So, the first baptism was of course, Gervie. The one we had Saturday was Joel (real name is Jose but prefers to be called Joel). He was a dry Mormon before we even started teaching him. His girl friend lives in the Philippines and has taught him everything, He already knew the Word of Wisdom and Tithing before we taught him. Thankfully, people were able to come to his baptism. He even had people from LA to come up and baptize him. He said both at the baptism and while we confirmed him that he felt so good and knew he was doing the right thing. I'm really happy for him and his decision he made. We also went to a baptism Sunday for a member. Lots of baptisms we've been going to and hopefully more to come!
Elder Cook was great! We drove to the San Francisco chapel to see him. There were 280 missionaries there (including the visa waiters and senior couples). We were all jam packed on the benches for about two and a half hours. We heard from our Mission President and his wife, our Area Seventy and Elder and Sister Cook. First, he wanted to start by shaking all of our hands, which was fun :D
Some things he talked about were: We are where we are supposed to be. He described to us the process on how they pick where the missionaries go for their mission. He says some missionaries are sent to a certain mission to be influenced by their mission president. Others may be sent to be influenced by the people in that area. Others are sent because it will do something for them and their future. It was great to hear that.
He also talked about the relationships we need to build. He describes four of them. 1) Relationship with our people in our areas, members, investigators nonmembers, whoever. 2) We need to work on our companionship relationship. 3) Relationship with your Mission President- we are here to be influenced by them. 4) Love the Lord- Our main focus of our studies should be on the Atonement and Jesus Christ’s life. Interesting fact I didn't know was, Elder Cook and Elder Holland were missionary companions near the end of their missions. That would have been awesome to see!
He left a phenomenal blessing with us and I will just share a little bit on what he blessed us with: our parents will be blessed as we’re out on our mission, I will be able to open my mouth and talk with people and do it with joy, and as we open our mouth our private challenges will be resolved.
Well this week we have a lot more time to go out and open our mouth and talk with people now that we don't have as many meetings. I am excited to do so and know the blessing he gave our mission will come true.
Love,
Elder Ranquist
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