Dear Family,
I've never been so tired in my entire life. I guess I have to start at last week. So let me get started.
On Tuesday we went to transfers and had a choir practice afterwards. It was a really good day and we had a lot of set lessons that night. We went to one with Jack and Michealle. Michealle had gotten a copy of the movie Joseph Smith Prophet of the Restoration and watched it and had a spiritual confirmation that Joseph Smith was a Prophet of God. And she asked to be baptized. And then her Daughter and son-in-law asked to be baptized too. So the whole family wants to be baptized and join Christ's church!
Then Wednesday we had a meeting with President and the assistants in the morning and had a great training on getting answers for ourselves. It was a great spiritual boost for the day. Afterwards we met with an investigator that lives in our area but was being taught by the Hendersonville elders and she said she had prayed that night and has a spiritual witness that Joseph Smith was a Prophet and now wants to be baptized. So within two days we went from Two solid Baptismal Dates to 6 Solid Baptismal dates. It was so amazing.
And then that Evening we went to Jack and Michealle's again and taught the Plan of Salvation. At the end of the lesson Michealle jumped out of her seat and pleaded for it to be true, and then asked elder Pearson and I to do the work for her father, who is dead. It was so amazing to see the confirmation of the spirit come and testify it was true.
Elder Pearson and I have been running to keep all the things in order, and until all these baptisms pass, we won't be stopping anytime soon. This week my Zone will meet with Elder Arnold of the 70. Wish us luck.
I've never worked so hard but never been happier. I love the Lord, I love the work.
Love,
Elder Hansen
Monday, November 9, 2009
Monday, November 2, 2009
ADDRESS IN MADISON
Here is my address in Madison in case anyone wants to write me a real letter!
Elder Jonathan David Hansen
902 Rivergate Meadows Dr.
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
Elder Jonathan David Hansen
902 Rivergate Meadows Dr.
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
2 Nov 2009 ANOTHER SIX WEEKS IN MADISON
Dear Family,
On Halloween night we got transfer calls again, and I'm staying in Madison for another six weeks. I love this area and all the success we are having. I've had so many sacred and spiritual experiences.
First off this week. We have been having a hard time getting members to come and help us with exchanges, so I decided to take it into my own hands and we took out members from Hendersonville. We needed a ride and they wanted to help me, so Elder Pearson and I went on exchanges with Nick Crump of the Hendersonville Ward. It's so sweet to have those friends so close that want to help in the work.
Then on Wednesday we went to all the district meetings of our zone and trained on setting goals by the Spirit. I learned so much and I feel it was well received. The Zone is starting to trust us and we are having a great time leading them to victory. I love being able to serve them and see their success. It just brings me so much joy.
Now, for the most important I want to write about the success and progress of one of my favorite investigators here in Madison, Jack Simpson. We started teaching Jack after he ordered a "Mr. Krugers Christmas." It was funny because he started off by saying, "I'll never become a Mormon, but I like the way I feel when you're around. So, come back."
We came back and taught him about the Restoration and Plan of Salvation, which he loved and wanted to know more. The Spirit started to work with him and the only reason he started to progress is because he actually kept his commitments. Commitment keeping is the first step to covenant keeping.
A week ago we set a baptismal date with Jack and since then his wife, daughter, and son-in-law, all have started to take the lessons and wanted to know more about what we teach. It was so amazing.
Then this last week we went over and taught the Word of Wisdom and the Law of Chastity around a Restoration lesson and God calling Prophets. They loved it and at the end of the lesson they all bore their testimonies of the truthfulness of the gospel. The gospel has changed their lives they have a new light. It is so amazing.
And last night we gave them blessings, and with tears in their eyes they begged us to bless their grandchildren; it reminded me of Christ in 3 nephi 17 blessing the Nephite children. I love the way the Spirit works.
I can't believe it's November! I have no idea where October went. All the missionaries had to come in for Halloween night, and it was such a shock to me to see that it's aready November.
I was freakin' out a little. The time just keeps getting faster and faster.
Elder Pearson and I are preparing for a big month in November. We are shooting for 9 Baptisms as a Zone and 3 for us individually, and it actually looks like we are going to get it.
I've been recording a tape that I hope to send soon that has talked all about what has been going on this past week. We've been teaching the Simpson family and they are so on fire.
I love missionary work. I know the church it true,
Elder Hansen
On Halloween night we got transfer calls again, and I'm staying in Madison for another six weeks. I love this area and all the success we are having. I've had so many sacred and spiritual experiences.
First off this week. We have been having a hard time getting members to come and help us with exchanges, so I decided to take it into my own hands and we took out members from Hendersonville. We needed a ride and they wanted to help me, so Elder Pearson and I went on exchanges with Nick Crump of the Hendersonville Ward. It's so sweet to have those friends so close that want to help in the work.
Then on Wednesday we went to all the district meetings of our zone and trained on setting goals by the Spirit. I learned so much and I feel it was well received. The Zone is starting to trust us and we are having a great time leading them to victory. I love being able to serve them and see their success. It just brings me so much joy.
Now, for the most important I want to write about the success and progress of one of my favorite investigators here in Madison, Jack Simpson. We started teaching Jack after he ordered a "Mr. Krugers Christmas." It was funny because he started off by saying, "I'll never become a Mormon, but I like the way I feel when you're around. So, come back."
We came back and taught him about the Restoration and Plan of Salvation, which he loved and wanted to know more. The Spirit started to work with him and the only reason he started to progress is because he actually kept his commitments. Commitment keeping is the first step to covenant keeping.
A week ago we set a baptismal date with Jack and since then his wife, daughter, and son-in-law, all have started to take the lessons and wanted to know more about what we teach. It was so amazing.
Then this last week we went over and taught the Word of Wisdom and the Law of Chastity around a Restoration lesson and God calling Prophets. They loved it and at the end of the lesson they all bore their testimonies of the truthfulness of the gospel. The gospel has changed their lives they have a new light. It is so amazing.
And last night we gave them blessings, and with tears in their eyes they begged us to bless their grandchildren; it reminded me of Christ in 3 nephi 17 blessing the Nephite children. I love the way the Spirit works.
I can't believe it's November! I have no idea where October went. All the missionaries had to come in for Halloween night, and it was such a shock to me to see that it's aready November.
I was freakin' out a little. The time just keeps getting faster and faster.
Elder Pearson and I are preparing for a big month in November. We are shooting for 9 Baptisms as a Zone and 3 for us individually, and it actually looks like we are going to get it.
I've been recording a tape that I hope to send soon that has talked all about what has been going on this past week. We've been teaching the Simpson family and they are so on fire.
I love missionary work. I know the church it true,
Elder Hansen
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
26 October 2009 H-A-L-L-O-O-W-E-E-N
Dear Family,
As Halloween is fast approaching it has given me time to reflect on last year at this time. I'm not too far, distance wise, from where I was last year. But in my understanding of the work and ministry of a missionary the Growth is astounding. It's so strange to look back on the past year, and the last few months have flown by. I'm a little nervous about how fast the rest of my time in the mission is going to go.
