if Grandma was there with us teaching her. I love all of the special spiritual experience that I have had thus far in the mission and that is truly what makes this work what it is. Everyday the Lord trusts us to gather his children and with his help there is no way we can fail. (Grandma Zweifel's name is Margaret....neat coincidence?)

Carry On, Carry On, Carry On!!

My new comp is Elder Andrade and he is from Lima. You wouldn’t think him to be Latin because he looks like an African. He is a great kid and I’m really excited to work with him this change. We are currently working in the Puente Piedra ward and we both hope to be back in Los Rosales by the end of the month. I’ve got quite the work load right now though; even though there aren’t missionaries in Los Rosales I still have the responsibility for the investigators. So I am directing Los Rosales by phone during the night and during the day we are working in Puente Piedra. It’s going really good and thanks to the members in Los Rosales it makes my work a whole lot easier. Even though things are hectic right now the work is still going forth and I still love it.

Reason for the "Emergency Transfer"

Now that things have calmed down a little bit and we are safely working in our new area, I will be able to fill you in on what is going on in Los Rosales. Last week Elder Ortega and I had an unexpected visit from two ladies who aren’t members (The area is very small so everyone knows the missionaries and where they live). Their sons are part of a gang there and they came to warn us that we should stay low for a little while. Their son’s gang was planning some stuff to do to the ¨Mormon Missionaries¨ and they came to warn us. We thanked them so much for their concern and Elder Ortega asked them just what they had planned to do to us. To make a long story short there were death threats flying around and that isn’t something to take lightly. We immediately called President Perez and the next morning we were in the offices with our entire luggage. I don’t really know how to feel, I am more frustrated than anything because the work was going so well but we also know that Satan tries to do what he can to frustrate the work in anyway he can. Thank you so much for all of your prayers and love, they were definitely felt on our end.

The Case of the Contaminated Clif Bars!

Thanks for everything especially for the great letter. Thanks for the notice with the Clif Bars, but I’m afraid it came too late. We have eaten the entire box and nothing has happened yet. I’m sure it’s thanks to this stomach of stone that I have acquired here in Peru. I’m alive and well and love you all so so much. Thanks for everything! (We sent a case of Clif Bars to Landon for Christmas...He loves them! Then Costco called and sent a letter telling us to get rid of them immediately since they could contain contaminated peanut butter! The Lord is certainly watching out for they young missionaries!)

Wonderful People in Los Rosales!

This past week Elder Ortega and I finished the transfer in style with the baptism of Luisa Taipe. Around 20 years ago, when Luisa was living in the jungle, the missionaries knocked on her door and she quite rudely rejected them because she thought they were from the devil and that they brought a bad spirit in the house and a list of other things. Well to say the least she has experienced a mighty change of heart and realized that the message we carry changes lives and blesses families. Her sister is a member and seeing how her life has changed, Luisa wanted to experience that same happiness and joy. She asked her sister what it was that made her so happy and glow all the time and all that her sister said was ¨When can two of my angels come a speak with you¨. From there we began teaching her and yesterday we were able to see her enter the waters of baptism. When she came out of the water she was so happy and just started crying. She always calls us her little angels. I really hope we will be able to get back to our area of Los Rosales soon, I have so many friends and family that I’m not quite ready to leave yet.

Opposition in All Things...

I thought that I had already experienced just how crazy transfers could be, but this go round has definitely proven me wrong. Due to a situation in our area, Los Rosales will be closed for some time and I’m not really sure when they will open it up again. I was supposed to stay another change there but it looks as if I will be opening a new area in Puente Piedra and hopefully by the end of the month they will send me back to my area. Elder Ortega is heading to another zone with one of my old companions, Elder Salvatierra, so it will be good for Elder Salvatierra because Elder Ortega will keep him working hard. I’m not sure who my new comp will be but I will find out Wed.

Don’t worry about anything, the Lord is definitely taking care of his missionaries and is watching over us. There was a situation in our area which will take a bit of time for things to calm down but hopefully by the end of the month I will be back there working with my investigators. I reported the situation last night to the Zone Leaders and this morning President Perez called us up and told us to pack our bags and get to the offices. Keep us in your prayers as well as the area of Los Rosales so that we will be able to get back to work there.

You can probably guess the sudden bit of news of us leaving was quite a blow for the Ibarra Family (Our Pensionita and Apartment). They are going to organize a giant ward wide fast so that their missionaries will be able to return to their ward soon. I know we will be back there soon. This is just a little bit of Satan working but as we have already been promised, No Unhallowed hand can stop this work from progressing. We are definitely fighting a war but the Lord is on our side and we can’t fail with his help.

