About a month ago, we had a recent convert named Naomi move into the ward. She was baptized in South Korea while teaching English there; however, she is originally from Manchester. We visited her this past week and will continue to do so in the future. I love her already; she's amazing. Just last week she told us how she read the entire Book of Mormon before her baptism. Naomi has a strong testimony, and it is clear that she loves the gospel. It is a pleasure just to witness the Spirit working in others and being able to see their testimony and light. And it is fun to make new friends :)
Yesterday, we were able to meet as a ward council with the stake presidency where they presented their vision for the year. President Liptrott, Scott, and Gregson are definitely inspired. As they presented the vision, they helped us to understand those things that are of greatest importance. There was so much that stood out to me in that meeting. Aligning our wills with the stake’s will, and most importantly, Heavenly Father’s will is essential. The united vision will bring great blessings to the people in Manchester this upcoming year. It has helped me to realize how missions prepare the young people for future leadership. The Spirit and vision the presidency have has inspired me to create a similar vision in my future callings. I am grateful to take part in a variety of roles and meetings.
This week in my scripture study, I came across the phrase “return with full purpose of heart” (3 Nephi 10:6). It reminded me of Elder Kearon’s (a member of the area presidency, so he oversees the church in the Europe area) whole soul devotion. (This concept of whole soul devotion is the idea that we devote all of ourselves to the work.) The ideas of full and whole are quite similar. We need to put in our all, our 100%. It is when we are fully committed that we are blessed with success. We may not see the fruits of our labors right away, but we will be able to rejoice in the work being accomplished. I recognize it is important to maintain that focus, commitment, and determination even to the end. There will be great blessings that come as I do so.
I am doing well and am continuing to enjoy my time with Sister Crookston. You can look at the pictures attached to see more of the fun I'm having :)
Love, Becca
Pictures:
1. Sister Doherty and me
2. Sister Howell and me
3. [Becca said this was her and Sister Crookston, but it looks like she sent the wrong one...looks to me like Sister Doherty and Sister Vosloo]
4. Me in the snow (if you can even call it that)
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