This week was amazing. Elder Pearson and I have learned a lot of good lessons. We set a baptismal date this week and it was such a good experience. Elder Pearson has been working with a man named Jack Simpson. He is so smart and loves the bible. But as we started to work with him, the Spirit bore witness of the truthfulness of our work. We prayed to know what to teach Jack because we wanted to help him progress and find happiness in his hectic life. The Spirit bore witness to us that we needed to teach him about authority. We taught him about the authority being restored and before we could even commit him to be baptized by that authority he called out, I know what you're going to ask and the answer is yes. So we set a date for him on the 14th of November. He came to church yesterday, and wants to bring his whole family next time. I love the Lord. I love the promptings of the Spirit. I love the work I'm engaged in. It is so amazing!!!
Also, this week we have had some problems with a district leader leading out of compusion and dominion instead of out of love. It was getting to be a real problem and he lost the trust of the entire district. This morning I prayed and studied to know what to say to him to help him through this problem, when the words of D&C 121 came into my mind. I prayed and recieved direct revelation on how to help him in his stewardship and I could bearly contain the excitement as I called him. The Holy Ghost prompted me not to bring it up, but if it was a concern of his... he would bring it up. And within 2 min. he brought up the concern and I shared with him the doctrine I had learned that morning about D&C 121 and we made goals and plans to get him on the right track. Again, I love the Spirit. These promptings are so real. The Gospel is so amazing. I love to be a missionary. The only problem is, I wish I would have known all this when I started a year ago. But I guess thats part of the progress.
I hope y'all have a happy Halloween. I know we're fixin' to. And know I love you. I miss you and pray for you always.
Love,
Elder Hansen
As Halloween is fast approaching it has given me time to reflect on last year at this time. I'm not too far, distance wise, from where I was last year. But in my understanding of the work and ministry of a missionary the Growth is astounding. It's so strange to look back on the past year, and the last few months have flown by. I'm a little nervous about how fast the rest of my time in the mission is going to go.
This week was amazing. Elder Pearson and I have learned a lot of good lessons. We set a baptismal date this week and it was such a good experience. Elder Pearson has been working with a man named Jack Simpson. He is so smart and loves the bible. But as we started to work with him, the Spirit bore witness of the truthfulness of our work. We prayed to know what to teach Jack because we wanted to help him progress and find happiness in his hectic life. The Spirit bore witness to us that we needed to teach him about authority. We taught him about the authority being restored and before we could even commit him to be baptized by that authority he called out, I know what you're going to ask and the answer is yes. So we set a date for him on the 14th of November. He came to church yesterday, and wants to bring his whole family next time. I love the Lord. I love the promptings of the Spirit. I love the work I'm engaged in. It is so amazing!!!
Also, this week we have had some problems with a district leader leading out of compusion and dominion instead of out of love. It was getting to be a real problem and he lost the trust of the entire district. This morning I prayed and studied to know what to say to him to help him through this problem, when the words of D&C 121 came into my mind. I prayed and recieved direct revelation on how to help him in his stewardship and I could bearly contain the excitement as I called him. The Holy Ghost prompted me not to bring it up, but if it was a concern of his... he would bring it up. And within 2 min. he brought up the concern and I shared with him the doctrine I had learned that morning about D&C 121 and we made goals and plans to get him on the right track. Again, I love the Spirit. These promptings are so real. The Gospel is so amazing. I love to be a missionary. The only problem is, I wish I would have known all this when I started a year ago. But I guess thats part of the progress.
I hope y'all have a happy Halloween. I know we're fixin' to. And know I love you. I miss you and pray for you always.
Love,
Elder Hansen
19 October 2009 WHERE IS SULPHUR WELL, KY?
Dear Family,
I spent the majority of the week in Kentucky, exactly 1/2 the zone is in Kentucky and 1/2 is in Tennessee. Kentucky has such a different feel than Tennessee. It's almost like walking into a different world.
Things have been going great. On Monday Elder Pearson and I went up to Sulphur Well (100miles one way) to the elders serving in that branch. We had a great exchange and really got to love the Zone. It was such a good experience and it really taught me that really good leadership comes out of love, I can't force anyone to react the way I want them to, but if they love and respect me they will want to do it. It is such a learning process.
We then went to Zone Confrence. Our trainings were on Overcoming Objections and how to judge a successful missionary. It was a good training, but Elder Pearson and I both wish we could have had more time to prepare. Then I went on another Exchange to Bowling Green, Ky. The people in Kentucky are just more open and willing to talk. Even if people don't want to accept the message, they will at least talk to you. It was really refreshing, and I was able to meet with their baptismal dates, and it was so good to see the success that is happening up there.
But being gone for a long time makes it hard to swing back into things. I felt like I didn't know any of my investigators. So Elder Pearson filled me in on all that was happening.
Then the best day of all. Sunday. Sunday for a missionary is like Game Day. It is what we prepare for all week. If people don't come to church, they can't get baptized. And if they don't get baptized with authority they cannot gain Eternal Life. And as I missionary I cannot bear that any creature should not receive Eternal Life. We had two people come to church. It was so amazing. And they both loved it. I love seeing them feel the Spirit and want to draw closer to Christ. Then last night (Sunday also) we went to visit with Robin, one of the ones who came to church. We watched the restoration with him and he loved it and then we asked him about the church... trying to prompt him to bear his testimony of what he was feeling. He bore his testimony of Joseph Smith and of the Book of Mormon.... This was something I was not at all expecting, so Elder Pearson and I committed him to be baptized on the 7th of November. It was so exciting.
I had a really good week and love all that I'm doing. Things are great. I love being a missionary, but more than anything... I know the Church of Jesus Christ is on the earth today and that Joseph Smith restored it to the Earth in these Latter-days. How great is my joy in sharing this good news with Aal I meet.
I hope all is well back home. I miss you all.
With Love,
Elder Jonathan David Hansen
I spent the majority of the week in Kentucky, exactly 1/2 the zone is in Kentucky and 1/2 is in Tennessee. Kentucky has such a different feel than Tennessee. It's almost like walking into a different world.
Things have been going great. On Monday Elder Pearson and I went up to Sulphur Well (100miles one way) to the elders serving in that branch. We had a great exchange and really got to love the Zone. It was such a good experience and it really taught me that really good leadership comes out of love, I can't force anyone to react the way I want them to, but if they love and respect me they will want to do it. It is such a learning process.
We then went to Zone Confrence. Our trainings were on Overcoming Objections and how to judge a successful missionary. It was a good training, but Elder Pearson and I both wish we could have had more time to prepare. Then I went on another Exchange to Bowling Green, Ky. The people in Kentucky are just more open and willing to talk. Even if people don't want to accept the message, they will at least talk to you. It was really refreshing, and I was able to meet with their baptismal dates, and it was so good to see the success that is happening up there.
