My Dearest Family, moja Rodzinie,
I can't believe this is the last e-mail I will be sending you before we see eachother face to face. It blows my mind that it's come to the end so quickly. We're so busy I dont' have time to think about it, but it's impossible not to think about when everyone around you is telling you how close it is and what not. It's been an amazing week though. We've had some amazing experiences.
I am constantly tired every day ha. I don't know if I just feel more tired cos it's close to the end or my body really is feeling the results of two years of missionary work. Who knows ha. I do feel like I'm in better shape then I've been maybe my whole mission. There's no Manekin in Warsaw :P
Last Sunday I spoke in Church, for only the second time on my entire mission. The first was when I was 6 months in the country in Bydgoszcz. It was an amazing experience for several reasons. For starters, I actually felt comfortable standing in front of everyone and just speaking Polish. It was relaxing and I could explain exactly what I wanted to about "The Importance of Daily Personal Prayer". I really enjoyed speaking in Church for probably the first time in my life ha. I feel like I know so many of these members from the Branch so well, and they listened very intently. I was grateful for that. And everyone is so kind whenever you speak in church. They come up and and are sincere as can be, and it made me grateful to have the chance to serve in this branch for as long as I have.
We met with the Netto's- which seems already like it was at least 4 weeks ago- and had a nice meeting with them. They are some amazing members of the church. Gosia Netto especially amazes me- she was only baptized 3 years ago, but she is the most solid member ever. Her Institute lessons blow my mind. I often am the one translating for her, and I love it, because her lessons are the bomb.
The Smiths, an American Family who I have certainly mentioned before, invited us over for dinner. Rob Smith had served here on his mission almost 9 or 10 years ago, and was here working in the embassy for almost the entire span that I was on my mission, He had just been here 2 months before I came into the country, and now they are leaving back to the United States the day after me. Unbelievable. They have 4 children now, but when I was first in Warsaw they had 3, and the oldest was 4 years old. They have all grown up sooo much since then, it is uncanny. They had us over, we ate Pizza, talked and had a really nice time. I shared a spiritual thought, and I thought to myself, I am so not used to this. Eating Pizza and Root beer floats, kids running around speaking in English. It was bizarre ha. But it was so nice. Their kids are amazingly well behaved and hilarious as can be. I spent 6 months with them in Primary last year, playing piano and security guard. The experience was a good one. I love the Smiths.
We've been meeting with Bartek constistently and the kid is a rock star. He is hilarious as can be, and has a desire to learn and understand the Gospel. All of his friends drink and smoke, so he's struggling with that. But he remembers everything we teach him, and I really think he will be baptized. It's amazing how the Lord works. I was praying that we would meet someone who was prepared to hear the Gospel and to act on what he is learning, and Bartek is sincerely trying. We just taught him the stop smoking program, and it was hard for him to hear ha, but he's going to do it. He'll be in Church, and I think someday he'll serve a mission. There is a decent amount of really cool youth to help him grow and become a solid member. He's totally on to the concept of getting baptized. It'll happen.
The saddness that weighs on my heart comes from 4 of our investigators who have a testimony that the Church is true, but are lacking the faith to do something about it. They love meeting with us, coming to church, to baptisms, and they even talk about the day that they will be baptized, but they just have to do it. The last meetings we had with them I told them as plain as I could that they need to be baptized. I know they will someday, I just hope it happens sooner then later. They are ready. Tomek, Damian, Bogdan and Marek. They are good men, who will be good priesthood holders and leaders of the Church. The Church needs them now, and they need the church more than ever. I love them all, and I look forward to hearing about their baptisms. I know I've tried my best to help them all. I will continue to pray for them.
We met with some of my favorite people- Beata and Bartek- last Saturday. I've written a bit about them lately. They are simply the best. They are so down to earth, and are just amazing people. We had dinner at their house and enjoyed a nice walk in the park, talking about the Gospel. I hope I get to see them once more before I leave.
We're meeting with Irina in a few minutes. She's been doing so well lately- Sister Harding is really taking her under her wing, and trying her best to help her out. Irina loves being in church, she loves seeing everyone and she is so happy when she's there. She even gave a talk in church! If I didn't tell you all that when it happened about a month ago- I think I did though,
Dominik Rędziński, in Katowice, gave a talk a few Sundays ago and apparently did very well. He's a great kid- the Gospel will really keep him on track his whole life.
We took P-day on Thursday because of Today's absolute craziness. It was the last and final P-day ever, and it was beautiful. We did a little shopping and then enjoyed some time on the Rynek. I don't think the weather could've been more gorgeous. We just soaked it in, in our little slice of European heaven. I'm going to miss having places like the Rynek be a stone's throw away.
These next 6 days will be absolutely crazy. Church will be very nice, and afterward Adam, the man who owns the tie company from which every single Poland Warsaw Missionary buys all his/her ties, is having everyone over for a grill, family home evening deal at his house. It'll be a nice day.
Tuesday and Wednesday are Zone Conferences. I'll have one last chance to go to Katowice, and hopefully see Dominik and Ania, and the other members there. Wednesday evening we're meeting with Brother Lewis, a member of the Branch Presidency. And then it's to the mission home on Thursday.
I'm going to miss my companions, and miss so many things about this country it's hard to think about. I love Elder Mehner so much- we've spent a lot of time together out here. Elder Balija has quickly become a really good friend. I'll miss my whole district. They are amazing people. Elder Handley, Elder Lewis, Sister Pritchett and Sister Smith. An amazing district.
I feel like there are so many people I want to talk to, and say goodbye to, so many "lasts" that I want to get in, but overall I am happy and peaceful. I'm going to do everything I can, and I know that it'll be ok. I have loved every single day of the last two years, and I plan on enjoying the next 6 days to the very fullest. I plan on living it to it's fullest, and doing all that I can to finish as the missionary the Lord wants me to be. I love this Gospel. I love my Savior and my Father in Heaven and I'm grateful to the bottom of my heart for every day that I spent in this beautiful country. It's meant the world to me. I know even then it'll take me awhile to fully realize the importance of it in my life.
Family, thank you for supporting me like you have. I am blessed beyond measure, and I'm trying my best to serve, to share what I was given with others. I love you all so much, You mean everything to me. It'll be something else to see your faces in a few days.
The Gospel is on the earth. The Church is true. Our Savior lives.
This is Elder Rushton, signing off. Viva la Polska.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Time After Time- June 12, 2010
Dear Family of mine -
What a beautiful morning to be writing to you all. It's been California weather here for this last week, and we've been loving it, but the lack of air conditioning in Poland, and the lack of fans in our home make for a sweaty week as well. But it's been fantastic.
I just saw the video of Elder McLaws and Elder Lysenko. How unbelievable is that. I got so excited just seeing Jake- it's been awhile since I've seen that kid's mug live in action. I admit I didn't expect that the first time I'd see it live would be on CNBC haha. Makes you proud to be a missionary, seeing your friends teaching in action on the other side of the world. Simply amazing.
Graduation has officially come and gone. I remember telling you, Spencer, that you'd be graduating right before I came home. That seemed like an eternity away. You were a baby back then. Now you're the big man on campus, rocking the casbah there in the home town. There's a new high school??? Who'dve thunk it. Massimo pizza? Dad chaperoning an all-night party on the beach? Life will certainly be different ha :P Just kidding. Sarah and Annie, you look adorable. I can't believe you graduated middle school sister. High school is just waiting for your presence. You will rule that place.
The weeks are just flowing through my fingers, I can hardly believe it. This last week was a beautiful one. I can't remember a single thing that happen, but I know that we were busy, and I am tired after it all ha. Ok, I'll recall what I can.
Firstly, this last Sunday, I was schocked again when Michael-the same man who I baptized and confirmed- asked me to ordain him a Priest and give him the Priesthood. I was shocked, and felt amazingly priveleged to participate in something like that. It's always a wonderful experiences- giving blessings, and ordaining. I always remember when Dad would ordain me, or bless me, or I would watch people bless their children, I thought that must be such a nerve-racking experience. I feel like I've come to understand the power of the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and how God is always willing to tell us what to say, to put the words in our mouths. Giving Michael the Priesthood was an amazing experience.
I did have several experiences during this week where afterwards I just felt so strongly that this is the true Church of Jesus Christ on earth. One of those experiences happened yesterday as we met with Damian. He is an investigator that Sister Castleton (now Sister Broadbent) and Sister Squires had found when they were together. That was when Elder McRae and I were together almost 20 months ago in this Branch. He has off and on investigated since then and has come so close to baptism on several occasions, and we've been doing our best to work with him. Yesterday we had an amazing meeting with Sister Monika Dublicka present. Testimonies were born, and love was expressed for this amazing man. It was a powerful experience for me as I realized why we were sitting in that room, why we had planned a lesson, why we had invited Monika and why she had decided to come. It was because we love and care about Damian and his eternal happiness. There is no other reason. The Gospel is true and it has the power to change lives. A man who will give his life to God will find that God can make so much more out of it then he could do alone. Damian, like everyone on this Earth, needs the Gospel of Jesus Christ in his life. It gives us understanding, peace, hope, and joy. It helps us become more like our Savior and to serve and love. It helps us realize what really matters in this life. Everybody needs that. Surely some of those things can come from other sources, but I know without a doubt that those other sources cannot seal those feelings in a man's heart like the power of the Holy Ghost can. I felt that yesterday, and so did Damian. We are fasting with him today, and hope to see him baptized in a week.
Bartek, the boy we contacted on the Rynek, is unbelievable. He is really going to get baptized at the end of this month, probably a couple days after, or before I go home. I hope it is before. He has the desire in his heart to know if it is true, and is willing to go the distance, to pay the price by reading, praying, living according to the commandments. It's a neat expereince, and I'm so grateful the Lord is allowing me to have it will I am still here. Brother Jan Herman was on the meeting with us last time, and they just clicked like a couple of Legos. It was super rad.