A Busy, Grateful Time

While writing this letter one of the new Gringos, Elder Atkinson, is helping me with my English so that you will all be able to understand what I am trying to tell you. Like we say in the Mish, “if you can’t understand, at least we hope you can feel the spirit”. I can’t believe this transfer is almost over; it seems like yesterday my son Elder Ortega arrived. Time is flying but there is still so much more work to be done.

Thank you all for the great letters and support. The second of your Christmas packages arrived and today I am going to bake the cookies with my old Pensionita, Angela from Palermo. We are going to spend the day with her so I figure I could bake cookies with her. Well I hope you all have another great week. Remember that I love you and am oh so thankful for you.

Wonderful Baptismal Experiences

Well another week down and another week full of success and stories that will last a lifetime. Its great when a companionship has the same goals, the same drive to get r done, and works well together because that is the key to having success. The Lord has once again blessed our area, our ward, and our companionship; and its sounds that he has once again blessed you all as well.

We ended the week we two more baptisms and one priesthood ordination. We baptized a lady by the name of Basilia who really has shown a lot of faith and courage with coming to know the Gospel. She doesn’t live anywhere near our area, but with permission from President Perez and President Alarcon we were able to teach her here in Los Rosales. In her home she has no support what so ever with the church, she has a friend that lives here in our area so we held the lessons there. She has traveled every weekend for the past month to hear the lessons and attend church. Despite all of her family being against the idea; she was interviewed, baptized, and confirmed yesterday. She was so happy and I’m thankful that the ward has welcomed her with open arms and is helping her feel welcome.

We also baptized MANUEL!!! Do you remember him? He was the one that Elder Pratt and I found on our work visit that went down the tubes but Manuel was the only bit of light we found that day. We have really come a long way with him, we experienced everything from him kicking us out of his house because he didn’t want to listen anymore to him once again inviting us back because he had a change of heart and knew what we were teaching him was true. We baptized him Saturday night and it was really special. When I pulled him out of the water he had a HUGE smile on his face and just started laughing. I gave him a hug and told him that he was a perfect man, he just smiled and told me “This has got to be the most important thing that I have done thus far in my life”. When he bore his testimony he shared his gratitude for the way that we were so persistent and patient with him. He said that for the longest time he only had one foot in the path of the Gospel but when he heard the true gospel he knew he had to dive right in with both feet in order for things to make sense.

P-Day Activities!

Well today we are off to have a giant water balloon fight and later this afternoon we are taking the young men of my ward on in a basketball game on our new court. The young men are pretty sweet here in Los Rosales so today we are going to shoot it around a bit with them. Remember that I love you and that I know that where I am is where I am suppose to be. Love you ALL!

Mr. Moretto Would Be So Proud!

Given that my companion "son" is from Colombia, I figured that he would already know Spanish and that we would get right to work. Well come to find out, there are quite a few differences between the Spanish in Colombia and the Spanish from Peru. I have to teach Elder Ortega some different words that the people here in Peru use. It's kinda funny because I'm a gringo and I have to teach my Latin companion Spanish. I like to give him a hard time about it, but he's a good sport and his Spanish is coming along great. (Mr. Moretto was Landon's High School Spanish Teacher)

The Lord Works Along the Side of Us

This past week we had three more baptisms which included the Tucto Family as well as a 17 year old named Javier. As always it was an amazing experience watching them enter the water and come out knew and perfect. Seeing how far the Tucto Family has come was such a great feeling of accomplishment. They have overcome family troubles, financial problems, pressure from family members and the list continues. Knowing that I had a part in their spiritual progress and helping them to find the truth, is more satisfying than anything. When Janet Tucto bore her testimony she shared the experience of when Elder Zamora and I knocked on her door and how she knew that we were the answer to her prayer. She talked about how she knows that her family is now on the right path and how she and Freddy both feel that there is meaning to life. Yesterday we were able to ordain both Freddy and Javier to the priesthood as well as two more of our converts. It was definitely a week full of success but it's only because the Lord works along the side of us.

Working Like Crazy

This past week was full of success, smiles, laughs and spiritual experiences. Elder Ortega and I continue working like crazy and the Lord still shows us where we need to go. It is truly amazing how when a companionship really buckles down and truly wants to find success, how the Lord always comes through with his part if first we do ours. It's a great feeling kneeling down at night, exhausted and worn out, and giving an account of your day to the Lord knowing that you had done your best and did your part.

"Good luck with him..."

Saturday night was the first baptism in the new baptismal font and it was definitely a night to remember. We baptized David Ore and oh what a great experience it was. All of David’s families are members including his wife and kids and he has listened to the missionaries since 1996. I remember the first time we met him, we talked to him for a bit and tried to see if he was interested in listening to us (we didn’t know that he had listened to the Elders before) and he accepted an appointment. Before we arrived at the house we ran into his mother in law who had a bit of advice for us. She told us ¨Good luck with him, we’ve tried and no one has been able to get through to him¨. The Lord prepares his children and he prepared David to be baptized the 17th of January. As we were leaving the baptismal font he just kept smiling at me, gave me a huge hug, and just told me thanks. I don’t feel as if I did anything to help him make his decision except show up and teach him the lessons. They are already planning on going to the temple next year.