But being gone for a long time makes it hard to swing back into things. I felt like I didn't know any of my investigators. So Elder Pearson filled me in on all that was happening.
Then the best day of all. Sunday. Sunday for a missionary is like Game Day. It is what we prepare for all week. If people don't come to church, they can't get baptized. And if they don't get baptized with authority they cannot gain Eternal Life. And as I missionary I cannot bear that any creature should not receive Eternal Life. We had two people come to church. It was so amazing. And they both loved it. I love seeing them feel the Spirit and want to draw closer to Christ. Then last night (Sunday also) we went to visit with Robin, one of the ones who came to church. We watched the restoration with him and he loved it and then we asked him about the church... trying to prompt him to bear his testimony of what he was feeling. He bore his testimony of Joseph Smith and of the Book of Mormon.... This was something I was not at all expecting, so Elder Pearson and I committed him to be baptized on the 7th of November. It was so exciting.
I had a really good week and love all that I'm doing. Things are great. I love being a missionary, but more than anything... I know the Church of Jesus Christ is on the earth today and that Joseph Smith restored it to the Earth in these Latter-days. How great is my joy in sharing this good news with Aal I meet.
I hope all is well back home. I miss you all.
With Love,
Elder Jonathan David Hansen
12 October 2009 IN HENDERSONVILLE AGAIN
Dear Family,
This week was a really fun week. I was able to spend a few days in Hendersonville and visit all my recent converts and some of my favorite members. It was so much fun! And it's fun to have my old area so close.
However, when I was gone, Elder Pearson was able to set a lot of baptismal dates in an area with no missionaries. Because we are the Zone Leaders we cover the areas that have no missionaries in them, so if we get a member referral in one of those areas we have to drive out there and contact it. But it's fun to get to know so many other wards. It's just hard being so far away and eating the miles on our car, but oh well. I guess that's why I have two legs ;)
I'm glad to hear of the consistancy of FHE. ;) I just wanted to put in my two cents. My favorite talks were President Uchtdorf's, President Eyrings, and President Holland's. I also loved L. Tom Perrry's, but only because he always pushes the missionary message. I loved the talks on love by Presidents Uchtdorf and Eyring. I want to be more loving and understand the perfect love of Christ. I want to show perfect love. I want to be a true disciple of Christ. But I also loved Elder Holland's talk on the Book of Mormon. What an amazing talk. I can't wait to have all of my investigators listen to that one.
Elder Pearson and I had our first Baptism in this area. It was amazing to see Charles change from the first time we saw him about 3 weeks ago until this weekend when he was baptized and received the Gift of the Holy Ghost. He had a stroke a few years ago; his mental capacity is great, but he has a hard time expressing himself. We love him so much and we're so glad he has the Gift of the Holy Ghost to guide him through his life.
I love being a missionary. Things are going so well. I love being a Zone Leader and being able to spend time in The other Areas in my zone and get to know all these wonderful Elders. I love to serve.
I hope all is well back home.
Keep me in mind, I need your prayers; and you're always in mine.
With Love,
Elder Hansen
This week was a really fun week. I was able to spend a few days in Hendersonville and visit all my recent converts and some of my favorite members. It was so much fun! And it's fun to have my old area so close.
However, when I was gone, Elder Pearson was able to set a lot of baptismal dates in an area with no missionaries. Because we are the Zone Leaders we cover the areas that have no missionaries in them, so if we get a member referral in one of those areas we have to drive out there and contact it. But it's fun to get to know so many other wards. It's just hard being so far away and eating the miles on our car, but oh well. I guess that's why I have two legs ;)
I'm glad to hear of the consistancy of FHE. ;) I just wanted to put in my two cents. My favorite talks were President Uchtdorf's, President Eyrings, and President Holland's. I also loved L. Tom Perrry's, but only because he always pushes the missionary message. I loved the talks on love by Presidents Uchtdorf and Eyring. I want to be more loving and understand the perfect love of Christ. I want to show perfect love. I want to be a true disciple of Christ. But I also loved Elder Holland's talk on the Book of Mormon. What an amazing talk. I can't wait to have all of my investigators listen to that one.
Elder Pearson and I had our first Baptism in this area. It was amazing to see Charles change from the first time we saw him about 3 weeks ago until this weekend when he was baptized and received the Gift of the Holy Ghost. He had a stroke a few years ago; his mental capacity is great, but he has a hard time expressing himself. We love him so much and we're so glad he has the Gift of the Holy Ghost to guide him through his life.
I love being a missionary. Things are going so well. I love being a Zone Leader and being able to spend time in The other Areas in my zone and get to know all these wonderful Elders. I love to serve.
I hope all is well back home.
Keep me in mind, I need your prayers; and you're always in mine.
With Love,
Elder Hansen
05 Oct 2009 WHAT A WONDERFUL CONFERENCE!
Dear Family,
What a wonderful confErence Weekend! It truly was a wonderful week and such a great end to it.
This week was very busy and faith building. One of the things I've really been working on as a missionary is talking to everyone. Preach My Gospel has a few promises about finding two of which are if you talk to everyone and ask for referrals at every opportunity, you will always have plenty of people to teach. Well, Elder Pearson and I only had 5 days to work this week, well 4 if you count all the driving we did and time we spent in other areas, and we were able to find 18 new investigators this week, just by applying the things we learn from PMG.
I really like to go on exchanges with Elders in other areas and train them on how to help their area improve. This week I was able to spend a few days in Gallatin to help those in my Zone set up some success. While I was there for two days we found 6 people and set a baptismal date with an investigator those Elders were about to drop. It was such an amazing experience and I know it was all because we put our faith in the Lord and followed the Goals he helped us set.
We went to conference this weekend at the mission home. They had a Zone Leader's Council along with conference. It was fun to watch confrence and be trained on how we can better our Zones. I loved the experience and had a great time learning from all these great priesthood leaders.
Conference was great and had some very amazing talks. I love the passion each speaker gave in their talks. I could really feel the Spirit in all that they said. I enjoyed the theme of Love and Charity, whether it was God's love for us, or the love we have for Him and for others. The true motivating factor of the Gospel is love, and we each have an infinite capacity to love. In conference I felt prompted to thank you both, Mom and Dad for your great examples. Ya'll are so amazing and I want to thank you for your examples of love, charity, and integrity. I love you both so much.
Our apartment is very small. Very small and ugly, but now we have a couch so it looks a little more like home. I guess it's good. But we also have bed bugs. They're a real thing, I had no idea. So they're coming to spray today and we've had to sleep on the floor in our living room. Elder Pearson and I are covered in about 50 bites each that itch like crazy.
Thank you for all your love and support. I love you all so much. Have a great week.
Love,
Elder Hansen
What a wonderful confErence Weekend! It truly was a wonderful week and such a great end to it.