Oh, before I forget. Carlos and Ela and Natan from Katowice have officially moved to France. They feel like that is where they need to go- they have had their struggles in Poland and they feel really strongly that France is where they need to go for awhile. I talked to them on the phone the night before they left, and I was just praying that everything would be ok for them. I can't believe their actually leaving Katowice. They really are my Polish family. I love them so, and I feel so warmly their love for me. I am so grateful I met them on here in Poland. Hopefully I'll find a way to visit them in France sometime in the semi-near future. We'll see. There's always study abroad right? ha.
Elder Balija is my new companion who joined and made us a 3-some. Elder Balija is from Napa, California, and is an amazing kid. He's a convert to the Church, from when he was 9 years old, but his parents were never really active. His Aunt invited him to church when he was in his early teenage years and he started to go. He had tons of support from friends in the Ward, and he's here on a mission, and is a wonderful missionary and a good friend to be around. He and Elder Mehner came to Poland at the same time. I've loved every threesome I've ever been a part of, and this one is equally amazing. We've been waking up at 6:00 every morning and playing Basketball as a district at these little courts about 5 minutes away. I love it. :) It's been so nice to excersice like that. Excersize? Excercise? Crimany.
Our mission is officially tiny looking. We just took a mission picture, I'll have to send it to you- but it's tiny! But powerful at the same time. And it'll get boosted back up at least by 5 companionships. It is so strange having to take care of little things before the Engbjerg's leave, trying to make the transtition as smooth as possible. We just did transfers for the last time. We might have to take another look at it. We're making a notebook of all the things the President Nielson will need, and Elder Mehner and Balija are being prepared to take over. It's crazy. I won't be here for any of those amazing experiences their going to have.
Today the Engbjerg's are hosting a big party for our Branch to say goodbye to all the members. It's going to be a neat experience to see everyone, and to eat the best gravy and "creamy potatoes". When we go to Denmark someday to visit President, I'm sure Sister Engbjerg will make THE GRAVY and you will be convinced of my craze. Ha Sister Engbjerg thinks I'm addicted to food. I kind of am. I don't know what happened to me, I just appreciate a good taste these days. :P
I didn't want to write this, but I only have one more letter to write to you all after this. That is unbelievable. I've loved writing these letters every week, summing up my life for the week. I still want to do it when I get home ha.
I love you family. I love every day here. I look out the window sometimes and think how I won't be able to be here in just a couple of weeks, and it's hard for my brain to grasp. I don't think I will fully understand until I see ground outside of Polska. I love this place.
Have a wonderful week, be safe, have fun, read your scriptures. I love you.
Elder Michael
What a beautiful morning to be writing to you all. It's been California weather here for this last week, and we've been loving it, but the lack of air conditioning in Poland, and the lack of fans in our home make for a sweaty week as well. But it's been fantastic.
I just saw the video of Elder McLaws and Elder Lysenko. How unbelievable is that. I got so excited just seeing Jake- it's been awhile since I've seen that kid's mug live in action. I admit I didn't expect that the first time I'd see it live would be on CNBC haha. Makes you proud to be a missionary, seeing your friends teaching in action on the other side of the world. Simply amazing.
Graduation has officially come and gone. I remember telling you, Spencer, that you'd be graduating right before I came home. That seemed like an eternity away. You were a baby back then. Now you're the big man on campus, rocking the casbah there in the home town. There's a new high school??? Who'dve thunk it. Massimo pizza? Dad chaperoning an all-night party on the beach? Life will certainly be different ha :P Just kidding. Sarah and Annie, you look adorable. I can't believe you graduated middle school sister. High school is just waiting for your presence. You will rule that place.
The weeks are just flowing through my fingers, I can hardly believe it. This last week was a beautiful one. I can't remember a single thing that happen, but I know that we were busy, and I am tired after it all ha. Ok, I'll recall what I can.
Firstly, this last Sunday, I was schocked again when Michael-the same man who I baptized and confirmed- asked me to ordain him a Priest and give him the Priesthood. I was shocked, and felt amazingly priveleged to participate in something like that. It's always a wonderful experiences- giving blessings, and ordaining. I always remember when Dad would ordain me, or bless me, or I would watch people bless their children, I thought that must be such a nerve-racking experience. I feel like I've come to understand the power of the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and how God is always willing to tell us what to say, to put the words in our mouths. Giving Michael the Priesthood was an amazing experience.
I did have several experiences during this week where afterwards I just felt so strongly that this is the true Church of Jesus Christ on earth. One of those experiences happened yesterday as we met with Damian. He is an investigator that Sister Castleton (now Sister Broadbent) and Sister Squires had found when they were together. That was when Elder McRae and I were together almost 20 months ago in this Branch. He has off and on investigated since then and has come so close to baptism on several occasions, and we've been doing our best to work with him. Yesterday we had an amazing meeting with Sister Monika Dublicka present. Testimonies were born, and love was expressed for this amazing man. It was a powerful experience for me as I realized why we were sitting in that room, why we had planned a lesson, why we had invited Monika and why she had decided to come. It was because we love and care about Damian and his eternal happiness. There is no other reason. The Gospel is true and it has the power to change lives. A man who will give his life to God will find that God can make so much more out of it then he could do alone. Damian, like everyone on this Earth, needs the Gospel of Jesus Christ in his life. It gives us understanding, peace, hope, and joy. It helps us become more like our Savior and to serve and love. It helps us realize what really matters in this life. Everybody needs that. Surely some of those things can come from other sources, but I know without a doubt that those other sources cannot seal those feelings in a man's heart like the power of the Holy Ghost can. I felt that yesterday, and so did Damian. We are fasting with him today, and hope to see him baptized in a week.
Bartek, the boy we contacted on the Rynek, is unbelievable. He is really going to get baptized at the end of this month, probably a couple days after, or before I go home. I hope it is before. He has the desire in his heart to know if it is true, and is willing to go the distance, to pay the price by reading, praying, living according to the commandments. It's a neat expereince, and I'm so grateful the Lord is allowing me to have it will I am still here. Brother Jan Herman was on the meeting with us last time, and they just clicked like a couple of Legos. It was super rad.
Oh, before I forget. Carlos and Ela and Natan from Katowice have officially moved to France. They feel like that is where they need to go- they have had their struggles in Poland and they feel really strongly that France is where they need to go for awhile. I talked to them on the phone the night before they left, and I was just praying that everything would be ok for them. I can't believe their actually leaving Katowice. They really are my Polish family. I love them so, and I feel so warmly their love for me. I am so grateful I met them on here in Poland. Hopefully I'll find a way to visit them in France sometime in the semi-near future. We'll see. There's always study abroad right? ha.
Elder Balija is my new companion who joined and made us a 3-some. Elder Balija is from Napa, California, and is an amazing kid. He's a convert to the Church, from when he was 9 years old, but his parents were never really active. His Aunt invited him to church when he was in his early teenage years and he started to go. He had tons of support from friends in the Ward, and he's here on a mission, and is a wonderful missionary and a good friend to be around. He and Elder Mehner came to Poland at the same time. I've loved every threesome I've ever been a part of, and this one is equally amazing. We've been waking up at 6:00 every morning and playing Basketball as a district at these little courts about 5 minutes away. I love it. :) It's been so nice to excersice like that. Excersize? Excercise? Crimany.
Our mission is officially tiny looking. We just took a mission picture, I'll have to send it to you- but it's tiny! But powerful at the same time. And it'll get boosted back up at least by 5 companionships. It is so strange having to take care of little things before the Engbjerg's leave, trying to make the transtition as smooth as possible. We just did transfers for the last time. We might have to take another look at it. We're making a notebook of all the things the President Nielson will need, and Elder Mehner and Balija are being prepared to take over. It's crazy. I won't be here for any of those amazing experiences their going to have.
Today the Engbjerg's are hosting a big party for our Branch to say goodbye to all the members. It's going to be a neat experience to see everyone, and to eat the best gravy and "creamy potatoes". When we go to Denmark someday to visit President, I'm sure Sister Engbjerg will make THE GRAVY and you will be convinced of my craze. Ha Sister Engbjerg thinks I'm addicted to food. I kind of am. I don't know what happened to me, I just appreciate a good taste these days. :P
I didn't want to write this, but I only have one more letter to write to you all after this. That is unbelievable. I've loved writing these letters every week, summing up my life for the week. I still want to do it when I get home ha.
I love you family. I love every day here. I look out the window sometimes and think how I won't be able to be here in just a couple of weeks, and it's hard for my brain to grasp. I don't think I will fully understand until I see ground outside of Polska. I love this place.
Have a wonderful week, be safe, have fun, read your scriptures. I love you.
Elder Michael
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Miraculous- June 4, 2010
My dear Family-
It is a fantastically beautiful morning here in Warszawa, and I am loving life as I sit here in that same Library where I used to so long ago. This place holds a special place in my heart. It's quiet, it's calm, the large windows to my right let the sunshine right through. I can't think of a more ideal environment in which I can write you all a weekly report from my Polish life. And there is so much to tell this week, it is unbelievable.
FIrstly, I can't believe Spencer is graduating high school. That blows my mind. I graduated high school 3 years ago. 3 years! That is such a long time. There are missionaries who come out here who have graduated in 2009. I am officially as old as Sister missionaries who come in. It's just a strange feeling. I'm so excited for you though, Spencer. That will be such a neat experience.
Sarah, your are going to be in high school. Unbelievable. I truly can't wait to see you and Annie. It kind of blows me away how close everything is to that fateful end. Pretty insane. I look forward to rocking out, reading, and watching movies with you both. I always flash back to those evenings I had with you and Annie, reading Narnia together. I loved that so much. It meant everything to spend that time with you both. And now your going into high school. I wonder if you'll still let me read to you :)
Annie, I look forward to hanging out with you so much. You all sound so fantastic when you sing. I'm determined to teach you and Sarah the guitar when I go home. I think you would be the coolest folk-rock duo in the world.
Crimany. Make a man cry just thinking about you all sometimes.
This last week was one of the most fantastic of my mission. It was full of so many wonderful, irreplicable experiencies and I've been wanting so badly to write in my journal about it, but I simply haven't had the time. I'll try to expound the best I can.
Yesterday was the long awaited mission/video conference with Elder Robert D. Hales and SIster Hales, with Elder Stephen Kerr (Area Seventy). I just ate breakfast with Elder Kerr. He is one of the coolest people ever- so full of the Spirit, with energy just flowing from him. He's Scottish, and he is one of the most powerful speakers I've heard while on my mission.