Something to Be Proud Of....

Well this past week was another really great week with a lot of success. Saturday afternoon was the dedication of our new chapel and so many people came from all over our area. Everyone is mentioning how they have longed to have something in their town that they can be proud of. Even the people who aren’t members take a lot of pride in the chapel and are softening their hearts and allowing us to enter their homes.

Little Things That Make Me Want To Stay Forever!

Last Saturday we had the Wedding of The Tucto Family. They looked great and definitely had a special experience. Their entire family showed up, which wasn’t expected by Freddy or Jane. They all came and showed their support as well as the members of the ward. We really have come a long way with this family. I remember knocking on the door and Jane answered and when we told her that we were missionaries and that we had a message that would make her family eternally happy she broke down and cried. She let us in, told us the circumstances with her family and we shared with her how the Gospel of Christ would change everything. She told us yesterday that she knew that we were the answer to her prayers, and that for the first time, she feels at home when she is home. It’s the little things like that, which just make me want to stay here forever. This work is what brings the joy and happiness which will last forever. I love the trials and I love overcoming them and feeling the joy and comfort of the spirit.

Opening New Chapel!!

Well yesterday was our first Sunday in our new Chapel and it is simply amazing. It is definitely a diamond in the rough in our area. It is two stories high and is very simply designed but yet so beautiful and special. This little ward has worked so hard and have been so obedient and the Lord has blessed them all in such a big way. Elder Ortega and I were the lucky ones to be the first people to give talks over the new podium. Elder Ortega talked about the atonement and I talked about the importance of prophets in these days. It was such a great Sunday but what made it even great was the joy that we saw on the faces of our investigators. We had nine investigators come to church and they all told us about how the chapel has a special feel about it. How walking through the door they felt as if they were leaving the stresses of everyday and the worries of the world behind, and for three hours they felt at peace and uplifted. The whole area is talking about the “Mormons” and that is just what we want. This weekend will be the dedication and the following weekend will be the Open House.

I'm Doing Good!

I am really doing good and trying to stay healthy. If I was sick you wouldn’t know it anyway so as far as you all will know I am doing great and working hard. I love you guys and hope that this letter finds you all in great shape and with smiles. Thanks for everything.

Working With Special Families

This weekend we have the “Matrimonio Massivo” and The Tucto Family are ready and really excited. Tonight we are going to have a Family Home Evening with them with some members so that will be really great. These last two weeks they have come all the way to the chapel by themselves, its incredible. They walk so far with their three little kids and they always arrive with the biggest smiles on their faces. Last week when we were teaching them they mentioned to us that they don’t want us to leave or get transferred. I get so attached to the people that I get to work with that it hurts thinking of the day that I will have to leave them behind. I just want to be here forever helping them with whatever they need temporally and spiritually.

I Have a New Son!

I hope the title line didn’t scare you at all but it looks like my son will be staying with me for the length of his first change. His name is Elder Ortega and he is from Colombia and this Wednesday he will complete his first month in the mission. He is very new but he has a whole bunch of excitement and energy to get to work. We are going to have a ton of work here in the area because this next week we will be in our new Chapel and everybody in the area are asking questions about the church and the Mormons. I’m really glad that I am in the area for at least another change because we are definitely going to be kept busy the next five weeks, But that’s the way we like it!!!

Where I am at right now, is where I need to be.....

So last night I got a bit of a surprise which I am really looking forward to. I got a call from the assistants and they informed me that today I am to go to the offices to pick-up my new Greenie Comp. I am going to be in a trio for at least a week until the transfers next week. This change is going to last 7 weeks instead of 6 because it costs a lot to travel on holidays so the church expanded this transfer and will shorten the next. But today at 3:00 I will be the first mission field companion for a newbie. I´m way excited and way stressed out!!! But I am thankful for the trust that the Lord has in me to carry out such important tasks and responsibilities with his holy work. Something that I have learned here in the mission is that the Lord calls us in our weaknesses to carry out his work and I am a living testimony of that. I don´t feel adequate at times but I know that the Lord makes a way for his work to be accomplished and press forward.

I’m sorry if this letter seems a bit rushed but we are also just on our way to our District Meeting. I just want you all to know that I love you tons and that I know that where I am at right now is where I need to be and is the best thing for me as for my family. I know that the Lord is taking such great care of you all.