This week was very busy and faith building. One of the things I've really been working on as a missionary is talking to everyone. Preach My Gospel has a few promises about finding two of which are if you talk to everyone and ask for referrals at every opportunity, you will always have plenty of people to teach. Well, Elder Pearson and I only had 5 days to work this week, well 4 if you count all the driving we did and time we spent in other areas, and we were able to find 18 new investigators this week, just by applying the things we learn from PMG.
I really like to go on exchanges with Elders in other areas and train them on how to help their area improve. This week I was able to spend a few days in Gallatin to help those in my Zone set up some success. While I was there for two days we found 6 people and set a baptismal date with an investigator those Elders were about to drop. It was such an amazing experience and I know it was all because we put our faith in the Lord and followed the Goals he helped us set.
We went to conference this weekend at the mission home. They had a Zone Leader's Council along with conference. It was fun to watch confrence and be trained on how we can better our Zones. I loved the experience and had a great time learning from all these great priesthood leaders.
Conference was great and had some very amazing talks. I love the passion each speaker gave in their talks. I could really feel the Spirit in all that they said. I enjoyed the theme of Love and Charity, whether it was God's love for us, or the love we have for Him and for others. The true motivating factor of the Gospel is love, and we each have an infinite capacity to love. In conference I felt prompted to thank you both, Mom and Dad for your great examples. Ya'll are so amazing and I want to thank you for your examples of love, charity, and integrity. I love you both so much.
Our apartment is very small. Very small and ugly, but now we have a couch so it looks a little more like home. I guess it's good. But we also have bed bugs. They're a real thing, I had no idea. So they're coming to spray today and we've had to sleep on the floor in our living room. Elder Pearson and I are covered in about 50 bites each that itch like crazy.
Thank you for all your love and support. I love you all so much. Have a great week.
Love,
Elder Hansen
28 September 2009 MADISON, TENNESSEE
Dear Family,
I just want you to know how much fun I'm having. I was really sad to leave Paducah, and sad to leave the people I love and a companion I had so much fun with, but I'm glad for a change and I'm excited for the new experiences.
My time this week has been so crazy. We started off the week with a baptism in the other ward ( here in Madison we cover 3 wards. It's hard to get to all the places we need to.) We got all moved in and settled.
Then on wednesday we met with the bishop, and went to a district meeting in Gallatin. It was so much fun to be with all these new Elders. I love being able to see all the success that's going on throughout the mission. As a Zone we exceeded our goal this month in Madison and in Paducah we came with in two. Which is the best both zones have done in a long time. We're really excited for the good things going on here.
Thursday was super busy with interviews and stake corrolation. We met with a stake presidency not knowing much more than the numbers we were presenting and gave a really good report and made some great plans on how to keep the momentum going on to the next months.
Friday I went to a Songs of the Savior Fireside in Tomkinsville, KY. It was fun to be singing in the group with Elders and sisters instead of just all elders. It was a really good program.
The rest of the week was just trying to get to know the area and find the investigators the last missionaries were working with.
I got the package you sent; thank you so much. I'm homesick now just thinking about leaving Paducah and the wonderful people there. I call Elder Wright about once every other day just to check on how things are going.
But Madison is going well now that we're settled. Elder Pearson and I came into a huge mess. The last elder's didn't keep any appointments and didn't keep any records. It's been like starting over and opening a completely new area, it's crazy. But all will be well, we've got it all under control now. Things are going well; we have a full time car but the missionaries before us used a lot of miles so we don't have a lot to use, so I hope that goes well. I guess they drove up to Sulphur Wells a few times, which is 100 miles away.
You know it is really scary to be the senior Zone leader. Elder Pearson looks up to me so much, and I just don't feel adaquate; but the Lord is blessing me so much. We came to the area and on our first day had a baptism in a ward we cover (we cover 3 wards right now) and then on the second day we set a baptismal date. It's really funny because Elder Pearson is really scared to be a zone leader and so it's like I am serving by myself, knocking all the doors, teaching all the lessons. But it will all get better soon as I push him out of his comfort zone. I did it with Elder Wright and we had a great time. I love it. I love helping others find success in themselves.
Thank you so much for all you do. I'm so thankful for your e-mails. Things are so good right now. A new challenge, that is going to go well.
I'm having a lot of fun and a lot of success. I hope all is well back home.
With love,
Elder Hansen
I just want you to know how much fun I'm having. I was really sad to leave Paducah, and sad to leave the people I love and a companion I had so much fun with, but I'm glad for a change and I'm excited for the new experiences.
My time this week has been so crazy. We started off the week with a baptism in the other ward ( here in Madison we cover 3 wards. It's hard to get to all the places we need to.) We got all moved in and settled.
Then on wednesday we met with the bishop, and went to a district meeting in Gallatin. It was so much fun to be with all these new Elders. I love being able to see all the success that's going on throughout the mission. As a Zone we exceeded our goal this month in Madison and in Paducah we came with in two. Which is the best both zones have done in a long time. We're really excited for the good things going on here.
Thursday was super busy with interviews and stake corrolation. We met with a stake presidency not knowing much more than the numbers we were presenting and gave a really good report and made some great plans on how to keep the momentum going on to the next months.
Friday I went to a Songs of the Savior Fireside in Tomkinsville, KY. It was fun to be singing in the group with Elders and sisters instead of just all elders. It was a really good program.
The rest of the week was just trying to get to know the area and find the investigators the last missionaries were working with.
I got the package you sent; thank you so much. I'm homesick now just thinking about leaving Paducah and the wonderful people there. I call Elder Wright about once every other day just to check on how things are going.
But Madison is going well now that we're settled. Elder Pearson and I came into a huge mess. The last elder's didn't keep any appointments and didn't keep any records. It's been like starting over and opening a completely new area, it's crazy. But all will be well, we've got it all under control now. Things are going well; we have a full time car but the missionaries before us used a lot of miles so we don't have a lot to use, so I hope that goes well. I guess they drove up to Sulphur Wells a few times, which is 100 miles away.
You know it is really scary to be the senior Zone leader. Elder Pearson looks up to me so much, and I just don't feel adaquate; but the Lord is blessing me so much. We came to the area and on our first day had a baptism in a ward we cover (we cover 3 wards right now) and then on the second day we set a baptismal date. It's really funny because Elder Pearson is really scared to be a zone leader and so it's like I am serving by myself, knocking all the doors, teaching all the lessons. But it will all get better soon as I push him out of his comfort zone. I did it with Elder Wright and we had a great time. I love it. I love helping others find success in themselves.
Thank you so much for all you do. I'm so thankful for your e-mails. Things are so good right now. A new challenge, that is going to go well.
I'm having a lot of fun and a lot of success. I hope all is well back home.
With love,
Elder Hansen
21 September 2009 GOOD BYE PADUCAH!
Dear Family-
I have a love/hate relationship with transfers. I'm excited for each new experience, but sad to leave the things I've learned to love behind.
