Dude, you're kidding me!! Completely kidding me. All of these years of
dreaming to go to Norway and China, and we both get to go there!! That
is absolutely nuts. Haha!! I can't wait for our stories and experiences
:D. Gah! Hahaha.
Well everyone, my buddy Garrett got his call to Hong Kong, China, and it is nigh unbelievable!
 |
| Ominous, eh? |
 |
| Bergen Stav Kirke |
So
hey everyone! I feel more alive than I have in a while. This week was
awesome! The Atonement is real and this Gospel is true! And going around
telling people that feels amazing. I hope you all enjoy the pictures
(yes, enjoy the Ancient Norsk Church Garrett, saw it this morning!!
Didn't go inside though because it cost $20. The other ones are free
from what I've heard!) There are mushrooms everywhere and the city is
gorgeous when there's some sun!
We studied some family history stuff for missionary
work because apparently it's a huge hobby in Norway, and I found out
that I have Scottish blood in me! Scottish!! Scottish, Danish, Swedish
and English. That's awesome. I was so excited after I heard that. And
also one of my grandmas was born in Nauvoo (Rebecca Hill). That is so
incredible! It's empowering to think about those on the other side
supporting us in our work here. So! I would love some more stories about
my family, that'd be great :D.
One thing we've found to be rather successful here
in Bergen is to go out by the lake and draw a giant chalk picture of the
plan of salvation (Frelsesplanen) for people. It's a great way to talk
to people! We've found many potential investigators that way, and my
Norsk has really improved. Note to future missionaries/anyone who will
explain the plan of salvation effectively: The Plan of Salvation is
centered on Jesus Christ - therefore you must use Him as your needle
through the tapestry of the Plan. It is only possible through Christ,
and the Holy Ghost can powerfully testify of the Plan when you speak of
His role as Savior to make it possible.
Another thing. I've been having a hard time with
patience recently. And since I have studied the Christ-like attribute of
patience and thoroughly sought to obtain it, my joy in this work has
blossomed. I highly recommend in everyone's personal study to take some
time to obtain and develop these attributes - for it is more important
to be a missionary than to just do missionary things! (including member
missionaries!) However, both of them bring blessings! Go and perform
missionary work - it is the lifeblood of this Gospel and brings so much
joy!
Did I mention Bergen is the home of Edvard Grieg?
Sweet huh! We're performing our fireside next Sunday. The music will be
incredible - the members here are gifted musicians (particularly
vocalists). Also, it doesn't snow too badly here. The weather stays warm
enough to be rain, and yet cold enough to still tell you it's Norway.
I've certainly been warm so far however :D - I even found an extra
jacket (not waterproof, but warm!) in the apartment. I'm looking around
for a good snow jacket though. It's going to be cold, I know it will.
Thank you all for your support - I feel transformed
through the Atonement and I experience joy everyday in this work. I am
really excited for this next week. I haven't received any mail yet, but I
look forward to it! . . . some day! . . . . . Haha. These p-days where
we get emails feel like Christmas. Vitamin D will really come in handy, I
hope I get it! Congratulations to all of you getting married - I wish I
could be there! I'm excited to see little cousins running around pretty
soon :D. I love you all so much. I've never done anything harder, yet
more satisfying and joyful. It's truly the Lord's work! Take advantage
of the gift Christ has given us!
