Hey all!
It's been a pretty good week! We had exchanges, Zone Conference and then we had the wonderful opportunity to have an apostle come and talk with us. It was Elder Neil L Anderson. It was a really neat experience, one that I'm sure I will treasure for forever. So, it was a very spiritual week. Plus, I love getting to spend time with other missionaries. It always gets me pretty pumped.
We're still struggling a little bit with our teaching pool. I guess people here don't really want to talk with missionaries...but we've been trying to visit a lot of less actives. That's still hard work, and often hit or miss, but we're doing what we can. There's an awesome recent convert here, though. She's fantastic, and I think she might be my new favorite member. She's been baptized for almost a year, and is preparing for the temple. She's been through a lot, but she has a lot of strength and a lot of faith, and NOTHING is swaying her from what she knows is right. She has a lot of deep questions, and a lot of questions about random doctrinal things, so I just reminded her to go back to the basics. That, as she goes back to the answers she's received about the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith, and the church, all other things will fall into place. As she continually reads the Book of Mormon and other scriptures, she'll gain greater understanding, maybe not in the timing she desires, but God will always answer her questions. She's just a really neat person, and it was a good reminder of the importance of the basics. You HAVE to have a testimony of the Savior, that God loves you, the Book of Mormon, and Joseph Smith if you're going to withstand the buffetings of Satan, and his persuassions to pull you away from the church. But, in reality it all goes down to the Savior. That's waht Elder Anderson talkeda bout, and a very powerful experience to hear an apostle's witness about the divinity of Jesus Christ, and that He truly does live.He said that is what we teach. That should be our focus. Everything else will fall into place. He promised us that as wwe seal the testimony of our Savior into our hreats, nothing will be able to sway us from our testimony of Joseph Smith, or anything else. Because Christ is the cornerstone to everything this Church is.The end. That's it. There's nothing else.No other message more important. Actually, there IS no other mesage. The Restoration would be NOTHING without the Savior.
I know this isn't a very long email. But, much of what I have learned this week is just that. Jesus Christ is everything. I wish I could sing it for all the world to hear. I wish I could open up my heart so people would hear the music of my heart that expresses my love and gratitude for the Savior, because mere words just don't cut it. They can't express even a hundreth part of what I feel for my Brother Jesus Christ. That's been the message I've been sharing with members this week. Just my love for teh Savior, and grateful I am to have the opportunity to be here, sharing itwith others!
You guys, Jesus Christ lives. His Atonement is for everyone, and encompasses anything and everything you might feel or experience in this life. IT's beautiful. I love it. I love Him. I'm so grateful for Him. Words just can't express it. I want all of you who read this to know that. He suffered for YOU. He loves YOU. If you're unsure of that, if you're feeling unloved, lost, alone, afraid, or weak, He is there. IF you don't believe it, furself that it's Open up the scriptures, read about Him, and pray. Through this process, you will be able to find our for yourself, and you will be able to feel His love. Because it's real. I know it! I've felt it! there's nothing better that I could share!
I love you all. Thanks for everything you do. Remember your Savior during this time. He loves you! I love you!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Monday, November 25, 2013
Monday, November 18, 2013
Letter from November 18th, 2013
Hey all!
Well, it's been my first week in the Silverdale 6th ward. The area here is a lot slower than what I'm used to, so it's a bit of an adjustment...But I'm determined to get it to start picking up! A lot of our investigators are "eternals" - meaning, they've been taught for a really long time. So, it looks like we've really got to start kicking them into action, or start finding some new, solid investigators. The hard part about that, is, there's another set of missionaries in this ward, so this area has been tracted out A LOT. Apparently people get missionaries at their door about every other month. Most people are friendly...but only friendly enough to say, "Don't freeze out there!" and close the door. It's a rough adjustment to the hustle and bustle of being over two wards and trying to figure out who we had time to meet with!
I did have the wonderful privlege of going back to Port Orchard to see TJ baptized, on Saturday. Friday night, Sister Johnson texted me and asked me if I'd be able to give the talk on baptism - apparently none of the YSAs were available, or they couldn't get ahold of any. So, I called President Weaver to ask for permission. Apparently the Brethren have asked for missionaries to no longer leave their areas for baptisms, but he said since I was asked to give the talk, he'd let me go. It was such a tender mercy for me. Friday had been a hard day for me. I was stressed, and everything had fallen through, and no body seemed to want to listen. So, to have that was a blessing. And then, going on Saturday just filled me with the spirit! I am so grateful I was able to see TJ baptized. It was such a blessing to be able to teach him and to see his desire to do what's right and follow the Savior, so being able to be there to see him step through that gate of baptism was the best! It did my heart good. Plus, it was a treat to be able to see Sister Johnson. I truly have come to love Sister Stokes, already, but the bond Sister Johnson and I formed is a very sweet and special one. So I was grateful for that chance to see her, just for a bit.