With Love and Thanks

Elder Landon Schofield

Very Special Day at the Temple

Yesterday the zone went to the Temple and as always it was such a great experience. This temple trip was special for not just the spirit that was felt but also for the company we were with during the session. Elder Evans and I did a session with Elder Gavarett from the first quorum of the seventy. He and his family were going through a session and Elder Evans and I took up the last two seats. He is the General Authority that spoke about Puente Piedra and President Alarcon in Conference. Afterwards, outside on the temple grounds, he asked us to take his family pics and it was great to get to know them all. They all wanted to practice their English so we did out best to help them out. He gave us both a big hug and we went on our way. It was really such a neat day in the temple. Our session kept on getting postponed so we were able to spend a lot of time in the Lords house, which I am thankful for.

Busy Holiday Season!

After we talked to Landon on Christmas Day, we were expecting to hear from him again on Monday, like usual. Monday came and went, Tuesday came and went...We were hoping things were fine and that he just would skip this week and catch up on Monday the 5th. FINALLY we heard from him later in the week and were tickled to get his letter. Very busy down there!

Yes this is your missionary who finally found a moment in time to sit down and write his family a little letter letting them know how he is doing. Sorry it has taken so long to get a letter off to you but to make a long story short, it has been one heck of a crazy week thus far, and its going to get even busier really soon.

First off Monday morning we had a Multi-Zone conference and Christmas party. It was great to finally catch up with so many Elders from my group that I haven’t seen in so long. Everyone has changed a little bit but it’s all in a good way and sometimes I get to wondering if I have changed at all. President and Sister Perez both presented the certificates for baptizing families and things like that, and when they called me up to give me my certificates for the families that I was able to baptize, President Perez grabs the microphone and says “Elder Schofield also baptized a Catholic Priest in Iquitos”! I had actually just wrote him a letter (Alberto) to see how he is doing.

It was so much fun and such a boost to hear your voices last Thursday. It sounds like I got the better end of the deal because I wanted to hear your voices and you wanted to hear mine, but thankfully you all talked more, haha. You all sounded so great and I am so thankful for the great support I am receiving from you all. Before you know it I will be calling you again, CRAZY!

Christmas Phone Calls!!

We had a wonderful visit with Landon at 12:00 noon our time on Christmas Day. He called on Christmas Eve to set up the exact time and had just had dinner with some investigators. On Thursday, he was with some members and sounded so good. He was able to get his phone cards down there and call right through! Isn't technology just a miracle?! Anna and Curt and their kids were here. Amy, Brady and Alyvia and of course Dad and Brian and I. He sounded like he is busy and loving the work. What a blessing and a wonderful gift to be able to hear his voice through little tiny wires!! What a great time to be alive and to be a missionary!!

A Special Christmas Message...

Enjoy...and Remember

Sand Angels?

Well Family I´m going to end this email, but just remember that I love you all and can´t wait to hear your voices THURSDAY. Have a great Christmas week and enjoy the snow day. Maybe I will have to go roll around in the sand and pretend that its snow, ha ha, yup, I´ll just have to do that. Love you all and I´ll talk to yáll later. Thanks Guys!

Better Belated Than Never!

HEY MOM, don´t you worry i did not forget your birthday but Elder Evans is giving me a hard time because i didn´t say anything to you before the big day, but I am definitely saying somthing after the big day. I hope you had a very specail day Mom. I love you tons and I was thinking of you on the 19th. You are such a great example to me mom and love the support and encouragement you all give me. I can´t wait to talk to you thursday but until then, remember that I love you. Oh yeah i almost forgot HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Your Son,

Elder Schofield

Update on Manuel...

This week went a bit smoother than the rest but we still have a few bumps to smooth out. Just a little update with Manuel. He accepted a baptismal date and will get baptized the 10th of January. He along with another one of our investigators will be the first ones to get baptized in the new Chapel.

Christmas Fireside-Peruvian Style!

Saturday night our zone along with the support of President Alarcon, put together a New Member/Investigator fireside. We invited as many people as we could to come and enjoy a special night of Christmas Stories and experiences along with conversion stories. We invited President Perez, The Lima Peru Temple President, as well as Elder Loli (member of the area Seventy). They all came and shared some very special stories from their personal lives and how they came to know the truth. All of us missionaries formed a choir and sang “Oh Holy Night”, with Santa hats and everything. It was really a great night but it was really neat to see our investigators and new converts really get a feel for the true meaning of Christmas and to feel the spirit.

Christmas Call is Coming!!

I am seriously having a hard time believing that it is already time to talk to you all again over the phone. TIME IS FLYING! I am going to get the phone call business out of the way first so that I can fill you all in on what went down this past week. I will be making my pre-call Wednesday around six o´clock your time, which means 8 o´clock my time. So from there we will be to setting up the time and all that good staff. I can´t wait to talk to you all and please please please make sure that Anna and Curt, Amy and Brady, and the kids are all there. I can´t wait to chat with everyone for a bit. Have your questions ready and your thoughts organized because a little Peruvian missionary will be making a call home.