The week was spent largely in preperation for the event, and I truly couldn't believe how smoothly everything went. The Lord's hand was in this conference, that is without a doubt.
At the beginning of the week, we had our Office Meeting where we figured out the rest of the details for the conference, making sure we have everything that we need for the conferenc to be a success. It was our responsibility to find 2 places from whence we would order amazing food for about 80 people. We had to make sure that the techinical side was all in order and working (the Office Elders mostly took care of that) so that the video conference would go smoothly. We had to figure out housing, transportation, so many little details. But the Lord made it all work out, and it was absolutely fantastic.
Thursday was spent taking care of the final details. The day went smoothly, and at about 10:00 P.M all the missionaries were in their designated sleeping spots, and ready for bed. We made it home, got ready for bed, and then at about 10:55, as I am literally about to fall in my bed, we get a phone call. It's the Office Elders. The Transporter (the car they were driving) was stuck in a grass median. It had started to rain again- not just pour, but literally dump from the sky like nothing I've ever experienced- and some of the streets were flooding. To avoid getting stuck, people would kind of drive through the median. The Office Elders followed suit, but their car is like unto a small bus, and they got stuck. So flash back to me about to get into bed. The Office Elders are stuck, and we have to go finish their job, which is to pick up a couple of people from the Airport who had to fly to England, like I had to so many times.
My face was somewhat contorted at the news, especially in light of me just saying minutes before how darn excited I was to hop in bed ha. So we throw on some gym-like clothes, and walk outside into the buckets of water being dropped from the heavens, and then ran to our car. I was driving, and it was probably the craziest weather I've ever driven in, but it was exhilerating at the same.time. We accomplished our mission- ended up picking up the other mission vehicle form the mission office (because the Office Elders had to just abandon the Transporter and started to walk home. Hilarious.) We made it home and finally made it to sleep sometime around 1.
The next morning, yesterday morning, was a good one. We all dressed up in our best, and headed to the Wolska Chapel where the festivities began. I won't go through the entire day, but all I can say is that everything turned out better then I could have planned it myself, which is incredibly rewarding. Elders Tanner, Hobbs, Beaty and I all had to give our Dying Testimonies, which was bizarre. Whenever people give their dying testimonies, there is a chance for missionaries in the audience to stand and give a compliment. Elder Mehner gave me the nicest compliment in the world, and so did Sister Pritchett, and Elder Loosli. And then Martyna, who I taught in Katowice, who's life had been so turned upside down, stood up and gave me a compliment. The most kind compliment in the entire world. I felt undeserving of the kind words said, but was grateful for these people that I really do love so much. I didn't feel like i belonged up there bearing the testimony at the end of my mission. I don't think it'll hit me til I walk on that plane that there is such thing as an end.
Elder Hales was absolutely amazing. HIs wife was so kind and firey and just a neat woman. He shared so many neat stories and just amazing words of wisdom. It was such a neat experience. I had prepared a choir number with about 11 other missionaries that we sang for him. It was really neat. :)
Before I go on, I have to mention that Fenton - Elder Hughes - came back to visit with his whole family. It was so darn cool. I loved seeing him so much. It was like he had never left. He came for the conference too. Super neat.
So, in the evening, we had our mission family home evening. President had prepared a bunch of beautfiul pictures that he had taken, and we looked at them as music played in the background. I told him that after he did that, I would take care of the rest - he had a couple other slide shows he wanted to shown, and I told him I'd take care of it. Little did he know that Fenton had prepared, along with several other return missionaries, an amazing DVD full of beautiful comments for President and Sister Engbjerg. As President and I switched seats, I put on this DVD. It was amazingly touching, and they felt the love that all their missionaires have for them. They really are the best mission parents a missionary could possibly ask for. I have loved being around them with every ounce of my being. They have so much love in them, and really just care about each missionary so much, and want to see the best in everyone. It's really been such a wonderful experience. We sang the mission song in the end, and I actually didn't mess it up this time. The Lord worked several miracles that day. As I walked out to the car to grab something at the end of it all, I looked up into the setting sun, and just thanked my Father for the day. It had gone better than any of us could have imagined. It was just a day to remember.
That was the majority of the week. We taught some amazing lessons to Bartek, who now has a Baptismal date for the 30 of June- this is that kid we contacted on the Rynek. He's pretty much Golden as they come. Marek is going to be baptized in a couple of weeks, and I really think that Tomek will be to. Please remember him in your prayers and fasting- he is so close, but just needs that little extra boost of faith.
I never even got to tell you all about the craziness of last weekend. I ended up baptizing Michael in Warsaw. After I e-mailed you, we went out to see that the pool that had been reserverd, somehow was not reserved. So we had to rush back to the Lodz chapel and set up the Ghetto pool they have there (it really is ridiculous). We had it all set up and started filling it with water, and came to the realization that ELder Mehner would not make it back in time to Warsaw to baptize Michael- and Michael either wanted Elder Mehner or me to perform the baptism, so I got on a train, and made it there. He was baptized, he gave a powerful testimony. Then Michael asked me if I would confirm him, and so on Sunday, I confirmed him a member of the church, and h e recieved the Holy Ghost. That was the first time I've ever confirmed any one. He has now asked me to give him the Priesthood on Sunday. He is such ana mazing man, and I just feel blessed that I have that kind of opportunity to do this and be part of his Gospel progression.
I've got to wrap this up, but I just want to say that I am a happy man. I love this Gospel with all my heart, and I love being here in Poland. I am grateful for every single day that the Lord has given me to spend here and to spend with these people- missionaries and members. I love serving the Lord here among my people. Each day is an adventure.
One last thought. Elder Kerr shared with us this amazing concept- when Moses and his people were escaping Pharoah and his armies, as they came to the Red Sea they were seeminly in a bind. Had there been a council right there in an effort to discover their realistic plans to escape, surely the man who suggested that they should part the Red Sea would have been laughed to scorn. Our goals, and dreams do not have to be realistic. With the Lord, anything is possible. I love that.
I love you family. Have a fantastic week. Talk to you in 7 days.
Elder Michael
p.s. Elder Balija is here with us now.I'll have to tell you more about him next week. He is an amazing man. Tell you more later. Love. :)
It is a fantastically beautiful morning here in Warszawa, and I am loving life as I sit here in that same Library where I used to so long ago. This place holds a special place in my heart. It's quiet, it's calm, the large windows to my right let the sunshine right through. I can't think of a more ideal environment in which I can write you all a weekly report from my Polish life. And there is so much to tell this week, it is unbelievable.
FIrstly, I can't believe Spencer is graduating high school. That blows my mind. I graduated high school 3 years ago. 3 years! That is such a long time. There are missionaries who come out here who have graduated in 2009. I am officially as old as Sister missionaries who come in. It's just a strange feeling. I'm so excited for you though, Spencer. That will be such a neat experience.
Sarah, your are going to be in high school. Unbelievable. I truly can't wait to see you and Annie. It kind of blows me away how close everything is to that fateful end. Pretty insane. I look forward to rocking out, reading, and watching movies with you both. I always flash back to those evenings I had with you and Annie, reading Narnia together. I loved that so much. It meant everything to spend that time with you both. And now your going into high school. I wonder if you'll still let me read to you :)
Annie, I look forward to hanging out with you so much. You all sound so fantastic when you sing. I'm determined to teach you and Sarah the guitar when I go home. I think you would be the coolest folk-rock duo in the world.
Crimany. Make a man cry just thinking about you all sometimes.
This last week was one of the most fantastic of my mission. It was full of so many wonderful, irreplicable experiencies and I've been wanting so badly to write in my journal about it, but I simply haven't had the time. I'll try to expound the best I can.
Yesterday was the long awaited mission/video conference with Elder Robert D. Hales and SIster Hales, with Elder Stephen Kerr (Area Seventy). I just ate breakfast with Elder Kerr. He is one of the coolest people ever- so full of the Spirit, with energy just flowing from him. He's Scottish, and he is one of the most powerful speakers I've heard while on my mission.
The week was spent largely in preperation for the event, and I truly couldn't believe how smoothly everything went. The Lord's hand was in this conference, that is without a doubt.
At the beginning of the week, we had our Office Meeting where we figured out the rest of the details for the conference, making sure we have everything that we need for the conferenc to be a success. It was our responsibility to find 2 places from whence we would order amazing food for about 80 people. We had to make sure that the techinical side was all in order and working (the Office Elders mostly took care of that) so that the video conference would go smoothly. We had to figure out housing, transportation, so many little details. But the Lord made it all work out, and it was absolutely fantastic.
Thursday was spent taking care of the final details. The day went smoothly, and at about 10:00 P.M all the missionaries were in their designated sleeping spots, and ready for bed. We made it home, got ready for bed, and then at about 10:55, as I am literally about to fall in my bed, we get a phone call. It's the Office Elders. The Transporter (the car they were driving) was stuck in a grass median. It had started to rain again- not just pour, but literally dump from the sky like nothing I've ever experienced- and some of the streets were flooding. To avoid getting stuck, people would kind of drive through the median. The Office Elders followed suit, but their car is like unto a small bus, and they got stuck. So flash back to me about to get into bed. The Office Elders are stuck, and we have to go finish their job, which is to pick up a couple of people from the Airport who had to fly to England, like I had to so many times.
My face was somewhat contorted at the news, especially in light of me just saying minutes before how darn excited I was to hop in bed ha. So we throw on some gym-like clothes, and walk outside into the buckets of water being dropped from the heavens, and then ran to our car. I was driving, and it was probably the craziest weather I've ever driven in, but it was exhilerating at the same.time. We accomplished our mission- ended up picking up the other mission vehicle form the mission office (because the Office Elders had to just abandon the Transporter and started to walk home. Hilarious.) We made it home and finally made it to sleep sometime around 1.