This Saturday, we're going to have the privilege of hearing one of the 12 apostles speak to us. We don't know which, yet, and I'm sure I'll have lots to tell you next week about it, but I'm pumped about it! Plus, there's zone conferences this week, too! (Where I'll get to see Sister Johnson, too. Woot! And Sister Douros! It'll be a fun time.)
Well, I don't have much else to say to you guys. Just, keep supporting me with prayers. I love you all, and am grateful for all that you do! (Congrats, Amy and Stephen, to having little Eli! So happy for you!) I love you all so much!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Well, it's been my first week in the Silverdale 6th ward. The area here is a lot slower than what I'm used to, so it's a bit of an adjustment...But I'm determined to get it to start picking up! A lot of our investigators are "eternals" - meaning, they've been taught for a really long time. So, it looks like we've really got to start kicking them into action, or start finding some new, solid investigators. The hard part about that, is, there's another set of missionaries in this ward, so this area has been tracted out A LOT. Apparently people get missionaries at their door about every other month. Most people are friendly...but only friendly enough to say, "Don't freeze out there!" and close the door. It's a rough adjustment to the hustle and bustle of being over two wards and trying to figure out who we had time to meet with!
I did have the wonderful privlege of going back to Port Orchard to see TJ baptized, on Saturday. Friday night, Sister Johnson texted me and asked me if I'd be able to give the talk on baptism - apparently none of the YSAs were available, or they couldn't get ahold of any. So, I called President Weaver to ask for permission. Apparently the Brethren have asked for missionaries to no longer leave their areas for baptisms, but he said since I was asked to give the talk, he'd let me go. It was such a tender mercy for me. Friday had been a hard day for me. I was stressed, and everything had fallen through, and no body seemed to want to listen. So, to have that was a blessing. And then, going on Saturday just filled me with the spirit! I am so grateful I was able to see TJ baptized. It was such a blessing to be able to teach him and to see his desire to do what's right and follow the Savior, so being able to be there to see him step through that gate of baptism was the best! It did my heart good. Plus, it was a treat to be able to see Sister Johnson. I truly have come to love Sister Stokes, already, but the bond Sister Johnson and I formed is a very sweet and special one. So I was grateful for that chance to see her, just for a bit.
This Saturday, we're going to have the privilege of hearing one of the 12 apostles speak to us. We don't know which, yet, and I'm sure I'll have lots to tell you next week about it, but I'm pumped about it! Plus, there's zone conferences this week, too! (Where I'll get to see Sister Johnson, too. Woot! And Sister Douros! It'll be a fun time.)
Well, I don't have much else to say to you guys. Just, keep supporting me with prayers. I love you all, and am grateful for all that you do! (Congrats, Amy and Stephen, to having little Eli! So happy for you!) I love you all so much!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Letter from November 12th, 2013
Hey all!
It's been a...sad few days. But also quite joyful! Saturday night, I got the transfer call...and I'm leaving these two wonderful wards and my wonderful companion. I can't help but still be bummed out about it. I'm heading to Silverdale, and my new companion will be Sister Stokes - we actually came out together. From what I've seen, she's a very quite person. Quieter than me! So, we'll see how this goes. But, I'm optimistic! Just...still bummed out that I'm leaving. But, it's in the Lord's hands.
This weekend, we had the amazing privilege of seeing Steve Melton baptized. It was a very powerful program. The spirit was SO strong! Sister Johnson sang "Oh Lord, My Redeemer" (thanks, Mom for sending the music!) and it was a really neat experience being able to accompany for her. It's hard to explain...but it was different than any other time I have accompanied someone singing. the spirit was just very present. It really was an amazing baptism.
Then, just last night, after home evening with the YSAs, TJ had his baptismal interview and he passed. I don't know if that sounds like a big deal or not...but TJ is amazing. He is a little bit handicapped - he has to walk with a walker - and he lived out in Port Ludlow, which is about an hour away from Port Orchard (the area for the YSA ward is HUGE!!) so it's been really difficult to see him and teach him. Often times, it's for short 20 or 30 minute lessons after YSA activities. But, seeing him walk outside from the interview, with a huge grin on his face, and having the district leader walk up to Sister Johnson and I afterwards, and say, "Yep. He is so ready." It was a wonderful moment. TJ had a few concerns, and his response was, "I just want to be sure I do the right thing." Sometimes it's been like pulling teeth with him, so it's been amazing to see him just turn to Christ, and make these commitments, and have these righteous desires. It's SO hard leaving before he gets baptized - this Saturday! GAH! I feel like Heavenly Father is testing a little bit of my willingness with this transfer.
We also had a sweet lesson with our new investigator in the YSA ward, Logan. We taught him the Plan of Salvation, and the spirit was very strong. He shared some things with us - he's lived a hard life, where he's made a few wrong choices - and then shared how he desires to do the right thing. Then, when he gave the closing prayer, it was one of the most sincere and sweetest prayers I've ever heard. He just simply said, "Thank you for this knowledge that will help me be with you, my family, and my friends for forever." It was so sweet. I'm SO sad I don't get to continue teaching him, either! Or see him baptized!