My Testimony of Prayer Has Grown

This past week we had a bit of a surprise baptism. We had been teaching a man by the name of Javier for the longest time. This guy is a future bishop and for the longest time has wanted to get baptized. He family got baptized about a month ago but he couldn´t get baptized because he has been working in another part of Peru and is only home for about two days and then leaves for several weeks at a time. This past week he got home and we told him that if he felt comfortable and wanted to do it, we could get him baptized and confirmed this week. He was more than excited, so Saturday we got him baptized and right alter the Bishop confirmed him. This is when it gets really neat. When he stood up Saturday to give his testimony he shared with us that he has been praying and fasting for the longest time so that he would be able to be home for Christmas, have the opportunity to get baptized, and begin taking the steps to get to the Temple. He bore his testimony that God hears and answers prayers. He know that God wanted him to get baptized and spend this special time of the year with his family and he made it happen.

Before the mission I didn´t have a very strong testimony with respect to prayer. But I just want you all to know that when I pray God hears me, and when I ask he answers. By this simple yet powerful form of comunicación we are able to talk with our living Heavenly Father who only wants to know how we are doing and what he can do for us. I find so much comfort in that and love being able to talk to him about anything at anytime.

So my new Penionista and family is really great. We actually live at one end of their house so in order to eat in the mornings and nights we just have to opened up a door and walk on in. I must say its not to bad of a deal. It defiantly beats walking several blocks both ways to get to the Pensionista´s house. They have one son, Jefferson, and he is twelve years old. He is always asking us to make visits with him to members of his deacons quorum that aren’t attending church. They are a great family and I’m pretty sure we will be spending Christmas with them this year.

Well Family just remember how much you are loved by a Missionary here in Beautiful Lima Peru. I love you guys and appreciate all that you are doing for me. I defiantly love every moment of the mission, the good and tough times. This is the Lords work and no matter what happens, it will always go forth. Love you Tons.

Swedish Cake or Paneton.....Swedish Cake!!

Just for the record, Paneton has nothing over Swedish cake. I would take Swedish cake over Paneton any day of the week.

Matrimonio Massivo!

Our Stake and the Mayor of Puente Piedra and organizing a Matrimonio Massivo for January and we are busy getting people ready. We have one couple that is going to get married and they are the Tuctor Family. We met them by knocking their door and when we first met them they were going through a really tough time. We were able to teach them the importance of Marriage and if they were to get married they would be able to work together towards a single goal. Like Elder Nelson says “Marriage is when God takes two imperfect people and puts them together to achieve a single Goal”. They realized that this would be the best thing for their family as well as themselves. Yesterday we had a big meeting with President Alarcon (Stake President of Puente Piedra who was mentioned in Conference) to get the marriage organized and all that fun stuff. It looks as if we will be marrying 20 couples!

Something Big Is Going to Happen!

This past week I had a work visit with one of my Zone Leaders Elder Pratt. The entire day was full of appointments but one by one each and every appointment fell through. It’s normal that one or two appointments fall through but I got a large dose of disappointment that day. After every appointment I just turned to Elder Pratt and told him “Something Big is going to Happen”. I said it to him a lot that day. But at the end of the day Ssomething Big Happened. I bet we had made a mission record for contacts in one day but I’m glad we did because in the midst of all the disappointments and contacts we found the one. We knocked on the door of Manuel and we got to talking with him. He had told us that sometime ago a friend of his gave him a book (The Book of Mormon) and he read it and loved it. After reading he had some questions but didn’t know who to talk to or where he could go to find out more about the Church. We taught him more about where The Book of Mormon came from and invited him to pray. Since then he is progressing right along and is really excited about continuing with the church. I was sure glad we ended on that note because I’m not going to lie, It Was A Hard Long Day! It was one of those Tester Days, when the Lord tries to see what you are made of and I just pray that we gave him something to be proud of.

A New Temple Announced in Peru!

The First Presidency made this announcement today! There will be a new temple built in Trujillo, Peru. Trujillo is north of Lima. Landon has a relative, Mitch Withers, who is serving in Trujillo. Check out his blog at http://elderwithers.net/. (Elder Withers' dad, Gary, is Landon's mom's cousin.) How exciting to see the growth of the church in this area of the Lord's vineyard!

Paneton!!

Everyone is getting excited and bustling around for the holiday season. It sounds like we are both going to have a snow-less Christmas. Remember how before I left for the mission I accompanied the Spanish speaking Elders and one of their investigators gave us some Peruvian Fruitcake. Well the first time I will have to admit I wasn't a fan and even when we ate it in the CCM and didn't think to much of it, but now I have eaten so much of it I will have to admit that I kind of like it. It's called Paneton and everyone year during December and Christmas the Peruvians eat lots and lots along with hot chocolate. So when I get home I might have to look into finding some place that sells Paneton back in the states. You guys should look for it and give it a try, let me know how that goes. (We were able to find this special treat at Costco in Twin Falls! Lani was an instant fan and it is growing on the rest of us!)