The next morning, yesterday morning, was a good one. We all dressed up in our best, and headed to the Wolska Chapel where the festivities began. I won't go through the entire day, but all I can say is that everything turned out better then I could have planned it myself, which is incredibly rewarding. Elders Tanner, Hobbs, Beaty and I all had to give our Dying Testimonies, which was bizarre. Whenever people give their dying testimonies, there is a chance for missionaries in the audience to stand and give a compliment. Elder Mehner gave me the nicest compliment in the world, and so did Sister Pritchett, and Elder Loosli. And then Martyna, who I taught in Katowice, who's life had been so turned upside down, stood up and gave me a compliment. The most kind compliment in the entire world. I felt undeserving of the kind words said, but was grateful for these people that I really do love so much. I didn't feel like i belonged up there bearing the testimony at the end of my mission. I don't think it'll hit me til I walk on that plane that there is such thing as an end.
Elder Hales was absolutely amazing. HIs wife was so kind and firey and just a neat woman. He shared so many neat stories and just amazing words of wisdom. It was such a neat experience. I had prepared a choir number with about 11 other missionaries that we sang for him. It was really neat. :)
Before I go on, I have to mention that Fenton - Elder Hughes - came back to visit with his whole family. It was so darn cool. I loved seeing him so much. It was like he had never left. He came for the conference too. Super neat.
So, in the evening, we had our mission family home evening. President had prepared a bunch of beautfiul pictures that he had taken, and we looked at them as music played in the background. I told him that after he did that, I would take care of the rest - he had a couple other slide shows he wanted to shown, and I told him I'd take care of it. Little did he know that Fenton had prepared, along with several other return missionaries, an amazing DVD full of beautiful comments for President and Sister Engbjerg. As President and I switched seats, I put on this DVD. It was amazingly touching, and they felt the love that all their missionaires have for them. They really are the best mission parents a missionary could possibly ask for. I have loved being around them with every ounce of my being. They have so much love in them, and really just care about each missionary so much, and want to see the best in everyone. It's really been such a wonderful experience. We sang the mission song in the end, and I actually didn't mess it up this time. The Lord worked several miracles that day. As I walked out to the car to grab something at the end of it all, I looked up into the setting sun, and just thanked my Father for the day. It had gone better than any of us could have imagined. It was just a day to remember.
That was the majority of the week. We taught some amazing lessons to Bartek, who now has a Baptismal date for the 30 of June- this is that kid we contacted on the Rynek. He's pretty much Golden as they come. Marek is going to be baptized in a couple of weeks, and I really think that Tomek will be to. Please remember him in your prayers and fasting- he is so close, but just needs that little extra boost of faith.
I never even got to tell you all about the craziness of last weekend. I ended up baptizing Michael in Warsaw. After I e-mailed you, we went out to see that the pool that had been reserverd, somehow was not reserved. So we had to rush back to the Lodz chapel and set up the Ghetto pool they have there (it really is ridiculous). We had it all set up and started filling it with water, and came to the realization that ELder Mehner would not make it back in time to Warsaw to baptize Michael- and Michael either wanted Elder Mehner or me to perform the baptism, so I got on a train, and made it there. He was baptized, he gave a powerful testimony. Then Michael asked me if I would confirm him, and so on Sunday, I confirmed him a member of the church, and h e recieved the Holy Ghost. That was the first time I've ever confirmed any one. He has now asked me to give him the Priesthood on Sunday. He is such ana mazing man, and I just feel blessed that I have that kind of opportunity to do this and be part of his Gospel progression.
I've got to wrap this up, but I just want to say that I am a happy man. I love this Gospel with all my heart, and I love being here in Poland. I am grateful for every single day that the Lord has given me to spend here and to spend with these people- missionaries and members. I love serving the Lord here among my people. Each day is an adventure.
One last thought. Elder Kerr shared with us this amazing concept- when Moses and his people were escaping Pharoah and his armies, as they came to the Red Sea they were seeminly in a bind. Had there been a council right there in an effort to discover their realistic plans to escape, surely the man who suggested that they should part the Red Sea would have been laughed to scorn. Our goals, and dreams do not have to be realistic. With the Lord, anything is possible. I love that.
I love you family. Have a fantastic week. Talk to you in 7 days.
Elder Michael
p.s. Elder Balija is here with us now.I'll have to tell you more about him next week. He is an amazing man. Tell you more later. Love. :)
Deja Vu- May 31, 2010
Dearest Family!
I swear I write to you all from a different city every single week haha. Today I'm writing from a library in Łódź, where Basia, an investigator that Elder Mehner taught while he was here, will be baptized. I interviewed her last night, and it was an amazing experience. She is a very spiritually in-tune woman, who is sincerely trying to do her best. I felt blessed to have that chance. We spent the night last night, and now I write to you from the library, on a beatiful sunshiny day. Absolutely perfect weather :) Gotta love it. Later today Michael, the Sisters investigator, will be baptized in Warsaw- he asked Elder Mehner to baptize him too ha. And then we'll teach Bogdan, and the deal is that he will tonight tell us when he will be baptized. He is so ready, he just needs to do it.
Your letters were so much appreciated parents. It is crazy that these letters are slowly coming to an end. I can't even believe that. I have lived for these letters from week to week. It's amazing how faithfully you all have written me, not that I expected anything less from my ridiculously amazing family, but still. It's pretty fantastic.
I don't have lots of time today, but this week was an amazing one. Last Tuesday, 2 new missionaries came in to Poland. Having new missionaries come in is one of the neatest parts of this calling. I love seeing their fire, the sparkle in their eyes and their awe at coming on to the Rynek. Elder Bucker and Elder Crittenden came in, fresh from the MTC, and it was great to see them. The other side of the medallion (is how they would say it in Polish) is that the prepration for new missionaries is usually pretty extensive. These 3 days in the mission home are their first taste of the mission, of the experience and it has to be top notch. It started out pretty rough when driving to the airport, a semi truck knocked President's car pretty good - no one was hurt, but we definitely had to call the Police to sort it all out, and the truck driver was Romanian, and didn't speak a lick of Polish, English, French, German, or Russian. Just Romanian. We had some trubs because of that ha. But we got it all figured out- Elder Mehner and Sister Engbjerg had gone ahead to at least make sure there was someone there when the Newbies walked out of the gate, and President and I drove there (the car only underwent cosmetic damage) to finally greet them. From there it went great!
We went to the Rynek with them, and they made a goal for how many contact we would get in an hour and a half. They decided on 10, and that's what we went for. For some reason, contacting on the Rynek with newbies leads you to golden, really rad people. We got our 10 contacts, and even taught lesson. Almost every single contact was a younger, amazing seeiming person, which is what the church really needs here to continue to grow. One of those contacts, Bartek, has really been golden since then. I'll explain a bit later.
We took them for Pizza, and then they crashed. Elder Mehner and I attended the last district meeting we would have before Transfers went out. It was great.
Wednesday, there was the normal orientation meeting, but then everything became a little more complicated because President's daughter, Maria, is graduating too (and going to BYU, staying in Helaman Halls....i'm betting her and Spencer are in the same ward, because life is simply like that.) and President and Sister Engbjerg had to be at a certain event for her that evening, so the schedule was thrown off. Elder Mehner and I helped in the kitchen early afternoon, and after the amazing dinner, the Trainees were in our hands. We did something that Trainees have never done before, and took them on a couple of real lessons. Elder Bucker and I met with Bartek, the kid we had met the day before on the Rynek. Bartek has since then met with us twice, and came to institute. He's ubelievable ha. The experience was so good for them- they were on meetings with Tomek, Marek who both have baptismal dates, and Siostra Górniak was on one of the lessons (she's one of the first members in all of Poland) and it was just amazing. We went to E.Wedel (the life changing hot chocolate place) and then called it a day. The two trainees are amazingly cool, and their stories are wonderful. I can't wait to tell you all about it someday.
Thursday they found out who would be training them, and then they were sent off. I remember so well that day in my own mission, and it blows my mind to see them at that stage. I remember it like it was yesterday, but I feel as if it was 2 years ago. It was a very long time ago.
Elder Mehenr and I ate in the same milk bar I ate in with Elder Henrie for the first time ever, about 3 days after I was in the field. I hadn't been back since, and then nostalgia was intense as I looked at the cheaply drawn menu, and recalled how I couldn't understnad a single word on that board, but now it was just normal to me. So much has happened since that time 21 months ago. Missions really are the greatest adventures ever.
We've been doing lots of planning for the mission conference that will be coming up. It'll be such an amazing experience. We'll have a mission picture taken, Elder Kerr from the 70, who also served as a missionary with President under Elder Hales will be there and will speak to us. It'll just be the best. Lots of planning left to do, and I do feel the stress a bit. There is just so much to do with our investigators, and with the Branch, and with everything. It's a little overwhelming sometimes, but I know the Lord will make everything that's supposed to happen, happen.
Everyday is so sweet for me. I'm trying to be the example I should be for these missionaries. I'm trying my best to be the missionary the Lord nees and wants me to be. I love missionary work with all my heart. I love reading the letters of my bretheren out in the field and to feel of their energy and fire. It brings me so much joy. This Gospel does change lives. I've seen it too many times to not know of it's power. It has changed my own life and I am so grateful for it. I am grateful for Parents and Grandparents and Aunts and Uncles (even those not of this faith) who have always been examples to me of consistent faith and dedication and goodness, and I grateful to you from the bottom of my heart. I've got to go. We're meeting an investigator and going to Manekin to eat with him. Yesz. :)
much love,
Elder Michael
I swear I write to you all from a different city every single week haha. Today I'm writing from a library in Łódź, where Basia, an investigator that Elder Mehner taught while he was here, will be baptized. I interviewed her last night, and it was an amazing experience. She is a very spiritually in-tune woman, who is sincerely trying to do her best. I felt blessed to have that chance. We spent the night last night, and now I write to you from the library, on a beatiful sunshiny day. Absolutely perfect weather :) Gotta love it. Later today Michael, the Sisters investigator, will be baptized in Warsaw- he asked Elder Mehner to baptize him too ha. And then we'll teach Bogdan, and the deal is that he will tonight tell us when he will be baptized. He is so ready, he just needs to do it.