AND Aydan Summers! Our little 9 year old. He's started reading the Boom of Mormon on his phone (it's just the phone. He can't text or make calls on it. he just has teh apps) and he loves it! He's changed so much and I'm so sad I can't continue to teach him, too! But, his grandparents keep asking me if I can come back for his baptism - his grandfather even said Sister Johnson and I should sing at it. I'll have to talk to President Weaver (he'll probably say yes) but, I want to make sure that it comes from Aydan, if I'm going to be coming back. It's really hard to come back into an old area, but if the investigator wants it, I'll totally be there!
well, that's all I have to share from this week. Like I said, I'm bummed about this transfer...but I'm excited to see what the Lord has in store for me! It's going to be good. I love you all! thanks or everything! Keep me in your prayers - and all of these investigators, and these wards! I'm sad to be leaving, but I hope and pray these wards continue to flourish! They have changed SO much since 3 months ago. It's crazy! I love them. SO much. And I love all of you!!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
It's been a...sad few days. But also quite joyful! Saturday night, I got the transfer call...and I'm leaving these two wonderful wards and my wonderful companion. I can't help but still be bummed out about it. I'm heading to Silverdale, and my new companion will be Sister Stokes - we actually came out together. From what I've seen, she's a very quite person. Quieter than me! So, we'll see how this goes. But, I'm optimistic! Just...still bummed out that I'm leaving. But, it's in the Lord's hands.
This weekend, we had the amazing privilege of seeing Steve Melton baptized. It was a very powerful program. The spirit was SO strong! Sister Johnson sang "Oh Lord, My Redeemer" (thanks, Mom for sending the music!) and it was a really neat experience being able to accompany for her. It's hard to explain...but it was different than any other time I have accompanied someone singing. the spirit was just very present. It really was an amazing baptism.
Then, just last night, after home evening with the YSAs, TJ had his baptismal interview and he passed. I don't know if that sounds like a big deal or not...but TJ is amazing. He is a little bit handicapped - he has to walk with a walker - and he lived out in Port Ludlow, which is about an hour away from Port Orchard (the area for the YSA ward is HUGE!!) so it's been really difficult to see him and teach him. Often times, it's for short 20 or 30 minute lessons after YSA activities. But, seeing him walk outside from the interview, with a huge grin on his face, and having the district leader walk up to Sister Johnson and I afterwards, and say, "Yep. He is so ready." It was a wonderful moment. TJ had a few concerns, and his response was, "I just want to be sure I do the right thing." Sometimes it's been like pulling teeth with him, so it's been amazing to see him just turn to Christ, and make these commitments, and have these righteous desires. It's SO hard leaving before he gets baptized - this Saturday! GAH! I feel like Heavenly Father is testing a little bit of my willingness with this transfer.
We also had a sweet lesson with our new investigator in the YSA ward, Logan. We taught him the Plan of Salvation, and the spirit was very strong. He shared some things with us - he's lived a hard life, where he's made a few wrong choices - and then shared how he desires to do the right thing. Then, when he gave the closing prayer, it was one of the most sincere and sweetest prayers I've ever heard. He just simply said, "Thank you for this knowledge that will help me be with you, my family, and my friends for forever." It was so sweet. I'm SO sad I don't get to continue teaching him, either! Or see him baptized!
AND Aydan Summers! Our little 9 year old. He's started reading the Boom of Mormon on his phone (it's just the phone. He can't text or make calls on it. he just has teh apps) and he loves it! He's changed so much and I'm so sad I can't continue to teach him, too! But, his grandparents keep asking me if I can come back for his baptism - his grandfather even said Sister Johnson and I should sing at it. I'll have to talk to President Weaver (he'll probably say yes) but, I want to make sure that it comes from Aydan, if I'm going to be coming back. It's really hard to come back into an old area, but if the investigator wants it, I'll totally be there!
well, that's all I have to share from this week. Like I said, I'm bummed about this transfer...but I'm excited to see what the Lord has in store for me! It's going to be good. I love you all! thanks or everything! Keep me in your prayers - and all of these investigators, and these wards! I'm sad to be leaving, but I hope and pray these wards continue to flourish! They have changed SO much since 3 months ago. It's crazy! I love them. SO much. And I love all of you!!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Monday, November 4, 2013
Letter from November 4th, 2013
Hey all!
Port Orchard library is back open...which is actually more inconvenient. I hate having to wait for 1:00 to email! And this computer is kinda slow...it's driving me a tad bit crazy. But...I guess I'm just meant to practice patience...
This week was a bit of an odd week...We have a new super solid investigator for the YSA ward! His name is Logan Knap! He came to church last Sunday with his friend, Rose, and we taught him on Friday, and put him on date to be baptized on the 26th. He is so ready. When we invited him to be baptized, he was like, "Yeah! Of course!" All he has to do is gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon, and he'll be super solid! And he'd said he'd read and pray, so Sister Johnson and I aren't to worried! TJ, though, the one in the YSA ward who is on date for the 16th...we have a few worries about. He hasn't come to church since we taught him the first time, and he doesn't seem too...committed. He loves everything we're teaching him, but I think he just doesn't understand the...commitment that is required. i mean, the whole point is to become more like our Heavenly Father, so it's not like you can just be baptized and continue living your life the way you were before. Life changes are needed - for everyone! Everyday! So. we're trying to figure out what he needs and how we can help him gain that understanding.