This last week has been a lot of fun. Elder Wright and I started off the week by going on exchanges to Fulton TN. Because of my driving situation, I had to go to Fulton, but was glad I did. I saw some mighty miracles down there and really enjoyed spending time with a struggling district leader and trained him in his responsibility. I'm so excited to see that area change and grow.
Then on Friday We met back up in Paducah for Elder Wright and I to have a meeting with President Hutchings. It was a good meeting where we talked about finding joy in the work and helping others find joy in their work "men are that they might have joy." It was a very good meeting.
Then on Saturday I got The call. I'm getting transferred. I'm on my way back to Tennessee tomorrow to Madison, TN. It is the ward right next door to my first area and I spent a lot of time on exchanges there. So it will be fun to be in an area I'm already familiar with.
My new companion will be a new Zone Leader, which means we will both be new to the area and I will be training him on how to be a Zone Leader. I'm a bit scared but I will see how it goes! His name is Elder Pearson, the second Elder Pearson I've been with (actually his trainer was the first Elder Pearson I served with). So I'm excited, I've been in his district before and spent some time with him when his mom passed away. I'm excited to be serving with him now. I am happy for the change and look back on my time here in Paducah with peace. I loved so much to serve here and gained so much in return. I love being able to serve as a Zone leader and serving these great Elders.
I just wanted to write you a quick note and let you know I love you. As I've grown older I've learned to appreciate all the things my parents do for me. And being away and seeing all these broken families helps me want to do better at letting mine know just how thankful I am for them.
Also, seeing all of these broken wards makes me appreciate the stability of the church back west. With all these first gen. members and members going less-active all the time, the church in the south really struggles, and I can't wait to return home and serve in the capacity the Lord needs me. I want to always do home teaching faithfully. I want to help support my leaders and magnify my calling. I see it how much I took it for granted before, and how important it is now. And I also wanted to thank you for all of your faithful service to the Lord and giving me such a righteous example. I love you so much!!!
I hope all is well back home.
please write soon. I miss hearing from everyone.
With Love,
Elder Hansen
I have a love/hate relationship with transfers. I'm excited for each new experience, but sad to leave the things I've learned to love behind.
This last week has been a lot of fun. Elder Wright and I started off the week by going on exchanges to Fulton TN. Because of my driving situation, I had to go to Fulton, but was glad I did. I saw some mighty miracles down there and really enjoyed spending time with a struggling district leader and trained him in his responsibility. I'm so excited to see that area change and grow.
Then on Friday We met back up in Paducah for Elder Wright and I to have a meeting with President Hutchings. It was a good meeting where we talked about finding joy in the work and helping others find joy in their work "men are that they might have joy." It was a very good meeting.
Then on Saturday I got The call. I'm getting transferred. I'm on my way back to Tennessee tomorrow to Madison, TN. It is the ward right next door to my first area and I spent a lot of time on exchanges there. So it will be fun to be in an area I'm already familiar with.
My new companion will be a new Zone Leader, which means we will both be new to the area and I will be training him on how to be a Zone Leader. I'm a bit scared but I will see how it goes! His name is Elder Pearson, the second Elder Pearson I've been with (actually his trainer was the first Elder Pearson I served with). So I'm excited, I've been in his district before and spent some time with him when his mom passed away. I'm excited to be serving with him now. I am happy for the change and look back on my time here in Paducah with peace. I loved so much to serve here and gained so much in return. I love being able to serve as a Zone leader and serving these great Elders.
I just wanted to write you a quick note and let you know I love you. As I've grown older I've learned to appreciate all the things my parents do for me. And being away and seeing all these broken families helps me want to do better at letting mine know just how thankful I am for them.
Also, seeing all of these broken wards makes me appreciate the stability of the church back west. With all these first gen. members and members going less-active all the time, the church in the south really struggles, and I can't wait to return home and serve in the capacity the Lord needs me. I want to always do home teaching faithfully. I want to help support my leaders and magnify my calling. I see it how much I took it for granted before, and how important it is now. And I also wanted to thank you for all of your faithful service to the Lord and giving me such a righteous example. I love you so much!!!
I hope all is well back home.
please write soon. I miss hearing from everyone.
With Love,
Elder Hansen
14 September 2009 FREE AT LAST!
Dear Family,
I feel like Martin Luther King Jr. this week when I say free at last, but I'm free from the bondage of our apartment. I finally got out of the house. We got out on Thursday. Turns out that his hernia healed on it's own, the doctors don't really know how, but I know it's because of prayers, a blessing and faith. It was such a faith building experience. But now we're back at it.
We had Zone conference this week and as a gift, President let the zone play dodge ball. We had a blast pelting each other with flying rubber orbs. It was great. And President told Elder Wright and me later that we are one of the most unified zones. He also told us that our Zone Conference was the best of the seven they had these last two weeks. I'm glad that it was so much fun and successful.
After Zone Conference Elder Wright and I went crazy and had such a good week considering what had happened. We got out and had some really good lessons. The assistants were up on exchanges with us so we got a lot done in a few days. We and 3 people at church, 17 lessons taught, 10 new investigators found, and one baptismal date set. We are so excited with the success our Father in Heaven has seen fit to bless us with. We are excited to be back to work and are having fun too.
A bit of a sad note is I got my iPod stolen out of our car, and Elder Wright's GPS. We're really sad and are hoping the culprit needed them more than we did. I hope all is well at home and with the wedding plans. I love being a missionary and serving the Lord. I want each of you to feel of the same joy by fasting praying and finding someone for the missionaries to teach.
We had 3 people at church this week. A family that I hope to set baptismal dates with before I leave Paducah. Transfers are coming up and I hope I don't leave, but it would be okay if I did. I'm excited to see what this next week will bring.
I hope all is well at home.
Love,
Elder Jonathan D. Hansen
I feel like Martin Luther King Jr. this week when I say free at last, but I'm free from the bondage of our apartment. I finally got out of the house. We got out on Thursday. Turns out that his hernia healed on it's own, the doctors don't really know how, but I know it's because of prayers, a blessing and faith. It was such a faith building experience. But now we're back at it.
We had Zone conference this week and as a gift, President let the zone play dodge ball. We had a blast pelting each other with flying rubber orbs. It was great. And President told Elder Wright and me later that we are one of the most unified zones. He also told us that our Zone Conference was the best of the seven they had these last two weeks. I'm glad that it was so much fun and successful.
After Zone Conference Elder Wright and I went crazy and had such a good week considering what had happened. We got out and had some really good lessons. The assistants were up on exchanges with us so we got a lot done in a few days. We and 3 people at church, 17 lessons taught, 10 new investigators found, and one baptismal date set. We are so excited with the success our Father in Heaven has seen fit to bless us with. We are excited to be back to work and are having fun too.