Your letters were so much appreciated parents. It is crazy that these letters are slowly coming to an end. I can't even believe that. I have lived for these letters from week to week. It's amazing how faithfully you all have written me, not that I expected anything less from my ridiculously amazing family, but still. It's pretty fantastic.
I don't have lots of time today, but this week was an amazing one. Last Tuesday, 2 new missionaries came in to Poland. Having new missionaries come in is one of the neatest parts of this calling. I love seeing their fire, the sparkle in their eyes and their awe at coming on to the Rynek. Elder Bucker and Elder Crittenden came in, fresh from the MTC, and it was great to see them. The other side of the medallion (is how they would say it in Polish) is that the prepration for new missionaries is usually pretty extensive. These 3 days in the mission home are their first taste of the mission, of the experience and it has to be top notch. It started out pretty rough when driving to the airport, a semi truck knocked President's car pretty good - no one was hurt, but we definitely had to call the Police to sort it all out, and the truck driver was Romanian, and didn't speak a lick of Polish, English, French, German, or Russian. Just Romanian. We had some trubs because of that ha. But we got it all figured out- Elder Mehner and Sister Engbjerg had gone ahead to at least make sure there was someone there when the Newbies walked out of the gate, and President and I drove there (the car only underwent cosmetic damage) to finally greet them. From there it went great!
We went to the Rynek with them, and they made a goal for how many contact we would get in an hour and a half. They decided on 10, and that's what we went for. For some reason, contacting on the Rynek with newbies leads you to golden, really rad people. We got our 10 contacts, and even taught lesson. Almost every single contact was a younger, amazing seeiming person, which is what the church really needs here to continue to grow. One of those contacts, Bartek, has really been golden since then. I'll explain a bit later.
We took them for Pizza, and then they crashed. Elder Mehner and I attended the last district meeting we would have before Transfers went out. It was great.
Wednesday, there was the normal orientation meeting, but then everything became a little more complicated because President's daughter, Maria, is graduating too (and going to BYU, staying in Helaman Halls....i'm betting her and Spencer are in the same ward, because life is simply like that.) and President and Sister Engbjerg had to be at a certain event for her that evening, so the schedule was thrown off. Elder Mehner and I helped in the kitchen early afternoon, and after the amazing dinner, the Trainees were in our hands. We did something that Trainees have never done before, and took them on a couple of real lessons. Elder Bucker and I met with Bartek, the kid we had met the day before on the Rynek. Bartek has since then met with us twice, and came to institute. He's ubelievable ha. The experience was so good for them- they were on meetings with Tomek, Marek who both have baptismal dates, and Siostra Górniak was on one of the lessons (she's one of the first members in all of Poland) and it was just amazing. We went to E.Wedel (the life changing hot chocolate place) and then called it a day. The two trainees are amazingly cool, and their stories are wonderful. I can't wait to tell you all about it someday.
Thursday they found out who would be training them, and then they were sent off. I remember so well that day in my own mission, and it blows my mind to see them at that stage. I remember it like it was yesterday, but I feel as if it was 2 years ago. It was a very long time ago.
Elder Mehenr and I ate in the same milk bar I ate in with Elder Henrie for the first time ever, about 3 days after I was in the field. I hadn't been back since, and then nostalgia was intense as I looked at the cheaply drawn menu, and recalled how I couldn't understnad a single word on that board, but now it was just normal to me. So much has happened since that time 21 months ago. Missions really are the greatest adventures ever.
We've been doing lots of planning for the mission conference that will be coming up. It'll be such an amazing experience. We'll have a mission picture taken, Elder Kerr from the 70, who also served as a missionary with President under Elder Hales will be there and will speak to us. It'll just be the best. Lots of planning left to do, and I do feel the stress a bit. There is just so much to do with our investigators, and with the Branch, and with everything. It's a little overwhelming sometimes, but I know the Lord will make everything that's supposed to happen, happen.
Everyday is so sweet for me. I'm trying to be the example I should be for these missionaries. I'm trying my best to be the missionary the Lord nees and wants me to be. I love missionary work with all my heart. I love reading the letters of my bretheren out in the field and to feel of their energy and fire. It brings me so much joy. This Gospel does change lives. I've seen it too many times to not know of it's power. It has changed my own life and I am so grateful for it. I am grateful for Parents and Grandparents and Aunts and Uncles (even those not of this faith) who have always been examples to me of consistent faith and dedication and goodness, and I grateful to you from the bottom of my heart. I've got to go. We're meeting an investigator and going to Manekin to eat with him. Yesz. :)
much love,
Elder Michael
May 21, 2010
Dearest Family of mine -
I finally get to write you a bit of an e-mail here, which makes me happy to say the least. It's been an extra long period since I've written, but all is well, and I look forward to trying to recall some of the events that have gone on in the past 8-9 days. I can remember a little past yesterday morning at this moment...hopefully the memory kicks in.
Before that though, it sounds like so much is happening at home it's crazy! Happy birthday mom and dad :) I didn't forget, I promise ha. I'm glad you had such a good birthday celebration, it sounds super fun. Spencer holdin' down the fort while you all watch Robin Hood. Love it. Sounds like such a good time. Siblings, you seem like you are dominating life per usual. I'm always so proud of you all, and I do look forward to watching you girls rock the soccer field, and to just be around you, and partake of your amazingness. For real, you are the best little sisters in the world. Spencer, you know I love you and can't wait to do the music thing, and just hang out. I can't believe you are going through all the graduation business. That really does blow my mind. I can't believe you're graduating! Crimany.
The reason that I'm writing today and not two days ago, is because of the Zone Conferences, and the consequent trip we took to Katowice, and the Zone Conference held there on my P-day. The trip was absolutely amazing though, and I loved every second of it down there. But I'll start from Wednesday.
Elder Paya came in Wednesday afternoon, and that evening Elder Mehner and I went over to the Mission Home to confirm the plans for the Mission Tour he would be leading here. Elder and Sister Paya are from France, both converts to the church and have very similar stories to President and Sister Engbjerg. Elder Paya didn't serve on a mission because he was asked to stay and be the Branch President of a particular area. He was the first Stake President in the South of France, and he is just a neat man. He doesn't talk a whole lot in the car, but he is hilarious when he does, and very kind in general. Sister Paya is kind as can be, very sweet, served a mission in Italy, and we had a good chat on the way home from Katowice yesterday- she taught me some French. That language is amazing.
So Wednesday we confirmed the plans, and Thursday was the first Zone Conference for the Warsaw and Bydgoszcz zones at the Warsaw Chapel on ul.Wolska. I love seeing all the missionaries together, and it always brings me confidence that the work will go on strong as can be, years after I have left this place. It's something you think about as an older missionary, It seems impossible sometimes that you will ever have to part with this country, or that the country will go on without you- not that it can't LIVE without E. Rushton, just that I feel so part of it, if that makes sense. Anyway, the Zone Conference went very well- usually we as Assistants and the Zone Leaders have to prepare something, but when visiting Authorities are here, we don't have to. We felt pretty relaxed going into the conference for that reason. Elder Paya was very relaxed as he spoke. He and Sister Paya had two hours in the first half of the conference, and he got up and said "I don't know what I'm going to talk about. But we'll see where the Spirit takes us." He gave an amazing talk though about our purpose, and the power of commitment, and what it really means to have success as a missionary. It's not counted in Baptisms as the world might look at it, but rather in commitment, in dedication and exerted effort. The Lord makes everything else happen. It is his work afterall.
Right before we broke for lunch, Elder Paya asked Elder Mehner and I to lead a discussion for which we were not prepared at all, but it went wonderfully.
The conference was successful, uplifting, and everyone seemed to really enjoy it. President made a Powerpoint with all the transfers for the next month, and as a surprise showed it to everyone at the end of the conference. Transfers are wonderful, and painful at the same time. It's no fun to split from people you love, but it's part of growing. I, if you hadn't guessed, will be staying with Elder Mehner til the end.
Friday, a mission conference was held in the mission office, and TONS of people were there ha. 6 zone leaders, plus 2 new zone leaders who would be called in the next week, plus 2 sisters to represent the sisters, Elder Mehner and I, the Engbjerg's the Paya's, and their pet parrot. Ok, the parrot wasn't there, but there were a lot of people in that little room ha. The coucil was productive, Elder Paya at the end spoke about building Zion in the mission among missionaries and members, which I thought was perhaps one of the most appropriate topics for the work in Poland that I have ever heard. We need to build Zion, to build a society of the pure in heart. I could talk all day about it. Elder Paya spoke for 40 minutes and I loved every second.
Saturday we took off to Katowice in the morning where we would be staying the night for the District Conference the next day. Elder Tanner came with us so that Elder Mehner could stay behind to take care of our investigators at church. I drove us down through the beautiful Polish countryside- I don't know if you've heard about the flooding down here, but we saw quite a bit of it driving down. A couple low houses were flooded out completely. The ride was beautiful though, as was the Zone Conference. President and I drove out to visit Ania Cesarczyk in her home. She hasn't been coming to church lately and has just had some problems, but it was good to visit her. She was humbled as we spoke and realized that she needs to go to church. Her children don't exactly love the church, for no real reason, and that's also been a contributing factor. We had a sweet meeting though. I do love that family, and I just want them to be happy. It started pouring as President and I came out of her house- big crocodile tears pounding our car. President and I drove home feeling happy we could do that, and I was happy that I had a mission President like President Engbjerg. He loves this place just as much as I do.
District Conference the next day was amazing. Elder Tanner and I stayed in the Qubus hotel the night before, and I think it was the first time I've been with Elder Tanner one on one since we left the MTC. It was so nice to just talk to the man. He is such a good missionary and friend and it was neat to be with him. That morning before we left to the chapel, we sat on the window seal of our room on the 24th floor looking out at Katowice, the city where he was born, and the city I spent 6 months in and grew to love. We thought about how much we love this place, and how much our heart is here. It was a good experience. We made our way over to the chapel, and there we had District Conference.