I love you all so much and am so thankful for all of your encouragement and prayers. Tell everyone hey and that I am thinking of them. Thanks for Everything!

"I know that my family will be together forever too"

We completed the Mori Family this past weekend with the baptism of their oldest daughter Vanessa. She is 14 years old and for the longest time didn't want anything to do with the church or even the Elders that were teaching her parents. She was going to the Jehovah Witnesses for the longest time and was actually getting ready to be baptized there. Our first couple of days in the area we focused a lot with her and I remember our first visit with her after the baptism of her parents. She ready with her in the Book of Mormon and taught her the importance of Baptism by Priesthood Power and the spirit whispered to her that this is what she needs to do. We felt impressed to challenge her to get baptized the 6th of December and she accepted. The baptismal service went extremely well even though the water in the font was really chilly. Like I always say, my favorite part of the service is when the baptismal candidate has the chance to bear their testimony. Vanessa bore her testimony about the family and how she new that her family is going to be together forever. To myself I was thinking, "I know that my family will be together forever too".

Challenges and Trials are just opportunities to show the Lord Who We Really Are

The Mission is really an interesting thing. Just when you think you know how things should be done or the way you should work day to day, the Lord quickly humbles you and straightens you out.

The past week we had our fair share of challenges, trials, and disappointments but that is just what they are, nothing more and nothing less. The challenges that we face here in the mission are unlike those that I have ever faced before, but at the same time the attitude that I need to overcome is what I have learned long before the mission. Challenges and Trials are just opportunities to show the Lord Who We Really Are. The way we endure what gets thrown at us defies who we are and as a result, shows the Lord that we trust and love him. Even though the road is a little bumpy, it's only for a time and this great work will just keep on keeping on. Thank you so much mom for those great words of encouragement. They gave me a lot to think about and to put things into perspective. The Lord has a lot of trust in us (Elder Zamora and I) and I know there is a reason we are together. Even though it is hard to understand at times, the Lord teaches us so many valuable lessons when he makes us suffer a bit. But don't you worry about a thing, I will just keep on Keeping on!

A Different Kind of Thanksgiving

I was so glad to hear that your Thanksgiving went great and that the entire family was able to get together. Tell Amy that I was proud of her "boxing out" skills with the early morning shopping. Needless to say, here in Peru Thanksgiving isn’t recognized like it is back home. Thanksgiving has definitely got to be my favorite holiday because I love getting together with the Family. Being away from everything for so long has really made me grow to appreciate the little things in life, especially the moments I spent with family and friends. Out of all the things I miss the most, would be spending time will all of you guys. I am so thankful for all of the love and support you all have shown to me. Thanks for everything. Love you all!

PS I’m keeping my eyes out for the wood carved nativity sets but I haven’t had any luck yet.

The Lord Has Prepared His Children

This past week Elder Zamora and I found a lady by the name of Angelica. She is about 75 years old and has a heart condition that doesn’t allow her to walk very well. She is always in her house and we met her when we knocked on her door. She invited us in without hesitation (which is very rare here in Lima) and was willing to listen to the message. We taught about the Book of Mormon and together we read 3 Nefi 11. When we taught about how Christ gave the Priesthood to the people here in the Americas so that they could be baptized correctly I felt as though she needed to be challenged to be baptized. After I read verse which tells that those who are baptized will receive eternal life, I looked at her and she had tears running down her face. I challenged her to be baptized the 27 of December and she accepted. She told us that for the longest time she has been looking for the peace and comfort that she just felt from our message. Angelica reminds me alot of Grandma with her smile and her attitude to do the things that need to get done. Every day my testimony grows by seeing the way the Gospel changes and blesses lives. It hurts when people don’t want to accept or listen to the only thing that bring the happiness and peace that will last forever, but the Lord has prepared his children and he shows them to us.

The District that I am in charge of is really pretty neat. I am in charge of 6 missionaries and also the missionaries that are in my first area of Miramar, so when I do work visits there I will be right at home. The whole District Leading responsibility is going great and its crazy all of the little things that get thrown at you. I am learning and receiving a large dose of Patience but I guess that’s what I need. The Lord definitely knows better that I do.

One Year Already!!

Wednesday night I got a little phone call from Elder Evans. He said to me " Well Hello There Elder Schofield...........ah..............Happy One Year To You". It was really kinda awkward and random but wow, I ALREADY HAVE A YEAR. Only one year down and yet a whole lot of work yet to do. It’s crazy to think that I have been away from home for a year already, away from everything that I am use to, and everyone I love but that’s the way it goes, especially here in the mission. Here´s to another 12 months!!!