A bit of a sad note is I got my iPod stolen out of our car, and Elder Wright's GPS. We're really sad and are hoping the culprit needed them more than we did. I hope all is well at home and with the wedding plans. I love being a missionary and serving the Lord. I want each of you to feel of the same joy by fasting praying and finding someone for the missionaries to teach.
We had 3 people at church this week. A family that I hope to set baptismal dates with before I leave Paducah. Transfers are coming up and I hope I don't leave, but it would be okay if I did. I'm excited to see what this next week will bring.
I hope all is well at home.
Love,
Elder Jonathan D. Hansen
08 September 2009 I'VE GOT CABIN FEVER!
Dear Family,
The subject of my e-mail is supposed to be a pun to tell you of how happy I am to hear of your great adventure at the cabin with the family. It sounds like so much fun and I can't wait for those type of trips when I get home. It sounds like all of you had a great time at the cabin. I loved hearing the stories of the little kids. Thank you for all of your E-mails and thank you to those who write weekly. I really appriciate it.
Well, I guess you could say... I've got cabin fever too! Elder Wright has been out with a hernia and the only Uroligist in Paducah (yes Sister Hutchings insists that he see a Uroligist) has been super busy and the only appointment we could get is for today. So we've been inside for six days now and I think I'm going a bit crazy. Just so everyone knows... a happy missionary is one who can teach. But I guess this break from missionary work has been nice.
I've been able to go on Exchanges and train other missionaries in how they could better fulfill their purpose. I love to do that and I love Priesthood Leadership and all that I learn. I love being able to help companionships set goals and watch them achieve them and know that they can do this work they've been called to do. But for the most part we've been stuck inside. A lot of reading has been done. I'm sure glad I never get bored of the scriptures. I hope we get out soon or the assistants come and rescue me soon. ;) Pray for Elder Wright that he'll get well soon and if he needs surgery, that he'll heal from that soon too.
I talked to President Hutchings about it and he said I could sing something on a tape, so if you want to send me some lyrics and minus tracks I'll contribute that way. I wish so much that I could be there. I could book the Nashville temple if you want? She could get married here! ;)
Love ya'll. Have a great week.
Love,Elder Hansen
The subject of my e-mail is supposed to be a pun to tell you of how happy I am to hear of your great adventure at the cabin with the family. It sounds like so much fun and I can't wait for those type of trips when I get home. It sounds like all of you had a great time at the cabin. I loved hearing the stories of the little kids. Thank you for all of your E-mails and thank you to those who write weekly. I really appriciate it.
Well, I guess you could say... I've got cabin fever too! Elder Wright has been out with a hernia and the only Uroligist in Paducah (yes Sister Hutchings insists that he see a Uroligist) has been super busy and the only appointment we could get is for today. So we've been inside for six days now and I think I'm going a bit crazy. Just so everyone knows... a happy missionary is one who can teach. But I guess this break from missionary work has been nice.
I've been able to go on Exchanges and train other missionaries in how they could better fulfill their purpose. I love to do that and I love Priesthood Leadership and all that I learn. I love being able to help companionships set goals and watch them achieve them and know that they can do this work they've been called to do. But for the most part we've been stuck inside. A lot of reading has been done. I'm sure glad I never get bored of the scriptures. I hope we get out soon or the assistants come and rescue me soon. ;) Pray for Elder Wright that he'll get well soon and if he needs surgery, that he'll heal from that soon too.
I talked to President Hutchings about it and he said I could sing something on a tape, so if you want to send me some lyrics and minus tracks I'll contribute that way. I wish so much that I could be there. I could book the Nashville temple if you want? She could get married here! ;)
Love ya'll. Have a great week.
Love,Elder Hansen
31 August 2009 WHAT BIG NEWS YOU HAVE THERE!
Dear Family,
I can't believe all the big news. I think Aimee said it best when she said... "Isn't it weird to get big news fROm far away?" Weird is about the only way I can describe it. How I'd wish to be home for all the celebration, But I know I'm where I need to be and will be celebrating from here. ;) To get it out of the way first. Congrats Laura and Matt on your engagment! I'm so excited for you!!!! I can't wait for all the pictures. I'm so excited.
Things this week were very trying, but very rewarding. We started the week right on target for our goal for the month 5 baptized and 5 dates and on monday night we got 1 more date called in leaving us expecting 11 for the month, and our goal was at 10. But Satan came knocking as he always does. First off, I went up to Marion IL, for an Exchange leaving Elder Wright to do it all by himself. And while in Marion we experienced some difficulty with a baptism there. To keep the law of chastity the young man moved out of his girlfriends place to a place just outside of the mission boundries. So we couldn't touch him without permission from the Priesthood leaders up in Mt. Vernon IL. So we had to work all that out and make it work.
Then On Thursday I returned and Elder Wright and I worked like CRAZY!!! We had to secure the dates we had left. Well through the course of the week Satan beat 2 candidates for baptism because of the choice of the investigators. We were literally waiting for them at water's edge, and one was set back because of a word of wisdom issue.
But all in all ending with 8 Baptized in Paducah Zone is very good. I'm so proud of my little band of warriors. We fought our hardest and cried to the Lord in mighty prayer. And I know that the work we did was acceptable to him. And now we are already underway for the exciting month of September. On to bigger and better things.
I just want to tell you about how much I love being a Zone Leader. I'm learning so much about priesthood leadership and the Spirit's tutoring me well. I've had to deal with a lot and learn to receive specific revelation and learn to recognize it. Today I had to deal with some disobedience and as I asked the Lord for help, His Spirit directed me on the exact right words to say to work eveything out. It was so amazing.
Now about the wedding. I'm Mad Matt didn't even ask me!!!! just kidding. I'm so excited for Laura. But I won't lie. I'm really sad that I won't be there. I won't be able to enjoy the celebration. I won't even be able to see her live sealing. But most of all I'm sad I won't even get to sing at her wedding. Maybe the President will let me record something and send it for the wedding. That will be my contribution to involve me in the festivities.
Oh, one more thing! My good friend Sam is getting home from his mission. Please take time to go see him and tell him hello from me. And one more thing - I got word of a new CD of the University Singers called, "Cloths of Heaven" that is my year's recording. Could you buy it and send it to me.... Please!!!
I love you all very much and hope all is well back home. I mention you often, if not always in my prayers. I just want you to know that I couldn't be happier... well maybe if I was in two places at once.
Love,
Elder Jonathan David Hansen
Bringing the World His Truth
even though his family is having fun without him ;)
I can't believe all the big news. I think Aimee said it best when she said... "Isn't it weird to get big news fROm far away?" Weird is about the only way I can describe it. How I'd wish to be home for all the celebration, But I know I'm where I need to be and will be celebrating from here. ;) To get it out of the way first. Congrats Laura and Matt on your engagment! I'm so excited for you!!!! I can't wait for all the pictures. I'm so excited.