Aydan, in the Southworth ward got pushed back to the 30th. He wants his uncle to baptize him, and so we have to wait till Thanksgiving. He's pretty bummed out about it, and so are his grandparents - and so are we! - but, I think it might be better for his Mom. We still haven't had a chance to actually meet her, because I think she's afraid we're going to make her feel guilty for not being active...so it might give us a chance to meet her, and help build a bond with her. And hopefully encourage her to come to church with Aydan! And Steve is super solid. He's getting baptized this Saturday, and we're SO excited! Not worried about him at all!
Tuesday was fun. We had an exchange, and I went to Kitsap Lake - which actually is in our zone. I went with Sister Crosby, who I had been on exchange with last transfer. It was kind of weird, because I haven't been on exchange with her companion, so it was unexpected to go with her again. But, it was such a good experience! It's funny how quickly you can come to love someone.And, in the end, having been with her before was super good, because than she could actually see the changes I've made, and the growth that has happened. It was really good for me; it gave me a confidence boost, and helped me see that I actually AM improving. I learned a lot from that exchange, about myself, and about how I can be a better missionary - and a better companion. It was super awesome. I hope I get the chance to serve with Sister Crosby - for longer than 24 hours! haha! But, she lives like...7 minutes away from our house in Mesa. so we'll get to play when we're home. :) Maybe I'll send her over when she goes home - but that won't be for awhile. She just barely hit her halfway mark.
Halloween was pretty cool. We literally did nothing. We did our weekly planning, had our zone meeting, and then just hung out with our zone. We watched Ephriam's Rescue - arranged by President and sister Weaver. And then, we went home! We weren't allowed out, for our safety. So, we went from home to church building to home. It was and odd day, and it actually took me a little while to kinda recover from it. But, it was fun to hang out with the zone! And the movie was SO good! Watch it, if you haven't!
But...all in all, it's been a good week. Full of teaching and the spirit! And, as always, I feel myself learning and growing. My testimony of my Savior increases all the time, and I know it's such a blessing to me to be here. I only hope I am blessing others' lives. And Sister Johnson and I are ALWAYS having fun! She puts up with me when I am cranky, and I try to make sure she doesn't go into a diabetic coma. It's fun! Haha but really. We find out this Saturday what's happening with transfers, so we're going to make the most of this week, in case we don't stay together next transfer. though, I hope we do!
I love you all! Thank you so much for all that you do! I hope this week brings you wonderment and joy! Love, love, love!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Port Orchard library is back open...which is actually more inconvenient. I hate having to wait for 1:00 to email! And this computer is kinda slow...it's driving me a tad bit crazy. But...I guess I'm just meant to practice patience...
This week was a bit of an odd week...We have a new super solid investigator for the YSA ward! His name is Logan Knap! He came to church last Sunday with his friend, Rose, and we taught him on Friday, and put him on date to be baptized on the 26th. He is so ready. When we invited him to be baptized, he was like, "Yeah! Of course!" All he has to do is gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon, and he'll be super solid! And he'd said he'd read and pray, so Sister Johnson and I aren't to worried! TJ, though, the one in the YSA ward who is on date for the 16th...we have a few worries about. He hasn't come to church since we taught him the first time, and he doesn't seem too...committed. He loves everything we're teaching him, but I think he just doesn't understand the...commitment that is required. i mean, the whole point is to become more like our Heavenly Father, so it's not like you can just be baptized and continue living your life the way you were before. Life changes are needed - for everyone! Everyday! So. we're trying to figure out what he needs and how we can help him gain that understanding.
Aydan, in the Southworth ward got pushed back to the 30th. He wants his uncle to baptize him, and so we have to wait till Thanksgiving. He's pretty bummed out about it, and so are his grandparents - and so are we! - but, I think it might be better for his Mom. We still haven't had a chance to actually meet her, because I think she's afraid we're going to make her feel guilty for not being active...so it might give us a chance to meet her, and help build a bond with her. And hopefully encourage her to come to church with Aydan! And Steve is super solid. He's getting baptized this Saturday, and we're SO excited! Not worried about him at all!
Tuesday was fun. We had an exchange, and I went to Kitsap Lake - which actually is in our zone. I went with Sister Crosby, who I had been on exchange with last transfer. It was kind of weird, because I haven't been on exchange with her companion, so it was unexpected to go with her again. But, it was such a good experience! It's funny how quickly you can come to love someone.And, in the end, having been with her before was super good, because than she could actually see the changes I've made, and the growth that has happened. It was really good for me; it gave me a confidence boost, and helped me see that I actually AM improving. I learned a lot from that exchange, about myself, and about how I can be a better missionary - and a better companion. It was super awesome. I hope I get the chance to serve with Sister Crosby - for longer than 24 hours! haha! But, she lives like...7 minutes away from our house in Mesa. so we'll get to play when we're home. :) Maybe I'll send her over when she goes home - but that won't be for awhile. She just barely hit her halfway mark.