Dreaming of a White Christmas!

The Peru Lima North misión is going to have a White Christmas. (White with Baptismal Clothing!) We have set a goal of "X number" of baptisms for the month of December. I seriously can´t wait to make it happen! It won´t be easy but its what the Lord has revealed to President Perez so if we do our part, its gonna happen.

This past weekend we had our first two baptisms in the area. We baptized the Mori Family (Wilmer and Amelia). The two them work all day and all night and are rarely home. They both knew of their goal of getting baptized this past weekend but neither of them thought that they would be able to do it together because of their work schedules. But Friday night when we went to visit them we found them both sick and they weren’t going to be able to work over the weekend. We chatted with them for a while and before we left we gave them both a Priesthood Blessing. Before we walked out they told us that they wanted to get baptized together even though they were both sick. So Saturday morning we had their interviews and Saturday night they entered the waters of baptism. We challenged their daughter to get baptized yesterday so she will be baptized the 6th of December.

Leaving Iquitos....

So saying farewell to Iquitos was a lot harder than I thought it would be. Tuesday afternoon we spent some time with my converts and some of the members and that night the ward threw me a going away party. Everyone was there and everyone was crying and I was thinking "What the heck, I´m not dead yet". But they all gave me my fare share of goodies, treats, and little souvenirs. It was tough telling them goodbye but thats the way the misión goes. I remember what Flint Jacobson told me during my misión interview with him, he told me "Just about when you get use to an area, you get transferred. That’s the way it is". Boy he was right. But the next morning in the Airport The Cubas Rios Family came to bid me farewell, along with all of their kids. So many great people I left back in Iquitos, its as if I left a part of my family back there.

Gotta Love LIMA!

Being in the Jungla for so long I have forgotten just how much I love climbing sand dunes all day, being bitten by fleas at night, and being chased by dogs. Gotta love LIMA. But I´m back in the city and my new area is Los Rosales. This area is really neat because at the end of the year they will be finished building their new chapel and everyone is really excited. They are all so willing to and anxious to talk to everyone about the church as well as give us referentes so that is always a plus. I don´t know why President Perez likes putting me with pretty boy comps who don´t want to work but I´ve got another one. My new companion is Elder Zamora and he is from Ecuador. He has about 3 months into the misión.

The Spirit Of God

The Transfers Are In....

Another six weeks down and the changes are in. This go round it is going to be a bit more than just a little change for me. I’m heading back to Lima and heading back to Puente Piedra, I’m not quite sure where I am going to be going to but both Elder Evans and I are headed back to Puente Piedra and we are both going to be District Leaders. I’m excited, nervous, and sad all at the same time. Last night we had a Family Home Evening with the Cubas Rios Family and we mentioned the possibility of transfers, and they all started crying. I never thought it would be so hard to leave an area here in the mission but when you have six months in and you know pretty much everyone, it makes it a little difficult to leave. The Elder that is taking my spot is Elder Trinidad (my second comp) so at least I know that my area will be in good hands. Well Guys, I love you all and the next email will be coming from LIMA. Keep on keeping on and remember I love you. Thanks for Everything!

A Song and a Prayer...

One of our converts Alberto (the Catholic Priest) is really quite the guy. He has such a huge knowledge of the bible but what makes him really unique is that he loves to play religious songs with his guitar. This past week we started teaching his wife and after every lesson we would end with a song by Alberto and a prayer. It was so much fun, he loves singing for us and its fun stuff listening to him. Even though he plays catholic songs and doesn’t know how to play the church’s hymns yet, its great hearing him sing. He loves sharing his talents with us and he is gaining such a strong testimony of this gospel and work.

If we trust in the Lord, He shows us who is ready...

Ok one more story of one of our investigators. We started teaching a man by the name of Jorge Panduro whose family and wife are members. His wife use to be the Pensionista to the missionaries and he has listened to the missionaries for over 10 years. He has always had the Elders in his home but no one was able to get him excited about the gospel and to motivate him to get baptized. Needless to say this guy is what they say here “Bien Duro”. We have been working with him for only two weeks and yesterday he took a HUGE step in his progress to getting baptized. For the first time in 10 years, Jorege Panduro came to church. This guy use to come to the chapel to yell at his wife from outside the gates to tell her that it was time to get home. But seeing him in the chapel yesterday was a huge achievement for us. His wife told us that she never thought she would see the day when he would accompany her to the church. The bishop and his wife also asked us “how did you Elders do it”. Every person has their moment and if we trust in the Lord he shows us who is ready. The Lord showed us Jorge and I just pray that we will be able to keep him motivated so that he can take the steps of having an eternal family.