Things this week were very trying, but very rewarding. We started the week right on target for our goal for the month 5 baptized and 5 dates and on monday night we got 1 more date called in leaving us expecting 11 for the month, and our goal was at 10. But Satan came knocking as he always does. First off, I went up to Marion IL, for an Exchange leaving Elder Wright to do it all by himself. And while in Marion we experienced some difficulty with a baptism there. To keep the law of chastity the young man moved out of his girlfriends place to a place just outside of the mission boundries. So we couldn't touch him without permission from the Priesthood leaders up in Mt. Vernon IL. So we had to work all that out and make it work.
Then On Thursday I returned and Elder Wright and I worked like CRAZY!!! We had to secure the dates we had left. Well through the course of the week Satan beat 2 candidates for baptism because of the choice of the investigators. We were literally waiting for them at water's edge, and one was set back because of a word of wisdom issue.
But all in all ending with 8 Baptized in Paducah Zone is very good. I'm so proud of my little band of warriors. We fought our hardest and cried to the Lord in mighty prayer. And I know that the work we did was acceptable to him. And now we are already underway for the exciting month of September. On to bigger and better things.
I just want to tell you about how much I love being a Zone Leader. I'm learning so much about priesthood leadership and the Spirit's tutoring me well. I've had to deal with a lot and learn to receive specific revelation and learn to recognize it. Today I had to deal with some disobedience and as I asked the Lord for help, His Spirit directed me on the exact right words to say to work eveything out. It was so amazing.
Now about the wedding. I'm Mad Matt didn't even ask me!!!! just kidding. I'm so excited for Laura. But I won't lie. I'm really sad that I won't be there. I won't be able to enjoy the celebration. I won't even be able to see her live sealing. But most of all I'm sad I won't even get to sing at her wedding. Maybe the President will let me record something and send it for the wedding. That will be my contribution to involve me in the festivities.
Oh, one more thing! My good friend Sam is getting home from his mission. Please take time to go see him and tell him hello from me. And one more thing - I got word of a new CD of the University Singers called, "Cloths of Heaven" that is my year's recording. Could you buy it and send it to me.... Please!!!
I love you all very much and hope all is well back home. I mention you often, if not always in my prayers. I just want you to know that I couldn't be happier... well maybe if I was in two places at once.
Love,
Elder Jonathan David Hansen
Bringing the World His Truth
even though his family is having fun without him ;)
24 August SPENDING MY YEAR MARK IN PARIS!
Dear Family,
Now, contrary to what you are thinking I didn't spend Aug. 20th in France. But alas I was only in Paris TN. But even they too have an Eiffel tower. I'll start my week on Monday.
I love the Spirit and how it testifies to the humble that we are servants of God. We got a member referral on Sunday night and went and visited this family on Monday night. We had a great lesson and answered a few questions and the whole time he just kept saying, I feel so good when I'm with you... It feels like my heart is on fire. I love teaching people that are sensative to the spirit. Miracle number 1
Then on Tuesday I was on exchanges in my own area with a really good friend in the mission, Elder Rasmussen (who's an assistant). We had so much fun with each other and got so much done. I love amazing experiences like that. Elder Rasmussen and I discussed why it is so important for missionaries to learn and internalize their purpose. I now have a new disire to internalize my purpose as a missionary. I love good exchanges.
On Wednesday, we had district meeting in Mayfield and I went on exchanges in Paris. Now Paris has been struggling. And so I set some High goals to achieve for our exchange. And we met all of them. It was so amazing. It rained most the day on Wednesday but that didn't stop us.
Thursday Aug. 20th 2009- My year mark. :( I don't really want to talk about that aspect but to say the least I had many miracles happen to me on this day and we even set a baptismal date. It was so good. I love the Spirit and love to do missionary work. There is no better place.
Elder Wright and I have been teaching a lot. Either we are teaching missionaries or we are teaching families. I love teaching families instead of individuals. The rest of the week flew by until Sunday- We had a Songs of the Savior fireside and it was really good. I love doing that fireside. I just wish it didn't take so long to get down to Nashville.
I've been studying about Christ and his early Church the past week and I received a witness of just how true this church really is. We tell people out here that either the Church is true or it's not; either what we claim is true or it's not. And as I studied about these things the spirit strongly confirmed it is all true. Isn't it wonderful we belong to the true Church of Jesus Christ. When we learn that, all the hard things of this life seem all worth it.
I love you all and want you to know I'm having a great time down in Kentucky ;)
I am so glad you had a wonderful experience at the temple dedication. I love temples and I wish I could have seen, heard, and felt the things you described in your journal entry.
Love,
Elder Hansen
Now, contrary to what you are thinking I didn't spend Aug. 20th in France. But alas I was only in Paris TN. But even they too have an Eiffel tower. I'll start my week on Monday.
I love the Spirit and how it testifies to the humble that we are servants of God. We got a member referral on Sunday night and went and visited this family on Monday night. We had a great lesson and answered a few questions and the whole time he just kept saying, I feel so good when I'm with you... It feels like my heart is on fire. I love teaching people that are sensative to the spirit. Miracle number 1
Then on Tuesday I was on exchanges in my own area with a really good friend in the mission, Elder Rasmussen (who's an assistant). We had so much fun with each other and got so much done. I love amazing experiences like that. Elder Rasmussen and I discussed why it is so important for missionaries to learn and internalize their purpose. I now have a new disire to internalize my purpose as a missionary. I love good exchanges.
On Wednesday, we had district meeting in Mayfield and I went on exchanges in Paris. Now Paris has been struggling. And so I set some High goals to achieve for our exchange. And we met all of them. It was so amazing. It rained most the day on Wednesday but that didn't stop us.
Thursday Aug. 20th 2009- My year mark. :( I don't really want to talk about that aspect but to say the least I had many miracles happen to me on this day and we even set a baptismal date. It was so good. I love the Spirit and love to do missionary work. There is no better place.
Elder Wright and I have been teaching a lot. Either we are teaching missionaries or we are teaching families. I love teaching families instead of individuals. The rest of the week flew by until Sunday- We had a Songs of the Savior fireside and it was really good. I love doing that fireside. I just wish it didn't take so long to get down to Nashville.
I've been studying about Christ and his early Church the past week and I received a witness of just how true this church really is. We tell people out here that either the Church is true or it's not; either what we claim is true or it's not. And as I studied about these things the spirit strongly confirmed it is all true. Isn't it wonderful we belong to the true Church of Jesus Christ. When we learn that, all the hard things of this life seem all worth it.
I love you all and want you to know I'm having a great time down in Kentucky ;)
I am so glad you had a wonderful experience at the temple dedication. I love temples and I wish I could have seen, heard, and felt the things you described in your journal entry.
Love,
Elder Hansen
17 August A SUCCESSFUL WEEK!
Dear Family,
I just want you to know that I'm convinced that member work is the only way to go. I know that you the members of the church are our key to being as effective as the Lord wants this work to be.
This week was full of awesome experiences but I only have time to write a few.