Halloween was pretty cool. We literally did nothing. We did our weekly planning, had our zone meeting, and then just hung out with our zone. We watched Ephriam's Rescue - arranged by President and sister Weaver. And then, we went home! We weren't allowed out, for our safety. So, we went from home to church building to home. It was and odd day, and it actually took me a little while to kinda recover from it. But, it was fun to hang out with the zone! And the movie was SO good! Watch it, if you haven't!
But...all in all, it's been a good week. Full of teaching and the spirit! And, as always, I feel myself learning and growing. My testimony of my Savior increases all the time, and I know it's such a blessing to me to be here. I only hope I am blessing others' lives. And Sister Johnson and I are ALWAYS having fun! She puts up with me when I am cranky, and I try to make sure she doesn't go into a diabetic coma. It's fun! Haha but really. We find out this Saturday what's happening with transfers, so we're going to make the most of this week, in case we don't stay together next transfer. though, I hope we do!
I love you all! Thank you so much for all that you do! I hope this week brings you wonderment and joy! Love, love, love!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Monday, October 28, 2013
Letter from October 28th, 2013
Hey all!
Another crazy week, here in Port Orchard! Things have begun to pick up, and it's going to be a crazy intense couple of weeks. We've begun to receive a lot of referrals, especially in the YSA ward (so proud of those YSAs!) and it's made for super busy weeks. I don't know how we're going to survive this week; I'm already getting stressed because of it, but I know that through lots of prayer and through faith, I'll get through it, and it'll be a FANTASTIC week!
Steve Melton has made HUGE progress this week! We didn't even get to meet with him at all, because he was sick, but on Sunday he came to church - and sat by us, because his wife is out of town - and in the beginning of sacrament, Sister Johnson wrote a little note, telling him to pay attention to the spirit, because it'd whisper messages just for him. Today, after sacrament meeting, he said that he was confident about being baptized on the 9th, and that because of that note, he was able to receive the confirming answers he needed. He is SUPER solid! Way more solid than he was before! So cool! And, of course, we're working hard with our other investigators. Three others are on date - two for the 9th, and one for the 16th, though one on the 9th is probably going to be pushed back, though we don't know for sure when. But, we have a decent sized teaching pool, and ALL of them are solid!
It really has been incredible to see all the miracles happening, all the changes. The members are just getting more and more excited and more and more eager to help. Southworth has been struggling to baptized, but since June, they've had 3 - two of them with me here. Their goal for the year is 15. I want to do all I can to help them reach that goal! It means getting 12 more baptisms in the next 2 months. But...goals are inspired, right? And, with Heavenly Father doing the heavy lifting, it's totally possible! If you all could help by specifically praying for this to happen, I'd really appreciate it. Crazy things are happening in Southworth, and I want this area to see success, even after I leave! Because these members are AWESOME and just ready to welcome people into the fold!
Also, if you could continue to pray that Sister Johnson and I remain companions for another transfer...that'd be awesome! President Weaver pretty much told Sister Johnson she'd be staying until she went home (she has two transfers left...but we don't talk about that...) and he hinted that I might be staying another transfer...but that's less certain. We keep making plans to do musical numbers and stuff for the next transfer...and we both get along really well, and I really want to stay with her another transfer, and I really want to continue to work in these two wards, and help the work progress. I know that it's what the Lord wants...but I know that He also answers the righteous desires of our hearts so...here's to hoping! :)
Things really are going great. We have had a few adventures; last night, a dog bit Sister Johnson (and then promptly ran away, which is good, because I probably would have done not nice things to it). Luckily, it didn't break the skin, but it shook her up a bit; she already was a little bit nervous about dogs. Just another thing you guys could specifically pray about that I would appreciate, that the dogs will stay away or be gentle. They don't ever both me - in fact, they like to jump on me and lick me to death, usually - but I just don't want dogs freaking anyone else out.
Thank you so much for all you do, for the love and support that all of you have shown and given. I really do love it out here, and I'm learning everyday. It's not easy, of course, but I'm so grateful to be out here. Have a great week, and remember to read the Book of Mormon everyday! (No, really. Do it. It's pretty awesome what happens when you make that effort. You WILL be happier, even if things aren't easier.) I love you all!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Another crazy week, here in Port Orchard! Things have begun to pick up, and it's going to be a crazy intense couple of weeks. We've begun to receive a lot of referrals, especially in the YSA ward (so proud of those YSAs!) and it's made for super busy weeks. I don't know how we're going to survive this week; I'm already getting stressed because of it, but I know that through lots of prayer and through faith, I'll get through it, and it'll be a FANTASTIC week!