This Is What Heavenly Father Does for His Children

One of the families that we have being working with for so long finally entered the waters of baptism. The Cubas Rios Family was completed this past weekend. We baptized Flor two weeks ago with her mom, but Saturday we baptized Percy (her husband). This was the family we found when we decided to be late to an appointment in order to help a young kid with his wheel chair. Last night we were visiting with them for a little while and I began to share this experience with them. How we crossed the road to help out Percy Lino (their oldest son) who was having a struggle with his wheel chair and how we arrived at their house and met Flor. From there we made an appointment to return, by a miracle, found all of their documents to get married in only TWO days. And now I was able to see them all enter the waters of baptism and begin to take the steps to have an eternal Family. After I got done sharing this experience and bearing my testimony Percy said something special "This is would our Heavenly Father does for his children". I can’t begin to tell you how happy and proud I was of him. He alone has come such a long way; he too is like a brother to me. I am honestly dreading the day when I get transferred just because I am going to be leaving behind so many people that will forever have an impact on my life.

It is very likely that the 19th of November I could be shipped out to another part but as for now I am trying to not think about it. I’m so thankful that the Lord gave me 6 more weeks here in my area so that I would be able to see the Cubas Rios Family get baptized. The Lord trusted us alot with this family and I just pray that we didn’t let him down.

We Are On Fire-In Lots of Ways!

This past week our chapel caught on FIRE!!! During one of the activities one of the lights exploded and at first only made a lot of smoke, but a little bit later that smoke turned into flames. Don’t worry the chapels here are made out of wood and leaf roofs like the houses but it still gave everyone a pretty good little scare. It only makes the wall really black but this week they are going to get everything cleaned up. They will have two weeks to do it because this week is Stake Conference. Which reminds me of something really great that is going to happen. One of my converts Eliseo is going to receive the Melchezidik Priesthood this weekend along with his son that we baptized too. The two of them will get it together!!!

Elder Cahui and I had a very neat baptismal service Saturday. We baptized an elderly man by the name of Alberto and he has quite the past. He was a Catholic Priest for over 30 years and needless to say was living very comfortably. He was a very prominent Catholic leader here in Iquitos for the longest time until he came to realize just how many bad things go on in the catholic church. I won't tell you everything, because it is so so so wrong, but there is a very large list of things. He was finally faced with the decision of leaving the church or being forced to sleep with a lady in order to clear him of his sins. He left the church and all of this money and worldly comforts. He is currently living in a very small shack and doesn't have water or electricity and in order to teach him, if I forgot my flashlight we would buy a candle just before we got there. I remember when we first met him, we were walking down the road on our way to lunch and he came out of his house yelling at us, wanting to know who we were and what message we were carrying. We made a brief contact with him but weren't able to find him the entire week. He came to church on the 19 and told us that he really needed to talk to us, he said that he would be home every night at seven in order to talk to us. We went to his house and began teaching him, and in only a week we had taught him everything he needed to know but the most important thing he received his own answer with respect to the Prophet Joseph Smith. We baptized him Saturday night and got him confirmed yesterday.

When he shared his testimony after his baptism he shared an experience with us. He told us that for the longest time after leaving the Catholic Church he felt so alone, He didn't know where to go and for the longest time he prayed to know what to do. He had a dream where he saw two young men, with white shirts and ties. He told us that when he saw us walking by his house he had to talk with us. He thought that we thought he was crazy but he knew that he had found the two men in his dream. Alberto is still struggling to live day to day but he said that he has never been happier or felt closer to the Lord. I live for testimonies like those from my converts. I feel so happy and thankful that the Lord trusts me enough to be the one to find the people who are truly looking for the truth. I love this work and our church is ohh so TRUE!

Brian's Broken Arm

Holy COW Family!
Those pics of Brian's arm are SICK! I'm not looking at them right now but I am still getting the creeps. I opened them up with Elder Evans and he was grossed out too. But that is just like Brian, to jump back up and get ready for the next play. Just tell him that it was a dang good thing that he stopped the kid from scoring or then he would have really looked dumb, lol. Just playing, my little Bro is as tough as nails and he showed his true colors this past weekend. I hope everything gets healed up soon. Tell him hey and that I Love him.

Brian broke his arm in the playoff game against Payette on Halloween night. Maybe that's why these xrays are so spooky!! He had a double break, just short of a compound fracture. He went through surgery and is wired together pretty good. He won't be playing basketball this year, but has a good attitude about it all! We have certainly been shown many tender mercies that have come into our lives from this experience. I have included some before and after photos!

The Language Has Become a Part Of Me!

I have come to the conclusion that when I get home, I am going to have to pray for the gift of tongues to talk to you guys. Just saying simple phrases with the North Americans here in my zone is a struggle but we have a good time laughing at each other with how pathetic we sound, lol. But don't worry, I will manage some way to communicate with you all at Christmas. They have a nick name for me here now Gringo Charapa because I am beginning to talk with the crazy jungle accent that the people have here, but its all good.