Yesterday we had a baptism in the Paducah ward. It was amazing. It was fun to see the ward get so involved and I have no worries about Chelsea Long being retained in the Church. We literally just showed up to teach her and the ward did the rest. That is the only way this work will move forward at the pace the Lord wants. That makes 5 converts in the time I've been here in paducah. And the Ward is now on fire. I love missionary work. The other missionaries in Paducah Ward are having a baptism today. His name is Ramon and he is from St. Petersburg Russia. I was able to give him his baptismal interview, and just like the many other russians I've met, he has no personality and wouldn't smile. And got very mad at me when I asked him a question in Russian and wouldn't answer me back. So what can you do; he's getting baptized today and all that matters is that he's drawing closer to Christ.
The mission is doing really well this month. Our Zone already has 5 baptized and has 10 future dates 8 of which are for this month. If we hit our goal, sorry, when we hit our goal of 10 this month I will never stop praising this Zone. It has gone from getting 2 baptisms a month to getting around 5 a month and now is in the runnings of getting 10. It is so amazing. I can't wait to see how we do. Elder Wright and myself are now going on exchanges for the rest of the month. We will only be with each other for 6 more days total in this month - 2 of which will be Sundays. Woo. I'm so excited to help this zone out.
The ward is going crazy with giving us referrals now, I know it's because of the success they've been able to see come from giving them. Elder Wright and I now have a pretty good size teaching pool, most of which are member referrals. I love it. This work is amazing. I love it and the Lord.
Rob's baptism was called off, not by him but by Kristy. She wants to make sure that he's doing it for the right reasons. He still doesn't have a witness that Joseph Smith is a prophet. I just wish Kristy would understand that just because her and Isaac's witness came before baptism; many people don't receive that witness until after the actual baptism. So, his date has been postponed. It made me really sad to hear all that. But not discouraged because I know now that I did do all that I could. I'm just sad that I won't be able to attend the temple with them while still a missionary.
Which brings me to my next point. My year mark is really close, in fact it scares me everyday. I'm not yet where I want to be as a missionary. I'm a very good missionary and I'm effective, but I still have countless weaknesses and feel like I need a bit more time. But, missions are 2 years for a reason I guess. I just hope I can help all those I need to before I go home.
Our Zone is doing OUTSTANDING. Some areas are just on fire and others are really struggling.
Elder Wright and I had stake corrolation this week and it reminded me of Dad. Please make sure all the wards have a good and active ward mission leader. Please make sure the work is being done and set active goals in missionary work in the stake. If you focus on missionary work, most of all poblems of wothiness, and welfare go away. I've seen it so much in the ward's I've served in. The minute the Ward switches to be missionary minded, most other troubles go out the window. Please stress missionary work in the stake and let me know how things are going, in missionary work, back home. There are plenty of non-members in our stake boundries and moving into Daybreak that I'm sure at least a few are prepared.
Presidnet Hutchings told me that I'm doing great and every time he's around me he feels of my great spirit and knows that what I'm going is right. He said he prays for me all the time and told me to have patience; it will come with time.
Your doing great.Every time I'm around you I feel of your great spirit and know that what you're doing is right.I pray for you all the time. Have patience it will come with time. I am grateful for his inspiration and I would do anything he asks of me.
I love being a missionary and know that this is Christ's church. I know he lives for I have felt his power in my life and He has changed my heart. I love you all and hope you have a great week.
Love,
Elder Hansen.
I just want you to know that I'm convinced that member work is the only way to go. I know that you the members of the church are our key to being as effective as the Lord wants this work to be.
This week was full of awesome experiences but I only have time to write a few.
Yesterday we had a baptism in the Paducah ward. It was amazing. It was fun to see the ward get so involved and I have no worries about Chelsea Long being retained in the Church. We literally just showed up to teach her and the ward did the rest. That is the only way this work will move forward at the pace the Lord wants. That makes 5 converts in the time I've been here in paducah. And the Ward is now on fire. I love missionary work. The other missionaries in Paducah Ward are having a baptism today. His name is Ramon and he is from St. Petersburg Russia. I was able to give him his baptismal interview, and just like the many other russians I've met, he has no personality and wouldn't smile. And got very mad at me when I asked him a question in Russian and wouldn't answer me back. So what can you do; he's getting baptized today and all that matters is that he's drawing closer to Christ.
The mission is doing really well this month. Our Zone already has 5 baptized and has 10 future dates 8 of which are for this month. If we hit our goal, sorry, when we hit our goal of 10 this month I will never stop praising this Zone. It has gone from getting 2 baptisms a month to getting around 5 a month and now is in the runnings of getting 10. It is so amazing. I can't wait to see how we do. Elder Wright and myself are now going on exchanges for the rest of the month. We will only be with each other for 6 more days total in this month - 2 of which will be Sundays. Woo. I'm so excited to help this zone out.
The ward is going crazy with giving us referrals now, I know it's because of the success they've been able to see come from giving them. Elder Wright and I now have a pretty good size teaching pool, most of which are member referrals. I love it. This work is amazing. I love it and the Lord.
Rob's baptism was called off, not by him but by Kristy. She wants to make sure that he's doing it for the right reasons. He still doesn't have a witness that Joseph Smith is a prophet. I just wish Kristy would understand that just because her and Isaac's witness came before baptism; many people don't receive that witness until after the actual baptism. So, his date has been postponed. It made me really sad to hear all that. But not discouraged because I know now that I did do all that I could. I'm just sad that I won't be able to attend the temple with them while still a missionary.
Which brings me to my next point. My year mark is really close, in fact it scares me everyday. I'm not yet where I want to be as a missionary. I'm a very good missionary and I'm effective, but I still have countless weaknesses and feel like I need a bit more time. But, missions are 2 years for a reason I guess. I just hope I can help all those I need to before I go home.
Our Zone is doing OUTSTANDING. Some areas are just on fire and others are really struggling.
Elder Wright and I had stake corrolation this week and it reminded me of Dad. Please make sure all the wards have a good and active ward mission leader. Please make sure the work is being done and set active goals in missionary work in the stake. If you focus on missionary work, most of all poblems of wothiness, and welfare go away. I've seen it so much in the ward's I've served in. The minute the Ward switches to be missionary minded, most other troubles go out the window. Please stress missionary work in the stake and let me know how things are going, in missionary work, back home. There are plenty of non-members in our stake boundries and moving into Daybreak that I'm sure at least a few are prepared.
Presidnet Hutchings told me that I'm doing great and every time he's around me he feels of my great spirit and knows that what I'm going is right. He said he prays for me all the time and told me to have patience; it will come with time.
Your doing great.Every time I'm around you I feel of your great spirit and know that what you're doing is right.I pray for you all the time. Have patience it will come with time. I am grateful for his inspiration and I would do anything he asks of me.
I love being a missionary and know that this is Christ's church. I know he lives for I have felt his power in my life and He has changed my heart. I love you all and hope you have a great week.
Love,
Elder Hansen.
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