Steve Melton has made HUGE progress this week! We didn't even get to meet with him at all, because he was sick, but on Sunday he came to church - and sat by us, because his wife is out of town - and in the beginning of sacrament, Sister Johnson wrote a little note, telling him to pay attention to the spirit, because it'd whisper messages just for him. Today, after sacrament meeting, he said that he was confident about being baptized on the 9th, and that because of that note, he was able to receive the confirming answers he needed. He is SUPER solid! Way more solid than he was before! So cool! And, of course, we're working hard with our other investigators. Three others are on date - two for the 9th, and one for the 16th, though one on the 9th is probably going to be pushed back, though we don't know for sure when. But, we have a decent sized teaching pool, and ALL of them are solid!
It really has been incredible to see all the miracles happening, all the changes. The members are just getting more and more excited and more and more eager to help. Southworth has been struggling to baptized, but since June, they've had 3 - two of them with me here. Their goal for the year is 15. I want to do all I can to help them reach that goal! It means getting 12 more baptisms in the next 2 months. But...goals are inspired, right? And, with Heavenly Father doing the heavy lifting, it's totally possible! If you all could help by specifically praying for this to happen, I'd really appreciate it. Crazy things are happening in Southworth, and I want this area to see success, even after I leave! Because these members are AWESOME and just ready to welcome people into the fold!
Also, if you could continue to pray that Sister Johnson and I remain companions for another transfer...that'd be awesome! President Weaver pretty much told Sister Johnson she'd be staying until she went home (she has two transfers left...but we don't talk about that...) and he hinted that I might be staying another transfer...but that's less certain. We keep making plans to do musical numbers and stuff for the next transfer...and we both get along really well, and I really want to stay with her another transfer, and I really want to continue to work in these two wards, and help the work progress. I know that it's what the Lord wants...but I know that He also answers the righteous desires of our hearts so...here's to hoping! :)
Things really are going great. We have had a few adventures; last night, a dog bit Sister Johnson (and then promptly ran away, which is good, because I probably would have done not nice things to it). Luckily, it didn't break the skin, but it shook her up a bit; she already was a little bit nervous about dogs. Just another thing you guys could specifically pray about that I would appreciate, that the dogs will stay away or be gentle. They don't ever both me - in fact, they like to jump on me and lick me to death, usually - but I just don't want dogs freaking anyone else out.
Thank you so much for all you do, for the love and support that all of you have shown and given. I really do love it out here, and I'm learning everyday. It's not easy, of course, but I'm so grateful to be out here. Have a great week, and remember to read the Book of Mormon everyday! (No, really. Do it. It's pretty awesome what happens when you make that effort. You WILL be happier, even if things aren't easier.) I love you all!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Monday, October 21, 2013
Letter from October 21st, 2013
Hey all!
It's been another awesome week! It was SUPER crazy, SUPER stressful, and both Sister Johnson and I had our moments of crankiness...but it was AMAZING! On Friday, we had the amazing privilege of seeing two people baptized - one in the Southworth ward, and one in the YSA ward - and then, yesterday, we were able to see them confirmed. Grace Teeters and Taylor Murphy are some of the newest members of the Church! It was crazy getting them ready, and we had a lot of...adventures Friday, before the baptism. BUT, everything was amazing when it came time for the baptisms. Especially Taylor's! His baptism was the smoothest baptism I've ever seen done. No hiccups, no complications, no crazy things happening to cause Sister Johnson and I stress, and it was a well attended baptism. It pretty much was awesome.
Friday, Sister Johnson and I had the opportunity to sing at a funeral. The week before, our ward mission leader suggested that we visit a family, who's wife/mother was passing away. Sister Johnson and I have been working on a few hymns that we could sing at members' homes, just to fill them with the spirit, and when he mentioned this family, Sister Johnson received the impression that we needed to sing Jesus, Lover of My Soul. It turns out Sister Dorich loved music, and although she wasn't exactly...conscious when we were there, the family had us sing it to her. Afterwards, we were asked to sing it at the funeral as well. It was a sweet experience. I still don't like funerals...because of the feelings that permeate there. The active members of the family, though they were sad, still carried a measure of joy with them, but those who were less-active, it just hurt to be around them. But, that's why we're here, as missionaries! To heal up the broken hearts, and I hope that song was able to help them, in some way. (Also, it's super awesome to be able to sing with Sister Johnson. She has an INCREDIBLE voice. It's actually a little bit intimidating to sing with her, but our voices blend really well together. So it's fun!)
So, yeah. It's been a crazy week, prepping for two baptisms, singing at a funeral, being missionaries 'n stuff. But it's as awesome as ever! I truly feel myself just becoming a completely different person. I was reading Alma 26 and 27 this morning, and I just had this complete amazement at the difference these chapters mean to me now than they did about a year ago. I'm beginning to do things for the right reasons, and in the right manner, and so much more...fully than I was before. And I don't want to stop! I want to be able to keep going like this after I go home!