Everyone from Katowice came. Ela and Carlos were there, looking happy as ever with Natan, Dominik came, Ania even came. Marta, that amazing investigator Elder Slagowski and I taught forever, is still being taught and is doing so well, and she came as well. Ola didn't make it out, because of some family business, but she wanted to be there. It was wonderful. Members from Wrocław, Kielce, Kraków all came out, which is a LONG ways away. There were 90 people in all. The talks were wonderful, Elder Paya spoke about building Zion again. If the members could really get that engraven on their hearts, the church will really take off here. There was a big lunch afterwards, and then we got in the Transporter (the white bus) and drove home. I was tired by the end of it all, but it was a priceless experience. Each day I learn so much, each day I realize how much I have to learn. I am such an imperfect person, but like Elder McLaws wrote in his letter, I'm trying my best to become more like Jesus Christ and the road is long, but I am on it, and I am trying.
I love being in Europe. I love speaking Polish and preaching the Gospel in this language. I love meeting all the amazing people that I have. It's been the experience of a life time.
Europe really is so different from the States. It's kind of hilarious. I think European people make it sport to point out how much influence THEIR country has in the country that their in. The Engbjergs never cease to talk about Denmark - in a very hilarious way that I completely enjoy, and yesterday in the car the Paya's were pointing out everything that was French. There was a lot! And then the Engbjerg's pointed out what was Danish. It was the clash of the titans, until they ganged up on the Americans and made fun of us for how we pronounce Pierre Cardin. I was embarrassed. :P Europeans are truly amazing, the culture and the knowledge you recieve just being here is almost too much to take in some time. Ha. goodness we must visit.
I've got to go, but I love you family. I love every day here in Polska. It is my European home. These are my people, and I love being here. I'll write you again on Saturday. Until then, I wish you a beautiful week, and tons of happiness. The church is true.
Elder Michael
p.s. Please pray for our investigators. There are many, but as you can see, I didn't see them much this week. THey are so close though!
Love you.
I finally get to write you a bit of an e-mail here, which makes me happy to say the least. It's been an extra long period since I've written, but all is well, and I look forward to trying to recall some of the events that have gone on in the past 8-9 days. I can remember a little past yesterday morning at this moment...hopefully the memory kicks in.
Before that though, it sounds like so much is happening at home it's crazy! Happy birthday mom and dad :) I didn't forget, I promise ha. I'm glad you had such a good birthday celebration, it sounds super fun. Spencer holdin' down the fort while you all watch Robin Hood. Love it. Sounds like such a good time. Siblings, you seem like you are dominating life per usual. I'm always so proud of you all, and I do look forward to watching you girls rock the soccer field, and to just be around you, and partake of your amazingness. For real, you are the best little sisters in the world. Spencer, you know I love you and can't wait to do the music thing, and just hang out. I can't believe you are going through all the graduation business. That really does blow my mind. I can't believe you're graduating! Crimany.
The reason that I'm writing today and not two days ago, is because of the Zone Conferences, and the consequent trip we took to Katowice, and the Zone Conference held there on my P-day. The trip was absolutely amazing though, and I loved every second of it down there. But I'll start from Wednesday.
Elder Paya came in Wednesday afternoon, and that evening Elder Mehner and I went over to the Mission Home to confirm the plans for the Mission Tour he would be leading here. Elder and Sister Paya are from France, both converts to the church and have very similar stories to President and Sister Engbjerg. Elder Paya didn't serve on a mission because he was asked to stay and be the Branch President of a particular area. He was the first Stake President in the South of France, and he is just a neat man. He doesn't talk a whole lot in the car, but he is hilarious when he does, and very kind in general. Sister Paya is kind as can be, very sweet, served a mission in Italy, and we had a good chat on the way home from Katowice yesterday- she taught me some French. That language is amazing.
So Wednesday we confirmed the plans, and Thursday was the first Zone Conference for the Warsaw and Bydgoszcz zones at the Warsaw Chapel on ul.Wolska. I love seeing all the missionaries together, and it always brings me confidence that the work will go on strong as can be, years after I have left this place. It's something you think about as an older missionary, It seems impossible sometimes that you will ever have to part with this country, or that the country will go on without you- not that it can't LIVE without E. Rushton, just that I feel so part of it, if that makes sense. Anyway, the Zone Conference went very well- usually we as Assistants and the Zone Leaders have to prepare something, but when visiting Authorities are here, we don't have to. We felt pretty relaxed going into the conference for that reason. Elder Paya was very relaxed as he spoke. He and Sister Paya had two hours in the first half of the conference, and he got up and said "I don't know what I'm going to talk about. But we'll see where the Spirit takes us." He gave an amazing talk though about our purpose, and the power of commitment, and what it really means to have success as a missionary. It's not counted in Baptisms as the world might look at it, but rather in commitment, in dedication and exerted effort. The Lord makes everything else happen. It is his work afterall.
Right before we broke for lunch, Elder Paya asked Elder Mehner and I to lead a discussion for which we were not prepared at all, but it went wonderfully.
The conference was successful, uplifting, and everyone seemed to really enjoy it. President made a Powerpoint with all the transfers for the next month, and as a surprise showed it to everyone at the end of the conference. Transfers are wonderful, and painful at the same time. It's no fun to split from people you love, but it's part of growing. I, if you hadn't guessed, will be staying with Elder Mehner til the end.
Friday, a mission conference was held in the mission office, and TONS of people were there ha. 6 zone leaders, plus 2 new zone leaders who would be called in the next week, plus 2 sisters to represent the sisters, Elder Mehner and I, the Engbjerg's the Paya's, and their pet parrot. Ok, the parrot wasn't there, but there were a lot of people in that little room ha. The coucil was productive, Elder Paya at the end spoke about building Zion in the mission among missionaries and members, which I thought was perhaps one of the most appropriate topics for the work in Poland that I have ever heard. We need to build Zion, to build a society of the pure in heart. I could talk all day about it. Elder Paya spoke for 40 minutes and I loved every second.
Saturday we took off to Katowice in the morning where we would be staying the night for the District Conference the next day. Elder Tanner came with us so that Elder Mehner could stay behind to take care of our investigators at church. I drove us down through the beautiful Polish countryside- I don't know if you've heard about the flooding down here, but we saw quite a bit of it driving down. A couple low houses were flooded out completely. The ride was beautiful though, as was the Zone Conference. President and I drove out to visit Ania Cesarczyk in her home. She hasn't been coming to church lately and has just had some problems, but it was good to visit her. She was humbled as we spoke and realized that she needs to go to church. Her children don't exactly love the church, for no real reason, and that's also been a contributing factor. We had a sweet meeting though. I do love that family, and I just want them to be happy. It started pouring as President and I came out of her house- big crocodile tears pounding our car. President and I drove home feeling happy we could do that, and I was happy that I had a mission President like President Engbjerg. He loves this place just as much as I do.
District Conference the next day was amazing. Elder Tanner and I stayed in the Qubus hotel the night before, and I think it was the first time I've been with Elder Tanner one on one since we left the MTC. It was so nice to just talk to the man. He is such a good missionary and friend and it was neat to be with him. That morning before we left to the chapel, we sat on the window seal of our room on the 24th floor looking out at Katowice, the city where he was born, and the city I spent 6 months in and grew to love. We thought about how much we love this place, and how much our heart is here. It was a good experience. We made our way over to the chapel, and there we had District Conference.
Everyone from Katowice came. Ela and Carlos were there, looking happy as ever with Natan, Dominik came, Ania even came. Marta, that amazing investigator Elder Slagowski and I taught forever, is still being taught and is doing so well, and she came as well. Ola didn't make it out, because of some family business, but she wanted to be there. It was wonderful. Members from Wrocław, Kielce, Kraków all came out, which is a LONG ways away. There were 90 people in all. The talks were wonderful, Elder Paya spoke about building Zion again. If the members could really get that engraven on their hearts, the church will really take off here. There was a big lunch afterwards, and then we got in the Transporter (the white bus) and drove home. I was tired by the end of it all, but it was a priceless experience. Each day I learn so much, each day I realize how much I have to learn. I am such an imperfect person, but like Elder McLaws wrote in his letter, I'm trying my best to become more like Jesus Christ and the road is long, but I am on it, and I am trying.
I love being in Europe. I love speaking Polish and preaching the Gospel in this language. I love meeting all the amazing people that I have. It's been the experience of a life time.
Europe really is so different from the States. It's kind of hilarious. I think European people make it sport to point out how much influence THEIR country has in the country that their in. The Engbjergs never cease to talk about Denmark - in a very hilarious way that I completely enjoy, and yesterday in the car the Paya's were pointing out everything that was French. There was a lot! And then the Engbjerg's pointed out what was Danish. It was the clash of the titans, until they ganged up on the Americans and made fun of us for how we pronounce Pierre Cardin. I was embarrassed. :P Europeans are truly amazing, the culture and the knowledge you recieve just being here is almost too much to take in some time. Ha. goodness we must visit.
I've got to go, but I love you family. I love every day here in Polska. It is my European home. These are my people, and I love being here. I'll write you again on Saturday. Until then, I wish you a beautiful week, and tons of happiness. The church is true.
Elder Michael
p.s. Please pray for our investigators. There are many, but as you can see, I didn't see them much this week. THey are so close though!
Love you.
May 15, 2010
Dear Fam :)
I'm in the Neiman's apartment here in Katowice writing to you a quick little letter before I have to jump on a train back to Warszawa at 16:00. It's 15:15 right now.
I'm here because I had the amazing opportunity to come here to and see Carlos and Ela be married in the city government building in Bytom (the bigger city between Tarnowskie Gory and Katowice) and it was absolutely beautiful. I loved every second of it. They look happy as can be, and I love seeing them like that. The whole day I had flash backs to how it was right when Elder Strobehn and I started working with Carlos and then Ela- they love eachother but they always had little problems for one reason or another, and Satan obviously tried to put a stop to this marriage, but it happened, and I am so amazingly grateful to have seen it. They really are like my family here in Poland, and I love em to death. I took tons of pictures, I look forward to showing them to you :)
I took a train in last night, leaving at 21:00, and I got in at around midnight. The train ride here was one of the crazier ones I've ever really experienced. I felt as if I had been thrown into a strange TV show. The second I walk in the cabin, it smells of alchohol and cigarettes (both illegal to be used/consumed on a train), and the first the this man says to me is "Oh perfect! We were just having a discussion about religion in Poland, Please join us," all in English. We quickly started speaking Polish however, and I realized that I had walked into probably the strangest cabin on that entire train. The first man who spoke to me was a businessman who had longer hair and considered himself an intellectual, and the man across from him was a drunken "member of the secret police" who would talk and talk without end. The two men to the right of me were coal miners from Katowice, working in Bialystok on their way back home. THe business man asked me to tell a little about my religion. I said two sentances and than was accosted by the drunk secret policeman who told me that I was here to make money, and that I was the best phsychiatrist and brain washer he had seen yet in his days. I had no idea ha. The two men on the right were like the peanut gallery, decent men just adding in their two cents to our senseless conversation, and that's how it went for 3 hours. I was glad to leave at the end, and I wrote this just to remember someday that things like that happen in Poland, way more often then I write about ha.
On Wednesday after District meeting, Elder Mehner and I took the car up to Bydgoszcz to start our exchanges for the week. We met with Andrzej Pappelbaum who had been having some troubles- he has prostate cancer and is really struggling with life, but it was really good to see him. I pray that he stays active and is grateful for the blessings that he does have. It so easy for us to look at the negative side sometimes, but the positive side is always so much brighter and better. It's better to always remember it. It was good to see him though- we spent a lot of time with him, and he really is grateful to be a member of the church.
Karolina Mazurek was there- her and Tomek are a couple of my favorite members in Poland- they are amazing. Karolina is on the translating team and we caught up and ate Manekin, my beloved Nalesniki resteraunt. Amazing.
The next morning, ELder Balija and I headed up 4 hours to Szczecin, and had an amazing exchange there. (I'm running out of time to write argh) The next morning (yesterday) we woke up, and made the drive back to Warsaw through Bydgoszcz where I picked Elder Mehner back up. HE had gone with one zone leader there in Bydgoszcz, and Elder Balija (the other ZL) had gone with me. So we switched back and drove the remaining 4 hours back to Warsaw. An 8 hour drive ha. I think that's more then I've ever driven in my life.
We met with a few people- our investigators are really doing well, I would tell you more but time is running out- we met wiht Damian who is so close, with Bogdan who is also so close, and with Maria who E,MEhner and Antczak baptized 1.5 years ago. Then I got on a train and came here.
It was a beautiful week- so much happens these days I can't even keep track of it all, but I love being here. Each day is an adventure. I loved seeing Carlos and Ela this week. I'll be back here in a week for Zone Conference and then the Katowice District Conference, so that is exciting. I may not be able to e-mail until next monday, but I'll do my best.
Today Dominik Redzinski and Marta (who is stil investigating but is doing so amazingly well) were there and it was so good to see them to. Its the best to see people after awhile and see how much progress and joy has come into their life. It's an amazing feeling.
Carlos and Ela are preparing themselves now to go to the temple, which is amazingly exciting. I am so stoked for them, and incredibly proud how far they've come. Ok, I've got to go, but I love you family with all my heart. I loved talking to you last week so much. It was the very best. IT was as if we talk everyday. I love you, I love you, I love you. Talk to you next week.
milosc
Starszy Michael.
I'm in the Neiman's apartment here in Katowice writing to you a quick little letter before I have to jump on a train back to Warszawa at 16:00. It's 15:15 right now.
I'm here because I had the amazing opportunity to come here to and see Carlos and Ela be married in the city government building in Bytom (the bigger city between Tarnowskie Gory and Katowice) and it was absolutely beautiful. I loved every second of it. They look happy as can be, and I love seeing them like that. The whole day I had flash backs to how it was right when Elder Strobehn and I started working with Carlos and then Ela- they love eachother but they always had little problems for one reason or another, and Satan obviously tried to put a stop to this marriage, but it happened, and I am so amazingly grateful to have seen it. They really are like my family here in Poland, and I love em to death. I took tons of pictures, I look forward to showing them to you :)
I took a train in last night, leaving at 21:00, and I got in at around midnight. The train ride here was one of the crazier ones I've ever really experienced. I felt as if I had been thrown into a strange TV show. The second I walk in the cabin, it smells of alchohol and cigarettes (both illegal to be used/consumed on a train), and the first the this man says to me is "Oh perfect! We were just having a discussion about religion in Poland, Please join us," all in English. We quickly started speaking Polish however, and I realized that I had walked into probably the strangest cabin on that entire train. The first man who spoke to me was a businessman who had longer hair and considered himself an intellectual, and the man across from him was a drunken "member of the secret police" who would talk and talk without end. The two men to the right of me were coal miners from Katowice, working in Bialystok on their way back home. THe business man asked me to tell a little about my religion. I said two sentances and than was accosted by the drunk secret policeman who told me that I was here to make money, and that I was the best phsychiatrist and brain washer he had seen yet in his days. I had no idea ha. The two men on the right were like the peanut gallery, decent men just adding in their two cents to our senseless conversation, and that's how it went for 3 hours. I was glad to leave at the end, and I wrote this just to remember someday that things like that happen in Poland, way more often then I write about ha.
On Wednesday after District meeting, Elder Mehner and I took the car up to Bydgoszcz to start our exchanges for the week. We met with Andrzej Pappelbaum who had been having some troubles- he has prostate cancer and is really struggling with life, but it was really good to see him. I pray that he stays active and is grateful for the blessings that he does have. It so easy for us to look at the negative side sometimes, but the positive side is always so much brighter and better. It's better to always remember it. It was good to see him though- we spent a lot of time with him, and he really is grateful to be a member of the church.
Karolina Mazurek was there- her and Tomek are a couple of my favorite members in Poland- they are amazing. Karolina is on the translating team and we caught up and ate Manekin, my beloved Nalesniki resteraunt. Amazing.
The next morning, ELder Balija and I headed up 4 hours to Szczecin, and had an amazing exchange there. (I'm running out of time to write argh) The next morning (yesterday) we woke up, and made the drive back to Warsaw through Bydgoszcz where I picked Elder Mehner back up. HE had gone with one zone leader there in Bydgoszcz, and Elder Balija (the other ZL) had gone with me. So we switched back and drove the remaining 4 hours back to Warsaw. An 8 hour drive ha. I think that's more then I've ever driven in my life.
We met with a few people- our investigators are really doing well, I would tell you more but time is running out- we met wiht Damian who is so close, with Bogdan who is also so close, and with Maria who E,MEhner and Antczak baptized 1.5 years ago. Then I got on a train and came here.
It was a beautiful week- so much happens these days I can't even keep track of it all, but I love being here. Each day is an adventure. I loved seeing Carlos and Ela this week. I'll be back here in a week for Zone Conference and then the Katowice District Conference, so that is exciting. I may not be able to e-mail until next monday, but I'll do my best.
Today Dominik Redzinski and Marta (who is stil investigating but is doing so amazingly well) were there and it was so good to see them to. Its the best to see people after awhile and see how much progress and joy has come into their life. It's an amazing feeling.
Carlos and Ela are preparing themselves now to go to the temple, which is amazingly exciting. I am so stoked for them, and incredibly proud how far they've come. Ok, I've got to go, but I love you family with all my heart. I loved talking to you last week so much. It was the very best. IT was as if we talk everyday. I love you, I love you, I love you. Talk to you next week.
milosc
Starszy Michael.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
May 7, 2010
Dear Family!
We totally get to talk to eachother on the phone tomorrow! How rad is that? I can't wait to hear your voices- it'll be wonderful. I love those little videos you send always. They make me smile so darn much. It's so fun to hear you all singing good ol' Elton :D THAT will be so fun to rock out in a couple of months ha.
This week has been a completely crazy one, filled with a couple experiences I never could have dreamed of having here on the mission, but I loved every day of it.
Firstly, last Sunday was 100% amazing. It was one of the greatest Sundays I've had on the mission- especially here in Warszawa. There were 12 investigators in our branch- several of them are very seriously investigating the church and plan on being baptized, which is wonderful. The meetings were all very enlightning- especially the 2nd hour when I was asked to come into Primary to translate. I always loved Primary here in Poland, but this last week was extra hilarious.
Since I was last here, all the American families have moved away, so Primary consists of a few Polish children, and recently a couple Ukrainian children as well. This last sunday there was one Polish child, Adaś, a Ukrainian girl, Dianna, and Dawid, her little brother. They are very smart kids, and the lesson went very well (we talked about prayer, using Daniel and the Lion's den as an example of how we can pray always when we are in need of help or comfort), except little Dawid is only 2 years old, and he loves running into things/people, so all lesson, he would just run from one side of the circle to the other, slamming into people, chairs, walls. I almost cried out of laughter. Primary kids are the best.
The next part of the Sunday that blew me away was the Priesthood meeting. Priesthood meetings in Poland can quickly get out of hand, with people volunteering false doctrine, and explaining doctrines that aren't completely true. But that's why Brat Robert Magnuski is in our branch. The lesson was on the Holy Ghost, and there was some confusion as to the doctrine of the Godhead, but Brother Magnuski got up and explained it all with such clarity, power and authority, it blew my mind. I was translating for one of the American men who is here working in Poland, Brother Lewis (who is in the Branch Presidency now) and as I was translating everything he was saying, I was just in amazement at how masterfully he taught the doctrines of the Gospel. It was the perfect example of that principle that "we as missionaries need to teach the Gospel in such a way that no one can misunderstand it..."
After the meeting block, there was a Break the fast, and everyone stayed and thoroughly enjoyed the atomosphere of love and the Spirit. Everyone was so darn happy, I just loved it. Seeing everyone's happiness in just being at the chapel with eachother was something sweet for me. It was a good day :)
From Monday to Wednesday, President Engbjerg and I were driving all over Poland- I did most of the driving because President had tons of things to read over, and whatnot, but it was a wonderful experience to spend so much quality time with that man. I love him tons- he is an amazing friend and it is a pleasure to be around him, to learn from his amazing example humble and loving leadership. I has so much love inside of himself, yet he also knows when things need to be done, and how to do them in the right way. We visited the Lublin, Białystok, Kraków, Kielce, and Katowice Districts for interviews, and I shared a Spiritual thought with them all. It was a wonderful experience. I could write so much more about it- we stayed in some really neat hotels, and I ate the best breakfasts I've had for the last 2 years. We went running in the old town of Lublin, which was absolutely gorgeous. I can't wait for you to someday see a European city centre. It's unreal :) Just a walk back in time, to cobble stones, and beautiful architechture. The Districts in all those towns are doing super well- I admire a lot of those missionaries- I'm especially proud of Elder Beaty and Elder Hobbes from my group. They are all doing so well, and working as hard as they can. It's amazing to hear about the miracles the Lord is working in those cities their working in.