Things just continue to be going so good! We're struggling to find new people to teach, but the few people we are teaching are just continuing to progress! Both Aydan and Steve are on date for the 9th! Aydan - he's the 9 year old - is getting more and more excited, and Steve is becoming more and more sure of himself IN the Gospel. It's the best! AND yesterday was the Primary Program, and a young woman brought her friend to church. Her friend turned to her in the middle of the program and said she wanted to be baptized! Hopefully we'll be able to begin to start teaching her, and everything will go well with her parents. It pretty much was one of the best things ever to get this note in the middle of sacrament meeting that said, "My non-member friend just said she wanted to be baptized!" It was SWEET!! and we did absolutely nothing! It was just because someone invited their friend, and the spirit was able to work. that's all it takes! AHH!! It's the best!
I seriously love this work so much! I'm so glad to be out here, serving. This Gospel is true - I see proof of it everyday. I'm convinced, and I don't plan on turning from it, ever! I love it! I love you all! Thanks for everything you do!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
It's been another awesome week! It was SUPER crazy, SUPER stressful, and both Sister Johnson and I had our moments of crankiness...but it was AMAZING! On Friday, we had the amazing privilege of seeing two people baptized - one in the Southworth ward, and one in the YSA ward - and then, yesterday, we were able to see them confirmed. Grace Teeters and Taylor Murphy are some of the newest members of the Church! It was crazy getting them ready, and we had a lot of...adventures Friday, before the baptism. BUT, everything was amazing when it came time for the baptisms. Especially Taylor's! His baptism was the smoothest baptism I've ever seen done. No hiccups, no complications, no crazy things happening to cause Sister Johnson and I stress, and it was a well attended baptism. It pretty much was awesome.
Friday, Sister Johnson and I had the opportunity to sing at a funeral. The week before, our ward mission leader suggested that we visit a family, who's wife/mother was passing away. Sister Johnson and I have been working on a few hymns that we could sing at members' homes, just to fill them with the spirit, and when he mentioned this family, Sister Johnson received the impression that we needed to sing Jesus, Lover of My Soul. It turns out Sister Dorich loved music, and although she wasn't exactly...conscious when we were there, the family had us sing it to her. Afterwards, we were asked to sing it at the funeral as well. It was a sweet experience. I still don't like funerals...because of the feelings that permeate there. The active members of the family, though they were sad, still carried a measure of joy with them, but those who were less-active, it just hurt to be around them. But, that's why we're here, as missionaries! To heal up the broken hearts, and I hope that song was able to help them, in some way. (Also, it's super awesome to be able to sing with Sister Johnson. She has an INCREDIBLE voice. It's actually a little bit intimidating to sing with her, but our voices blend really well together. So it's fun!)
So, yeah. It's been a crazy week, prepping for two baptisms, singing at a funeral, being missionaries 'n stuff. But it's as awesome as ever! I truly feel myself just becoming a completely different person. I was reading Alma 26 and 27 this morning, and I just had this complete amazement at the difference these chapters mean to me now than they did about a year ago. I'm beginning to do things for the right reasons, and in the right manner, and so much more...fully than I was before. And I don't want to stop! I want to be able to keep going like this after I go home!
Things just continue to be going so good! We're struggling to find new people to teach, but the few people we are teaching are just continuing to progress! Both Aydan and Steve are on date for the 9th! Aydan - he's the 9 year old - is getting more and more excited, and Steve is becoming more and more sure of himself IN the Gospel. It's the best! AND yesterday was the Primary Program, and a young woman brought her friend to church. Her friend turned to her in the middle of the program and said she wanted to be baptized! Hopefully we'll be able to begin to start teaching her, and everything will go well with her parents. It pretty much was one of the best things ever to get this note in the middle of sacrament meeting that said, "My non-member friend just said she wanted to be baptized!" It was SWEET!! and we did absolutely nothing! It was just because someone invited their friend, and the spirit was able to work. that's all it takes! AHH!! It's the best!
I seriously love this work so much! I'm so glad to be out here, serving. This Gospel is true - I see proof of it everyday. I'm convinced, and I don't plan on turning from it, ever! I love it! I love you all! Thanks for everything you do!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Monday, October 14, 2013
Letter from October 14th, 2013
Hey all!
It has been another fantastic week! A lot of good stuff is going on, and I can't wait to see it all pan out. We have 3 people on date right now; Grace Teeters, Taylor Murphy, and Aydan Summers. Grace and Taylor are getting baptized this Friday (Or, at least, should be. But I'm not too worried!) And then Aydan is getting baptized on Noember 9th. We have another man, Steve Melton who is...dragging his feet. But he'll get baptized. He just is taking longer than some. And then, we're going to be teaching a young man in the YSA ward; he's a referral, and I think he's super solid. I'm pretty hopeful about him. It's so awesome to see what's going on in these two wards. It's incredible to be a part of the process, and I'm so grateful for this opportunity.