On Thursday we met with our investigators, and had a couple amazing experiences. Premise to experience number 1 - I met this couple - Beata and Bartek- on the Rynek the first day these last new missionaries came in, about a month and a half ago. We've been so busy I never had the chance to call an set up a day, but I called about 2 weeks ago, and asked if we could meet. The crazy thing is, I called from a different number then the one I gave them, and when she picked up, I said "Hi, is Beata there?" And before I could even explain who I was she said "Oh cześć Michał! Co słychać?" O hey Michael, how are you doing?" She remembered who I was, after a month and a half, just by my voice. I was blown away right then. She said they couldn't meet that week, but she would call when they came back from vacation a week later. Low and behold, a week later she texts and says, "Hi Michael, we'd love to meet this next week if you have time." We didn't really have time until Thursday, so we set up for that day. She texted me the day before to make sure where we would meet. She called us. This is not normal for the brand new investigator-missionary relationship ha. SO- we met on Thursday in this amazingly rad cafe on the Rynek, and had a super good meeting, and it ended asking if we could meet again soon and teach some more. They said they would like to, and that we'd be in touch. We were so happy after that meeting, and looked forward to setting up later in the week. You can imagine our amazing shock and happiness, when a mere 6 hours later Beata texts us and says, "So I'm thinking it would be good to meet this next weekend if that's possible?" We can't wait to meet with them again ha. They are sooooooo cool. Goodness.
2nd amazing experience was when we had our meeting with Bogdan. He won't be baptized today- we're hoping next week will be enough time. But, we had Brat Magnuski on the lesson. Bogdan had tons of questions, and as he asked one question, Brat Magnuski would answer it so skillfully with clear, beautiful Polish and Bogdan had all his questions answered, by a Pole. With the power of God. It was amazing to hear him explain the Gospel to Bogdan, and to see Bogdan take it all in. Brat Magnuski is the 13th member of the church here in Poland and the oldest active member by far. He is an amazing example to me of what Gospel knowledge can be if we study everyday, if we ask questions and find the answers. It was powerful.
I've got to wrap this thing up- we've got Sports Saturday in a second here (going to play some basketball...so excited!), but I quickly have to recount yesterdays day. Because it was hilarious. It was the Sisters conference for all Sister Missionaries in the mission home, and President Elder Mehner, and I were the cooks. We got there at 10 AM, and left at 23:00. The entire time in the kitchen. It was insane. But we made some darn good food ha. I'm so glad it's over though. It was good in the moment, but 13 more hours in the kitchen might do me in. :P President is a man of many talents- I'll send you pictures from everything. We made burritos, as hard core as you can possibly imagine, curry, naleśniki, amazing chocolate cream cakes, and then washed 203204934 dishes. It was worth it though. :)
Ok I've got to sign off, but we'll be talking tomorrow! Woooo! Can't wait to hear from you. Happy mothers day mama :) You really are the best mother in the entire world. Your example of love, true dedication to our family is something I will always remember for eternity. I love you so much :) Thank you for everything you do, have done for me. I love you from the bottom of my heart.
I love being here. It is the best. Each day is a new day and adventure. Carpe diem.
Elder Michael Rushton
We totally get to talk to eachother on the phone tomorrow! How rad is that? I can't wait to hear your voices- it'll be wonderful. I love those little videos you send always. They make me smile so darn much. It's so fun to hear you all singing good ol' Elton :D THAT will be so fun to rock out in a couple of months ha.
This week has been a completely crazy one, filled with a couple experiences I never could have dreamed of having here on the mission, but I loved every day of it.
Firstly, last Sunday was 100% amazing. It was one of the greatest Sundays I've had on the mission- especially here in Warszawa. There were 12 investigators in our branch- several of them are very seriously investigating the church and plan on being baptized, which is wonderful. The meetings were all very enlightning- especially the 2nd hour when I was asked to come into Primary to translate. I always loved Primary here in Poland, but this last week was extra hilarious.
Since I was last here, all the American families have moved away, so Primary consists of a few Polish children, and recently a couple Ukrainian children as well. This last sunday there was one Polish child, Adaś, a Ukrainian girl, Dianna, and Dawid, her little brother. They are very smart kids, and the lesson went very well (we talked about prayer, using Daniel and the Lion's den as an example of how we can pray always when we are in need of help or comfort), except little Dawid is only 2 years old, and he loves running into things/people, so all lesson, he would just run from one side of the circle to the other, slamming into people, chairs, walls. I almost cried out of laughter. Primary kids are the best.
The next part of the Sunday that blew me away was the Priesthood meeting. Priesthood meetings in Poland can quickly get out of hand, with people volunteering false doctrine, and explaining doctrines that aren't completely true. But that's why Brat Robert Magnuski is in our branch. The lesson was on the Holy Ghost, and there was some confusion as to the doctrine of the Godhead, but Brother Magnuski got up and explained it all with such clarity, power and authority, it blew my mind. I was translating for one of the American men who is here working in Poland, Brother Lewis (who is in the Branch Presidency now) and as I was translating everything he was saying, I was just in amazement at how masterfully he taught the doctrines of the Gospel. It was the perfect example of that principle that "we as missionaries need to teach the Gospel in such a way that no one can misunderstand it..."
After the meeting block, there was a Break the fast, and everyone stayed and thoroughly enjoyed the atomosphere of love and the Spirit. Everyone was so darn happy, I just loved it. Seeing everyone's happiness in just being at the chapel with eachother was something sweet for me. It was a good day :)
From Monday to Wednesday, President Engbjerg and I were driving all over Poland- I did most of the driving because President had tons of things to read over, and whatnot, but it was a wonderful experience to spend so much quality time with that man. I love him tons- he is an amazing friend and it is a pleasure to be around him, to learn from his amazing example humble and loving leadership. I has so much love inside of himself, yet he also knows when things need to be done, and how to do them in the right way. We visited the Lublin, Białystok, Kraków, Kielce, and Katowice Districts for interviews, and I shared a Spiritual thought with them all. It was a wonderful experience. I could write so much more about it- we stayed in some really neat hotels, and I ate the best breakfasts I've had for the last 2 years. We went running in the old town of Lublin, which was absolutely gorgeous. I can't wait for you to someday see a European city centre. It's unreal :) Just a walk back in time, to cobble stones, and beautiful architechture. The Districts in all those towns are doing super well- I admire a lot of those missionaries- I'm especially proud of Elder Beaty and Elder Hobbes from my group. They are all doing so well, and working as hard as they can. It's amazing to hear about the miracles the Lord is working in those cities their working in.
On Thursday we met with our investigators, and had a couple amazing experiences. Premise to experience number 1 - I met this couple - Beata and Bartek- on the Rynek the first day these last new missionaries came in, about a month and a half ago. We've been so busy I never had the chance to call an set up a day, but I called about 2 weeks ago, and asked if we could meet. The crazy thing is, I called from a different number then the one I gave them, and when she picked up, I said "Hi, is Beata there?" And before I could even explain who I was she said "Oh cześć Michał! Co słychać?" O hey Michael, how are you doing?" She remembered who I was, after a month and a half, just by my voice. I was blown away right then. She said they couldn't meet that week, but she would call when they came back from vacation a week later. Low and behold, a week later she texts and says, "Hi Michael, we'd love to meet this next week if you have time." We didn't really have time until Thursday, so we set up for that day. She texted me the day before to make sure where we would meet. She called us. This is not normal for the brand new investigator-missionary relationship ha. SO- we met on Thursday in this amazingly rad cafe on the Rynek, and had a super good meeting, and it ended asking if we could meet again soon and teach some more. They said they would like to, and that we'd be in touch. We were so happy after that meeting, and looked forward to setting up later in the week. You can imagine our amazing shock and happiness, when a mere 6 hours later Beata texts us and says, "So I'm thinking it would be good to meet this next weekend if that's possible?" We can't wait to meet with them again ha. They are sooooooo cool. Goodness.
2nd amazing experience was when we had our meeting with Bogdan. He won't be baptized today- we're hoping next week will be enough time. But, we had Brat Magnuski on the lesson. Bogdan had tons of questions, and as he asked one question, Brat Magnuski would answer it so skillfully with clear, beautiful Polish and Bogdan had all his questions answered, by a Pole. With the power of God. It was amazing to hear him explain the Gospel to Bogdan, and to see Bogdan take it all in. Brat Magnuski is the 13th member of the church here in Poland and the oldest active member by far. He is an amazing example to me of what Gospel knowledge can be if we study everyday, if we ask questions and find the answers. It was powerful.
I've got to wrap this thing up- we've got Sports Saturday in a second here (going to play some basketball...so excited!), but I quickly have to recount yesterdays day. Because it was hilarious. It was the Sisters conference for all Sister Missionaries in the mission home, and President Elder Mehner, and I were the cooks. We got there at 10 AM, and left at 23:00. The entire time in the kitchen. It was insane. But we made some darn good food ha. I'm so glad it's over though. It was good in the moment, but 13 more hours in the kitchen might do me in. :P President is a man of many talents- I'll send you pictures from everything. We made burritos, as hard core as you can possibly imagine, curry, naleśniki, amazing chocolate cream cakes, and then washed 203204934 dishes. It was worth it though. :)
Ok I've got to sign off, but we'll be talking tomorrow! Woooo! Can't wait to hear from you. Happy mothers day mama :) You really are the best mother in the entire world. Your example of love, true dedication to our family is something I will always remember for eternity. I love you so much :) Thank you for everything you do, have done for me. I love you from the bottom of my heart.
I love being here. It is the best. Each day is a new day and adventure. Carpe diem.
Elder Michael Rushton
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