It's beginning to get a little chilly here - though, this week, we should be getting a good amount of sunshine! I've never been so grateful for the sun! But, it gets dark really early now, which makes knocking doors form 5-7 a little bit...interesting. Port Orchard doesn't believe in sidewalks. Or street lights. But, it's good. We might end up not knocking doors anymore, at least in this area while it's dark. There's been A LOT of safety issues in missions throughout the world. President and Sister Weaver are very concerned for our safety, especially since there are so many younger missionaries now, and...well, we all know how the prefrontal cortex isn't completely developed so thinking through things doesn't always happen...so, sometimes dumb things are done, and they are disastrous. But, don't worry! Sister Johnson and I have been cautious and safe! Nothing is going to happen to us, because we're taking care of ourselves and being obedient.
Sorry this is going to be a short email...I'm actually not real sure of what to write. It's been one of those weeks that has been super busy, but at the same time, I feel like I haven't done anything! But, that's ok! Good things are happening. Sister Johnson and I are getting along really well - though, sometimes I get cranky in the morning...and have to apologize...haha. But, I've really grown to love her a lot over the past almost 2 weeks, and we're having a blast together. We're working hard, but playing hard as well, and I'm excited for the rest of this transfer - and praying that we'll stay together another transfer. Added prayers to this cause would be appreciated. :) haha, but really! I'm learning a lot from her, and I'm pretty sure we're going to be eternal friends. Sometimes I feel like I came here to the WA-TAC to meet some of the missionaries - not just the people I teach. It's really neat to see how Heavenly Father places people into our paths.
Anyways. The Gospel is true. The Atonement is real. Jesus Christ loves you! I'm so glad to be a part of this work. It still blows my mind that I'm out here, as a legit full-time missionary! I was sitting in a lesson with Taylor this last week, and had a flashback to when I would help with lessons with the sisters in Flagstaff, and I was just like, "Whoa. This is ME this time! When did that happen?!" It was really cool. I'm SO glad to be here. I'm grateful for this time; for the things I'm learning, for the people who touch my life, for the spirit I feel, for the growth I am making. It's a blessing in my life, and Im' so grateful for all of you who have helped me in this endeavor. I love you all! Thanks for all that you do!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
It has been another fantastic week! A lot of good stuff is going on, and I can't wait to see it all pan out. We have 3 people on date right now; Grace Teeters, Taylor Murphy, and Aydan Summers. Grace and Taylor are getting baptized this Friday (Or, at least, should be. But I'm not too worried!) And then Aydan is getting baptized on Noember 9th. We have another man, Steve Melton who is...dragging his feet. But he'll get baptized. He just is taking longer than some. And then, we're going to be teaching a young man in the YSA ward; he's a referral, and I think he's super solid. I'm pretty hopeful about him. It's so awesome to see what's going on in these two wards. It's incredible to be a part of the process, and I'm so grateful for this opportunity.
It's beginning to get a little chilly here - though, this week, we should be getting a good amount of sunshine! I've never been so grateful for the sun! But, it gets dark really early now, which makes knocking doors form 5-7 a little bit...interesting. Port Orchard doesn't believe in sidewalks. Or street lights. But, it's good. We might end up not knocking doors anymore, at least in this area while it's dark. There's been A LOT of safety issues in missions throughout the world. President and Sister Weaver are very concerned for our safety, especially since there are so many younger missionaries now, and...well, we all know how the prefrontal cortex isn't completely developed so thinking through things doesn't always happen...so, sometimes dumb things are done, and they are disastrous. But, don't worry! Sister Johnson and I have been cautious and safe! Nothing is going to happen to us, because we're taking care of ourselves and being obedient.
Sorry this is going to be a short email...I'm actually not real sure of what to write. It's been one of those weeks that has been super busy, but at the same time, I feel like I haven't done anything! But, that's ok! Good things are happening. Sister Johnson and I are getting along really well - though, sometimes I get cranky in the morning...and have to apologize...haha. But, I've really grown to love her a lot over the past almost 2 weeks, and we're having a blast together. We're working hard, but playing hard as well, and I'm excited for the rest of this transfer - and praying that we'll stay together another transfer. Added prayers to this cause would be appreciated. :) haha, but really! I'm learning a lot from her, and I'm pretty sure we're going to be eternal friends. Sometimes I feel like I came here to the WA-TAC to meet some of the missionaries - not just the people I teach. It's really neat to see how Heavenly Father places people into our paths.
Anyways. The Gospel is true. The Atonement is real. Jesus Christ loves you! I'm so glad to be a part of this work. It still blows my mind that I'm out here, as a legit full-time missionary! I was sitting in a lesson with Taylor this last week, and had a flashback to when I would help with lessons with the sisters in Flagstaff, and I was just like, "Whoa. This is ME this time! When did that happen?!" It was really cool. I'm SO glad to be here. I'm grateful for this time; for the things I'm learning, for the people who touch my life, for the spirit I feel, for the growth I am making. It's a blessing in my life, and Im' so grateful for all of you who have helped me in this endeavor. I love you all! Thanks for all that you do!
Sister Beth Ann Root!